HERALD PUBLICATIONS-JUNE 6

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India: Kangana has taken Bollywood by storm Pg 9

Goa: Under construction well caves in; 2 feared dead Pg 2

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Mickky quits; vanishes

IN BRIEF Near-collision of airplanes averted A near-collision between an Indian Airlines aircraft and Jet Airways flight over Tiruchirappalli air space was averted today by timely alertness of pilots of both the planes. – (PTI)

Police stations on alert to trace him All quiet at Betalbatim

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JUNE 5

In a change of political fortunes and turn of events, flamboyant Tourism Minister and Nationalist Congress Party legislator Mickky Pacheco who is being probed in the Nadia To r r a d o death case resigned f r o m the

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JUNE 5

While the family members of Nadia Torrado, who are being subjected to rounds of interrogation, continue to maintain they were being harassed for

no reason, there were no firm conclusions as to where the case was headed even after two days of questioning.

It is not yet clear what the Crime Branch is looking at, even as Police Inspector Sunita

cabinet on Saturday after his party high command pressurised him to quit.

The minister, who failed to appear at the Crime Branch for further interrogation, sent his resignation to the Chief Minister Digambar Kamat today afternoon. He was not contactable the entire day and the Crime Branch too maintained he could not be contacted.

Goa Police Public Relations Officer Atmaram Deshpande said they alerted all police stations in the State after the minister could not be traced anywhere. “The search for the minister will continue till he is traced. If he is not traceable the investigating officer in the case will move for the next course of action as per law,” he observed.

A communiqué issued by the Department of Information in the evening stated the governor had accepted the resignation of the minister on the recommendation of the chief minister with immediate effect.

NCP’s National Secretary Jeetendra Deshprabhu said

Mickky’s resignation arose as a consensus within the party. In case of the minister, things had gone beyond a reasonable point and on moral grounds the party had to take a stand, he stated.

But, however, Deshprabhu said Mickky continued to be a party man.

Pacheco in his resignation letter maintained he was resigning from the cabinet over the allegations levelled against him in the death of Nadia, who died on May 30 in Chennai, 15 days after she consumed rat poison.

The chief minister, who had a word with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar said Mickky’s decision to quit was right because orders had come from his party’s high command.

NCP’s State President Carmo Pegado said the tourism minister’s resignation was on moral grounds and he was asked to do so in the interest of the party.

When questioned whether the Tivim legislator Nilkant Halarnkar would be next in line for ministerial berth, Pegado said it was but obvious. As a

matter of right it is natural that the portfolios of Mickky should go to Nilkant. We have spoken to the CM in this regard, he stated.

The CM, too, reportedly spoke to the NCP supremo Sharad Pawar about Mickky’s resignation and added another minister would be sworn in his place.

Kamat said he had briefed Pawar about the events and maintained Congress and NCP high commands will jointly take a decision on who will replace Pacheco.

The Bharatiya Janata Party appeared happy over the minister’s resignation. In a statement the party’s spokesperson Rajendra Arlekar said the resignation of the minister had proved BJP’s doubts in the episode. “We hope the investigation will be held in an impartial manner and the culprit booked. This will improve the image of Goa which is being tarnished by tainted ministers in the Kamat ministry,” he said.

VASCO REPORTER ADDS: Vasco police were on their toes Saturday as various teams were

Sawant maintained the case was open in all angles. The two brothers of Nadia said they didn’t have a clue where this was all heading.

Nadia’s mother, Sonia, was questioned for the entire day

today at the Crime Branch. She appeared out of the Dona Paula office of the Crime Branch at around 7.30 pm and was led to the car by her younger son. She looked tired and showed no interest in answering queries from

the press.

When the news of Mickky’s resignation was broken at the Crime Branch office Nadia’s brothers showed no interest.

“How does this news affect us?” said

India finally gets access to Headley PTI WASHINGTON, JUNE 5

India has been given access to David Coleman Headley, Pakistani-American LeT (Lashkar e Toiba) operative who has confessed to his role in the Mumbai attacks, United States National Security Adviser James Jones said today.

“Yes access (to Headley) has been given. This is an ongoing process and I don’t have any detailed information that will be helpful except to say that it is in the hands of right professionals from both countries,” Jones told PTI at his White House office.”We have fulfilled our commitment,” he said.

However, Jones did not have detailed information about how and when a team of visiting Indian investigators was given access to Headley, who is being held in Chicago.

“We are very happy that in this world of terrorist activities

Yes access (to Headley) has been given. This is an ongoing process and I don’t have any detailed information that will be helpful except to say that it is in the hands of right professionals from both countries. that our two countries can work together to make sure that we exchange information rapidly, we exchange intelligence that we have, when we capture people that are mutual interest we try to arrange for those people to be interviewed by all interested sides in the interest of solving the problems of these networks,” he said.

Asked if this access to Headley is going to be a one-time affair or whether Indian investigating agencies would be given access multiple times, Jones said: “I don’t know but the spirit of cooperation and respect for each

other’s position is alive and well and we have taken the first step, we just have to wait and see whether there is any other request beyond this one.”

When asked what does this case symbolise, the US national security adviser said: “If I were a terrorist, it would tell me that looks like India and the United states are working very closely together and that is going to make my job a lot more difficult to be successful and that’s a good thing.”

Jones said: “What we need is a network of countries that can operate in the same way with speed, with precision, with openness because there is not one country that is going to defeat terrorism; it is going to be many countries working together.”

His remarks follow visiting External Affairs Minister S M Krishna’s statement that investigations of this nature are very sensitive.

Rising sea could swallow Goa: Greens HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JUNE 5

Goa’s existence from the map would be wiped off if the current trend of sea-level rise continues, said a renowned environmentalist.

“With the current trend of sea level rise, Goa will soon meet the fate of Dvarka,” Dr Kasturi Dessai, a scientist, told Herald.

“Rise in sea levels poses a big threat to all coastal cities of the country. No wonder, the people

The study revealed that around 4.3 per cent of Goa’s 105-km coastline has already been affected by one meter rise in sea level, which continues.

The study also says that 7.3 per cent of Goa’s coastal population is affected by beach erosion.

By 2050 and 2080 if the sea level would rise by 38 and 59 meters respectively, then Goa would lose maximum percentage of its land and its population.

of Goa are coming to realise that some of its best beaches and towns could go under water in the next few decades,” she added.

Dr Dessai said that large portions of land are engulfed by the sea every year due to sealevel rise, which is attributed to climatic change and global warming.

“It’s not possible to predict when the entire State will be submerged as sea-level rise is a slow process. It will slowly and

steadily erode the shoreline,” she feels.

A scientific study has revealed that around 4.3 per cent of Goa’s 105 kilometre coastline has already been affected by a one meter rise in sea level, which continues. The study also says that 7.3 per cent of Goa’s coastal population is affected by beach erosion which is also very high compared to other States “By 2050 and 2080 if the sea (Continued on page 2)

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IPL: No end to Pawar’s woes PTI NEW DELHI, JUNE 5

Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar’s cup of woes appears to be overflowing.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief seems to have got embroiled further in the IPL bid controversy with the BCCI chief Shashank Manohar saying (Continued on page 2)

All quiet at the residence of the Benaulim MLA Mickky Pacheco after he resigned from the Digambar Kamat ministry.

Photo by Santosh Mirajkar HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JUNE 5

Even as the resignation of Tourism Minister, Mickk y Pacheco from the Digambar Kamat cabinet has created a stir in political circles, all appeared quiet at the Betalbatim residence of the minister.

When HCN cameraman Santosh Mirajkar visited the residence of the tourism minister, there wasn’t much activity, except a lone policemen guarding his residence.

Pacheco’s official car with the red beacon and his Hummer car were parked outside. Inquiries only revealed that the minister was not holed inside, even as the Goa Police was asked to look out for Pacheco after he failed to turn up at the Crime Branch office for questioning.

A lone policemen in uniform, believed to be the former minister’s bodyguard, was seen guarding the Betalbatim residence, while the usual hustle and bustle went missing.

Pacheco was personally not available inside the building.

Incidentally, while the Goa Police went to the town with the news that the police has alerted all police stations to trace Mickky Pacheco, the police were conspicuous by their absence at the residence of the Benaulim MLA.

ON PAGE 3 l

Mickky skips functions

NGOs demand GSCW chief’s resignation over Nadia’s death l

Surprisingly, there was no movement at the District and Sessions Court as there were speculations that the Benaulim legislator would move the court for anticipatory bail. It may be recalled that in the casino extortion case, the former minister had immediately moved the South Goa Sessions Court for anticipatory bail, which was granted with conditions.

When Herald contacted Pacheco’s Officer on Special (Continued on page 2)

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GOA

GOA, SUNDAY, 6 JUNE, 2010

well under construction caves in at Agonda, two feared dead

Institutions face difficulties in admitting SSC students HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARCEL, JUNE 5

The highest passing percentage at the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination has put undue pressure on admissions in educational institutions.

For some students, getting admission to higher secondary schools has become a distance dream, especially for students eager to enter the Science stream.

In Ponda taluka too, the situation is no different, as there is a long waiting list of students wanting to join Science and other streams.

“There has been an overflow of students wanting to get admission in our institute. The reason I suppose is due to the SSCE results which has been exceptional this year,” said Avdhoot Kamat, principal of GVM’s Higher Secondar y School, Ponda.

“We have 150 seats for Science stream and we have written to the education department

n“There has been an overflow of students wanting to get admission in our institute.

The reason I suppose is due to the SSCE results which has been exceptional this year.”

--Avdhoot Kamat for increase in the seats,” said Kamat.

“In all, 70 students are on the waiting list for Science stream. The seats are already full, except for the management quota of about 30 seats,” added Kamat.

“The closing percentage for getting admission in the Science stream has touched 78%. Every year, we used get around 70-80 students, who secured over 80% in the

SSCE, but this year the numb e r h a s c ro s s e d t h e 1 1 5 mark. In Commerce too, there is a waiting list of about 50 students,” informed Kamat.

Said PES Higher Secondary School, Farmagudi-Ponda, Principal Tukaram Gaonkar: “I haven’t seen such a situation before. Every student wants to get into Science stream, but we are helpless as there are limited seats.”

“We also have around 70 students on the waiting list of Science stream. Apart from Science, there is also a long waiting list in Commerce and Vocational streams. We have written to the education department asking permission for additional division in Science, Arts and Commerce streams and for 20 additional seats in the Vocational stream,” he added.

“If this is done, then the problem can be solved. We are waiting for a reply from the education department,” said Gaonkar.

Motorcycle collides with mining truck, 2 hurt

HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, JUNE 5

Four persons were trapped when a well under construction caved in under a landslide at Agonda on Saturday.

While one person was pulled out, three persons were still trapped inside the 8-feet deep well, which incidentally collapsed on the third day of its excavation.

Sources told Herald that the well was taken up for construction two days ago at Val-ward, a southern side of Agonda beach, by Domnic Fernandes, a local of the area. Incidentally, there are at least three such wells in the area.

Five workers had reached a depth of 8 feet, when the side walls collapsed and trapped the four labourers, who were about to end their day’s work at about 5.30 pm.

Sources informed that one worker had come out mo ments before the landslide, while the second man, Prakash Velip (35) was pulled out by villagers and shifted to Hospicio at Margao.

Two were seen alive for over two hours while the third one buried under the mud and sand, disappearing immediately after the well collapsed at about 5.30 on Saturday evening.

The three trapped labourers have been identified as Narayan Pagi (45) of Dhawalkhazan-

Rescue workers trying to retrieve the persons trapped inside the well.

Agonda, Kamlakar Fondu Velip (35) of Ambdem-Khola and Sukdo Velip (55) of MudcheliAgonda. Efforts were on till late S a t u rd a y n i g h t t o re s c u e Narayan Pagi from the well.

Attempts by the Canacona Fire Services to dig out the trapped labourers with the help of a JCB from a distance proved

detrimental, as the fragile well walls reportedly began to collapse, prompting the firemen to give up the idea.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) then took charge of the rescue operations.

About 30 NDRF personnel were manually trying to remove

the mud in a desperate bid to rescue the three trapped labourers.

Deputy Collector Deepak Dessai, Disaster Management incharge Ashutosh Apte, Mamlatdar T B Shetkar, DySP Gurudas Mhatme and Canacona PI Raju Raut Dessai were all stationed at the site, supervising

the rescue operation and trying to rescue the trapped labourers.

Former minister Sanjay Bandekar, Agonda acting sarpanch Gulshan Guru Bandekar, exsarpanch Jovi Fernandes and Panch Tipu Pagi were seen assisting the rescue teams in the operations, which continued till late Saturday evening.

VGG visits ‘controversial’ projects at Sancoale HERALD REPORTER VASCO, JUNE 5

Activists of the Villagers Group of Goa (VGG) on Saturday visited various controversial real estate projects at Sancoale on the occasion of World Environment Day. The VGG activists first proceeded to a hotel project along the NH-17B at Upasanagar that is under construction and later went near the BITS Pillani complex, where private forest land has been converted to accommodate a hotel project.

The VGG activities expressed shock that the Mormugao Planning Development Authority (MPDA) had allowed the builder A youth looks at the motorcycle under the truck.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT QUPEEM, JUNE 5

Two riders were seriously injured when a speeding mining truck hit the motorcycle from the rear at Quepem on Saturday.

Incidentally, the mishap took place in front of the RTO office and in the presence of a police officer deputed to regulate mining traffic along the route.

According to reports, Caetan Rebelo, a motorcycle pilot from Quepem and a resident of Godgal-Ambaulim along with a pillion rider were proceeding on the mot o rc y c l e ( G A - 0 9 - U - 0 3 8 7 ) , when they were knocked down by a truck (GA-08-U-

Photo by John Fernandes

nIncidentally, the mishap took place in front of the RTO office and in the presence of a police officer deputed to regulate mining traffic along the route. While sources claimed that the truck driver was under the influence of alcohol, the police, however, denied the claim.

8713), driven by Iscarew Mathew Sunny, a native of Karnataka but residing at Cacumordi-Quepem.

The motorcycle along with the pilot and the pillion rider were then dragged to a distance of about 10 metres.

Both riders were seriously injured and were rushed to the

to convert a green zone into settlement zone.

They later went to inspect a mega housing project of a noted Vasco-based builder, who is a close associate of a minister, which is coming up near the MES College.

Their final stop was at Matvem-Dabolim, where a portion of a hill has been cut for a proposed approach road leading to a hill-top real estate project.

However, the MPDA has issued a show-cause notice to the builder to stop barbed fencing following a complaint from Edwin Mascarenhas.

Interestingly, most projects

Hospicio at Margao.

While sources claimed that the truck driver was under the influence of alcohol, the police, however, denied the claim.

Quepem police has arrested the truck driver on charges of driving in a rash and negligent driving manner and for endangering public life.

DIET finalises merit list of students

HERALD CORRESPONDENT PORVORIM, JUNE 5

The District Institution of Education and Training (DIET) at Porvorim has finalized the merit list of students for admissions to the two -year course in Diploma in Education for the academic year 2010-11.

While 240 candidates had applied for the 50 seats at the DEd course in Marathi medium, 434 candidates had applied for the 50 seats at the DEd course in English medium.

The eligibility criteria for admission to the DEd course is a minimum of 50% marks at HSSC

examination of Goa Board for general category and 40% minimum marks for the students of reserved category such as OBC, Schedules Caste and Scheduled Tribes.

In the general category, 33 were selected out the 137 eligible candidates for the English medium course, while 32 of the 69 eligible candidates were selected for the Marathi medium course.

Students who secured over 63% marks at the HSSC exams could find a place in the merit list of first year DEd course.

A decade on, Princess removal still a distant dream THOMAS FERNANDES CALANGUTE, JUNE 5

When a 240-metre long ore carrier ran aground off the Candolim coast on a stormy night on June 6, 2000, no one would have expected the ship to remain at the site for the next ten years.

State governments have changed over the years, but the ‘MV River Princess’ continues to languish about 300 metres from the seashore, much to the dismay of environmentalists and residents in the area.

Residents of Candolim and neighbouring villages formed the ‘River Princess Hatao Manch’ and held many agitations, which included a human-chain and a road-blockade, to press for the early removal of the River Princess. But their efforts to seek a positive response from the government in power have met with little success.

“The attitude of various governments to find a way to remove the grounded ship has been such that many of us fear the ship will remain at the site for many years to come. Who knows, it may then even be declared a heritage site,” was the sarcastic remark of a resident from Candolim.

Accusing the government of making false promises to the people, many residents opined that though the ‘River Princess’ was declared a ‘State Disaster’, the vessel still remains off the Candolim coast.

are being built on eco-sensitive land and are facing either the Zuari River or Arabian Sea. “Enough is enough. The government has to curb such blatant violations that have endangered the ecology of the State. Tourists are attracted to

Goa because of its natural beauty and not the concert jungles,” said VGG Convener Joao Philip Pereira. Edwin Mascarenhas alleged that the ODP of Mormugao taluka had been planned as per the whims and fancies of real estate sharks and accused

the TCP of failing to act on illegalities of the builders.

Others present during the site visits included Prajal Sakardande, Simon Carvalho, Rui Araujo, Carmin Miranda, Frankey Monteiro, Audoot Naik and other activists.

FROM PAGE 1 Mickky quits; vanishes sent to the airport, railway station, bus stops and hotels in Mormugao taluka, in a bid to locate former Tourism Minister Micky Pacheco.

Police Inspector Braz Manezes along with the airport outpost staff were seen

patiently waiting at the airport and were keeping a constant watch on both domestic and international departures and arrivals.

The register books at most hotels in Mormugao taluka were also checked and police teams

were also posted at the Vasco railway station.

Police checked the Delhibound Goa Express trains in afternoon and the evening Bangalore-bound Yeswantpur express train, but could not locate Pacheco.

All quiet at Betalbatim Duty, Lyndon Monteiro said the legislator would not move the court for bail. He said that Pacheco would make his presence felt before the Crime

Branch later in the evening as assured on Friday.

In fact, when contacted again, Lyndon said that Pacheco is presently in Margao and is await-

ing the arrival of a Mumbaibased criminal lawyer to accompany him before the Crime Branch for the second round of investigations.

No clue yet ... the elder brother, who remained at the office the entire day.

The tourism minister who claimed he was close to the family remained elusive for the entire day with the Goa Police issuing alerts at all police stations to trace him.

Earlier in the day the younger brother of Nadia was taken inside for questioning.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate Agnelo Fernandes who answered

a few questions while he was leaving the Crime Branch office said he would submit his report likely by next week. “I am yet to begin the inquiry as I am awaiting the viscera report of the deceased,” he said.

Crime Branch officers remained tight-lipped over the grilling of Mickky Pacheco for more than eight hours yesterday.

Rumours were floating around in the day he was likely to be

arrested, but police denied any such move.

Later in the evening, again rumours were doing the rounds that Mickky was coming to the Crime Branch office. But by about 7.45 pm the rumour fizzled out as there was no sign of Mickky.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that Nadia’s mother and her brothers have been called for interrogation on Sunday.

Rising sea could swallow ...

The ‘River Princess’ marks 10 years of its existence off the Calangute coast.

“The River Princess is a very sad story for the unfortunate villagers of Candolim. They have been praying fervently and tirelessly in churches, chapels and temples for its early removal,” remarked Convener of River Princess Hatao Manch Fermino Fernandes.

“The vessel would have never been stranded off the Candolim coast and could have towed away in the very first month of its arrival. However, the carelessness of the successive governments has forced the River Princess to remain for so long,” he added.

“Initially, successive governments messed up over the re-

moval of the vessel. While awarding contracts for the removal of the vessel, the capabilities or past track records of the contractors were not ascertained by the government,” alleged Fernandes.

“The government is least bothered about the damage to the environment or sufferings of the people. They are, howe v e r, q u i c k t o m a ke ro s y speeches about efforts being made to remove the River Princess,” he added.

When contacted, local MLA Agnelo Fernandes said: “The work on the tenders has begun, but it will take time which is very unfortunate for the villagers

of Candolim. Hopefully, the process will be expedited at a later stage to get rid of the stranded vessel.”

It may be recalled that various concerns were raised as soon as the River Princess ran aground on June 6, 2000. In September, oil began to leak from the ship and posed ecological problems.

In 2001, the government passed the Goa Tourist Places (protection and maintenance) Act, 2001 in a bid to remove the River Princess.

Two years later, the government passed an order claiming that Salgaocar Mining Industries Ltd had forfeited vessel and that

Photo by Thomas Fernandes

the ship was now vested with the government.

The government then issued tenders to remove the ship and though the US-based Smith International bagged the tender, it claimed the time-period to remove the ship was too short and eventually turned down the tender. Crosschem International Ltd of UK then bagged the tender, but was unable to remove the ship.

In 2006, the government appoints Jaisu Shipping Pvt Ltd from Gujarat to remove the ship within a period of 90 days, but the company too failed to honour the contract within the initial deadline.

level would rise by 38 and 59 meters respectively, then Goa would lose maximum percentage of its land and its population,” an article in the book on ‘Global warming and climatic change’ by Dr Desh Bandhu has claimed.

Dr Dessai was addressing a panel discussion on a theme ‘Climatic change and biodiversity’ on the occasion of World Environment Day and the International Year of Biodiversity, organised by the Center for Environment Education (CEE) at the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO).

Dr Unnikrishnan, an NIO scientist, said that thermal expansion in the ocean, melting of glaciers and ice are mainly attributed to global warming and global sea level rise.

“About Goa, a lot needs to be studied and examined. The sealevel rise has affected large portions of land here but to what extent it will lead in future can’t be predicted at the moment,”

he said replying to a question.

Dr Baban Ingole also pointed out that the increasing sea-level rise has a long term impact on mangrove plantations in the State. “As it’s a slow process, the impact is not visible. But mangroves, which are a hintertidal plants wont be in a stage to expose themselves as they require low tide,” he explained.

During the discussion, Dr Dessai, who has done several studies on sand dunes across the State, said that large number of sand dune vegetation throughout the State has been destroyed due to tourism activities, which are mushrooming along the coast.

“To give way to tourism development, vegetations on sand dunes have been cleared. In 2009, when I conducted a survey, I found that almost all the vegetations were cleaned and the dunes were open,” she said.

When asked whether, the sand-filled geotubes are the only option to protect the heavily

eroded beach stretch, Dr Dessai said that the geotubes are not a supplement for vegetation.

“Candolim and Keri beach are supplemented with geotubes, which is not a solution. And as such I feel that in next five years, the entire Goa coast will be full of geotubes and no plantation,” he predicted.

However, Minister for Environment, Alexio Sequeria said that the State government was forced to take up the idea of geotubes at Candolim, which is affected with River Princess.

“If the vessel still continues over there, it will wipe out the shore,” he said.

Other members present for the panel discussion were Professor B S Jangode, Agriculture University, Shirshi, Pankaj Kudtadkar, and Sandeep Azrekar.

Director of Science and Technology Micheal D’Souza and the Chairman of the Goa State Pollution Control Board Dr Simon D’Souza were also present during the occasion.

the IPL Governing Council did not know that Aniruddha Deshpande of the City Corporation bid in his individual capacity for the Pune IPL team.

Congress today continued to keep a distance from the controversy, suggesting that the NCP leader should do all the ex-

plaining on the issue. “The issue involves BCCI, Pawar and the inquiry going into the IPL. If there are any facts give it to it (inquiry). Congress has nothing to comment. You should ask these questions to Pawar,” All India Congress Committee (AICC) spokesman Abhishek Singhvi

told reporters here.

The Pune bid, which was ultimately won by the Sahara group, has snowballed into a major controversy involving former BCCI chief and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar and his parliamentarian daughter Supriya Sule.

IPL: No end to Pawar’s woes

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NGOs demand GSCW chief’s resignation over Nadia’s death HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JUNE 5

Women’s organizations have demanded the resignation of the Chairperson of Goa State Commission for Women (GSCW) Ezilda Sapeco for the failure of the Commission to take suo moto cognizance of the Nadia Torrado mysterious death and for castigating the NGOs The role of the Chairperson of Goa State Commission for Women came in for severe criticism at the hands of Bailancho Ekvott and Savera, who demanded to know why the Commission did not suo moto take the Nadia Torrado case.

On the contrary, these two organizations pointed out that the Commission was too eager to attend to the complaint filed by Nadia’s mother instead of probing into the death of the young woman.

Addressing a press conference, Bailancho Ekvott Auda Viegas demanded the resignation of the Ezilda Sapeco for casting aspersions on Savera President Tara Kerkar on the Ratol paste tube.

She said Mickky Pacheco and Nadia’s family is trying to avoid justice by accusing the police for harassment meting out to

nThe role of the Chairperson of Goa State Commission for Women came in for severe criticism at the hands of Bailancho Ekvott and Savera, who demanded to know why the Commission did not suo moto take the Nadia Torrado case.

the family.

She said that since Pacheco has resigned, there should be a full proof inquiry to unearth the mystery surrounding Nadia’s death.

She praised South Goa Superintendent of Police, Allan De Sa and other officers for their role in the investigations of the case since day one.

Viegas urged Nadia’s mother Sonia to throw light on the circumstances leading to the death of her daughter.

Colva Panch Calvert Gonsalves, who attended the press briefing, said that at last justice is done in the case with the Tourism Minister putting in his papers and praised SP, South Allan De S and his team, besides the Crime branch for the investigations.

“For a change, the Crime Branch was quick in investigating the present case”, Calvert added.

Meanwhile, Savera President Tara Kerkar has demanded the arrest of Nadia’s mother and brother in connection with the case to unearth the circumstances leading to the woman’s death.

“I am surprised that the Commission Chairperson made a comment after I showed a Ratol paste tube.

I have been involved in taking up women’s issues since many years now ”, Kerkar said and asked whether the Commission Chairperson has made any contribution to women’s issues.

She demanded that the Crime Branch should conduct a detailed inquiry after arresting her mother and brother and interrogating her close friends.

Fire breaks out in hotel, one dead

The hotel gutted in the fire at Mardol.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARCEL, JUNE 5

One person died while four others were injured when a roadside hotel at Mardol-Ponda went up in flames in the wee hours of Saturday.

According to reports, all five persons were asleep in the hotel when the incident occurred reportedly due to short circuit at around 2.30 am.

Ponda police said Prasanna Devraj, a native of Chikmanglure-Karnataka, died at the Goa Medical College and Hospital,

Photo by Amresh Parab

Bambolim, while Chaitan Shankar (22), Annapa Rudraya (18) and Pradip Bassappa (21), all from Chikmanglure, and Simon Viegas (47) from Mangalore have sustained burn injuries. Viegas is reported in a critical condition with 60% burn injuries.

The property gutted in the fire is estimated at Rs 8 lakh.

Viegas had taken the hotel, o w n e d b y o n e Ye s h w a n t Khedekar, on rental basis and he along with the four others were residing in the premises.

Locals claim that they heard a loud sound resembling an explosion, which later was suspected to be the explosion of a gas cylinder.

Fire personnel suspect a short circuit started the fire and the flames later spread to the hotel, leading to the cylinder explosion.

Fire fighters rushed to the site and used two fire tenders, one each from the Ponda and Kundaim fire stations. PSI Deepak Pednekar is investigating the case.

Fish catch on the decline in Goa HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JUNE 5

It’s for two consecutive years that fish catch of Goa has been on decline as hostile weather condition held back fishermen from going into the sea many a times during the fishing season.

During last season the Cyclone Phyan spelt doom for many trawler owners, this season fishermen preferred to anchor their vessels at the slightest warning rather than face rough weather.

Many trawler owners suffered huge losses when Phyan hit Goa Coast in 2009.

Total marine catch came down to 88771metric ton in 2009, according to the provisional figures released by the Fisheries department, this season catch has further declined to 80687 metric ton.

When contacted Director of Fisheries S C Verenkar though, said there is no scientific basis to show why there has been drop in the fish catch, the inclement weather condition have to be blamed to some extend.

As season closes on June 15 when fishing ban begins and would be in force till July 31, most fishing trawlers have stopped their trips.

“Since the cyclone warning last month our trawlers have stopped going for fishing,” says

Menino Afonso, Chairman Mandovi Fishermen Co-operative Society Ltd. Since Cyclone Phyan hit Goa coast in November last, no trawler attached to the Malim jetty has gone for deep sea fishing. “They have not yet overcome their fears,” says Afonso and hence did not go deep sea fishing.

Some 38 persons were reported missing from the Malim jetty and four trawlers never re-

Year

Fish Catch (in metric tonnes)

2005

103087

2006

96326

2007

91185

2008

88771

2009

80687

turned as caught in the Cyclone Phyan.

However, in addition to unfavorable weather, competition from big trawlers coming from outside the State has been responsible factor.

Our small trawlers with 150 horse power can’t compete with big trawlers with 350 horse power which come fishing into Goa’s water, complaint Afonso.

While authorities may not able to pinpoint why there has been decline in fish catch, but it is matter of concern as fish catch of has seen drop post 2005. (see box).

A drop has also been registered in the quantity of inland fish catch in the last few years.

The drop has been since 2005 - Inland fish catch was about 4194 metric but since this has steadily declined to 3000 metric ton.

Mickky skips functions HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JUNE 5

Benaulim MLA Mickky Pacheco not only skipped the second round of questioning by the Crime branch, but was conspicuous by his absence at the free note book distribution functions organised by him in the new constituency of Nuvem on Saturday morning.

Free note books were distributed by Pacheco on Saturday in the villages of Loutolim, Nuvem, Verna and Nagoa – villages falling in the new Assembly constituency of Nuvem – where the Benaulim ML A has set his eyes to contest against Power Minister Alexio Sequeira in the coming Assembly polls.

Pacheco, however, skipped the function at Nuvem, where he was scheduled to make his presence felt and distribute free note books to around 1200 students.

In his absence, the books were distributed by Viola for some time before Nuvem Zilla Panchayat Member Wilfred De Sa did the job for the MLA. Wilfred informed that 10 note books were distributed to each of the 1200 students in Nuvem village.

He said the books have been sponsored by the Benaulim MLA. “Free note books have been distributed in Nagoa, Verna, Loutolim and Cortalim today”, he said.

Jharkhand native gets life rap HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JUNE 5

The South Goa Sessions Court on Saturday sentenced to life imprisonment a native of Jharkhand for the murder of one Pal alias Paul at Cansaulim in 2007.

A day after he was held guilty for Pal’s murder, Additional Sessions Judge P V Savaikar sentenced 26-year old Sudhir Khanulano to life imprisonment today. The court has further directed the accused to pay of Rs 10,000.

In this case, the body of deceased Pal was found lying on the railway track at the Cansaulim railway station and police investigations only revealed that the deceased was murdered after the accused slit his throat and caused a wound in his abdomen.

The prosecution led by Public

Prosecutor Bhanudas Gaonkar, had examined 15 witnesses in support of its case.

House burgled HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, JUNE 5

Valuables have been stolen from a residence at Bella Vista, Sangolda on Saturday.

According to reports, Mukul Lal had gone shopping sometime between 11 am and 2.40 pm when burglars broke into his house and stole a necklace, silver items and cash of Rs 1500.

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S H O RT TA K E S SSC Round-Up

Mauvin hailed for role in setting up Kala Bhavan

Abhinav Vidyamandir

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

COLLEM(HC): Abhinav Vidyamandir High School, Mollem, secured 85 per cent at the recently held SSC exam.

In all, 20 students had appeared for the exam, out of which 17 passed with one distinction, five first class and 11 second class. Tukaram Chandrakant Zore topped in the school securing 80 per cent.

BBS Saunsta Chairman Sadashiv Marathe has congratulated the school staff and students for the performance.

Our Lady of Piety Collem

COLLEM(HC): Our Lady of Piety High School, Collem, has secured 90 per cent at the SSC examination conducted by the Goa Board.

Out of the 51 students, who had appeared for exams, 51 students were successful. Suraj Babani Naik topped in the school securing 80 per cent marks followed by Ajaya Anil Mairekar, who secured 76 per cent marks.

Two students got distinctions, seven got first class, 31 secured second class and 11 got pass class.

The PTA of the school has congratulated the management, Principal Fr Pio Furtado and staff for performing well in the SSC exam.

Komal excels at St Theresa’s CALANGUTE(HC): Komal S Naik, a student of St Theresa’s High School, Candolim, excelled in the recently declared SSC exam results.

Komal secured a pass percentage of 94.33% and scored 100% marks in Mathematics and Science. She also scored 99% marks in Social Science The school secured a passing percentage of 90.62% with 64 students appearing for the exams. Three students, Komal Naik (94.33%), Marilyn Fernandes (81.83%) and Xanar Fernandes (75%) got distinctions, 18 students got first class, 32 second class and five pass class.

Drama, art training imparted

Curchorem MLA Shyam Satardekar distributes certificates to children at the ‘Rangamachi’ camp in Curchorem.

Photo by Suresh Naik

CURCHOREM (HC): Sankalp Theatres, Curchorem, recently organized a 15-day Drama Art Training camp ‘Rangamachi’ for small children at Curchorem.

The camp was organized in association with the Directorate of Art and Culture, Panjim. In all, 50 children participated in the camp which was held under the expert guidance of Drama Art Teacher Avdhut Sahakari.

Curchorem MLA Shyam Satardekar was the chief guest for the concluding function, which was held at Ravindra Bhavan, Curchorem.

Satardekar appreciated the Sankalp Theatres for organizing the camp since the last four years. “Such camp helps to bring out the hidden talents in children,” he said.

Hanumant Vast and teacher Avdhut Sahakari were present on the occasion.

The children presented four different one act plays in four different languages on the occasion. Hauns Theatres, Ponda, presented a drama ‘The Maal Goa-2010’.

Later, MLA Satardekar presented the certificates to all the participating children.

Weekly market at Honda

Cortalim MLA Mauvin Godinho being felicitated by PWD Minister Churchill Alemao at Cortalim in the presence of Sancoale acting sarpanch Ramakant Borkar.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT CORTALIM, JUNE 5

PWD Minister Churchill Alemao has hailed Cortalim MLA and Deputy Speaker Mauvin Godinho for his efforts in setting up of Kala Bhavan at Upas Nagar in Cortalim constituency, which would provide platform to the artists to showcase their talent.

Alemao was speaking as the chief guest on the occasion of 4th anniversary celebration of Jagannath Shet Kala Saunstha at Mangesh Maharudra Hall, Cortalim recently.

In his speech, Godinho while expressing the need to preserve

MP to open computer lab at Konkani Bhavan HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

Konkani Bhasha Mandal has set up a computer laboratory at the Konkani Bhavan at Margao, fully sponsored by Member of Parliament, Shantaram Naik and the same have been installed with the help of Rotary Club of Margao.

The inaugural function of computer laboratory will be held on June 8 at 11 am at Konkani Bhavan, Margao. On this occasion, Member of Parliamen Shantaram Naik will be the chief guest while Rotary Club President Ashesh Keni will preside over the function.

According to a press release, Konkani Bhasha Mandal is running Vidya Bhuvan Konkani Shala (a pre-primary and primary Konkani medium school) at Margao with the intention to provide all learning and teaching facilities to their school children. Efforts have been taken to install computers with Devnagiri font with Internet connection. Altogether, four computers have been installed at present. Konkani Bhasha Mandal is also planning to make available the facility of computer use to the needy students of Margao in near future.

Prashant Naik, President of Konkani Bhasha Mandal is also planning to make available the facility of computer use to the needy students of Margao in near future.

Prashant Naik, President, Konkani Bhasha Mandal, has appealed to all the parents of the school, members of Konkani Bhasha Mandal, Members of Rotary Club, Margao and general public to attend this function.

Aleixo highlights importance of environment HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

The weekly market day at Honda-Sattari. Photo by Ashraf Khan

VALPOI(HC): The newly conducted weekly Bazaar at Honda has been drawing attention not only from the local people, but also from the residents of Keri, Poriem, Pissurlem, Valpoi and Sanquelim.

Speaking to Herald, a group of residents from Honda informed that the main reason for the heavy rush at the weekly bazaar is that the Bazaar day is held on a holiday, Sunday.

“There is also a flow of migrant people at this area, as Honda area caters to the shortcut route to Karnataka and Maharashtra,” said the residents.

Meanwhile, the newly allotted area for fish market at HondaSattari also caters to the needs of residents of Honda and surrounding areas.

Unlike other weekly Bazaars in the State, the weekly Bazaar at Honda reduces traffic congestion as there is plenty of space for parking vehicles near the fish market.

Rumbler strips notified

PANJIM(HND): District Magistrate, North Goa District has ordered construction of "Rumbler Strips" (3 in Nos) at two locations around the Bal Bharati Vidyamandir School. The first about 5 mts away from main gate of the school on the road proceeding towards Ribandar Church and the second just after the "L" junction about 10 mts away near the water tank on to the road leading towards NH-4A Bye-pass in the jurisdiction of Corporation of the City of Panjim in Tiswadi Taluka.

Candolim Cooperative Society opened at Margao

Minister for Environment Aleixo Sequeira highlighted the vital importance to protect and preserve environment for the survival and benefit of humanity.

Sequeira was speaking as chief guest at a function organized on the occasion of World Environment Day at NIO auditorium at Dona Paula on Saturday.

The function was organized

by Centre for Environment Education (CEE) in cooperation with Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Government of Goa and NIO staff.

Speaking further, the Minister complimented CEE for organizing quiz, panel discussion for students. He said, government was open for any suggestions from environmentalist, which will take into consideration while taking important decisions.

Dr B S Janagaodar, Dean, College of Forestry, Dharwad, Surjeet Kumar Dongre, Programme Coordinator, CEE, Goa, Dr Ramesh Rathode, Asst Professor, College of Forestry spoke on the occasion.

the rich cultural heritage of Goa, promised all help to the Saunstha for the good work they have been doing.

Sancoale acting Sarpanch Ramakant Borkar made a case for a cabinet berth for Godinho and urged Alemao to pressurise the Congress high command in this regard.

Earlier, the students of Bharatnatyam and classical music class organised a programme. Students from local school who excelled in SSC and HSSC exams and some women were also felicitated by Godinho.

Artists Akhada Narcinha Fadte

(Bhajan), Dilip Dhargalkar (art), Mangaldas Naik (bhajan), Ganpati Kelkar, Peter Santan Fernandes were felicitated on the occasion.

Earlier, Saunstha President Sunil Shet welcomed the gathering, while Sudesh Gaonkar read out the performance report. Sunayana Shet compered and Shrikant Palsarkar proposed the vote of thanks.

Others present on the occasion were Cortalim Quelosim Sarpanch Caitano Xavier, Cortalim ZP member Cynthia D’Silva and Sancoale ZP member Aparna Naik.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat recently inaugurated the seventh branch of Candolim urban Cooperative Credit Society Ltd at Osia Complex Margao.

Speaking on the occasion Chief Minister congratulated the Chairman, Board of Directors and staff of the Credit Society for their devotion in the Credit Cooperative Sector.

Kamat said, his Government has always extended support to Cooperative Sector. He said he had close association with the Cooperative Sector and had started acceptance of power bills through Credit Cooperatives when he was the Power Minister.

He said there are many dedicated workers in Cooperative Sector and the Staff of the Society should cultivate a feeling of belonging for the growth of their institution.

Krishni Walke, entrepreneur and social worker who was guest of honour, P M Naik, Dy Registrar of Cooperatives also spoke on the occasion.

Dr Shivanand Verlekar, Chairman, Candolim Urban Cooperative Credit Society Ltd Welcomed the guests, Sneha Raikar compered while Anand Bandodkar, Director proposed the vote of thanks.

DHS organises health awareness camp in Bicholim

BJP’s mandal panel for Curtorim constituency HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JUNE 5

The BJP appears bracing up to make its presence in the new Curtorim Assembly constituency in a big way.

Close on the heels of setting up its office at Curtorim, the BJP has announced its mandal committee for Curtorim Assembly constituency, indicating that the party proposes to contest the next Assembly polls from this constituency.

Party general secretary Narendra Sawaikar, who was the party’s candidate for the last Lok sabha polls, announced the Curtorim Mandal Committee with Somnath Amonkar as the Mandal President, Anthony President as ST Cell president and Vivek Naik as the general secretary. BJP Cultural cell and state office bearer convenor Sidhanath Buyao has been made in-charge of the Curtorim mandal.

Other office bearers are vicepresidents Shivaji Hegde and secretaries Anthoniy Dias, Jayesh Colvekar, Jyoto Naik and Alexio

Fernandes. Mandal Committee members includes Sarita Dias, Kanchan Kunde, Brigita Monteiro, Sonam Naik, Urmee S Kudalkar, Rohidas Korgaokar, Abdullah (Bhaijan) B Makandar, Roy D’Costa, Rupesh Naik, Constantino Menezes, Ganesh G a o k a r, L a x m a n E k v a d e , Joaquim Ferrao and Isaac Moraes.

Besides, party members, who are either elected to public bodies or who hold positions in the party hierarchy are included as invitees. These include Raju Naik alias Hadlee the councillor of Margao Municipal Council, Pandurank Naik, Subhash Kanekar, Hyder shah, Conceicao Dias & Sanny D’Souza .

Says Buyao: “With the delimitation of the constituencies, the BJP sees Curtorim assembly constituency as a winnable seat given the fact that it has got six booths from Gogol Housing Board while the Congress strongholds of San Jose de Areal and Macasana are detached from the Curtorim constituency”.

UPCOMing EvEnTS Retreat at Don Bosco

PANJIM(HND): A three-day retreat will be preached by Rev Fr Joshy and his team from Tabor Bhavan from June 10 - 12, from 9 am to 5 pm, organized by the Don Bosco alumni of the Panjim - Konkan Provincial Federation. The retreat will be held at the shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Don Bosco, Panjim. The three day spiritual bonanza, organized for the Don Bosco alumni and their families promises to be a rejuvenating spiritual experience and a unique opportunity to personally encounter the Lord Jesus.

Lunch packets shall be provided on request at reasonable rates.

Scholarship for students

PANJIM(HND): The All Goa Toddy Tappers' Association President Gaspar Afonso has instituted a Scholarship to be allotted to the top ranking students of the Toddy-Tapping Community of Goa. The students securing 50% and above marks in the S.S.C Exam of Goa Board may produce a certified copy of the mark-sheets to the village leaders of toddy tappers association on or before June 15 for the purpose of scrutiny. The top ranking student thereafter will be selected for the Scholarship, says a press release.

Blood donation camp

Health Officer Dr Shivram Lotlikar addresses the health awareness meeting at Bicholim in the presence of Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar.

Photo by Vishant Vaze HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, JUNE 5

The Primary Health Centre (PHC) in association with Directorate of Health Services organized a one-day medical camp in Bicholim to create awareness among people about precautions to be taken during monsoon to protect themselves from different diseases.

The camp was organized in PHC hall in Bicholim on Thursday.

Guiding on the occasion, Health Officer Dr Shivram Lotlikar said the motive behind organizing the camp is to create awareness among the people about different diseases like malaria, chikungunya, swine flu and cholera, etc.

“This mission is necessary

due to large strength of outside workers, who often visit other states and return without any medical check up,” said the health officer.

Dr Lotlikar further said it is necessary to prepare health cards for such labourers working under builders before mixing with other people as soon as they arrive.

He also directed authorities to keep gutters, rivulets and other areas clean, where there are possibilities of creation of unhygienic atmosphere due to water stagnation and other reasons.

He also stressed the need to drink boiled water, undertake timely blood check ups and precautionary measures to control mosquito menace, protection

to wells, sterilization of water and keeping the areas clean.

In his speech, Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar while lauding the task of the health centre called upon the people to follow the instructions strictly to avoid further danger.

Dr Medha Salkar gave a brief idea of all the diseases, which may spread during monsoon.

Meanwhile, all the 17 panchyats in Bicholim taluka have sanctioned Rs 10,000 each on behalf of the Directorate of Health Services to keep cleanliness in their villages. Surprisingly, only two sarpanchas out of the 17 sarpanchas were present for the camp.

The urban and rural health centres were also instructed to organize cleanliness drives during monsoon.

Goa, a destination for film festivals, says CM

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and Secretary Information and Publicity Narendra Kumar seen with the personalities at the inaugural ceremony of Children’s Film Festival at Maquinez Palace, Panjim.

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said Goa can be promoted as a destination for holding film festivals.

Mr Kamat was speaking at the inaugural function of two day Children's Film Festival organized by the Entertainment Society, Goa at a function held on Saturday at Maquinez palace in Panjim. Secretary Information and Publicity Narendra Kumar graced the occasion.

Simultaneous screenings are being held at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao.

Speaking further chief minister expressed happiness over organization of film festivals for children and also congratulated young personalities who were felicitated on the occasion.

Personalities and youngsters felicitated on the occasion include Mahableshwar Sail, writer and novelist who brought name to Goa at international level through his script for film 'Paltadcho Munis' produced by Laximikant Shetgaokar.

Divya Chafadkar, Nilesh NaikRangoli Artist from Goa who has entered the Guiness Book of World Records, Saieesh Kapdi-stu-

dent from Goa who ranked 11th at the AIEEE and GCET Examns, Mrinmayee Tirodkar- singer, Sneha Karmarkar-singer and Nandan Kakode, SSC topper 2010.

Vishnu Surya Wagh, Press and Media Adviser to Goverment and Member ESG, Raju Naik, Editor Lokmat and member ESG, Menino Peres, Director of Information and Publicity, other members of ESG were present on the occasion. On his arrival chief minister was received by Manoj Shrivastava, CEO, ESG. Indiana Jones and Kingdom of Crystal Skull was screened after the inaugural ceremony.

PANJIM(HND): Lions Club of Chinchinim in collaboration with Parish Youth Association of Chinchinim will organize blood donation camp on June 6 from 9 am to 12 noon at Dr Nagzarkar’s hospital, Chinchinim.

Lion Filipe Neri Rodrigues, Minister for Water Resources will inaugurate the camp..

The Club and Youth Association members have request the villagers of Chinchinim to come forward to donate blood, says a press release.

Nutrition, women’s health programme held at Parra

Saligao ZP member Michael Lobo gives away a certificate to Sr Edith in the presence of Parra Sarpanch Benedict D’Souza.

Photo by Thomas Fernandes HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, JUNE 5

The Food and Nutrition Board Ministry of Women and Child Development recently organized a two-day orientation programme on nutrition and health for women of self help groups at Parra-Saligao.

The two-day orientation programme was organised in collaboration with the Pereira Social Welfare Centre of VerlaParra led by Sr Edith for the self help groups.

The orientation programme course was inaugurated by Parra Sarpanch Benedict D’Souza in the presence of other dignitaries, while Saligao ZP member Michael Lobo was the chief guest for the concluding function.

On the concluding day of the orientation programme, certificates were given away to 30 trainees by Michael Lobo and Sarpanch D’Souza. Others present at the valedictory function were Sr Edith and officials of the Food and Nutrition Board

Ministry.

During the course, the trainees were given thorough training by experts in different fields, which will help women do something on their own.

In his valedictory address, Michael Lobo stressed upon the importance of nutritional diet for a healthy living. He also advised the women to convey the message to others who could not make it for the programme.

Congratulating Sr Edith for her efforts in bringing women under one umbrella of Ladies Social Welfare Group and motivating them to take up government schemes, Lobo urged women to stay united and strengthen the group so that they can force the government for more self-help schemes.

Earlier, Gajanan Tari, member of the Food and Nutrition Board Ministry, welcomed the trainees for the programme, while Aruna S Naik, technical assistant of the Board, proposed the vote of thanks.

POWER SHUTDOWN JUNE 10 MAPUSA: Between 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Bodgini, Navtara hotel, Parra, Agnimorod, Parra tower, Jakni waddo, Arradi, Verla, Canca, Brittowado, Saliswado, Lingabhat, Lobowado, Fondacwaddo, Freitaswado and surrounding areas.

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N-proliferation has affected India’s security: Menon PTI SINGAPORE, JUNE 5

In a clear reference to Pakistan, India today said clandestine proliferation network in the region had adversely affected its security and pitched for a new global paradigm to meet the challenge, factoring in the "real" risks of terrorists gaining access to nuclear material.

National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon also highlighted the dangers India faces by being in the vicinity of "epicentre" of global terrorism and pressed for increased global collaborative efforts to defeat the menace particularly when terror groups are "networked to an unprecedented extent".

Addressing the 9th International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Asia Security Summit -- The Shangri-La Dialogue here, he said, "security has acquired new transnational dimensions because of recent geo-political, technological and economic developments" and these have to be "dealt

with differently from traditional security concerns".

Elaborating on the new transnational dimensions of security, Menon identified areas like spread of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism and climate change which need to be countered and ensuring cyber security, maritime security and outer space security.

"The world may now be at the proliferation tipping point in terms of both nuclear weapons and the militarisation of space. For India, clandestine proliferation networks in our neighbourhood have already adversely affected our security," the NSA said.

He did not name Pakistan but was clearly alluding to the country whose father of nuclear programme A Q Khan is known to have run a clandestine network of nuclear proliferation.

"The risk of nuclear weapons or of other weapons of mass destruction falling into extremist or terrorist hands is real and must be factored into our

thinking," Menon said.

"It is clear that a new nonproliferation paradigm is necessary to deal with issues of nuclear security, caused by the rise of non-state actors and their links to formal or organised structures in weak states," he said.

He noted that India is the only nuclear-weapon state to announce an unequivocal nofirst-use commitment and to declare that a world without nuclear weapons will enhance security.

On terrorism, Menon said it had been empowered by new technologies and in this context referred to Mumbai attacks.

"The Indian experience of cross-border terrorism shows the complexity of what we are dealing with. The 26/11 attacks on India were planned and organised in one country, where the attackers were trained, the logistics and communication support chain extended over at least seven countries," he pointed out.

AP seeks Rs 1357 cr assistance from Centre for cyclone damage PTI HYDERABAD, JUNE 5

The Andhra Pradesh government will seek financial assistance of Rs 1357.42 crore from National Calamity Contingency Fund and Calamity Relief Fund for reconstruction work in the districts hit by the cyclone Laila.

The state Cabinet, which met here today under the chairmanship of Chief Minister K Rosaiah, decided to seek assistance of Rs 51.74 crore towards rescue and relief operations, Rs 399.52 crore for temporary restoration work and Rs 906.16 crore for perma-

nent restoration.

The state will soon submit the memorandum to the Centre seeking release of funds, Information and Public Relations Minister J Geeta Reddy told reporters after the cabinet meet.

The state government has estimated the losses arising from Laila, which crossed the Bay of Bengal coast on May 22, at Rs 1603.22 crore.

Both agriculture and horticulture crops suffered a damage of Rs 171.44 crore, houses Rs 129.39 crore while damage to public infrastructure was estimated at Rs 1302.39 crore.

The state government has

prepared a memorandum listing the losses and the quantum of financial assistance to be sought from the centre under the NCCF and CRF. Meanwhile, the Cabinet cleared a proposal for establishing three mobile Lok Adalats in three districts – Kadapa, Ranga Reddy and Visakhapatnam – on a pilot basis.

"This is taking justice to the people’s doorsteps and ensuring speedy disposal of petty disputes," Geeta Reddy said.

The Cabinet also cleared a proposal sanctioning 2151 additional posts of teachers in tribal welfare schools, which would be upgraded from primary to upper-primary and upper-primary to high schools.

Woman assaulted, paraded naked PTI ALIGARH, JUNE 5

A woman has charged six persons, including district BSP President, of assaulting and later parading her naked in a market following which a case has been registered against them by the police.

A case of assault against six persons, including the BSP leader Moolchand Bhagel, has been filed, Superintendent of Police Maan Singh Chouhan said.

He, however, said the woman was not paraded naked.

The incident took place on June 2 when 45-year-old Brima Devi had a minor tiff with some persons while she was on her way back from a temple. She was then beaten up.

She alleged in her complaint to police that she was also paraded naked through the village Chandaukha, 20 kms from here.

Bir Singh, husband of Brima Devi, alleged that the police was trying to dilute the charges against the BSP leader because of political pressure.

The woman was detained by the police for a few hours in connection with some case.

She was, however, let off later.

Anti-Sikh riots: Court reserves order on framing of charges PTI NEW DELHI, JUNE 5

A Delhi court today reserved its order till July one on framing of charges against Congress leader Sajjan Kumar and others in connection with the killings of six persons during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

After hearing the arguments from the CBI and the accused, Additional Sessions Judge Sunita Gupta said the court will pronounce its order on July one.

The arguments in the case were wrapped up with the CBI seeking prosecution of former outer Delhi MP and four others for the murder, rioting and other offences under the IPC and the defence counsel requesting discharge of the accused claiming insufficient evidence.

During over two-hour arguments, CBI counsel D P Singh referred to statements of different witnesses including Bhagwani Bai and Chand Kaur to claim that they had stood by their affidavits submitted before Jain Banerjee Committee, specifying the role of the accused in the riots.

He tried to rebut the plea of the counsel for the accused that the cases in which the CBI was seeking their prosecution had already been decided, saying that the murder charges had earlier never been pressed against them.

Wild elephant saved from well PTI PALAKKAD (KERALA), JUNE 5

A wild elephant that fell into a 20-foot-deep well at a village near here was rescued unharmed and let back into forest in the wee hours today after 22 hours of hectic efforts.

The she-elephant, which appeared to be a three-year-old, was enabled to walk up through a path created by digging up a side of the well, using excavators.

Two trained elephants, known in local parlance as 'kunkis', were brought to the spot by late last night to tackle the wild jumbo in case it turned violent after getting out of the well.

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Nationalism defines BJP’s political character: Gadkari PTI UTTAN (MAH), JUNE 5

Nationalism is BJP's inspiration and it defines our political character, party president Nitin Gadkari said as the two-day convention of chief ministers of BJP-ruled states began here today.

"Important people who are giving direction to the party, have gathered here," he said addressing a gathering.

Terming BJP as a party with a difference,

Gadkari said, "In all areas where we have worked, we have proved that we are a party with a difference and it is a matter of pride for us."

In an apparent reference to bickering within the organisation, the BJP leader said, "It pains me the most when I see egos of two big people clashing. I try to mediate...We all should work in team spirit, under leadership of our chief ministers and deputy CMs."

Earlier, the gathering observed oneminute silence to pay respect to the departed soul of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh's father, who passed away yesterday. Singh did not attend the meeting due to his father's demise.

The BJP rules Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka. It is part of the ruling alliance in Bihar, Punjab and Jharkhand.

Pak court seeks info on execution of arrest warrant for Kasab PTI ISLAMABAD, JUNE 5

A Pakistani anti-terrorism court hearing the Mumbai attacks case involving LeT's Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and six other suspects today sought information from the government on the execution of arrest warrants for Ajmal Kasab and Fahim Ansari.

Judge Malik Muhammad Akram Awan of the Rawalpindibased anti-terrorism court heard arguments by prosecution and defence lawyers on making Kasab, a Pakistani national sentenced to death by an Indian court for his role in the attacks, and Ansari, who was acquitted, part of the proceedings in Pakistan.

The prosecution and defence lawyers have filed separate petitions with regard to making Ansari and Kasab part of the proceedings in the trial being conducted within Adiala Jail for security reasons.

Arrest warrants for the two men issued by Judge Awan were recently handed over to the Indian government by Pakistan.

The defence lawyers told the judge that proceedings to bring the two men to Pakistan should be dropped on the principle of double jeopardy as an Indian court had already convicted Kasab and acquitted Ansari.

The prosecution argued that the presence of Kasab and Ansari was needed for the trial of the seven suspects, including Lashker-e-Taiba operations commander Lakhvi.

Manipur deploys forces to prevent Muivah’s entry PTI IMPHAL, JUNE 5

Manipur government has deployed state forces at Liyai Khunou and Jessami near the Nagaland border in Ukhrul district to prevent entry of NSCNIM General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah.

Official sources said today that about 200 police personnel and border security forces have been deployed at both the villages.

Muivah, who attempted to enter Manipur along the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway 39 last month by camping at Viswema in Nagaland, had moved to Pfutsero in that state in an attempt to cross into Ukhrul district via Jessami and Liyai Khunou.

The senior Naga rebel leader, who hails from Somdal in Manipur's Ukhrul district, left his village about 40 years ago to wage an armed struggle.

The state government and many civil organisations here were of the view that Muivah's attempt to enter Manipur would create communal disharmony as the main demand of the NSCN-IM now was to form a greater Nagaland by taking Naga-settled areas of Manipur with the present Nagaland state, official sources said.

Buddhadeb skips CPI(M) meeting PTI NEW DELHI, JUNE 5

West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya, smarting under Left's drubbing in civic polls in his state, today stayed away from a meeting of the CPI(M) Polit Bureau which got a "preliminary" report on the debacle.

Amid reports that 66-yearold Bhattacharya had offered to quit, state CPI(M) Secretary Biman Bose said there was no question of him stepping down but admitted the state unit has not properly implemented the rectification campaign initiated by the central leadership after the Lok Sabha poll debacle.

"The question does not arise.

The matter has not been referred to the Central Committee. It has not been discussed in the state committee," Bose, who is here to attend the twoday party Polit Bureau meeting, told reporters. The meeting was presided by General Secretary Prakash Karat.

Asked whether there would be any change in leadership in the state, Yechury evaded a direct answer and said only after the state committee reviews the election debacle, the matter will come to the Central Committee and Polit Bureau.

This is the second time Bhattacharya is skipping a politburo meeting.

n The prosecution argued that the presence of Kasab and Ansari was needed for the trial of the seven suspects, including Lashker-e-Taiba operations commander Lakhvi. The prosecution also said action should be taken in this regard under Sections 87 and 88 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which relate to persons declared absconders.

The prosecution also said action should be taken in this regard under Sections 87 and 88 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which relate to persons declared absconders.

"After hearing the arguments by both sides, the judge adjourned the proceedings till June 12 without making any decision," said Shahbaz Rajput, one of the defence lawyers.

Special Public Prosecutor Malik Rab Nawaz Noon told PTI that the judge sought information from the government on action being taken to execute the arrest warrants issued by the court for Kasab and Ansari.

The judge said a reply detailing the progress made in executing the warrants should be submitted at the next hearing, Noon said.

The judge also heard arguments by the defence and prosecution on allowing media coverage of the proceedings in the anti-terrorism court.

The proceedings are being conducted in-camera and media is barred from being present in the makeshift courtroom with the jail.

The defence lawyers have been pressing the judge to allow the media to cover the proceedings.

Special Public Prosecutor Noon said the prosecution is "not seriously contesting" this demand by the defence lawyers.

Sources said the prosecution had sought time from the court to obtain instructions from the government on media coverage of the proceedings.

The defence and prosecution could decide on a consensus approach to provide information to the media under the observation of the court, the sources said.

Lakhvi and the other suspects – Zarar Shah, Hamad Amin Sadiq, Abu al-Qama, Shahid Jamil Riaz, Younas Anjum and Jamil Ahmed – have been charged with planning and facilitating the Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people.

Pakistan's Supreme Court recently refused to entertain Lakhvi's petition seeking quashing of criminal proceedings against him and said he could approach the higher courts for relief only after his case was decided by the antiterrorism court.

Actor Raghubir sent to judicial custody PTI MUMBAI, JUNE 5

Actor and theatre artist Raghubir Yadav, arrested in connection with an alimony case lodged by his estranged wife, was today remanded to judicial custody till June 7 by a suburban family court here.

Raghubir, against whom a warrant had been issued by the Bandra family court in September last for failing to appear before it despite regular summons, was arrested at the Mumbai Central railway station last night.

His wife Purnima had approached the court in 2002 after the actor failed to pay maintenance for over four years.

"The duo tied the knot in 1988, but got divorced in 1996. He was directed to pay an alimony of Rs 20,000 per month, which was later brought down to Rs 10,000.

Till date, Raghubir has not paid a single paisa to Purnima. There are arrears of Rs 4.5 lakh," Purnima's lawyer Sumangala Biradar told PTI. Raghubir today told the court that he was facing financial crunch and could afford to pay only Rs 20,000 of the arrears.

"The court did not accept this argument and remanded him to judicial custody. He has to at least pay Purnima 50 per cent of the arrears if he wants to come out," Biradar said.

BMC hints at decreasing water cuts post monsoon PTI MUMBAI, JUNE 5

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has said that there would be no rise in water cuts in the city till mid July but it might decrease after monsoon.

"Our agenda is to come out of the water crisis situation.

We are continuously monitoring the lake levels and till midJuly there will be no rise in water cuts. Even after, we do not intend to increase the water cuts. The cuts will either remain or be decreased," Deputy Municipal Commissioner Dinesh Gondaliya told PTI here.

Due to scanty rainfall last year, the civic body had imposed water cuts since last

June. Presently, residential and commercial users are facing 15 and 30 per cent water cuts respectively.

"If the intensity and regularity of rainfall is exceptionally good, then lake levels will rise steadily and accordingly we can think about reducing the cut," Gondaliya said.

At present, the lakes have a total available stock of 1,01,721 million litres per day (mld) against 2,45,343 mld last year.

BMC has said it will be able to supply 2,900 mld till July 15.

A population of over 1.25 crore receives 3,450 mld of water against the demand of 4,500 mld, meaning a shortfall of 1050 mld.

"The current water stock will

continue to supply 2,900 mld till mid-July. Once it rains lakes may take time to fill up because the land in the catchment areas is totally dry and so it will first get saturated. Also, levels are extremely low so lakes will take more days to get filled up," he explained.

The monsoon is expected to hit Mumbai by June 10.

"This situation is definitely an eye-opener for both BMC and the people. We had to come up with ideas and initiatives and for the people it was like understanding the importance of water and saving it," Gondaliya said.

He further said, "It is good to see the awareness among people today and I hope it continues."

RS polls: Anand Sharma is Cong nominee from Rajasthan PTI NEW DELHI, JUNE 5

Union Commerce Minister Anand Sharma was today nominated by the Congress for the biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan.

Sharma's Rajya Sabha tenure had expired recently. He was a member from Himachal Pradesh but the party could not get him re-elected from there as it did not have adequate strength in the state Assembly.

Other candidates announced by the Congress are Vijaylakshmi Sadho from Madhya Pradesh, former Rajasthan Minister Ask Ali Tak and Rajasthan Congress MP Narendra Budania, an AICC statement said.

Sadho is a Dalit leader and was a minister in the Digvijay Singh government.

Congress had yesterday an-

nounced the candidature of Union Minister Ambika Soni from Punjab and its General Secretary Mohsina Kidwai from Chhattisgarh for the biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha.

The party had also nominated former Union Minister and in charge of the Central Election Committee of the party Oscar Fernandes from

Karnataka.

Former Union Minister Santosh Bagrodia, who was a Rajya Sabha member from Rajasthan, however, failed to get a renomination from the state this time.

Biennial elections to four Rajya Sabha seats in Rajasthan and bypoll to one will be held on June 17 following completion of the terms of four MPs and death of one sitting member.

AICC general secretary and Rajya Sabha member from Karnataka B K Hariprsad whose term is coming to an end, also failed to get a nomination from there as the party can get only one member re-elected from there on the basis of its own strength. The party has announced the renomination of senior leader Oscar Fernandes from the state.

Regularly participate in cleanliness drive: Chawala PTI ITANAGAR, JUNE 5

On World Environment Day, the people of Arunachal Pradesh have been asked to regularly participate in cleanliness drive for keeping the environment clean.

Addressing a gathering here yesterday, Chief Election Commissioner Navin Chawala asked the people of the state to change their mindset and help the government to improve the environment even though the border state had the highest forest cover of 82 percent.

"I found Itanagar roads littered with lots of plastic waste.

But today due to the administration's cleanliness drive they look neat and tidy. There is not much use of such occasional

drive unless people participate in it regularly and change their mindset and develop a habit of maintaining their environment clean round the year", he said.

"You are fortunate to have 82 per cent forest cover but still to maintain your environment you need to put plastic waste to good use as in Maduraiof Tamil Nadu recently where plastic waste is used in blacktopping roads", he said.

He asked the local administration to contact their counterpart in Madurai and replicate the experiment.

Narrating his experience he said while driving through Sivaganga district adjoining Madurai he found the roadsides full of plastic wastes. But in Madurai, roads are clean as all the

plastic waste in Madurai is collected, cut to pieces and used for blacktopping roads.

Defending the local administration, Governor Gen (retd) J J Singh told Chawala that the problem of plastic wastes had become acute here two years ago but it had been reduced to a great extent after ban was imposed on use of plastic bags and shopkeepers were fined.

He said solid waste management had been launched here as a part of which it had been decided that rag pickers with proper identity cards would come regularly to each and every house to collect segregated non-biodegradable solid waste and recyclable waste.

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opinionated Terrorists, freedom fighters and human rights Rui da Gama

S

ome years back, no one had heard the word ‘terrorist’.

But as of today, it is a fearful word. Many of us tend to close our minds and never want to dream of a terrorist or a terror attack. We should not forget that over a period of years, nation states have developed deadly weapons which have been used to suppress the freedom of the people, their legitimate demands and rights of self determination.

There is no doubt that organised gangs and the so-called Mafia – those who want to do illegal trade and extortion – have used terror tactics and should be classified as terrorists. But the worst of all has been state terrorism, which is used to suppress the legitimate voice and freedom of the people.

Nations have, over a period of time, supported terrorism and terror tactics to conquer territories of other nations.

Owing to deadly new inventions in weapons, including nuclear weapons, nations were unable to challenge others for their own territorial and economic gains. So they resorted to supporting terrorist activities to achieve their goals. Finally, they lost their control over the terrorists and terrorist organisations they supported.

There are times that the terrorists have turned their weapons on the same nations that once supported and trained them.

Terrorism is grown to be a lion today. When the late Yasser Arafat and his Palestine Liberation Organisation introduced hijacking to fight the state of Israel, he was branded as a terrorist. But subsequently, over the years, Yasser Arafat was classified as a freedom fighter and shared a Nobel Peace Prize.

Worldwide, nations and states use their criminal power to suppress legitimate movements of people for freedom, by calling the agitation or unrest as an ‘unlawful’ activity. The majority of the people in the world are not for violence, killings or wars. But communities built on a particular social foundation have a legitimate right to freedom of expression, the right to self determination and manage their affairs, as well as to use their resources to their benefit.

When nations or states use unlawful or extraordinary force to terrorise people or their movements for a cause, then people get frustrated and tend to take up alternative means of defending themselves, like hit-and-run attacks, guerrilla tactics, suicide bombings, etc. Everyone has a right to their own defence, and violence is the last resort used to protect one’s cause, movement or freedom struggle. If Mahatma Gandhi had failed in his non-violence approach to gain freedom for India, either Subhas Chandra Bose or some other militant leader would have led the Indians into an armed revolt to achieve this legitimate goal.

Freedom movements can be distinguished from terrorism.

A large number of people of a particular community or ethic group will be emotionally involved to voice their struggle to attain a particular objective of freedom from state oppression, deprivation or social injustice. People might indulge in terrorist activity to achieve their goal. But it is the responsibility of the state to bring them to the negotiating table, admit that they have failed in their social responsibility towards their people, and arrive at a negotiated settlement.

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights adopted by UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/2200A(XXI) on 16 December 1966, Article 1 says: “All people have the right to Self-Determination. And by virtue of the right, they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. And in no case may a people be deprived of their own means of subsistence.”

Most nations of the world, including India, are a signatory to this international covenant and also to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the General Assembly Resolution A/RES/217 A (III) on 10 December 1948.

It is the responsibility of every nation and state to ensure that there is equitable distribution of resources. And every community has the right to put forth their legitimate demands to the state or nation. Corruption and monopolistic policies incorporated by the leaders cause economic disparity and social unrest. Unhealthy competition indulged in by the developed countries leads to exploitation of the poorer countries.

Many times, however, corrupt leaders of poor nations tend to exploit the poverty and backwardness of their own people.

If a state or nation has failed to deliver goods and services to its people, the consequent restlessness of people and social movements cannot be classified as terrorist activities; instead, they are freedom movements. The leaders of nations and states cannot suppress such causes and movements with the slogan of national integrity or in the name of allegiance to constitutional sovereignty. In such an event, the leaders of that state or nation are solely responsible for the loss of innocent lives and property, and such state leaders should also be classified as terrorists!

Nations and states also indulge in state terrorism, but we have been ignoring this fact for long. For example, many of the states in India where Maoists or Naxalites exist are failed states. Pakistan is nearly a failed state. These states are corrupt and have been exploiting the people since Independence. It is an emotional defence for people, whose cause has forced into violence or war. These people cannot be classified as terrorists.

The nation and the states should not use force or terrorism on its own emotionally hurt people, rather than get into negotiations, even if it takes time to find a solution. A real solution can come only of our own trust. But if it is too late, such leaders of states will be overthrown, like it happened to the King of Nepal.

On the other hand, the LTTE in Sri Lanka was ruthlessly eliminated with terrible human rights violations and abuse, which can be classified as state terrorism. There is no doubt that the LTTE was ruthless, but their cause arose from killings of Tamils during the language agitation, plus deprivation and state suppression. It was an emotional war for the Tamil people of Sri Lanka, and it is bound to arise one more in the future if proper care is not taken by the leaders of that state to devolve power to the Tamil minority.

There is someone dead or hurt in every second family in the Tamil-dominated North-East of Sri Lanka, and once again the younger generation will grow up with anger and revenge.

To avoid this, the issue must be attended to immediately, with mercy, compassion and love. Similar is the case of Palestine, Kashmir, North-Eastern and Central India, Africa, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, some South American states.

Every nation or state has the responsibility to train its security personnel to balance their approach, taking into consideration the human rights of the people, freedom fighters, terrorists and soldiers. It is not easy, but we have to find ways to balance security needs with protection of human rights.

We all have a responsibility to initiate peace. Wherever there is unrest, we have to pressurise our governments to initiate peace talks and continue till a negotiated settlement is arrived at. We all want peace.

(The author is the Convenor of ‘Asha Family Responsibilities & Rights Association, Goa’. The article is written on the occasion of the ‘International Seminar on Media and Terrorism in South Asia’, from 4 to 6 June at the International Centre, Goa)

Govt carefully assessing naxal situation: Antony PTI LUCKNOW, JUNE 5

Defence Minister A K Antony today said the Union government was carefully assessing naxal situation in the country and would take a decision soon to effectively deal with it.

"The government will take a decision (anti-naxal strategy) after carefully assessing various implications and pros and cons," he told reporters.

"It is a serious issue and the government will go through all the aspects in depth and also the implications", Antony, who was here to inaugurate a housing project for armymen, added.

He said his ministry would convey its suggestions on the subject after getting views of the Army and the Airforce.

"The Army and the Airforce are carefully discussing the issue within themselves and once they send their proposal then only we (the ministry) will send our proposal to the government," he said.

When asked how much time this exercise would take, the minister said his ministry would send its proposal at the earli-

‘Don't jump to conclusion on Nanda case’ PTI LUCKNOW, JUNE 5

Defence minister A K Antony today advised against jumping to conclusion on allegation of misconduct against a top army officer as the matter was under investigation.

"Don't jump to the conclusion, they (Army) are investigating," Antony told reporters when asked about Engineer-in-Chief Lt Gen A K Nanda facing allegation of misconduct.

The Defence minister was here to inaugurate housing project for armymen. Army Chief General V K Singh, who accompanied the minister, said, "there are certain service norms and certain things which are done, we are going through that so there is no requirement to jump to the conclusion."

"After the things are over you will come to know," he added.

"Whenever there is a serious allegation, we are not ignoring it, we inquire about it and take actions," Antony said.

59-year-old Nanda has been accused by the wife of a junior officer of molesting her during a trip to Isreal last month.

The Army chief said that there may be some lapses and delay, but armed forces were the only institution that takes prompt action against people indulging into this kind of activity.

On marriage accomodation project, the Defence Minister said it had been planned to construct two lakh cottages for jawans and officers. est.

The Defence minister desisted from indulging in public discussion on the topic.

"As it's a serious issue, internal

discussions are not to be revealed to the public and are not for public debate.

Don't expect much from me," he said.

People raising questions on every encounter: Omar PTI NEW DELHI, JUNE 5

Three days ahead of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to the Kashmir valley, J and K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has done some plainspeaking on "encounter" killings by security forces and said people were raising question marks on almost every encounter.

A visibly unhappy Abdullah was speaking against the backdrop of the huge controversy surrounding the killing of three youths by the Army recently in the Machhil sector along the Line of Control (LoC). The Army had claimed they were Pakistani terrorists.

Subsequent investigations have revealed they were three local residents who were allegedly lured to the border areas and shot dead in an alleged encounter. Relatives alleged that the victims were youths missing since April 27 and lodged complaints with authorities.

"Obviously there will be serious repercussions and doubts will emerge. J and K police is flooded with such complaints and enquiries about encounters are now going back more than five-six years and in some case

even eight years," Abdullah told "Left, Right and Centre" programme of NDTV. Asked whether there was still a question mark over some other encounters and that is why he was saying that those will have to be verified, Abdullah said, "I am saying that almost every encounter, unfortunately, that has taken place now has question marks being posed by people and it is our duty to address those questions."

"We have dug up bodies and verified whether these encounters are genuine or not. This has really put a lot of additional work on the already burdened police force because a whole host of questions are being asked about these encounters," he said.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to undertake a two-day visit to Kashmir valley from June 7 during which he is expected to renew the offer for talks with separatists and review the progress on the Round Table peace initiative.

Ahead of his visit, Singh told a national press conference on May 24 that he is ready to hold dialogue with all groups in Jammu and Kashmir which are

outside the political mainstream provided they shun violence.

Abdullah said that Singh will be going with a comprehensive agenda of development and progress. "I am sure there will be a political element built into his agenda as well."

Elaborating on questions being asked about "encounter" killings, Abdullah said "Obviously there would be doubts. This is the problem when a handful of people for their short-term gains are willing to sacrifice the longterm interests of not only forces they represent but that of everybody else."

The army had on April 30 said they had killed three unidentified infiltrators in Machhil sector along the LoC. Following complaints from relatives of the victims, a territorial army jawan and two others were arrested.

Abdullah said every complaint that has been made to the police after the Machhil encounter, they have looked into it and "have satisfied the complainants that whatever deaths have so far taken place other than the Machhil one have been the result of genuine encounters".

Swamy demands CBI probe into Pawar links in failed IPL bid PTI CHENNAI, JUNE 5

Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy today demanded a CBI inquiry into the controversies surrounding the failed IPL bid made by a company in which Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar and his daught e r S u p r i y a S u l e , M P, a re shareholders. ''A full-fledged CBI inquiry is required, especially into the failed bid and investigate whether there was any sweat equity to Sule or her husband,'' Swamy told reporters here.

IPL was a ''stinking hole of corruption,'' he said asking why the Reserve Bank of India ''did not intervene'' when the bidding

was being done in foreign exchange.

The multi-million dollar event had also affected the performance of Indian cricketers, he said in an apparent reference to India's drubbing in the recent T20 World Cup in West Indies.

Urging politicians, especially Ministers, to stay away from cricketing bodies, he said their primary job was public service. ''There are too many politicians in cricket. Ministers should not be involved in anything but political service, else there is a conflict of interest,'' Swamy said.

To a query on the Maoist menace and Home Minister P Chidambaram's contention that he had a ''limited mandate,'' Swamy

said the Constitution had given him the required mandate and asked him to act tough against the naxals.

Slamming the South Indian film industry's opposition to the ongoing International Indian Film Academy awards event in Colombo, and threatening those participating in it with non-cooperation, he said this was not correct and there were legal provisions to take action. ''India has recognised Sri Lanka as a state and we have an High Commission there. Besides, the two countries have sports and business ties,'' he said. It was the fundamental right of those intending to participate in the event, he added.

Kangana has taken Bollywood by storm!

AGENCIES NEW DELHI, JUNE 5

Daring Kangna knows how to make heads turn, it might not be long since she set her foot in tinsel town, but she has taken Bollywood by storm, with her extra ordinary good looks and natural talent, calling her a fantastic actress would be just an understatement, or for that matter anything else.

But then again Kangana Ranaut, wasn't here to follow anybody's rule, she was here to make some of her own. Looking back at the list of movies that she has done, she has succeeded in carving a niche for her self.

Today as one of the top leading ladies in Bollywood, Kangana is not here to play safe, with the type of role she has been

taking up, she wants to do it All. This beauty from the Hi-

machal Pradesh made her debut in 2006 with the film Gangster directed by Anurag Basu, her performance as a gangster's moll was well received and critically appreciated.

After that there was no looking back for this superstar.

She then starred as the troubled schizophrenic actress (based on yesteryear actress Parvenn Babi's life) in Woh Lamhe opposite Shiney Ahuja, the movie fared average at the box office, but Kangana shined in the film.

It was followed by number of hits; she played the role of the “other woman” in Life…In a metro, her character was that of a naïve women looking for someone to lover her, but wrongly chooses and falls in love with a married man.

US aware of India's concern with regard to Pak: Krishna PTI WASHINGTON, JUNE 5

The US is aware of India's concerns with regard to Pakistan and is not going to do anything that would "adversely affect" its interest, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna has said.

"Secretary (of State Hillary) Clinton is quite aware of India's various concerns with reference to Pakistan. This has been discussed with Clinton and also at official level in greater details," External Affairs Minister S M Krishna told reporters last evening at the end of his four-day trip here.

Krishna, who was leading a highpower delegation at Indo-US Strategic Dialogue, said "the message that I get from US Administration is that they are aware of our concerns and that they are not going to do anything which would adversely affect India's interest."

In response to a question, Krishna said strengthening of the strategic relationship with the US was not at the cost of any third country.

"We understand where our interests lie, we understand where our concerns lie and we also understand where there could possibly be convergence.

So we work on that," said the External Affairs Minister.

"Our concerns should be ad-

appointments

n Secretary (of State Hillary) Clinton is quite aware of India's various concerns with reference to Pakistan. This has been discussed with Hillary Clinton and also at official level in greater details.

dressed by the US and their concerns should be addressed by us.

This is the ground rule on which we proceed and this is the ground rule on which the strategic dialogue took place," said the External Affairs Minister.

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US says weighing new options over North Korea Reuters SINGAPORE, JUNE 5

The United States said on Saturday it is weighing new options beyond the United Nations to punish North Korea, which the South blames for the sinking of a warship that has escalated tensions on the peninsula.

Seoul has complained to the UN Security Council over the sinking of the corvette Cheonan in March, killing 46 sailors. It blames the shadowy North for torpedoing the ship, although it is unclear what it wants from the United Nations.

US Defense Secretary Robert Gates told a security conference in Singapore it was the ''collective responsibility'' of Asian states to address North Korean ''provocations'', increasing pressure on a reluctant China to rebuke its long-time ally. ''To do nothing would set the wrong precedent,'' Gates said at a meeting with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts. ''The international community can and must hold North Korea accountable. The United States will continue to work with the Republic of Korea, Japan and our other partners to figure out the best way to do just that,'' he said.

But with firm Security Council action in doubt, Gates and other US officials signalled the United States and its allies may act unilaterally or together to further isolate North Korea.

To try to deter the North, Gates said the United States would conduct more joint military exercises with South Korea and support ''action'' by the Security Council. He added without elaborating: ''At the same time, we are assessing additional options to hold North Korea accountable.''

US officials said Washington was looking at a range of options, including tightening economic sanctions to expanded searches of North Korean vessels.

North Korea denies responsibility for sinking the Cheonan and accuses South Korean President Lee Myung-bak of staging the incident to help his chances in local elections this week.

In increasingly shrill rhetoric, the North has warned several times through its official KCNA news agency that ''war could break out at any moment''.

Lee pledged to clamp down on any action deemed threatening but dismissed the likelihood of open conflict.

Storm cracks Bangladesh building; residents flee Reuters DHAKA, JUNE 5

Residents of an apartment building in the Bangladeshi capital fled their homes on Saturday after cracks appeared in the aftermath of a storm, two days following a fire that killed more than 100 people in an old city district.

Firefighters, rescue teams and police and rescuers rushed to the 22-storey building in Shantinagar, a district developed in the 1960s and 1970s, after a storm with winds gusting up to 80 kph (50 mph) lashed the area.

The incident raised new questions about building standards after Thursday's fire that raced through the centuries-old Kayettuli district, a warren of narrow streets, multi-storey blocks and tin-roofed dwellings, killing at least 117 people.

With rescue operations after the fire now declared ended, some of the more than 100 injured remained in critical con-

dition in hospitals. Flags flew at half mast, television played sombre music and grieving relatives gathered at gravesites.

Dhaka is a bustling city of 12 million, but many buildings are poorly constructed because of lack of supervision and circumventing of regulations.

Officials have suggested that narrow roads and a lack of proper fire escapes contributed to the high death toll and some groups have called for an immediate improvement in standards and a crackdown on bribe-taking in the building trade. ''The authorities must ensure adequate standards for each building for the safety of the users,'' Quamrul Islam Chowdhury, a leader of the Bangladesh environment journalists group, said in a statement.

Last Tuesday, 25 people were killed and 50 injured when a building collapsed in the capital's Begunbari area.

UN to send extra police to post-quake Haiti Reuters UNITED NATIONS, JUNE 5

The Security Council authorised the dispatch of nearly 700 additional UN police to Haiti to combat a possible crime resurgence following January's devastating earthquake.

A council resolution said the extra 680 police would be a ''temporary surge capacity'' aimed at supporting Haiti's police, hard hit in the January 12 quake that killed more than 300,000 people in the impoverished Caribbean state.

The move will bring the number of UN police in Haiti to

4,391. There are also nearly 9,000 troops in the world body's peacekeeping force known as MINUSTAH, which first went to Haiti in 2004 following serious civil strife.

The resolution said that with many Haitians living in camps as a result of the earthquake, which devastated the capital Port-au-Prince, there was ''the risk of a resurgence in gang violence, organised crime and trafficking of children.''

The increase in UN police was recommended in a report on Haiti issued in April by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who noted that a number of dangerous criminals had escaped from prison during the earthquake.

Ban's report also said the Haitian police needed UN help to establish a ''sustainable and visible'' presence in the camps and elsewhere to provide a ''conducive environment'' for elections planned for this year.

The United Nations had boosted MINUSTAH's troop and police levels by 3,500 a week after the quake. The Security Council said the latest levels would be maintained at least through the elections and a transfer of power planned for February.

The UN move came three days after the US military announced the end of major relief operations in Haiti.

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Israeli navy boards Gaza aid ship Reuters JERUSALEM, JUNE 5

The Israeli navy boarded another aid ship bound for Gaza on Saturday.

Irish and other activists aboard the Rachel Corrie had ignored Israeli orders to divert to Israel's Ashdod port. ''The ship has been boarded and there was full compliance from the crew and passengers on board,'' an Israeli military spokeswoman said.

The stand-off in the Mediterranean came as Washington, Israel's key ally, said its blockade of the Hamas-run Gaza Strip was ''unsustainable and must be changed'' – the clearest sign yet of a shake-up in the embargo that has blighted the lives of 1.5 million Palestinians for the past four years.

Turkey, once Israel's main Muslim ally, has kept up its fury over the deaths of nine Turkish nationals in the raid on Monday.

Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan harangued Israel on Friday about ignoring the Biblical commandment ''Thou shalt not kill''.

Autopsy results, as reported by a British newspaper, found 30 bullets in the activists who died. Among the victims was a Turk with US citizenship.

Speaking ahead of the boarding, a spokeswoman for the Free Gaza campaign group, whose contact with the crew was patchy, said warships had been sighted by the freighter around dawn, before 6 am (0830 IST).

The ship is named after pro-Palestinian protester Rachel Corrie, who was killed by an Israeli army bulldozer in 2003.

Israeli government spokesman Mark Regev said the activists' motive was political and not humanitarian and they had rejected a joint Israeli-Irish proposal to resolve the standoff involving the Irish-owned merchant vessel. ''Late Friday, the activists on the boat rejected outright understandings reached between the governments of Israel and Ireland that will allow for the delivery of all humanitarian cargo for the people of Gaza. In so doing they clearly demonstrated that their goal is not supporting the people of Gaza but to make a political statement in support of the Hamas regime,'' spokesman Mark Regev said.

Israel says its blockade of the Gaza Strip, tightened after Islamist Hamas seized the enclave from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah faction in 2007, aims to keep out arms.

Washington had urged the Gaza aid vessel to divert to an Israeli port to reduce the risk of violence, but also stated its belief that the controversial blockade could not last in its current form. ''We are working urgently with Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and other international partners to develop new procedures for delivering more goods and assistance to Gaza,'' a spokesman for the White House National Security Council said. ''The current arrangements are unsustainable and must be changed. For now, we call on all parties to join us in encouraging responsible decisions by all sides to

avoid any unnecessary confrontations,'' he added in a statement.

Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin had said the crew of the Rachel Corrie had indicated they were ready to accept inspection of their cargo at sea, prior to docking in Gaza.

Autopsy results on the nine dead Turkish activists from Monday's raid showed they had been shot a total of 30 times, many at close range, Britain's Guardian newspaper reported on Saturday. Five were killed by gunshots to the head, it said.

Turkish-American activist Fulkan Dogan was shot five times from less than 45 cm away, in the face, the back of the head, twice in the leg and once in the back, the paper said. In addition to those killed, 48 others received gunshot wounds and six activists were still missing.

In his angriest rhetoric yet, Erdogan accused the Jewish state yesterday of violating its own Bible: ''I am speaking to them in their own language. The sixth commandment says 'thou shalt not kill'. Did you not understand?'' Erdogan said in a televised speech to party supporters. ''I'll say again. I say in English 'you shall not kill'. Did you still not understand?. So I'll say to you in your own language. I say in Hebrew 'Lo Tirtzakh'.''

Ties between Turkey and Israel have soured badly and Ankara is threatening to rethink its entire relationship with the Jewish state. Protesters sang Turkey's praises at rallies in Egypt and Lebanon on Friday.

Senators question Obama’s choice of Clapper as intelligence head Agencies WASHINGTON, JUNE 5

President Obama plans to nominate retired Air Force Lt Gen James R Clapper Jr as his next director of national intelligence, officials said on Friday. The announcement is expected to come during a Rose Garden event on Saturday.

Clapper emerged as the frontrunner immediately after the last director, retired Adm. Dennis C. Blair, stepped aside last month following a rocky tenure.

Some lawmakers, though, have expressed resistance to the selection of another intelligence chief with a military background.

As news of Clapper's nomination broke on Friday, the ranking Republican on the Senate intelligence committee said he was "not inclined to support" the nominee.

"Unfortunately, with his pick in Jim Clapper as the next DNI, the president has ensured our terror-fighting strategy will continue to be run out of the Department of Justice and White House," Sen. Christopher S. Bond (R-Mo.) said. "While Jim has served our nation well, he lacks the necessary clout with the president, has proven to be less than forthcoming with Congress and has recently blocked

James R Clapper our efforts to empower the DNI." If confirmed, Clapper will be the fourth DNI since the office was created five years ago on the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.

For Clapper, 69, the spy director position would mark the culmination of a 45-year intelligence career, a background that would give him broader knowledge of the intelligence community than any of his predecessors.

In a long Oval Office meeting with Obama on May 5, Clapper was asked "for his views on the future of the intelligence community and the DNI," one administration official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss private

conversations. "General Clapper followed up with a letter about his vision that greatly impressed the president and convinced him that General Clapper was the right man at the right time for the job."

Still, some question whether Clapper has the standing or political connections to succeed in such a daunting job. Blair was largely sidelined in the position during the first year of the Obama administration and was pushed out after terrorist plots exposed ongoing problems in detecting and stopping attacks.

The director position was created to fix such problems, part of the sweeping reform that followed the September 11, 2001, attacks. But the position is widely regarded as significantly flawed – lacking enough authority over budget and hiring decisions to exercise control over the sprawling collection of 16 spy agencies.

Clapper's view of the job, and how much authority it should have, is unclear. He lobbied thenDefense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld in 2004 to support the new director position, giving it limited power over spy agencies that had long been funded by the Defense Department.

Cuba singer Rodriguez polemical in US show Reuters NEW YORK, JUNE 5

Cuban folk singer Silvio Rodriguez, a leading musical voice of the Cuban revolution, launched his first US tour in 30 years in a concert blending wistful ballads with his criticism of the imprisonment of five Cubans convicted in the United States of spying.

He performed yesterday night before an adoring audience at sold-out Carnegie Hall. A small number of protesters gathered outside the famed music venue, some supporting and some opposing Cuba's government, under the watchful gaze of New York police in vans with silently flashing multi-coloured lights.

Rodriguez, 63, is the latest Cuban performer recently to be allowed into United States, which had routinely denied such visas under former President George W Bush.

Many of Rodriguez's songs extol the Cuban revolution that brought Fidel Castro in power in 1959, but others also lightly criticise the communist-led society.

Some fans in the raucous, mainly Hispanic crowd draped leftist Latin American revolutionary symbols and Cuban flags over the horseshoe-shaped balcony balustrades.

Cleopatra show unveils new archaeological treasures Reuters PHILADELPHIA, JUNE 5

In a glass case at Philadelphia's Franklin Institute two fragments of papyrus feature the handwriting of Cleopatra, the last Egyptian pharaoh whose legendary beauty has inspired artists and film makers.

The document with the Greek inscription, ''make it happen,'' refers to a tax break for a friend of her husband Mark Antony. It is one of 150 artifacts in an exhibition featuring the latest discoveries in an intensifying search for her long-lost tomb.

Broken rail bridge Poprad river after swollen waters of the Poprad river collapsed the pillars of the railway bridge between the Old and New Sacz, with two spans collapsing into a river, Poland, on Friday. As a result of particularly heavy rains, Poland's region of Malopolska is affected by a new surge of flooding, the second one in the recent days.

Cars make their way through floodwaters brought about by Cyclone Phet in Muscat on Saturday. Cyclone Phet, despite weakening to a Category 1 storm, pummelled Oman's coastline on Friday, killing two and halting the small oil-producing country's oil and gas production, officials and state media said.

Berlin, Moscow eye quick UN move on Iran sanctions Reuters MESEBERG, Germany, JUNE 5

The leaders of Germany and Russia said on Saturday that world powers were on the verge of approving a new round of sanctions against Iran for its nuclear work.

World powers are at loggerheads with Iran over its uranium enrichment programme, which they believe is a cover to build a nuclear bomb. Tehran says its nuclear work is for the peaceful generation of electricity.

Germany and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council – Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States – have been discussing a fourth round of sanctions for months and Washington has said a vote is likely next week.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, speaking at a joint news

US troubled by killing of Congo rights activist Reuters WASHINGTON, JUNE 5

The United States said it was deeply concerned by the ''apparent assassination'' of a Congolese human rights activist and offered to help the Democratic Republic of the Congo investigate his death.

Floribert Chebeya, head of the national network of human rights organisations and the Voice of the Voiceless, was found dead in his car in Kinshasa on Wednesday after being called to a meeting with the Inspector General of Police, General John Numbi, on Tuesday evening.

Human rights groups said they believed government officials may have been involved but police reports suggested a scenario involving a sexual liaison.

UN Secretary-General Ban Kimoon called for a transparent and independent investigation on Wednesday and said the world body was prepared to help through its mission in Congo.

US State Department spokesman P J Crowley made a similar offer from the United

Pakistan’s mosques, media and intolerance Reuters ISLAMABAD, JUNE 5

Pakistan has been fighting Islamist militants for years, but tough measures are needed to overturn a system breeding religious intolerance after the long failure of authorities to confront mullahs and hardline groups.

Analysts say the notion of religious mistrust is deeply entrenched in the predominatly Muslim country – even in the school system – and it is now up to leaders to mobilise public.

Last week's massacre in the city of Lahore of more than 80 Ahmadis – a minority religious sect deemed nonMuslim and heretical by the constitution – has generated a heated debate in Pakistan, a US ally, on how to tackle the issue.

In a sign of how hatred is propagated, The News newspaper said one of the two surviving gunmen caught by security forces said he had been persuaded that Ahmadis were ''blaspheming'' Islam.

Identified as Abdullah, he told investigators that his mentors had him believe that Ahmadis were drawing caricatures of Prophet Mohammad during a recent online contest and ''so their bloodshed was a great service to Islam'', the news-

paper said.

That raised alarm bells in a country combatting militancy. ''The nagging feeling that the government has already lost the battle against extremism has now acquired the force of conviction,'' Zafar Hilaly, a former ambassador, wrote in The News last week.

After joining the US-led war on terrorism after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States, Pakistan mounted a crackdown on militancy, outlawing several groups, arresting hundreds of suspects and warning hardline mullahs against delivering hate speeches and distributing hate literature.

The government also vowed to reform tens of thousands of Islamic seminaries, known as madrassas, many of which are considered as breeding grounds for militancy.

Almost none of these measures, however, has been implemented.

Most outlawed groups have reemerged under new names. Radical clerics still deliver fiery speeches against sects.

The US Embassy acknowledged the difficulties, given the importance placed on Pakistan helping Washington battle al Qaeda and its extremist allies.

''We recognise this is a problem,'' an embassy official said, adding that the embassy encouraged Pakistanis to take part in exchange programmes to see a multi-faith United States.

Analysts say Pakistani leaders dating back to the 1970s, however popular, took no action to counter radicals.

Hasan Askari Rizvi, a Lahore-based political and security analyst said governments have lacked the stomach to implement reforms, particularly in school curricula. ''In textbooks used in government schools, Pakistan is equated with Muslims...They teach Pakistan is a country only for Muslims. They don't teach that non-Muslims also live here,'' he said.

Journalist and analyst Ahmed Rashid described school programmes as ''the most sensitive issue. But it is an issue in which any attempt to change the curriculum would have a whole host of fundamentalist groups oppose you.''

In 1974, Pakistan's first popularly elected Prime Minister, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, bowed to Islamic groups and won approval of a constitutional amendment declaring Ahmadis as non-Muslims.

He also switched the weekly day off from Sunday to Friday.

But much of the upsurge in militancy occurred in the late 1970s and 1980s during the ''Islamisation drive'' by late military leader General Mohammad Ziaul-Haq and Pakistan's support for the US-baked Afghan jihad or holy war against the Soviet invasion which saw a rapid growth of radical groups and madrasas.

Haq introduced several laws, such as the notorious blasphemy law, which are deemed discriminatory against non-Muslim minorities and fuelled tensions between different Muslim sects.

Subsequent governments did nothing to reverse the laws.

Military dictators, who ruled Pakistan for more than half of its existence, have also used militant groups to further policy objectives in Afghanistan and India and marginalise liberals. ''In earlier years, in order to pursue its foreign policy using the instrument of jihad, the state actively sought to create a religiously charged citizenry,'' said Pervez Hoodbhoy, a physicist and analyst. ''But, now that the Pakistani military and political establishments have become a victim of extremism, they are foundering in confusion.''

conference with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev north of Berlin, described the consensus among world powers on the issue as a ''major diplomatic advance'' and said she expected the UN to move quickly. ''It is possible that in the near future the sanctions can be approved by the UN Security Council,'' Merkel said. ''I am very happy that we can stand here together today and say this is a common position, including not only the European Union, the United States and Russia, but also China,'' she added.

The United States and Europe overcame reservations in China and Russia, which have strong trade ties to Iran, and forged agreement on a draft sanctions resolution last month. ''The situation is such that an agreement on sanctions almost

exists,'' said Medvedev, adding that no one wanted to impose sanctions, but sometimes they were necessary. ''We hope that the voice of the international community will be heard by the Iranian leadership,'' he said. ''One cannot continue behaving irresponsibly.

It is important to listen to what is said in the international arena.''

On the topic of the economy, Berlin and Moscow agreed a stable euro was crucial for global financial stability and sustainable growth, Merkel and Medvedev said.

Merkel said Russia and Germany also broadly agreed on questions of financial market regulation, which would be addressed at a meeting of the Group of 20 industrial and emerging economies later this month.

Cyprus tells Pope split threatens heritage Reuters NICOSIA, JUNE 5

Cyprus on Saturday told Pope Benedict its Christian heritage was under threat from its decades-old division, a conflict harming Turkey's bid to join the European Union.

Benedict is on a three-day visit to the Mediterranean island, where St Paul preached 2,000 years ago. It is now split between its Greek and Turkish populations since Turkey invaded its north in 1974 after a brief Greek-inspired coup. ''It is particularly disturbing that for 36 years our cultural and religious heritage in the occupied areas is being destroyed, and this constitutes a loss for mankind in general,'' Cypriot President Demetris Christofias told Benedict during a meeting.

Benedict is only visiting the south of the island, territory run

by Cyprus's internationally recognised Greek Cypriot government. He is staying at a Franciscan monastery in the buffer zone, no-man's-land splitting Cyprus east to west and patrolled by United Nations troops.

The Pope has said his visit is not political and has mostly skirted around the highly complex issue of Cyprus's division.

But in a speech to Archbishop

Chrysostomos, head of Cyprus's Orthodox Church, Benedict said he hoped all ''could find the wisdom and strength to work together for a just settlement''.

He urged all to ''strive for peace and reconciliation and to build for future generations a society distinguished by respect for the rights of all, including the inalienable rights to freedom of conscience and freedom of worship''.

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GOA’S HEARTBEAT Goa’s Cornucopia of Don’t Malign Knowledge the Dead

Try not to become a man of success “Bhavart asta thoim Dev asta “but - Anonymous a man of value - Albert Einstein

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Sunday, 6 June, 2010

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Photo courtesy: Central Library

Goa’s State Central Library gets relocated to a six-floor stateof-the-art building. Herald reminisces over its journey from a private library to a state library abundant with priceless information

What is it about society? People who wake up only when someone is no more? And only to either glorify or condemn the dead. And the gross lack of media ethics today, only exacerbates the situation

BY CHRISTINA VIEGAS HERALD FEATURES he recent news gripping the state is the death of Nadia Torreado.

Reports that it was an accident and then speculation that she had committed suicide and the latest allegations that it could even be murder is surely being lapped up by readers, viewers and listeners through the various media. An incident of this magnitude surely needs intensive probing into the matter so that justice is sought and the guilty is punished. And yes, perhaps the media plays a vital role here in reporting happenings which in turn will keep society enlightened and will compel the authorities to take appropriate calls. But how far will the media go? Media responsibility is a catalyst for social change, but how many media persons practise this? Yes, while we need to report the facts, we also have a responsibility towards exercising restraint and not going overboard just to make the report sensational.

While the print media to a large extent can be commended for exercising restraint, unfortunately the same cannot be said about tele-media; a potent medium that reaches even the illiterate which means responsibility here is highly warranted. Yet, chatting around with the residents of the state has brought to light the fact that television is going overboard when it comes to telecasting personalities speaking of the deceased in an absolutely condescending manner.

People doing a character assassination of the deceased are thorns in the flesh of family members already plunged in grief. A person requesting anonymity says, “Statements like, ‘I am not saying this, but it is clearly mentioned in the husband’s affidavit that she had an extra marital affair’, made by people of authority is just not right. These facts should be within the authorities conducting the probe.”

Another questions, “And who gives these so-called holy persons the right to speculate on what relationship transpired between the deceased and the accused? If and even anything was there, it is a personal matter not for public speculation and discussion.”

Many opine that if people believe a politician is corrupt and she/he should be nailed come what may, so be it. But don’t colour the incident unnecessarily by doing a character assassination of someone who is defenceless in death.

Can she sit up to defend herself from or clarify the stories doing the rounds?

Most people are questioning the ethics of the media. An elderly lady sadly states, “Why should people be curious to know what SMSs or calls transpired

T

BY DOLCY D’CRUZ HERALD FEATURES ichard Armour, in his book ‘The Happy Bookers’, perfectly describes a library saying ‘Here is where people, One frequently finds, Lower their voices, And raise their minds.’ The Central Library is one such place where no matter how rarely you visit it, you still feel overwhelmed by the people totally engrossed in their reading. A place that stands strong in the history of Goa, the State Central Library has seen the rule change from the Portuguese regime to a free Goa. It treasures history behind its beautiful walls, a structure built with a large collection of books on literature, rare books on Goa, official gazettes, periodicals and newspapers.

Situated right opposite the Betim Ferry Wharf, Central Library is housed in Instituto Menezes Braganza and is functioning under the administrative control of the Government of Goa, Directorate of Art & Culture with Carlos Fernandes as its Curator or the Head of State Central Library.

The entrance of the library has large pictures depicting the scenes from ‘Os Luisiades’, the epic poem of Portugal's most famous poet, Luise Vaz Cameos that showcases the adventures of Vasco Da Gama on azulejos painted by Jorge Colaço in 1935.

Its history dates back to September 15, 1832, making it the oldest public library in India. It was established by Viceroy Dom Manuel de Portugal e Castro as ‘Publica Livraria’. It started out as Academia Militar de Goa (Military Training Institute) and in 1836, the name was changed to Bibliotheca Publica as it was updated with bibliographical repository transferred from the Convents run by religious orders that were suppressed in the 1834. On February 15, 1897 the status of the library was raised to that of a National Library and renamed as Bibliotheca Nacional de Nova Goa. In March 1925, it was annexed to the academic and cultural institution, (Instituto Vasco da Gama) and redesignated as Bibliotheca Nacional Vasco da Gama. From September 1959, the Bibliotheca was detached from the Institute and put under the administrative control of ‘Servicos de Instruccao

R

e Saude’ (Education and Health Services); it was then renamed as Biblioteca Nacional de Goa. The collection of pre-liberation period consists mainly of books and journals in Portuguese, French, Latin, English and very few books in local language like Konkani and Marathi. The total pre-liberation collection was about 40,000 volumes.

After Liberation, the library was renamed as State Central Library and its activities were expanded with lending, reference and special services for children. Today, the library boosts a collection of 1.8 lakh volumes. With a huge collection of books, the Library has to be well maintained, keeping this in mind, the State Central Library will soon be shifted to a six-floor building at Patto, Panjim. “The library will be shifted from the old structure

by December 2010.

After this, the old building will house a reading section for senior citizens and a newspaper and magazine section for the public,” informs Carlos Fernandes, Curator of State Central Library.

Though we assume that the internet might have decreased the number of readers visiting the library, on the contrary, the number of members increases every year. “Currently we have 10,500 members and the number increases by 500 new members every year.

People still refer to the library for information. A new library, to be called Dr Francisco Luis Gomes District Library, will soon be inaugurated in Navelim,” adds Carlos.

After Liberation, the library emphasised on section for children which included books especially for them. Maria Lourdes Bravo Da Costa heads the Circulation Section of the library and is often spotted with the children, She says, “The internet does not have an adverse effect on the library. The library has books especially for children of different age groups right from toddlers to teenagers.”

When asked about how to grow the interest of reading in a child, Maria says, “Parents should help Librarians. They should suggest children to start reading and even teachers should encourage them to read more than just text books. Once children are in the library, we make them comfortable asking them about what they like to read and provide them with the books.”

Greetings of World Environment Day 2010 In view of World Environment, Goa’s renowned scientist, Dr Nandkumar Kamat muses over his 30 best pictures of Goa University campus. Herald brings forth some of them

Erections: natural and manmade

­H­O­R­O­S­C­O­P­E Often, people who are full of action are empty of thought. Do not be intimidated. Your explo(21 Mar – 19 Apr) rations are a source of great pride and joy -- so get out there and poke around some more! You need to make sure that you've seen it all by the time you finally end up passing out from exhaustion.

Sometimes you have to sacrifice some of your time to be there for someone else. Things could (23 Sep – 22 Oct) be great or terrible today -- but don't trust yourself to judge! If you think the situation is going downhill fast, get a fresh perspective and you might see that you've just been seeing things a bit askew.

Like the song says, 'you'd better shop around.' The first one is never good enough. Someone impor(20 Apr – 20 May) tant is in a huge rush today -- and there's not much you can do to get them to slow down.

It's better to just get out of the way than get caught up in their increasing insanity.

To truly understand what they mean, pay close attention to the key words they keep using. Your (23 Oct – 21 Nov) willingness to step up and help even when nobody thinks to ask is a real asset today -- for you as well as for those you assist! You may learn new tricks or use an underappreciated skill.

Your group needs your brilliant ideas -- so speak up and take on a bigger role. You need to be (21 May – 21 Jun) clearer about what you really want -- try starting with yourself.

If you can't read your own ambitions, how can you expect to get anyone else to help you out along the way?

You'll soon get a jolt of strength when lots of masculine energy enters your life. Stir things up in (22 Nov – 21 Dec) your love life today -- you know you need some new energy!

That could mean actually saying hello to that new hottie, or finding some new way to get your partner to smile.

Your memory saves the day when you meet a well-connected former coworker. If you start to (22 Jun – 22 Jul) get angry today, just take a deep breath and reconsider -- your emotions are all peaking today, so it may be that you're reacting too strongly to an entirely innocent stimulus.

You do not have to sacrifice family for career.

Keep your priorities where they are. Stick (22 Dec – 19 Jan) with the program today -- no matter how disappointing it seems to you. There is good news just around the corner, but only if you find a way to persevere and keep your fellows in line.

Who knew learning could be this fun? Keep feeding your brain -- it's loving it. You're rarely (23 Jul – 22 Aug) so set in your opinions that you can't be convinced to see things differently -- but today, you need to make sure you're not being too rigid. Ask newcomers for their opinions.

Much to your amazement, not one thing has gone wrong. You planned well -- good job! You're (20 Jan – 18 Feb) flat-out amazed at how well today is going -- and how quickly everything falls into place! Your hot ideas are pushing the envelope pretty far, but it looks almost too easy.

A high-spirited pal has a secret they want to share. Let them know you're all ears. A big fight (23 Aug – 22 Sep) is brewing -- and you may want to get it started in earnest right now, before anyone thinks they can get the upper hand on you! Your energy favors conflict, as long as you make it quick.

Their behavior is bewildering, but rest assured -- there's a method to the madness. You're a little (19 Feb – 20 Mar) confused, but it's not your fault -- nobody is explaining themselves today! You may just need to accept a little bewilderment as the price of doing business with these hotshots.

between both parties? That is personal stuff shared during their personal moments and in a case such as this, should only be accessible to the authorities conducting the probe; the media should not speculate on the kind of relationship shared or what communication took place. No one has the right to encroach on a person’s personal life and that too after she is dead.”

Many shudder and wonder what society has reduced to? Tomorrow anyone can die under mysterious circumstances and our personal spaces will be thrown open not just for investigation but more for sensationalism. Do we ever pause for a moment to think that every person is someone’s child, partner, sibling or parent? How appropriate is it to make statements which tarnish the self-image of a deceased individual?

History is witness to even the most intelligent and thinking women committing the gravest errors when ‘in love’. A woman in love will go to all limits to conform to the one she loves; whether he is a goon, a beast, manipulator, user, anything. In the tribal areas, women in love even ignore the fact that they can be victims to honour killings. Such is the magnitude of a woman’s love which can be her greatest strength and unfortunately even turn into her greatest weakness. There are relationships galore on the face of the globe. What is wrong to one might be right to another. So, instead of speculating on a person or relationship, we should let the law take its course and severely punish the guilty. Not take our readers, viewers or listeners for granted!

An SMS doing the rounds yesterday was, “Revere women, love women, worship women, applaud women, honour women, respect women, praise women. And if you cannot do any of these, ignore women but never humiliate them. It can only lead to disaster.”

This came in the wake of the resignation of the tourism minister.

Sneak Peek at Chris Evans Captain America Look

C

Bagetil chukle pakharu

The Shalmali flower eclipses the moon

Hirave Hirave gar galiche, vast green monsoon carpets

hris Evans, star of ‘Losers’ and ‘Push’ as well as two ‘Fantastic Four’ films will be playing the role of Marvel's latest superhero on the big screen Captain America. Also starring in the film will be Samuel L Jackson, reprising his role of Nick Fury which he was seen playing in the first two Iron Man films. Captain America will be a lead-in to Marvel's ‘The Avengers’ of which Captain America is one of the members.

The first images of Captain America’s costume have popped up online.

Obviously concept art, the images show what Chris Evans is going to look like in the iconic Captain America costume and we must say, they look ace.

At this moment it is not known if the pictures are showing the final design for the costume or just early drafts but since the film will follow the comic book superhero, we doubt the end result will defer too much.

Joe Johnston, the director of ‘Captain America: The First Avenger’ has stated before that Chris Evans will wear two different costumes in the movie; one for his USO appearances and one for combat. The one featured in the pictures is thought to be the combat suit while the USO suit is expected to be flashier yet more formal looking.

‘The Avengers’ is supposed to be the big project in the works for Marvel headed up by Director Joss Whedon, with a tentative release date of May 4, 2012. Other cast members could include Robert Downey Jr in his Iron Man role, Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, Edward Norton as Bruce Banner (The Hulk's alter-ego human form) and Chris Hemsworth as Thor. Hemsworth will star in ‘The Mighty Thor’ in 2011, which could also include Evans as Captain America in a cameo or extended role.

Udaye savita raktou-raktaschastamane tatha, (The sun is equally radiant when it rises and it sets)

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Sunday, 6 June, 2010

WHAT’S UP IN GOA??

‘Paltadcho Munis’ or ‘The Man Beyond the Bridge’ is being screened till June 7 at 6pm and 8pm at the Maquinez Palace, Panjim and on June 6 at the Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. Call 2428111, 2428113, 2428115 and 2653083.

‘Management of Incurable Cases’, a talk by Dr Shreepad Khedekar will take place on June 6 at Hotel Woodlands, Margao.

E-mail imperialclinics@gmail.com. Call 9881067812, 9822380116, 9881067812 or 2733388.

Live musical concert, organised by Father Peter Cardozo and the Sonata Music School, Margao and the All Goa Youth Fusion Concert Committee will take place on June 6 at 10:30am. Tickets are available at Furtados, Pedro Fernandes Musical Instruments and Vibes, all in Margao.

‘Children’s Film Festival’, organised by the Entertainment Society of Goa will continue till June 6 from 1pm onwards at the Maquinez Palace, Panjim. It is free and open to all. Call 2428111, 2428113 or 2428115.

The inauguration of the Seminary Year 2010-2011 by the Pilar Theological College will be held on June 11 at the College, Pilar. Call 2218521, 2219459 or 2219458.

A blood donation camp, organised by the Lions Club of Chinchinim and the Parish Youth Association of Chinchinim will be held on June 6 from 6am to 12pm at Dr Nagzarkar Hospital, Chinchinim.

Call 2863526.

‘NACLIN 2010’, the 4 day 13th national convention on knowledge, library and information networking will be held from June 15 at BITS Pilani, Goa Campus.

Visit www.naclin.org. Call 2580314, 2580101, 2580303 and 2580106.

‘A new world…VISION 2050’, a creativity contest on graphic designing on

nidifugous Pronunciation nye-DIFF-yuh-gus Function Adjective Meaning : leaving the nest soon after hatching Example Sentence Little is known about the mortality of nidifugous shorebird chicks.

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Photos by Chiquitita D’Souza

Young achievers grouped besides the CM, Digambar Kamat

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festival to begin later this year. The film, ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ was screened much to the delight of the children present. The film, fourth in the series of Indian Jones movies is an adventure film that tells the tale of Indiana Jones and his search for a psychic alien crystal skull. The entertainment activity for the day was balloon sculpting which took place during the interval of the film. The other films screened on the inaugural day were ‘Krish, Trish and Baltiboy’. Simultaneously at the Ravindra Bhavan, Margao the films ‘Nokpokliba’ and ‘Pangaa Gang’ were screened.

Today, the festival will see the screening of ‘Nokpokliba’, ‘Pangaa Gang’ and ‘Madagascar’, which will begin at 1pm at the ESG. The Ravindra Bhavan will screen ‘Krish, Trish and Baltoboy’ at 6: 30 pm. Face painting and a magic show will be part of the entertainment organised for the children.

As film festivals of such nature come once in a blue moon, organisers should accompany the screenings with discussions that critically analyse films or that provide children with knowledge on the complete workings that go into making films. An appreciation of child artistes of Indian cinema, more so vernacular could be another appendage to the festival.

It is f r e e a n d open to all.

08:00 Chak Dhoom Dhoom 15:00 Balika Vadhu - Kacchi Umar Ke Pakke Rishte 17:00 Chachi 420 20:00 Chandni Chowk to China

14:00 Discography 15:00 Best of Encounter

09:00 Laughter Dons 10:00 Star One Horror Nights 11:00 Laughter Dons 12:00 Chak De Yaara 13:30 Mauja Hi Mauja 15:30 Jashn 2010 17:30 Ghajini 21:30 Star One Horror Nights 22:30 Rang Badalti Odhni 23:30 Laughter Ke Phatke

11:00 CSI: NY 12:00 Chuck 13:00 Wipeout 14:00 World Records Smashed 15:00 Sports Crash 16:00 So You Think You Can

Pg13

Music Review

BY COLIN SAVIO COELHO colin.coelho@gmail.com

Getting in Touch with the Music of Yore T

Nilesh Naik being honored for creating a massive 4, 900 square meter rangoli, the world’s largest

08:00 Joel Osteen 09:00 Namaste Cinema 09:30 Khana Khazana 10:00 Keshav Pandit 12:00 Hindi Feature Film 16:00 Dance India Dance L'il Masters 19:00 Yuvvraaj 23:00 Keshav Pandit

Parenting

Photos by Herald Features

SOUTH POLE

09:00 Gutar Gu 10:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta...

12:00 Mrs. and Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale 14:00 The Great Gambler 18:00 Gutar Gu 18:30 Lapataganj 20:00 Dil Diya Dard Liya 23:00 Mrs. and Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale

email us at: goasheartbeat@herald-goa.com

Tourism

HERALD FEATURES orld Environment Day was celebrated at the National Institute of Oceanography with the theme ‘Many species, One Planet, One future’. The celebration was organised by the Centre for Environment Education (CEE), Nisarga Nature Club and NIO Staff club supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Goa. The events included in the celebrations were an eco-photography competition which had entries from all over the country and an eco-quiz which was open to the general public within the age of 12 to 25. With quizmaster Jayant Karan, a young member of the Friends of Astronomy, the quiz dealt with topics related to the environment and was designed to spread awareness about the importance of environment and its conservation.

The quiz was then followed by the screening of the film ‘Home’, which spoke about the drastic effects of global modernisation trends. The whole movie, made up of aerial shots of some of the prominent spots in the world which have shown signs of degradation to the maximum, was screened in different parts of the world to spread awareness about the change in environment and its drastic effects on all the life forms of the world.

Rakesh Rao of the CEE said, “We are also holding a discussion panel to discuss the issues faced locally.” The panel consisted of some prominent names in the field of environment Dr Unnikrishnan from NIO, Dr Baban Ingole also from NIO, RJ Pankaj Kurtarkar represented the youth, Dr Kasturi Desai, Sandeep Azrencar from the Nisarga Foundation, and Sujitkumar Donjre of the CEE.

Donald Duck, the Festival’s mascot

09:00 Boogie Woogie Kids Championship 2010 11:30 Comedy Circus Ke Superstars 13:00 Indian Idol 16:00 C.I.D 20:00 Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

Travel

INGS

GARFIELD

08:30 Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya 10:00 Zara Nachke Dikha 16:00 Sasural Genda Phool 21:00 Zara Nachke Dikha 22:00 Sasural Genda Phool

Fashion

W

HERALD FEATURES isney’s most loved duck, Donald Duck bounced around outside the Entertainment Society of Goa, Panjim welcoming the children and their parents to the Children’s Film Festival. Organised by the Entertainment Society of Goa, it was officially opened by the Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat last Saturday in Auditorium I of the Entertainment Society of Goa premise. The lighting of the lamp was ceremony done exclusively by two children from Sanjay School, Porvorim besides the CM followed by young achievers in the field of academics, entertainment and culture being felicitated.

Amongst them were Saieesh Kapdi who ranked 11th at the AIEEE and GCET exams, Mrunmayee Tirodkar Funny Quote and Neha Karmarkar, Goa’s representatives on the musical contest show, “There's no trick to ‘Idea Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’, Nandan Kakode being a humorist when you and Sneha Naik, who topped the SSC have the whole government and Divya Chaphadkar, who won the working for you.” national child artist award for her – Will Rogers performance in the film , ‘Antarnad’.

Besides these child achievers, eminent DAILY GROOK Goan achievers were felicitated too.

WORK QUIRK Nilesh Naik, who is listed in the Guinby Francis Rodrigues ness Book of World Records for the world’s biggest rangoli and Mahprophecy's a bit ableashwar Sail, authour of the book of a risky quest, that is now a major Konkani film, ‘Palpsychics in debt tadcho Munis’ – his honour being reget repossessed! ceived by Laxmikant ShetInstructions gaonkar, as Sail was out of stafor Sudoku SUDOKU SOL 571 tion.

9 x 9 letter: In his addresTo solve a Sudoku sal the CM puzzle, every numstressed that ber from 1 to 9 must Goan talent has appear in each of most certainly the nine vertical proved itself at columns, in each of an international the nine horizontal level. He made rows and in each of a mention of the upcoming the nine boxes Marathi film

15:30 Guthy Renker 16:00 Bollywood Spice Station 17:00 Bollywood Hits 18:00 Let'z Go! 19:00 Planet Bollywood : IIFA Special 19:30 Business of Bollywood 20:00 The Zoom Review Show 20:30 Bollywood Revealed : Substance Abuse 21:00 Planet Bollywood : IIFA Special 21:30 Balle Balle Amritsar to L.A.

Entertainment

Children’s Film Festi- Environment Day Celebrations at NIO val commences…

LAFFS

WORD OF THE DAY

SUDOKU 572

the subject, will be held from July 10 onwards. Registrations closes on June 18. Call 9423885224 or 2225153. Visit www.mgmgoa.com.

Jazz Goa’s show will begin airing on June 7 on FM Rainbow.

‘Coconut Heritage Photography Contest’ a photography contest organised by the Heritage Jazz is open for entries till June 10. The entry forms are available at Champs and Big G, Margao and Champs, Magsons, the Don Bosco Oratory and the Gonsalves Mansion, Panjim. Call 2228010.

A workshop for tiatr script writers and lyricists will take place on June 7 from 10am onwards at the Tiatr Academy Conference Hall, Campal, Panaji.

Call 2230738 or 2230739.

‘Asmitai Puraskar’ will be handed over to Konkani filmmaker Laxmikant Shetgaonkar on June 8 at 5:30pm at the Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. It is organised by the Asmitai Pratishthan. Call 2653083.

A first aid course, conducted by Ganv Bhavancho Ekvott and St John’s AmbulanceAssociation will begin on June 6 at 9am.

‘Babel Post Modernism I: from Pop to Contemporary Art ’, will be discussed at the 8th Zeitgeist - the Art History Club session on June 10 from 6.30pm to 8pm at Gallery Gitanjali, Panjim. E-mail gallerygitanjali@gmail.com.

Call 9823572035.

A 4-day painting workshop for the underprivileged kids, organised by Heritage Jazz and artists Unnati Singh and Salvador Fernandes will be held from June 7 to 10 at the Gonsalves Mansion, Campal, Panjim. Call 222010.

‘Waves and Us’, the art camp will hold its finale on June 9 from 7pm to 9pm at the Kerkar Art Complex, Calangute. Call 2276017.

Education

08:55 Flubber 11:05 P2 13:05 Phone Booth 14:45 Max Payne 16:40 Quantum of Solace 18:55 Bedtime Stories 21:00 Independence Day 23:40 The Spirit

09:00 Annie 11:45 Troy 15:00 Tremors 17:00 The Fast and the Furious 19:15 The Spongebob Squarepants 21:00 Underworld: The Rise of the Lycans 22:55 The Pacific : Part Two

08:30 Bhootnath 12:00 Paa 15:35 Salaam - E - Comedy 16:35 Yes Boss 20:00 Bhagam Bhag 23:40 Just Married

09:30 Jurassic City 12:30 Mumbai Express 16:00 Shaurya 20:00 Striker

08:35 Side Out 10:40 Ultraviolet

13:00 Balls of Fury 14:55 A Few Good Men 17:35 Look Who's Talking Now 19:00 2 Days in the Valley 23:30 American Psycho

12:00 Dhoom 2 16:00 Meri Jung: One Man Army 20:00 Dil To Pagal Hai 23:35 Kis Kis Ki Kismat

08:00 Chor Machaye Shor 12:00 Vishwatma 16:00 Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 20:00 Hum Aapke Hain Kaun

E N T E R TA I N M E N T Dance : Season Finale 18:00 Guinness World Records Smashed 19:00 The 6th Day 22:00 Video Zonkers 23:00 Criss Angel Mindfreak

10:00 30 Rock 10:30 The Simpsons 11:00 90210 12:00 Castle 13:00 Friends 14:00 Scrubs 15:00 Lost : What Kate Does

16:00 Whose Line Is It Anyway?

17:00 V.I.P 18:00 90210 19:00 Castle 20:00 Friends 20:30 Rendezvous with Simi Garewal 21:00 Lost 22:00 Royal Pains 23:00 V.I.P

08:00 Ace 2010 08:30 Sports Mania 09:00 Roland Garros 2010 :

Women's Singles & Men's Doubles Finals 11:00 Game 11:30 Glitch 12:00 FIA Wtcc 2010 : Inside Wtcc 12:30 US Open Championship Official Film : 2000 13:30 Roland Garros 2010 H/ls 14:30 Best of Roland Garros 2009 H/ls : Mens Singles Quarter Final: Gael Monfils vs. Roger Federer 15:30 Best of Roland Garros 2009 H/ls : Mens Singles Semi Final: Juan Martin Del Potro vs. Roger Federer 16:30 Best of Roland Garros 2009 H/ls : Mens Singles

Final: Roger Federer vs.

Robin Soderling 17:30 Roland Garros 2010 H/ls 18:30 Roland Garros 2010 : Mens Singles Final 19:30 Hitz 09/10 22:00 MotoGP World Championship 2010 : Main Race

10:30 Abu Dhabi Triahlon 11:25 Football Asia 11:55 2010 FIFA World Cup Magazine Show 12:25 FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 South Africa 13:25 FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 South Africa 14:25 Sportscenter Weekend 14:27 MotoGP World Championship 18:30 Sportscenter Weekend 18:32 2010 Scripps National Spelling Bee : Final 20:30 NBA Finals 2009/10 23:00 FIFA Confederations Cup

10:30 ICC Cricket Show 11:00 Economic Times Leaders Challenge 11:30 Winning Post 12:00 Zimbabwe Triangular ODI 2010 H/ls:India vs. Sri Lanka 14:15 Moto GP 2010 Race : Gran Premio D'Italia Tim: Mugello 18:30 ICC Cricket Show 19:00 Homes of Cricket 19:30 Great Centuries 20:00 Zimbabwe Triangular ODI 2010 H/ls:India vs. Sri Lanka 22:00 ICC Cricket Show 22:30 WWE: NXT

09:00 India Specials : Super Cyclone 10:00 A Childhood Promise :

China's Heartland 10:30 Most Amazing Moments 11:00 Apollo Flight of the Hawkz 12:00 Nat Geo Women's Hour : Fashion Memoir 12:30 Nat Geo Women's Hour : Fashion Memoir 13:00 Apollo Flight of the Hawkz 15:00 Most Amazing Moments 16:00 Apollo Flight of the Hawkz 18:00 Scientifica 18:30 Science Mein Twist : Chemistry 19:00 Apollo Flight of the Hawkz 20:00 India : Inside Mumbai Terror Attacks 21:30 Preserve Our Planet : Six Degrees 22:00 Nat Geo Specials : Secret Chambers Revealed

07:00 Kids Club 07:30 Flavors 08:00 English News 09:00 Konkani News 10:00 Marathi News 11:00 Straight Talk 12:00 Konkani Palkachim Noketram 12:30 Flavors 13:00 English News 14:00 Konkani Movie 15:30 Sangeet 16:00 Sunday Mass 17:00 Kids Club 17:30 Konkani Palkachim Noketram 18:00 Konkani News 19:00 Marathi News 20:00 English News 21:00 Straight Talk 22:00 English News 23:00 Konkani Palkachim Noketram 23:30 HCN Smash Hits 00:00 Melody Queen: Lata Mangeshkar 00:30 Flavors 01:00 Art of living 01:30 Health Watch 02:00 Kids Club Note: Subject to Change

he Konkani music of the good old days still remains a favourite for many.

The songs still rock and are among the most loved of the older generation and youngsters as well.

Among the famous music composers of the 1960s and 70s were names like Frank Fernand, Chris Perry and M Alphonso. Those hits would always remain popular because of the musical content and the musical character given to them by their creators.

‘Konkani Classics Revisited’ is one album that puts the three great composers together. It includes the hits ‘Ambeache Pan’ (1974), ‘Kaliz Boom Bang’ (1969), and ‘Cu Cu Ru Cu’ (1973) all by Chris Perry. ‘Sontos Bogtha’ (1971), ‘Nach Athanchem’ and ‘Upkar Korat’ are all by Frank Fernand. There is one song by M Alphonso that everyone would identify with easily ‘Oh Juana’ (1976).

This album is a great way to kill the nostalgia that builds up with the songs of the times gone by. The songs are all sung by singers of the present day. The young Kyra Pais makes a good debut with ‘Ambeache Pan’ and ‘Red Rose’. The husband-wife duo of Trisca and Aurvile seem to put in their best when they sing ‘Kaliz

Boom Bang’. Alfred Colaço, Mathias Correia, Norman Cardozo, Andrew D’Souza and Albert Cabral all make a good contribution to the album with their voice.

This album would definitely bring back memories of the times of the radio. The programmes of those days would feature these songs at regular intervals. They have left an indelible mark on our musical senses.

So, it’s time to get in touch with some of Konkani’s old favourites.

Happy listening!

HERALD CROSSWORD - 572 Across 1- Mil. school; 5- Deride; 9Best of a group; 14- Amusement; 15- Dies ___; 16- Tooth; 17- Enmity; 19- Lively Bohemian dance; 20- Monolingual; 21- "Siddhartha" author; 22- Eternal; 23- River in central Switzerland; 24- Climbing vine; 25- Pen name; 28- More unfavorable; 31- One in a cab, say; 32- Sound of a cow; 34- As previously given, in footnotes; 35- Conger catcher; 36- Skating area; 37Tomcat; 38- Guide; 39- Components; 40- I have no ____ idea.; 42- Informal British address; 43- Some nest eggs; 44- Compound raceme; 48Small house; 50- Done; 51Fuji rival; 52- Whitening; 53Designer Simpson; 54- Common hop; 55- "Night" author Wiesel; 56- Is inclined; 57Small blemish; 58- Studies; Down 1- Brightly colored lizard; 2- Boat often made of birchbark, canvas, or fiberglass; 3- Acid type; 4- Demonology; 5- Misplace; 6- Betelgeuse's constellation; 7Suffragist Carrie; 8- Crucial; 9High ruler; 10- Relax; 11- Ailments of body or society; 12Grasp; 13- Baseball stat; 18Pointed arch; 21- More healthy; 23- Tree of the birch family; 25Choreographer Alvin; 26- Primordial giant in Norse myth; 27___ Blanc; 28- Hairpiece; 29-

Comics canine; 30- First SOLUTION - 571 name in country; 31- Staggers; 33- Approves; 35Actor Hawke; 36- Transported with delight; 38- Hits; 39- Perfidious; 41- Vulgar person; 42- Large seabird; 44- Device with 88 keys; 45- Whence Pinochet; 46Russian revolutionary leader; 47- Borders; 48Message symbols; 49Mideast gulf; 50- Turn over; 51- Krazy ___; 52- Air rifle ammo;

pg14:Layout 1 6/5/2010 11:36 PM Page 1

SPORTS

GOA, Sunday, 6 June, 2010

Pg14

Allan dazzles at supercross

Goa’s Allan Sequeira (middle), Delhi’s Manidner Prince (left) and Mumbai’s Badal Doshi (right) in Bangalore.

HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

Goa’s Allan Sequeira did the State proud as he became the first Goan to take top honours and lead at the end of first round of private foreign open Group A upto 250 cc class at the first-leg of MRF National Supercross championship in Bangalore recently.

In a field of India’s top 12 riders, Allan stood tall throughout the 18-lap course and pushed hardworking Maninder Singh of Prince of Pune to the second place and Badal Doshi to the third. Goa’s Mohammed Kadar finished fifth.

Allan, whose passion for the sport is simply unbelievable, proved that his long hours of hard practice, sacrifice, determination and perseverance paid rich dividends, for no Goan had achieved the honour at the event in his class, which is a round of FMSCI National.

Allan took the podium position, being the star performer in the event. His performance was indeed impressive.

Allan, it may be recalled, had also stamped his class at the TVS Sports and Tourism Goa Gold Cup championship Motocross 2010 at Calangute, lifting the championship.

“This is the greatest achievement as far as Goan riders go.

Allan has plenty of talent and he is totally immersed in the sport. His dedication is his forte with riding the two-wheeler being his only dream,” expressed Ashley Gomes, president, Goa Motor Sports Association. “Allan has opened a new chapter in Goan sports.

Certainly, it will be a big motivating factor for the others for taking up and excelling in the world’s fastest growing discipline,” Ashely remarked.

Candolim move into semis HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, JUNE 5

Hosts Candolim Sports Club got the better of Anjuna Gymkhanna 5-4 via the tie-breaker after both the teams were involved in a goalless draw to move into the semi-finals of Fr. Chico Cup intervillage football tournament sponsored by Bayside Properties Private Limited at Dr. Gustavo Monteiro stadium, Candolim on Saturday.

Dominating the first half, Candolim failed to find the net on a couple of occasions with Joelit, Stanley and Roy missing the target narrowly.

Anjuna fought back in the second session and could have scored but their for wards missed chances. Candolim goalkeeper Morje too came to his side's rescue punching over a Gauresh Mandrekar free-kick.

With both teams unable to find the net, the match went into the tie-breaker. Candolim kept their nerves cool to romp home victorious 5-4. Shankar, Manuel, Sarvesh, Stanley and Joelit converted for Candolim while Vinayak, Rajesh, Soma and Saprem were on target for Anjuna.

Atlanta Georgia Trophy soccer finals: Davorlim Sporting Club V. St.Rock, Majorda, Rosary ground, Navelim, 4.30 p.m.

Varca Panchayat Cup soccer finals: United Club of Benaulim v. Don Bosco Ora t o r y, F a t o r d a , Va r c a ground, 4.30 p.m Sai Avtar Super Cup soccer finals: Sai Avtar Sports Club v. UC Nerul, Anjuna Gymkhana ground, Tembi, 4.43 p.m.

21st Romeo memorial football finals organised by Bondir Association of Santa Cruz: St Sebastian Band v. Seguindo Bairo, Santa Cruz ground, 5 p.m.

18th Supper Soccer: Margao Sports Club v. Carmona Sports Club, St John Baptist ground, Dando, Benaulim, 4.30 p.m.

St. Anthony's inter-ward married soccer: St. Ant h o n y, M a p a v. A m b l a i Sports Club, Mapa, Panchwadi, 4.30 p.m.

Bayside Fr. Chico Cup soccer quarters: HC Arpora v. St. Savio’s SC Calangute, Dr. Gustavo Monteiro stadium, Candolim, 4.45 p.m.

Silco Miranda soccer: Rebello Pandel, Curtorim v. Jolly Boys, Calangute, PAP ground, Goa Velha, 5.30 pm.

pg15:Layout 1 6/6/2010 12:03 AM Page 1

Pg15

SPORTS

GOA, Sunday, 6 June, 2010

Ferdinand feels Brazil lead pack of 32 ‘cursed’ after exit AGENCIES PRETORIA, JUNE 5

AP LONDON, JUNE 5

Rio Ferdinand admits he feels cursed after the England captain was ruled out of the World Cup with a knee ligament injury.

Ferdinand's World Cup is over before a ball has even been kicked in the tournament as a result of the left knee damage he suffered in a training session tackle with Emile Heskey on Friday.

The Manchester United defender was on crutches as he left a hospital in Rustenburg after scans showed he would be out for six weeks.

The 31-year-old had arrived in South Africa finally fit after an injury-ravaged campaign restricted him to just 13 Premier League games for United.

But now he is condemned to follow England's bid for World Cup glory from the sidelines as Steven Gerrard takes over the captain's armband.

His agent Pini Zahavi told The Sun: "Rio said: 'I think somebody cursed me.' That is honestly how he feels. "Rio is very down. He cannot understand why this has happened to him.”

Every nation in the World Cup has now made its way to South Africa, with final preparations in full flow.

All the conjecture and all the speculation is coming to a close; all the squad lists have been submitted; and the time is fast approaching when the planet can stop talking about this tournament and get on with the job of watching it unfold.

The merits of every squad have been pored over and analyzed for months, leaving us with assumptions of respective strength which – if history is anything to go by – will soon be blown out of the water.

The World Cup wouldn't be the World Cup without a healthy dose of surprises, with underdog teams and unheralded players grasping their moment in the South African sun. That's why ranking the finalists from 1 to 32 could be best described as a fool's errand that is certain to prompt its fair share of sneering I-told-you-so's before the group stage has even ended.

World Cup power rankings: 1. Brazil – Dunga's squad is packed with quality but, thanks to a tough draw, faces a rocky road to the final.

2. Spain – The Spanish are hungrily chasing another tournament title after a magnificent Euro 2008 victory.

3. Argentina – A sketchy qualifying campaign is now long forgotten with Lionel Messi and other stars in superb form.

4. England – Fabio Capello's hard-line regime has reaped rewards.

Wayne Rooney's health is a huge plus too, but captain Rio Ferdinand is out injured.

5. Netherlands – The Dutch head into another big tournament with an awesome squad, but will they lose their nerve again?

6. Germany – The Germans have the experience and organization to cope with the loss of Michael Ballack.

7. Italy – The Azzurri probably won't repeat as champions, yet a favorable draw could take them far.

8. Cameroon – Boosted by plenty of discipline and a determination to become the first African semi-finalist.

9. Portugal – It's a squad beset by problems, but the brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo can't be discounted.

10. France – Coach Raymond Domenech is a dead man walking, and the team might not last long either.

11. Denmark – The Danes enjoyed an excellent qualifying campaign, but can they deliver on the big stage?

12. Serbia – Interesting team that divides opinion … the Serbs could crash early or go deep.

13. United States – With no megastars but lots of courage, the Americans are focused on getting out of Group C. 14. Australia – Fiery and determined, the Socceroos could spring some shocks in Group D. 15. Ivory Coast – Didier Drogba's broken arm is a devastating blow to the side's chances of emerging from the Group of Death.

16. Chile – A welcome return to the World Cup after 12 years, thanks to some outstanding qualifying performances.

17. Paraguay – Took a worrying dip toward the end of qualifying but still well-drilled and heavy-scoring.

18. South Africa – The most derided host team in history might not be as bad as everyone expects. Bafana Bafana must maximize their home advantage.

19. Ghana – Would have been ranked far higher if its talisman, Michael Essien, hadn't been ruled out with a knee injury.

20. Mexico – El Tri got their act together under Javier Aguirre, but serious questions about their consistency remain.

21. Greece – No longer just a defensive wall, the Greeks scored 20 goals in 10 games during European qualifiers.

22. Slovakia – This rugged side, lit up by Marek Hamsik's style and craft, could spring some shocks.

23. Switzerland – The Swiss possess a strong backline and a competent midfield, but their weak mentality could be exposed.

24. Slovenia – Banking on a rock-solid defense that has let in just six goals in its past 12 competitive games.

25. Uruguay – Did well to reach the finals but is some ways behind South America's other World Cup representatives.

26. Nigeria – Decent and competitive but lacking the explosiveness of other African nations.

27. Japan – Their speedy strikers could make life interesting.

The defense, though, is lightweight and leaky.

28. South Korea – Lacks the firepower to mount any kind of realistic challenge.

29. Honduras – Enterprising and entertaining side will find its Group H opponents too hot to handle.

30. New Zealand – Fast-improving side should avoid embarrassment but not much more.

31. Algeria – Survived an emotional play-off against Egypt but not really of World Cup standard.

32. North Korea – The weakest team + the toughest group = an early exit.

WORLD CUP FRILLS Screening at Cidade de Goa HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

Football fans will be able to recreate the excitement of FIFA World Cup at Cidade de Goa’s Doçaria, the 24-hour coffee shop, with the screening of all the football matches from June 11 to July 11 alongwith a special menu with sporty combos and assorted beverages.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup is the 19th FIFA World Cup, the premier international football tournament. The FIFA World Cup is the culmination of a qualification process that began in August 2007 and involved 204 of the 208 FIFA National teams.

Cidade de Goa will bring the magic of football on large screen with the sea facing Doçaria as the backdrop from 7.30 p.m. to

Budweiser offers tickets HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

“There is no better feeling than being part of the world’s most exciting sporting extravaganza, the World Cup football championship,” according to Budweiser, which has offered all its business associates an opportunity to be part of the excitement.

With 10 cases of Budweiser one can get one lucky coupon, subject to a maximum of three coupons. The offer is valid upto June 10. The draw will be held on June 11 and two lucky winners will get a life time opportunity to witness two matches in South Africa – 1G v. 2 H and 1 H v. 2 G. The trip also includes air tickets, 5-star accommodation, local guided tour and VIP box tickets.

9.30 p.m. and 11.30 p.m. to 1.30 a.m.

Alongwith the excitement of the month long games, one will also have a chance to predict the two finalists, the top scorer and the winner and win surprises. Details may be obtained on 2454545.

SPORTS

Allan dazzles at supercross Pg 14

Pg 16

Brazil lead pack of 32 Pg 15

GOA, SUNDAY, 6 JUNE, 2010 www.oheraldo.in

Akhilesh ahead

PANJIM (HSD) -- Rated player Akhilesh Rai (1787) is leading with 6.5 points after 7 rounds in open category of the All-Goa U-13 State Chess selection trials organized by Lions Club of Ponda at Wagle High School, Mangeshi.

Rohan Ahuja (1755) and Rishubh Naik (1727) are in joint 2nd position with 6 points each.

Alfredo Menezes (1802), Nitish Belurkar (1678) and Raj Aryan Kuvelkar are in joint third position with 5.5 points each.

We were unconvincing throughout, says Raina

India humiliated

MARGAO (HC) -- Sporting Club of Davorlim will lock horns with St Rock’s Youth Club, Majorda in the finals of Atlanta Georgia Cup inter-village football tournament organized by Enfermos Sports Club at Rosary ground, Navelim on Sunday.

In the semi-finals, Davorlim prevailed over CRC,Chinchinim 5-4 via the tie-breaker while St Rock’s Youth Club got the better of Youth of Manora 6-5 via the penalty shoot out. The winners will be richer by Rs 30,000 while the runners up will receive Rs 20,000. Luizinho Faleiro will the chief guest.

MARGAO (HC) -- Don Bosco Oratory, Fatorda beat Gloria Sports Club 1-0 to enter the final of All-Goa Varca Panchayat Cup inter-village football tournament organized by Varca Sports Club at Varca ground, on Saturday The teams played an attacking brand of football and repeatedly raided the rival citadels.

As the match progressed, Don Bosco Oratory struck rhythm and tested the rival citadel with snap shots and their efforts bore fruits when Steven Noronha’s long ranger crashed into the net giving no chance to the Raia goalkeeper. Stung by that setback, Gloria tried their best to neutralize the lead but their forwards ran out of ideas after reaching the rival danger zone.

Gloria put up a better performance but failed to get past the rival rearguard as they did not allow them a look at rival goal. Don Bosco Oratory will meet United Club of Benaulim in the final slated on June 6..

The winners will pocket Rs 30,0000 while the runners-up will receives Rs 20,000.

Davorlim beat Dramapur

MARGAO (HC) -- Sporting Club of Davorlim defeated Dramapur Sports Club 5-4 via the tie-breaker to enter the quarter-finals of 18th Super Soccer tournament organized

by United Boys of Dando ,at St John Baptist ground, Dando, Benaulim on Saturday. The teams were tied 1-1 at full time.

Dramapur upped the tempo after change of ends and raided the rival citadel and were rewarded when Ryan Fernandes put them into the lead. However, their joy was shortlived when Andrew Colaco equalized for Davorlim ten minutes before the long whistle.

In the penalty shoot-out, Andrew Colaco, Peter Monteiro, Sachin Y and Pedro Colaco were on target for Davorlim while Ryan Fernandes, Antonio Dias, Nickson Rebello converted for Dramapur.

Match abandoned

MAPUSA (HSR) -- The semifinal match between Goa Velha SC and Holiday club Arpora in late Pramodini Dattaram Paleyekar soccer organised by Football Club of Siolim was abandoned with ten minutes to go St Anthony's church ground, Siolim on Saturday.

Arpora took the lead through a penalty, which led to a protest by the Goa Velha team bringing an early end to the game.

Rohit Sharma is bowled by Suraj Randiv of Sri Lanka.

lOut of tri-series after loss against Lanka PTI HARARE, JUNE 5

A sloppy India crashed out of the cricket tri-series after Sri Lanka, riding on Dinesh Chandimal's maiden century, thumped them by six wickets in a crucial one dayer here today.

Tottering on the brink of disaster after their back-to-back defeat against Zimbabwe, India badly needed to win this match with a big margin to keep alive their final hopes but they could not pull off a repeat performance of their previous encounter with the Lankans and went down with 1.4 overs to spare.

Chandimal's (111) 118-ball knock, which included six fours and five sixes, knocked the stuffing out of India's feeble bowling attack as Sri Lanka cruised to 270 for four in 48.2 overs.

Monday's Sri Lanka-Zim-

babawe match is now rendered inconsequential and they would meet again in Wednesday's final at the same venue.

Earlier put into bat, India had posted 268 for nine with Virat Kohli (68), Yusuf Pathan (44) and R Ashwin (38) scoring bulk of the runs.

Desperate for a win, India ef-

fected three changes in the squad -- bringing in the uncapped trio of Naman Ojha, Pankaj Singh and R Ashwin while leaving out Murali Vijay, Umesh Yadav and Amit Mishra -- but the win remained elusive.

Sri Lanka's chase got off to a brisk start with Tillakaratne Dilshan (21) looking in his element

India innings (50 overs maximum): Dinesh Karthik c & b Perera 27, Naman Ojha lbw b Kulasekara 1, Virat Kohli c J Mendis b Thushara 68, Yusuf Pathan c Perera b Randiv 44, Rohit Sharma b Randiv 32, Suresh Raina c Kapugedera b Dilshan 19, Ravindra Jadeja run out 19, R Ashwin c & b Thushara 38, Pankaj Singh not out 3, Ashok Dinda c Kapugedera b Thushara 0, Pragyan Ojha not out 5. Extras: 12. Total: 268 for 9. Bowling: Nuwan Kulasekara 9-1-47-1, Thilan Thushara 9-1-57-3, Thisara Perera 4-0-33-1, Ajantha Mendis 10-0-54-0, Jeevan Mendis 6-0-29-0, Suraj Randiv 10-1-38-2, Tillakaratne Dilshan 2-0-5-1.

Sri Lanka innings: Upul Tharanga c Kohli b Ashwin 27, Tillakratne Dilshan c Pathan b Dinda 21, Dinesh Chandimal st Ojha b Ashwin 111, Chamara Kapugedera c Pankaj b Ojha 42, Jeevan Mendis not out 35, Thilan Samaraweera not out 28. Extras: 6. Total: 270 for 4. Overs: 48.2. Bowling: Pankaj Singh 7-0-45-0, Ashok Dinda 7.2-0-42-1R Ashwin 10-0-50-2, Pragyan Ojha 10-0-43-1, Ravindra Jadeja 10-0-54-0, Yusuf Pathan 4-0-32-0.

Man-of-the-Match:

before he fell to Ashok Dinda in the sixth over.

Chandimal joined Upul Tharanga (27) in the middle and looked quite at ease against the Indian attack.

Even after Tharanga fell to R Ashwin, Chandimal continued the good work in company of Chamara Kapugedera (42). He used his feet well against the spinners and never allowed the Indian bowlers to dictate terms.

Chandimal smote Pankaj Singh over mid-on, greeted Pragyan Ojha with a six and twice hit Ashwin out of the ground.

Ashwin eventually had Chandimal stumped in the 41st over but by then, the writing was clear on the wall for India.

Jeevan Mendis (35) and Thilan Samaraweera (28) completed for the formality for the Sri Lankans with consummate ease.

PCB revokes Younis’ ban

UNI LAHORE, JUNE 5

In a major decision, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today lifted the indefinite ban on former captain Younis Khan while reducing or revoking punishments imposed on three other players for the Australian tour debacle earlier this year.

While Younis was now free to return to international cricket after the ban he received for ill-disci-

n

while the fines on the Afridi, Akmal bros also get relief cident, Akmal brothers for acts of in-

pline during Pakistan’s tour of Australia was overturned by an appeals judge, other players who were benefitted by the change of heart by the PCB was captain Shahid Afridi and the Akmal brothers -- Umar and Kamran.

Retired judge Irfan Qadir, nominated by the PCB to look into the appeals of all but one of seven players either banned or

fined by the board in March, said there were no grounds for the penalty on the senior batsman. ''The PCB gave an openhanded judgement while banning Younus. He was not given a chance to defend himself,'' Qadir told media after the hearing.

Meanwhile, Qadir revoked the Rs three million fine on Afridi for the infamous ball-biting in-

discipline were also reduced.

However, the fate of two cricketers of the seven originally punished still remain undecided.

Pacer Rana Naved-ul-Hasan is also likely to get a positive verdict at his next hearing on June 19, while the door has also been left open for Mohammad Yousuf -- who retired in protest at the punishment -- to come back should he wish to.

Geet Sethi emerges champion HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, JUNE 5

Geet Sethi won the second billiards selection tournament for Asiad 2010 while Pankaj retained the overall top position on the concluding day at Clube Gaspar Dias, Mira Mar on Saturday.

Geet’s victory will enable him to remain in contention for a berth in the two-member Indian contingent for English Billiards Singles at 2010 Asian Games to be held in China.

Sethi compiled 83 points in the very first game against Advani and fell short of just 17 points to clinch the game. Advani immediately replied with a break of 71 to go ahead 1-0.

Unperturbed, Geet sprang back in the second with great vigour and fired a lethal blow of 102 to level the proceedings.

The third game saw Geet bouncing around the table like a teenager and kept on scoring point after point exhibiting gossamer touch at the top of the table and scored yet another

century break to go ahead 2-1.

Advani who was reduced to a mere spectator in the last two games could not get a chance to come back into the match thereafter as Geet in the fourth hammered the final blow of an unfinished 100 by unfolding a vast repertoire of strokes to win the match 3-1.

Rupesh Shah in the last match pipped Shandilya at the post 3-

2 to become No 2 in the tournament B Bhaskar greatly consolidated his position by winning five out of eight league matches and got the third place. He played brilliantly to overcome Devendra Joshi, Ashok Shandilya and Sourav Kothari.

B Bhaskar bt Devendra Joshi 3-2. Geet Sethi btPankaj Advani 3-1. B Bhaskar bt Ashok

Geet Sethi (middle), Rupesh Shah (left), B Bhaskar (right).

Photo: Rozario Estibeiro

Shandilya 3-1. B Bhaskar bt Sourav Kothari 3-0. Sourav Kothari bt Dhruv Sitwala 3-2.

Rupesh Shah bt Sourav Kothari 3-1. Rupesh Shah bt Pankaj Advani 3-1. Geet Sethi bt Dhruv Sitwala 3-0. Sourav Kothari bt Ashok Shandilya 3-0.

Devendra Joshi bt Dhruv Sitwala 3-0. Pankaj Advani bt Devendra Joshi 3-1. Rupesh Shah bt Ashok Shandilya 3-2.

Manoj Caculo, president of Clube Gaspar Dias was the chief guest and gave away the prizes.

Sunil Morajkar, president, CSAG spoke.

FINAL STANDINGS: Billiards - Geet Sethi 11, Rupesh Shah 9, B Bhaskar 7, Pankaj Advani 6, Alok Kumar 5, Sourav Kothari 4, Ashok Shandilya 3, Devendra Joshi 2, Dhruv Sitwala1.

Overall standings: Pankaj Advani 17, Geet Sethi 16, Rupesh Shah 16,Devendra Joshi 11, Ashok Shandilya 9, Alok Kumar 8, B Bhaskar 8, Sourav Kothari 6, Dhruv Sitwala 5.

His captaincy debut ending in a debacle, India skipper Suresh Raina today conceded that the team looked unconvincing throughout the cricket tri-series.

In charge of a young team, Raina lost his first match as a captain against Zimbabwe and the side crashed out of the tournament after suffering three defeats in four matches.

"We haven't looked good throughout the tournament," Raina said after India's six-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka here.

Talking about today's match, Raina felt the bowlers let down the team.

"I am not happy at all. We scored around 270 but we didn't bowl well, especially with the new ball. R Ashwin bowled well, and he batted well too," he said.

"All credit goes to Sri Lanka, they batted really well, especially (centurion) Dinesh (Chandimal)," he added.

Sri Lankan captain Tillakaratne Dilshan was happy to have sealed a place in the final with one match to spare.

"I said in the morning, we want to finish it off today. our players did really well. We kept the pressure up through the fielding, keeping the fielders up," Dilshan said.

"I told the players we needed to improve the fielding, and they did a really good job in the field, stopping good shots, taking difficult catches. I'm really happy with Chandimal's batting, playing so well in his second game," he said.

Paes-Dlouhy fail at final hurdle AP PARIS, JUNE 5

Daniel Nestor of Canada and Nenad Zimonjic of Serbia defeated defending champions Leander Paes of India and Lukas Dlouhy of the Czech Republic 7-5, 6-2 to win the men’s doubles title at the French Open.

Nestor and Zimonjic, seeded No. 2, won their third Grand Slam title together Saturday, after successful runs at Wimbledon in 2008 and 2009.

They converted three of four break-point chances and never lost serve. Zimonjic also won the mixed doubles Thursday with Katarina Srebotnik of Slovenia.

Nestor previously collected three Grand Slam doubles titles with Mark Knowles.

Tamim leads spirited Bangla reply REUTERS MANCHESTER, JUNE 5

Tamim Iqbal crashed an exhilarating 65 not out off 57 balls as Bangladesh reached 96 for no loss at tea on day two of the second and final test at Old Trafford today in reply to England's 419 all out.

For the third consecutive innings, the Bangladesh openers passed 80 together, taking advantage of a lacklustre bowling display from England.

Imrul Kayes was unbeaten on 19 from 52 deliveries. It was the perfect start for the tourists who need to win to draw the series.

The ultra-aggressive Tamim, who made 55 and 103 at Lord's where his side lost, cut, drove and slashed anything loose.

He was providing England captain Andrew Strauss with an quandary having seen his fourman attack struggle to pose a threat in hot and sunny, good batting conditions.

Brandon signs deal with South African academy HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, JUNE 5 Brandon Fernandes put pen to paper and signed and a twoyear deal with Cape Town Academy at Tito's Beach Resort, Candolim on Saturday.

Steve White, chairman of Leicester Sports and Physical Activity led the press conference. Brandon's father, Jaju signed the agreement alongwith Keith Fawdington, the dir e c t o r o f t h e a c a d e m y.

Brandon's mother Antoinette Fernandes and Goa United vicepresident Marcelino Pereira were also present.

Brandon becomes the first Asian to join a group of 30

lFirst Italian woman to win Grand Slam

PTI HARARE, JUNE 5

Davorlim meet St Rock in final

Oratory oust Gloria

Schiavone crowned French Open queen

boys chosen from around the world for the academy. There are 25 members of staff working round the clock to ensure that the boys footballing and educa-

tional needs are met. Citzenship is also part of the course which helps the players make friends and gives them media training.

Keith stated that the main

benefit of the academy would be the level of competition Brandon will face which will raise his game. "At the moment Brandon's time on the ball is around

3-4 seconds, we need to get that down to 1.1 seconds as in Europe the game is played at a much faster pace.”

The academy is less than two

Brandon Fernandes alongwith Steve White, Keith Fawdington, Marcelino Pereira, Jaju Fernandes and Antoinette Fernandes.

Photo: Aldird Da Costa

years old, but has already established links with agents and clubs in Europe. The patron of the academy is former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright.

The players will travel to Europe in August for an exposure tour where they will play clubs in Denmark, Holland, Germany and Belgium.

When quizzed about whether Brandon would be released for the India team junior Nationals in the future, Keith said he would not stand in Brandon's way of representing India, but if he was called for six months or more for training camps then he would have to sit down with Brandon's parents and evaluate the situation.

Francesca Schiavone of Italy celebrates with the trophy after winning the women's singles final.

AP PARIS, JUNE 5

Francesca Schiavone threw uppercuts, put her fists to her face and skipped about the court.

And then, when she had won the French Open, she really let her emotions show.

With the performance of a lifetime, Schiavone became the first Italian woman to win a Grand Slam title by beating Samantha Stosur 6-4, 7-6 (2) in the final Saturday.

The tour veteran rallied from a 4-1 deficit in the second set, then took the clinching tiebreaker with a succession of brilliant shots that was topped only by exuberance.

When she had won, she fell onto her back, then rolled over and kissed the clay. She rose covered with dirt, hugged Stosur and broke into a champion’s grin, then trotted over to the wall behind the baseline and climbed it for a group hug with

her supporters.

Mary Pierce, the 2000 champion, presented Schiavone with the Suzanne Lenglen Cup. “You give me a great trophy,” Schiavone told her. “I feel amazing.”

At 29, Schiavone (pronounced Skee-ah-VOH-nay) became the oldest woman to win her first Grand Slam title since Ann Jones at Wimbledon in 1969 at age 30. She’s the first Italian Grand Slam champion since Adriano Panatta won the French Open men’s title in 1976.

Schiavone was seeded 17th.

The only other time the title has been won by a woman not seeded in the top 10 was in 1933.

The title came in Schiavone’s 39th Grand Slam tournament.

On Monday, two weeks shy of her 30th birthday, she’ll become the oldest woman in 12 years to crack the top 10 for the first time. She’s expected to be ranked sixth.