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PAGE 6

Vol. II

Issue 48

Dibrugarh, Friday, August 5, 2016

RIO OLYMPICS 2016: SERENA WILLIAMS IN NO MOOD FOR QUITTING

Two arrested with stollen goods.

Tezpur, August 4 : Two persons of Bihaguri Bardubia area, Ashim Das @ Kushal and Niren Das @ Ajit were arrested with a computer set carrying a printer with it and a generator used in the Tumuki NRC seva kendra under Bihaguri Police outpost in Sonitpur district last night.

Sources said that the two accused after steeling the goods were on way to Tezpur for handing over the same to a previously managed party, while they were caught by a police petrol party at BP Tiniali area near here. Investigation is on to get more detail of the incident. Police sources said.

(Correspondent)

Erosion Creates Havoc in Khumtai Golaghat, Aug 4: After heavy floods now erosion makes the people to suffer the worst in an area of Khumtai LAC in Golaghat. The four families of Milanpur village under Khumtai LAC in Golaghat are now taking shelter in the roads. The houses of these four families were washed away by the heavy flow of Dhansiri river. Also many paddy fields were seen under the grip of eros i o n i n s e v e r a l parts of the constituency. Meanwhile, yesterday local MLA Mrinal Saikia visited this erosion affected areas and reviewed the entire situation. He assured all necessary helps to the affected people of his constituency. (Correspondent)

Contributed to Flood Victims Golaghat, Aug 4: Motor Transport Association of Golaghat contributed to flood victims of Bokakhat Circle with various relief materials.

The organization donated Rice, potato, phenol, biscuits, drinking water packets in huge quantity along with other materials to Bokakhat Administration. In the programme President Purna Rajkhowa Gyanjyoti Nath and others were present. (Correspondent)

5.00

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Pages- 12

WHY AVOIDING EARLY

CM ASKS NAGAS TO WORK OUT ACCEPTABLE SOLUTION TO NAGA PROBLEM

DIAGNOSIS OF AUTISM IS UNFAIR TO OUR CHILDREN

Page - 11

Page - 5

Page - 12

ET CAPSULES

Price -

CM Khandu constitutes 9 members Sonowal seeks Centre's immediate intervention for repair and committee to frame policy to fast strengthening of embankments tract land acquisition process A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 4

ET Bureau Itanagar, Aug 4

Chief Minister Pema Khandu constitutes a nine member Committee of senior officers to frame a policy under the state government to fast tract the Land acquisition process.

He directed constitution of the committee during a meeting with the General Officer Commanding 4 Corps, Lt General D Anbu, AVSM, YSM, SM who called on his office today.

CM advised the committee to frame the policy in consultation with the Govt of India and submit the report within one month. This Policy would accelerate the land acquisition process by the Army and other Paramilitary Forces in the state.

Secretary to create a separate Division to look into the Land Acquisition Process for Army, Paramilitary Forces, SSB and other Central Govt Organizations.

Chief Minister asked Chief

He requested Lt. General for

CM Khandu holding meeting with General Officer Commanding 4 Corps, Lt General D Anbu

expeditious disbursement of land compensation amount to the land owner to which the latter assured.

CM further said that the state govt would extend every possible support to the Army

and also assured cooperation from the people of the state.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Chief Secretary Shakuntala Gamlin and Principal Secretary (Home), Satya Gopal were present in the meeting.

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that the 5000 Km embankments in Assam serve as a safeguard to rural economy and the recurring breaches on the embankments pose danger to rural economy.

In a crucial meeting with the Union Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan in New Delhi today, Chief Minister Sonowal apprised Dr. Balyan the extent of devastation caused by the recent waves of floods in Assam. Sonowal drew the attention of the Union Water Resources Minister that a major chunk of the existing embankments in Assam has already outlived their utility and needs immediate intervention in terms of their repair and facelift and use them to act as a deterrent to flood

and erosion.

Chief Minister Sonowal also requested the Centre's assistance to strengthen the embankments and said that a strong network of embankments holds the key to the growth of GDP in the State.

Drawing Dr. Balyan's attention, Sonowal also demanded a special grant from Centre for flood and erosion management in the State. The Chief Minister also exhorted on the need of dredging the Brahmaputra for making the river fit for navigation throughout the year. Union Minister Dr. Balyan also stated that the rivers in Assam need to be harnessed for better control of flood and erosion and river management.

Chief Minister Sonowal, however, opined that the Ministry for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation must organise a national seminar involving all

stake holders and of course the people at large for zeroing in on a comprehensive mechanism for flood and erosion control and river management. Dr. Balyan assured all help and agreed to organise a seminar in Guwahati. He will also visit Assam this month to assess the situation perpetrated by flood and erosion. In the meeting Sonowal gave Dr. Balyan an overview of the damages in terms of human lives, property, agriculture and livestock that the floods in Assam have perpetuated. Sonowal also handed over a list of 66 schemes related to water resources and requested Centre's assistance for their expeditious implementation in the State. Water Resources Minister Keshab Mahanta, Members of Parliament R.P. Sarma and Kamakhya Prasad Tasa along with a host of senior bureaucrats were present at the meeting.

Stop glorification of terrorists, 3 more rhino carcasses encouraging terror groups: Rajnath recovered in KNP Bijoy Handique Jorhat, Aug 4

PTI Islamabad, Aug 4

India today delivered a blunt message to Pakistan asking it to stop encouraging terror groups and "glorification" of terrorists and also called for "strongest action" against nations supporting terrorism and their isolation.

Without mincing any words amid the strain in Indo-Pak relations, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said mere condemnation of terrorism and terrorists is not enough and that there are "no good terrorists or bad terrorists".

Singh in his address to the 7th SAARC Interiors Ministers Conference said terrorism continued to remain the biggest challenge and threat to the region.

The current strain in IndoPak relations was apparently evident when Singh came faceto-face with his Pakistani counterpart Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan for the first time today and the two leaders barely shook hands.

The two leaders barely touched their hands, not even a formal handshake, before Singh moved ahead to enter the meeting hall.

Members of the Indian

“Three more adult rhino carcasses recovered from two different Kaziranga Ranges in Kaziranga National park (KNP) here today”, said Subasish Das, the DFO of Kaziranga

Home Minister Rajnath Singh during his 7th SAARC Interiors Ministers Conference

media, which came from New Delhi to report the conference, were not allowed to capture the moment or the conference and was kept at a distance by Pakistani officials, leading to a verbal duel between a senior Indian official and a Pakistani official.

The Home Minister also skipped the lunch being hosted

by Khan after the meeting as the host had left the venue.

Speaking in Hindi at the conference, Singh said there should be "strongest action not only against terrorists or organisations but also against those individuals, organisations and nations who

support terrorism."

"It also needs to be ensured that terrorism is not glorified and is not patronized by any state," Singh said in a veiled dig at Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Singh's comments came against the backdrop of Sharif's praise of Burhan Wani who was killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir on July 8 and his description of Hizbul Mujahideen commander as a martyr, much to India s ire.

"One country s terrorist cannot be a martyr or freedom fighter for anyone. I also speak for the entire humanity- not just for India or other SAARC members in urging that in no

circumstances should terrorists be eulogised as martyrs."

Calling for isolation of countries or individuals who provide any kind of support, encouragement, sanctuary, safe haven or any assistance to terrorists, he said "strongest possible steps need to be taken not only against terrorists and terrorist organisations but also those individuals, institutions, organisations or nations that support them.

"Only this will ensure that the forces engaged in promoting the heinous crime of terrorism against humanity are effectively countered.".

National Park.

The DFO said that, during the first wave of flood, the rhino casualty gone upto 20 as KNP authority had spotted three more adult rhino carcass this evening one at Burahpahar Range while two others at Bagori Range.

From the three carcasses, two horns were found, whereas another horn is still to be missing. “The increasing number of wildlife casualty from the recent first wave of flood was estimated to be 315,” said Subasish Das here today.

OIL and ONGC pays 1449.88 crores to Assam govt. as royalty A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 4

Public Sector Upstream Oil Companies- Oil India Limited and ONGC Limited today made a payment to Assam government, towards differential royalty on pre-discount price for the period from 01.02.14 to 31.03.16. The amount paid

by OIL is Rs. 1,149.24 crore and the amount paid by ONGC is Rs. 300.64 crore.

The cheques were handed

over by the CMDs of ONGC and OIL to the Chief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal at New Delhi, in the presence of Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan and other dignitaries.

suffering from a natural disaster and is in acute need of funds. He also thanked the Oil PSUs for contributing Rs. 15 crore towards the CM Relief Fund from their CSR initiative.

Sarbananda Sonowal thanked the Petroleum & Natural Gas Minister for releasing the amount due to it in a single installment.

He said that Assam is

Speaking on the occasion, the Petroleum & Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that injustice was being done to Assam due to political reasons in the payment of royalty.

Flood situation in Oil India limited bags scope corporate communication Assam improves excellence awards-2016 in two categories

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Flood situation in Assam improved considerably today, though nearly three lakh people are still suffering across ten districts in the state.

According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), more than 2.85 lakh people are currently affected across 386 villages in ten districts.

Till yesterday, nearly eight lakh people were affected by the floods across 638 villages in 14 districts.

The death toll in the current wave of floods stood at 34 across the state.

As of now, the affected

districts were Jorhat, Golaghat, Bongaigaon, Dhemaji, Barpeta, Dhubri, Morigaon, Kokrajhar, Nagaon and Goalpara.

Among them, Barpeta was the worst affected with nearly one lakh people still suffering, followed by Dhubri with over 80,000 and Goalpara with almost 40,000 people currently hit by the floods, the ASDMA said.

The authorities were running 66 relief camps and distribution centres, where 18,708 people were taking shelter across eight districts.

Nearly 13,000 hectares of crop area was under flood water across the state.

Currently, the Brahmaputra was flowing above the danger mark at Nematighat in Jorhat and Dhubri town.

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 4

Oil India Limited (OIL), the second largest National E&P Company of the country was conferred the first prize in the SCOPE Corporate Communications Excellence Awards, 2016, in the "Innovative stakeholder Interface" and the "Best External Communication Programme" categories at the awards ceremony held in the SCOPE Convention Centre in New Delhi during the Corporate Communication Summit, on 21st July, 2016.

The award was received by Mr. Biswajit Roy, Director (HR & BD), OIL along with the OIL-PR & CC team led by Mr. Bhaskar Khaund, Executive Director (HR), from Dr. U.D. Choubey (Director General, SCOPE), in the presence of Mr. Nirmal Sinha (Chairman, SCOPE and CMD, HHEC) , Mr. D.D Misra (Director -HR, ONGC), Padmashree Dr. K.K. Aggarwal (Hony. Secy. Gen., IMA) and Dr. Ajit Pathak (National President, PRSI and GM/IC - CC, IOCL) and Mr Sudhir Chaudhary (Editor and Channel Head Zee News).

Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE) is an apex professional organization representing the Central Government Public Enterprises. SCOPE had organised the summit to encourage and recognise the good work being done by Corporate Communication and PR Team of the Central Government Public Enterprises.

Under 'Innovative stakeholder Interface' OIL had bagged the award for the street play titled 'Dekhor Shampad

Amar Shampad' (Nation's Property, our Property)' conducted in villages of OIL's operational areas. A total of 156 shows (3 shows every Sunday) were conducted covering most of the key villages in OIL's operational areas.

Under 'Best External Communication Programme' OIL had bagged the award for the thematic Calendar published by OIL since last 13 years to promote North East India reflecting its rich tradition, art, culture and flora and fauna.

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PTI Guwahati, Aug 4

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

ASTRO FOR YOU Aries You will be indecisive today, which is not usually the case with you. This could lead you to indulge in speculation, which is not so bad unless you risk all your money in it. Besides, when it comes to matters of the heart, you must exercise a great deal of caution.

Taurus Impulsive action kicks in as you work and interact today. Do not let the pressure and strain cloud your thoughts, and instead focus on acting on the things at hand. If you find things spiralling out of control, take a break and listen to some music that soothes your heart.

Gemini Today, you will decide to become a bit more conscious about your health. You may or may not join a gym or measure your calories, but you will definitely sit up and take notice of your lifestyle and unhealthy food habits. A new job is also likely, which will open a completely new chapter in your life.

Cancer Today, you will put your heart and soul into whatever task you take up. And, that's a great thing to do. Don't lose heart though, if despite the best efforts, the results of your efforts are not too forthcoming. Feeling dejected is only going to hamper your progress. Remember that you'll receive your due sooner or later. Spend some time with your loved ones to revive yourself. Alternatively, a quiet evening tucked in the bed with a nice book is also a great idea.

Leo If one were to put an earnest spirit and a frank attitude together, the result would be a Leo; it's like your hallmark. And with qualities like these in your kitty, don't be surprised if you happen to reach a milestone or two today. Will it be marital bliss or career success? No matter what the area is, be assured that your societal standing shall get a heady boost today.

Just don't let the success go to your head.

Virgo The booster rockets of your ambitions and spirit to work will kick in at the maximum today. Seek recreation after a hard day's work and look to relax at private parties, socialdos and even weddings.

Libra "Every man has specific natural abilities", said Aristotle. This seems to be true for you today. Your natural talents will be acknowledged and documented at work. This might prompt your equals to hold you up above the rest, and for your seniors to positively encourage you to scale greater heights. But as always, be careful to make sure that success does not make you heady with arrogance. Keep yourself firmly grounded, and remember that, 'pride cometh before the fall'.

Scorpio You will find yourself thinking with your heart rather than your head today. You may not be able to repress your feelings, and you should not even try. But you should be careful about how you express them, particularly in public as people may judge you wrongly on the basis of it.

Sagittarius Today, your superiors at work are going to trust you with many complicated assignments.

But, after exerting yourself, you are sure to come out with flying colors and have your work appreciated. Do not be surprised if cash incentives come your way. Such may indeed be your fortune.

Capricorn You will be a live wire, today. With amazing exuberance you have completed mammoth tasks and have spread the energy around. It will give you tremendous job-satisfaction.

Everything seems well and good the personal front, too. Spending some quality time your spouse will relax your mind and keep you in an upbeat mood.

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Animals survived for highland inside Dibru-Saikhowa National Park A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 3: The numerous highlands dotting the Dibru-Saikhowa National Park were the only reason why wild animals of the world-famous park managed to survive the devastating flood which hit the state recently. Tinsukia wildlife division DFO MK Dhar told the Eastern today that there has not been a single case of wild animal death inside the national park so far. For almost a week, 90 per cent of the

ET Correspondent Bokajan, Aug 4: Police have arrested an imposter posing as a Sales Tax officer for allegedly cheating peoples in and around the industrial town of Bokajan in East Karbi Anglong.

The arrested has been identified as Semson Engti, a resident of Fisaripar Village under the limits of Bokajan Police Station. Fake I card; numerous rubber stamp and fake seals pertaining to Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) have been seized from his possession.

Achievment for D.S. Rana

Pisces You are fond of traveling and are always looking for an excuse to set off. Hence it comes as no surprise if you pack your bags and decide to embark upon a journey on a whim today.

It is a much needed break too, from the daily stresses of earning a livelihood. While you are seeking solitude, you will take your friends and relatives along with you on the trip.

Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 5-8-16 (FRIDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Songs) 8-30 A.M-North East News Bulletin in English 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 10-00 A.M (F.M)-Chalo Riyo (A Countdown Programme to Rio Olympics,2016) 12-05 P.M- Live Phone in Surar Satsori 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikar Asor (Tea Garden Programme Programme) 8-00 P.M-Live Phone In Programme-"Brahmaputra Swasthya Sewa"(Sponsored by BDHL) Sd-/H.O.P

During the recent spat of flood, 80 per cent of the National park goes under water and the animal has been shifted to the highland areas of the park. On the other hand, many wild animals were washed away in the flood at Kazaringa National, which has wit-

nessed the nature furry in this monsoon.

“Once the water level start rising, the animals flee to the highlands situated inside the park. There are many elevated areas inside which serves as temporary shelter and grazing spots for the wild animals during flood.

This time our forest staff came across several deer cubs that were caught in the deluge. All of them were rescued and were released in the highlands. So far, we

have not come across a single carcass which is quite encouraging for us. The highlands have been a boon for the animals. Now with the water level receding, only 35 per cent of the park is under water,” Dhar said.

Some of the exotic mammalian and avian species found in the park include clouded leopard, rhesus macaque, slow loris, royal Bengal tiger, Gangetic dolphin, hillock gibbon, capped langur, spot-billed pelican, whis-

tling teal, magpies, greater spotted eagle, crested serpent eagles, greater adjutant stork and common pintail.

As many as 8 species of turtles and snakes, 2 species of monitor lizards and 62 different species of fishes have been found in the park.

Also 36 species of mammals have been recorded in the park of which twelve are listed in the scheduled one of wildlife (protection) act, 1972. It is also home to more than 350 species of birds.

Fake Sales Tax officer held in Bokajan

Aquarius For a moment, it seems that you're swamped with problems. But you are brave enough to deal with any ugly issue that crops up suddenly. A romantic evening, which may just be time together in a jacuzzi, or simply preparing a meal together. Pure ecstasy!

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz)

340-square km national park was swamped by floodwaters after it was breached by the rain-fed Brahmaputra, Dibru and Lohit rivers.

ET Correspondent Golaghat, Aug 4: Who says that after retirement the life gets over . Here is the perfect example of making life after retirement adventurous and soothing . Mr Dil Pal Singh Rana who happened to be Ex Commandent of CRPF 142 Bn and have held various important posts during his career . Mr Rana has set an example for others by completing LL.B after retirement and started working as an Advocate . Now he is even teaching in two Law Colleges and visiting faculty member to various police academy .

The great achievement has come to him this year when he has passed LL.M exam and that with Distinction and first position in the Marathwada University.

He also was conferred with Paul Harris felowship. He too is providing free legal aid to poor. Apart from these Mr Rana has completed Diploma courses in Astrology and Vastu and is providing Free Consultancy service to all .

It is to be known that during his tenure in Golaghat 132 militants surrendered with arms and ammunition . For which he got Best Battalion award from the then Home minister Mr P.Chidambram too .

AASU general secretary Lurin Jyoti Gogoi distributing flood relief materials to flood victims at Kaziranga along with singer Achurjya Borpatra. Pic - Amit Nagori

son was unaware that his Tax Clearance Certificate needs renewal.

"Engti, hoping to make quick bucks was harassing the small business owners by carrying out unwarranted inspections of Trading Licence and Sales Tax Clearance Certificate since past couple of months," said a police officer.

The fake officer later charged Rs 2700 against the renewal charges.

The incident came to light on Wednesday evening after a group of people rounded him up for allegedly providing a Trading Licence in lieu of the Sales Tax Renewal Certificate. He was later handed to Bokajan Police and a case has been registered vide BKJ PS C/ No-116/2016 U/S- 448/ 419/420/468/384 IPC.

A few weeks back, Engti reportedly inspected a steel truck manufacturing establishment of Samir Pal stationed at the heart of Bokajan town. The Tax Clearance Certificate was found expired. The owner, being a less educated per-

Writer Ismail Hussain to be awarded with Dr Moidul Islam Bora Sahitya Award ET Correspondent Sivasagar, Aug 4: Noted litterateur Ismail Hussain has been chosen for the sixth Dr. Moidul Islam Bora Sahitya Award for the year 2016, for his literary excellence.

Barpeta district, Hussain is presently posted at Prince of Wales Institute of Engineering and Technology, Jorhat. He took his Master degree in Assamese from Guwahati University.

The award will be formally presented to Ismail Hussain on September 22 at a function here in Sivasagar. Hussain has altogether 75 books to his credit. Born in the year 1965 at Koyakuchi in

Hussain has 19 books on Sankari heritage and culture, two books on Hazrat Ajan Peer, four books on Muslims of Assam, one book on Mising community, two books on Sarania Kachari, one book on Chutia and Koch

Rajbongshi, one book on Bodo community, seven books on Bihu, five books on lives of char-chapori people and their culture, one book on street play, two books on Hindu-Muslim co-ordination, one biography, one tour-related and eight life-related books, to his credit among other writings.

The award has been instituted by the family of Dr Moidul Islam Bora in collaboration with Arunudoy

Xahitya Xabha and Dr Moidul Islam Bora Smriti Rakhya Samiti, the first doctorate degree holder of the Northeast, in the year 2011.The award comprises of a bronze trophy, Rs 10,000 in cash, a certificate, an Assamese xarai and a seleng chador.

This was informed by Manirul Islam Bora, grandson of Dr Moidul Islam Bora and secretary of Arunudoy Xahitya Xabha.

Storm lashes over ten Anti extremist operation villages in Bihaguri area in Mangaldai hotel !

ET Correspondent Tezpur, August 4: A heavy storm that blew last night across the Bihaguri area had lashed about ten villages causing damage of many dwellings. ZPC member of Bihaguri Zila Parishad, Pankaj Bora informed that though there was no any casualty, in the storm over twenty houses of about ten villages under Bihaguri ZPC

in the Sonitpur District namely Bihaguri, Mekenor Chuburi, Kalita gaon, NijBihaguri, Sagali Chuburi, Pithakhwa, Rangamati, Bhalukekhowa, Katakichuk and Likhokgaon were damaged as number of trees were uprooted and fell over the dwellings. In the storm many electric polls were also broken following which the electricity has been erupted in the area.

Government contemplating to solve salary problem NCHAC employees very soon ET Correspondent Haflong August 4 : The days are not far behind for the employees of N C Hills Autonomous Council to get their pending salaries since the State Government BJP+ AGP led by Sarbananda Sonowal contemplating to solve the salary problems of NCHAC normal employees permanently, disclosed a highly placed source at Haflong.

The employees of NCHAC have been suffering a lot as they are not getting their salaries for months together due to lack of revenue and of course for wanton recruitment of the employees in the past.

The NCHAC authority had been raising the issue of the salary problems in many occasions to the government for the permanent solution but was not paid due except one time grant- inaid or whatever, causing uncertainty in the payment of salaries.

The present State Government following several ap-

proaches of the present NCHAC authority has been convinced and found out the permanent solution to the seemingly never ending problem of the NCHAC perhaps by sharing the revenue from the NEEPCo, the source hinted.

It is learnt that the NCHAC employees would get the salaries as 119% as announced by the previous Executive Committee of the NCHAC and most probably this historic announcement would be made on the 70th Independence Day celebration at Haflong.

This effort of the present State Government led by Sarbananda Sonowal to bring a permanent solution to the salary problems of NCHAC employees is welcomed by the people of Dima Hasao with the believe that the present State Government would definitely do good for the development of the district which was not noticed during the previous government.

ET Correspondent Mangaldai, August 4 : It was about 10 o’ clock in the Wednesday morning . Suddenly the pedestrians on the civil hospital road of Mangaldai town started running to and fro . The business establishments started to down its shutters , inhabitants of the surrounding area became panicky as there sounds of firing of bullets from sophisticated fire arms. Security personnels with bullet proof jackets and fire arms in their hands took their positions in an warfare manner surrounding the hotel on the busy road . Immediately an ambulance and fire tender rushed to the spot . Everyone apprehended that there

were a fierce encounter between security forces and militants hiding in the hotel . But after few minutes the apprehension proved wrong .

It was nothing but a sudden and live mock drill of anti extremist operation especially in situation when people are taken as captive by extremists in public places like hotels , restaurants etc .Talking to this correspondent over phone Suman Chakraborty , Additional Superintendent of Police , Darrang (Head Quarter) said that such demonstration is a part of the anti extremist activities of the Darrang police in the district ahead of the Independence Day celebration

Sports equipment provided by Maheswari Women's Organization ET Correspondent Golaghat, Aug 4: Continuing its Social Work in the town, Golaghat Maheswari Mahila Sangathan donated sports material to a well known school of town named Marshneil Academy. On this occasion, President of Maheswari Womens Association Northeast Shakuntala Mimani and Secretary Sumitra Kabra along with members of Golaghat and Titabar were present.

Golaghat Branch took the initiative in the presence of the women's organization and provided school with Ludo, Chess, Skipping,

Cricket bat, Football, Flying disc, Plastic hola hoop games to students of the school. On the occasion of this Principal Manjuri Saikia appreciated the work of organization. The students presented a bouquet to women members. On the occasion from Titabar Suman Taparia, Babita Karwa and Sarita Gattani along with from Golaghat Durga Malpani, Ahilya Mall, Bimla Kabra, Radha Binnani, Ranjana Binnani, Lalita Chandak, Sarika Chandak, Sakuntla Chandak, Mina Nagori and Bindiya Maheswari were present.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

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Rang-Frah Govt. College of Changlang retains ‘C’ grade from NAAC Bangalore ET Bureau Itanagar, Aug 4: Rang-Frah Govt. College Changlang retained ‘C’ Grade in its cycle02 assessment and accreditation process conducted by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation council) Bangalore. The college on the whole achieved a CGPA of 1.95 of the total CGPA of 4.00.

A three member NAAC peer team had visited the college on 13th and 14th April 2016. The peer team comprised of Chairperson Prof. J. Prabhash, Professor & Director, School of Social Science, Department of Political Science, University of Kerala, Member Co-coordinator Prof. Manju Jaidka,

Department of English Punjab University, Chandigarh and Dr. Sasi Kanta Dash, Principal Bharathidasan Government College for Women Puducherry.

This accreditation of the college by NAAC will be valid for a period of five years, from 25th May 2016 to May 24th 2021. The college in its previous accreditation in the year 2009 had also achieved ‘C’ Grade from NAAC. It is the fifth Government college in the state which has successfully undergone through the process of cycle-02 assessment and accreditation out of 14 (fourteen) Govt. colleges in the state.

Girl’s body found hanging at Gambaribil, angry mob burns accused house

Former Tirap DC Kamlesh Joshi remembered on his death anniversary ET Bureau Khonsa, Aug 4: The Tirap district administration organized a function in the new Mini Secretariat Block at Khonsa on 4th August to commemorate the 1st death anniversary of former Tirap district Deputy Commissioner late Kamlesh Joshi, IAS who was tragically killed in a chopper crash on 4th August-2015.

He said that the first Block in the District Secretariat which due for completion would be dedicated to the memory of late Joshi. The Deputy Commissioner told the participants that a DC’s medal for best student had

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Aug 4: Sensation prevailed along Gambaribil village under Kachugaon PS when mob from Surjakata burnt the house of Dibangkar Brahma and damaged the properties after finding Ringkangsri Brahma’s, a 25-years-old girl body hanging, following love affairs in Kokrajhar district on Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, police arrested four persons for burning the house and further investigation is on.

Dibangkar Brahma, a father of two children of Gambaribil, had love affairs with Ringkangsri Brahma who hailed from Surjakata village under Dotma PS in Kokrajhar district, both were red handed in uncompromising condition on August 1 last at girls’ house and since then villagers kept eyes on them and on the next day Ringkangsri was sent along with Dibangkar.

But, she was found hanging at a ceiling fan at Dibangkar’s house late last night.

Ringkhangsri Brahma's family alleged that she was murdered and later hanged at the ceiling fan. The girl

was studying at BA 3rd semester of UN Brahma College, Dotma.

Dibakar, a married man with two children is stated to be in extramarital affair with the girl.

Hundreds of angry mob from the Surjakhata village reach at Dibangkars' house and set the house on fire.

Three houses were completely destroyed in the fire.

The mob also damaged a power tiller and a scooty.

However, fire fighters later rushed the spot and controlled the flame.

Tanindra Nath Brahma, father of Dibangkar told that Ringkangsri committed suicide, not murdered because there was no person except parent of Dibangkar late last night.

Police officials reached the spot and took the stock about incident and sent the body for post mortem. Investigation has started into incident besides four persons arrested so far. Accused Dibakar is also now under police custody. “It was family dispute over love affairs, investigation are on,” said Sreejith T, Kokrajhar ASP.

port with the people and guided the Women’s organizations diligently. Earlier, DIPRO Denhang Bosai read out the life history of late Kamlesh Joshi. A - 2 minute silent prayer was observed as a mark of respect to late kamlesh joshi.

While speaking on the occasion the Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha recalled the contributions of late Joshi towards the development of Tirap district during his brief stint as the Deputy Commissioner.

Describing late Joshi like his elder brother, Jha said that he was constantly in touch with late Kamlesh ‘s father and extending all possible help and support to the bereaved family.

has been instituted at KGBV Barap and KGBV Deomali in late Joshi’s memory.

On the same day the second edition of Kamlesh Joshi Memorial District Level Badminton Tournament was also kick-started at Officers’ Club. The tournament was

inaugurated by retired Deputy Commissioner P. Hosai. Tirap ZPC Sontung Bangsia in her speech said that late Kamlesh Joshi was very concerned for the people of Tirap district, especially the women and the downtrodden.

She said that late Joshi maintained excellent rap-

On the occasion, badminton doubles match was played between DC, Tirap and CO, 16 AR against CO 36 Bn CRPF and DSP Khonsa.

Earlier, the tournament was formally declared opened

by Chief Guest Phamwang Hosai, Rtd DC amidst huge gathering of sports lovers. It may be mentioned here that the MLA of 56-Khonsa West Tirong Aboh donated Rs. 1 lakh for renovation of the officers club. In Inaugural officer’s double match Dahey Sangno, PD and Denhang Bosai, DIPRO won the match in three sets.

Later, the Deputy Commissioner and others paid a floral tribute to the portrait of late Kamlesh Joshi. The formal inaugural programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Chamthak Ralongham on behalf of organising committee.

(DIPRO)

PPWC suspends proposed Pasighat bandh after govt. agrees the demand Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Aug 4: Taking serious note of the PPWC's proposed Pasighat bandh on 6th next owing to non-receipt of clear assurance from the concern authorities in the earlier meeting, a major power meeting was held here at DC conference hall today in which Commissioner Power, DC West Siang, Upper Siang, Siang cum ADC East Siang, CEs, SEs, EEs and members of PPWC attended.

While assuring to address the power problem of Pasighat and its region, a inter district committee of East Siang, Siang and West Siang was formed with DC, Pasighat as chairman to monitor the regular power flow. Right from enhancing the power volume from Assam to setting up of RT wireless machine for easier communication between Pasighat- Aalo- Pangin, completion of 132kv line

by December etc was assured. On the part of

AASU blocks RangiaDhamdhama road demanding immediate reconstruction

PPWC too, the meeting was found satisfactory following which the proposed Pasighat bandh on 6th August has been suspended.

While talking to this reporter, Okom Yosung, Chairman, PPWC has said that, they have found today’s meeting headed by Commissioner, Power, Asheesh Kundra very satisfactory and he opined hope that the government will keep their word and address the power problem at the earliest.

“The setting up of Radio

Transmission wireless phone at Aalo and Pangin for easier communication between staffs of power to zero upon the fault in line is very appreciable. The present alternative power allocation of 3 MW from Assam which agreement tenure is expiring coming October, has been accepted by the authorities for extension and enhancement to 5 MW. So, I strongly appeal concern authorities to kindly construct a Micro Hydel at Sirpo River near Rengging for a permanent power solution for

Pasighat and its region”, added Yosung this evening.

Besides expressing deep thankfulness to the Commissioner Power and other officers for the major meeting and its fruitful result, PPWC has also deeply extended their happiness over role of local MLA Kaling Moyong in pursuing the matter at government level.

Moyong has also played a major role in bridging between public and the government which led to such a fruitful result, added Yosung.

ET Correspondent Rangia, Aug 4: The Rangia – Dhamdhama link road was blocked by All Assam Students’ Union on Thursday demanding repair and reconstruction of most of the PWD Roads of Rangia area.

The protest programme was lead by Dharmeswar Das, office Secretary of All Assam Student Union.

Dhiraj Rajbongshi, President of Kamrup District Student union along with Local leader of the body viz Hemanta Das, Toufikar

Rahman, Arun Das and Dimbeswar Sarma also participated in the protest programme.

The union also submitted a memorandum to the Executive Engineer through the Circle Officer of Kayan revenue circle. They also demanded early repair of Rangia Station Road, PWD Road of Rangia ward No. 1, Rangia NT Road and Rangia SDO office Road.

Otherwise we will start more agitation against PWD Roads division with in short time, they declared.

Sikh body calls for all-party team's visit to Kashmir Srinagar, Aug 4 (PTI) Terming Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh's recent visit to the state an "eyewash", a Sikh organisation in Kashmir today demanded a visit by an all-party delegation to the Valley to assess the ground situation.

"All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) demands an immediate visit of senior leaders of national parties to assess the prevailing situation on ground zero for the last 25 days and take up the issue in the current session of Parliament without fail," said chairman of the organisation Jagmohan Singh Raina.

APSCC member Pardeep Singh alleged that the Home Minister came to Kashmir "without any agenda and solution".

"His visit was more of an eyewash rather than an attempt to resolve the turmoil. That is why all the civil society bodies rejected his call for a meeting," he said.

The members of the organisation expressed anguish over the day-today killings of "innocent people in Kashmir Valley".

"The situation has taken a very serious turn by taking the common man hostage for the last 25 days of curfew," they said.

APSCC also held a condolence meeting to mourn the killings.

Raina said it was shocking that the government was neither able to ban nor prevent the use of pellet guns which have injured scores of people in the Valley since the unrest began in the aftermath of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan wani's killing by security forces in an encounter on July 8.

"Many have lost their eyesight. The number of injured has crossed 3,000 which is outrageous.

There is no ray of hope from the Centre that it will be able to bring the Kashmiri leaders to the table to resolve the turmoil," he added.

Benji- Liine- A Potential Cultural Heritage Site in a Countryside Aalo, Aug 4:- Benji-Liine, nestled in a hillock near the beautiful confluence of Sisa and Siyik rivers at a place called Saayi in between Poyom and Boru Raksap village amid rich varieties of flora and fauna is a sacred place for the tribal people and one of the most potential destinations for tourists and believers of Hindu faith across the country. It has withstood test of time and continue to kindle tribal faith, myths and spirit of life from time immemorial. It is intricately woven in our myths and mythologies and stands today as epitome of sagacity and benevolence embedded deep into tribal psyche and philosophy of life. It is located at a distance of about 45 km from the district headquarters Aalo, Arunachal Pradesh and takes a foot march of 8km from Darak circle to holy site of Benji Liine.

The word ╘Benji╙ signifies supernatural power

that has been the guiding force behind the existence of tribal society through the ages and ╘Liine╙ denotes a miraculous ╘Mother Stone╙ bearing seven offspring. BENJILINE is seated on a cemented floor base with CGI sheet roofing with her seven off springs in a row around her and these off springs are locally named as JIBI, JIZAB, JIPU, JIJI,JIPO, JINYA and JIYI. This Mother Stone measuring 1.5ft in height and around 2ft in width bears white colour on the top of the head and left side of the stomach is broken but it is rejoined to regain its originality. Of late the colour on the top of its head is gradually fading away due to excessive pouring of oil and other ritual materials by the devotees coming all over from India.

In the absence of written history and literature, we delve into oral literature

handed down to us from generation to generation and legend reveals various miraculous feats of Benji Liine and it is said that many years ago, entire stretch of jungle including this holy site was brought under jhum cultivation by the villagers by burning the jungles. People were surprised and taken aback when they found that entire jungle caught fire except the grasses surrounding the hill top where the stone is situated. This forced the main Priest to conduct a chicken liver examination, a traditional practice of tribal people to go in details into omen attached to it and the test proved myth, spiritual and divine power in it. The stone which was popularly known as â•œSaayi Liineâ• deriving it from the place where it is situated was named as Benji Liine and began to be worshipped.

The legend also reveals startling facts and instances

that prove divine power in Benji Liine. It is said that a young damsel, Miss Nyarik Boje was arranged forced marriage with an old man by her parents to her utter dislike and dismay. She opposed it bitterly and one day she ran away from the village in protest against such marriage and went to BENJI-LINE site. She picked up one of the stones named JIBI and threw it into the SISA River with an intention to commit suicide.

Surprisingly, the daughter stone JIBI came back to its original seat but the girl who threw the stone into the river became sick and remained insane for many years. The girl could be cured only after performing rituals by the priest and village elders.

It is also believed that people who are destined to live a long life cannot lift the stone above ones shoulder and one who lifts it above the shoulder is an indicative of leading a short

span of life. Once upon a time, a young man lifted the BENJI-LINE above his head and it fell down after lifting and left side of the stomach of the stone was damaged in the process.

The man who lifted Benji Liine died soon after reaching his home. There is also a strong believe that barren couple for five to ten years who offers whole hearted prayers at BENJI-Liine conceives soon and many couples had been to the place got blessed with offspring after prayers.

It is also said that once a couple picked up one of the off springs of BENJI-LINE for playing purpose of their sons and kept the stone on the side of the wall. In the mid night horrible cries and noises of chickens and fowls were heard all over and when they rushed out, they found that all chickens and fowls were lying dead inside the cages and the stone was found seated in-

side the cage. The stone moved away from the cage after few hours and returned to its original location. The Benji Liine still continues to cast its magical and divine spell on the mindset of the tribal people and all passers by either stop or make a passing glance to offer oral prayers:â•œOh Benji Liine gently you beholds and beckons in solitude; To unveil treasure of trove of love, solace and comforts; The murmuring and whispering prayers we offer by heart; For divine spell you cast for humanity through the ages; Stay awake as epitome in all realms of ventures we make; To your Graceful tradition and sagacity till eternity; There is no dearth of societal efforts to keep up its traditional sagacity to promote it as a Tribal Cultural Heritage Centre and a potential tourist destination in a

countryside to heed for. The Benji Liine Develop Committee has been formed under the chairmanship of Shri Dejar Poyom and the committee is running from pillar to post to get it recognized as Tribal Heritage, Prayer Centre and infrastructural development of the holy site for visitors and devotees within and outside the state. But till now nothing concrete could be done to safeguard it as a sacred place. Once there was a regular priest for performing puja but at present neither priest nor caretaker is residing there.

The Holy Site is open to all and given free access to all type of devotees in their own ways to offer prayers.

During Shivratri and BolBom Puja, the Circle headquarter Darak buzzes with Shiva Bhakts and believers of Hindu faiths. Camps are set up there and devotees from different parts of the country march on foot covering 8km to offer their

prayers. The then Governor of Arunachal of Arunachal, Mata Prasad too visited the site on foot in the year 1993 with team of doctors, volunteers, evacuation team and other dignitaries to inaugurate the Mandir there. The then State Chief Minister Shri Gegong Apang and many dignitaries of the state too have visited the holy site from time to time.

Communication bottleneck is coming as a stumbling block for visiting dignitaries, devotees and pilgrims from all parts of the country. Any visible developments and infrastructures there have come up through head loads. There is Katcha road connecting Darak to Boru Raksap village via Benji Liine but the road end is blocked and remains deteriorated round the year. An all weather road is not only a dire necessity to connect this holy site comfortably but to link villages situated along the road to Darak Circle.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

PAGE 4 Municipal officials evicts illegal vendors ET Correspondent Golaghat, Aug 4: Today the officials of Golaghat Municipal Board carried out an eviction drive against the illegal street vendors who had set up stalls in the town. The Municipality officials in presence of Executive Magistrate demolished several stalls which were set up by the street vendors in the heart of Golaghat town and seized several others. It is often alleged that due to these street vendors the people in the town have to face several problems like rush and traffic conjunction.

However the sources said that this evacuation drive will be continued for a week.

Assam govt sends team of experts to Bangladesh to rescue stranded elephant A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 4: The Assam government has sent a rescue team to Bangladesh to retrieve an elephant stranded there after being washed away by the strong currents of the Brahmaputra river from the state. The team landed in Dhaka on Tuesday. The three-member expert team comprises retired senior forest department official Ritesh Bhattacharyya, serving Divisional Forest Official (DFO) of Dhubri Suleiman Choudhury and serving veterinarian Dr Kushal Konwar Sarma.

The team will first meet the

Bangladesh forest department officials and study the feasibility on how to bring the elephant back and then take a decision. They may airlift the elephant, Assam forest minister Pramila Rani Brahma had said earlier.

The pachyderm was washed away in June from Kaziranga National Park and reached Kurigram district in Bangladesh, bordering Dhubri district of Assam. According to officials the elephant is in good health. Earlier she was found to be weak and stressed as the locals drove her off from one place to another.

Sensex gets back into green as RS clears GST Bill Mumbai, Aug 4 (PTI) Stocks offered a picture of contrast today as the benchmark Sensex snapped its four-day falling spell after the Rajya Sabha passed the historic GST Bill yesterday amid signs of strength in global markets.

At the close, it eked out a modest gain of 17 points, reflecting investor worries that the job ahead on the goods and services tax front is by no means easy and will need a great deal of hard work on the part of the Centre and states.

Billed as the biggest tax reform since Independence, the GST Bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha yesterday, which looks to replace a string of local levies with a single tax to turn the country into a unified market.

Shares of auto, realty, infrastructure, power and healthcare led the rebound on good buying push while consumer durables, IT, banking and FMCG melted under selling pressure.

The benchmark opened on a strong footing on sustained foreign capital inflows as investors welcomed the outcome, and on positive Asian cues.

In the beginning, the 30share Sensex jumped over 224 points, but turned lower after profit booking set in before ending higher by 16.86 points, or 0.06 per cent, at 27,714.37.

The gauge had lost 511.11 points in the previous four straight sessions.

Tata Steel led the pack of gainers, which surged 4.60 per cent to Rs 374.05 after

reports that the government has recommended antidumping duty on imports of cold-rolled steel products.

SAIL climbed 1.85 per cent while JSW Steel rose 1.05 per cent.

and power 0.71 per cent.

The Nifty closed at 8,551.10, up 6.25 points, or 0.07 per cent, after hovering between 8,601.40 and 8,518.15.

Logistic stocks were a mixed lot as uncertainty still prevails with regard to actual road map of the GST execution.

Auto stocks were in a sweet spot on expectations that GST implementation will reduce on-road prices for entry-level vehicles and improve their affordability for the end-consumer.

Allcargo Logistics ended 3.09 per cent down while Transport Corporation of India gained 0.74 per cent.

Blue Dart Express went up 1.15 per cent.

Major gainers in the auto segment were Tata Motors, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto and Maruti Suzuki as investors widened their bets, lifting share prices by up to 4.41 per cent.

Buying activity by retail investors helped the broader markets recover, with smallcap and mid-cap indices gaining up to 0.39 per cent.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) net purchased shares worth Rs 578.17 crore yesterday, as per provisional data.

Other Asian markets remained firm, with Japan's Nikkei rising 1.07 per cent and Hong Kong's Hang Seng 0.43 per cent.

Out of 30 Sensex components, 16 advanced and 14 lost.

Shanghai Composite was up 0.13 per cent.

BSE realty rose the maximum, up 2.25 per cent, followed by metal 1.53 per cent, auto 1.35 per cent, infrastructure 0.92 per cent

European stocks advanced in their early trade as investors awaited an expected interest rate cut from the Bank of England. .

AJYCP asks forest minister to quit ET Bureau Guwahati, Aug 4: The Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) has expressed serious concern over the repeated incidents of rhino deaths in Kaziranga and demanded immediate resignation of the forest minister of Assam.

In a press statement issued here on Thursday, AJYCP president Biraj Kumar Talukdar said that the flood related deaths could be prevented by raising highland inside the park with systematic plantation. “Raising highlands in the one fourth portions with systematic

plantation of the national park would help the animals get rid of the flood waters,” said Talukdar.

The AJYCP president criticised the government alleging its failure to deal with the rhino poaching incidents. Talukdar further suspected the involvement of a section of KNP officials who are closely associated with a circle of powerful political leaders in Dispur.

“The repeated incidents of rhino poaching have forced us to suspect the involvement of a circle of KNP officials with the patronage by a group of powerful political leaders in Dispur,” said the AJYCP president.

He further suggested a territorial army in the line of the Rashtriya Rifles to firmly deal with the rhino poachers. Talukdar has questioned the duel charge of KNP Director MK Yadava as Amtron Director which, he said, would not allow him to concentrate on the national park.

“Why a person holding such a crucial post like KNP director has been given duel charge? Doesn’t it suggest lack of sincerity of the authorities?” said Talukdar demanding immediate resignation of forest minister to pave the way for a capable one to take the reins.

Manipuri theatre is incomplete without the participation of its tribal communities. Their physical involvement and participation in theatrical enterprises or movement is unmatchable.

Sorinchon Zimik, 26, from Ukhrul district is the first emerging Tangkhul Naga theatre artiste in Manipur.

She is also among the first tribal artistes to receive "Young Artiste Scholarship" award from the central government for excelling in theatre, as her work has helped to promote the region's tribal culture.

Sorinchon started her career with singing gospel songs in local churches of her village and the nearby region.

After working hard for years, Sorinchon got her first major break in the S T h a n i n l e i m a ' s Khengjonglang Theatre Group during a 45-day workshop conducted in Ringui village of Manipur.

Under the sponsorship of the National School of

Drama, New Delhi, she had been a part of the theatre workshop for four consecutive times.

Wungnaoyo Zimik, her father, said, “Since we are from the hilly area and people mostly survive by doing field work (Paddy field), our family too, had financial hardships. But knowing her zeal and interest in theatre from the initial stage, my family always supported her to fulfill her dreams. But today after seeing her performance, I could see her hard work and perseverance and I am very proud to be her father.”

Sorinchon said, “I believe that by showcasing and depicting story of our people through this kind of a play

lost and found I, Wunacha Apralo S/o,D/o Ziro Mene, vill: Intaya, P.O/P.S: Roing, Lower Dibang Valley dist. lost my class 12th CBSE transfer certificate , sL.No: 529, Dtd. 6/8/12.

Kindly anybody finding the aforesaid document contact the undersign and will be suitably rewarded.

Wunacha Apralo

Excise department seizes foreign liquor

BSF deploys various battalions to rescue flood affected people A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 4: The troops of Guwahati frontier of the Border Security Force (BSF), deployed in various Battalions in the Flood affected areas under sector Headquarter Dhubri carried out relief work from resources pooled in internally, during the last few days. BSF Jawans provided Flood relief materials like water,

food, medical aid and free medicines to the flood affected border population of Dhubri in Assam, who are facing acute scarcity of food, clean drinking water and medicines during this natural calamity. This relief work was carried out in the remote areas where other agencies have no access.

Border Security Force troops are sensitive to the problems of the border

population and are reaching out to them in the midst of severe adversities despite being equally, affected. Almost all the BOPs in the riverine border have been inundated with flood water while many of them have been washed away. Troops are facing immense hardships in performing their duties. The border population has highly appreciated this initiative of BSF.

Agartala, Aug.4 (ANI): Tripura’s capital Agartala has now reserved a place on India’s broad gauge map with the much waited AgartalaDelhi broad gauge passenger rail service recently inaugurated by Railway Minister Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu in the presence of his Bangladesh counterpart Mohammad Mujibul Haque.

track with Chittagong port through Sabroom. PM Narendra Modi is very keen to make the northeast region a tourist hub.”

Thousands of people gathered to witness the historic launch of the broad gauge railway link.

This railway connectivity is the lifeline for millions in Tripura, western Manipur and Mizoram besides southern Assam.

launch of this rail connectivity, travelling will become much easier and smoother. It will also curb our travelling expenses.”

The new train will stop at Ambasa, Dharamnagar, Karimganj, Badarpur, New Halflong, Lemding, Jagi Road, Guwahati, New Bongaigaon, New Jalpaiguri, Katihar, Barauni, Patliputra Junction, Mughalsarai, Allahabad and Kanpur Central.

The foundation stone for a 15-km-long railway line between India and Bangladesh was also laid by Prabhu in the presence of state dignitaries.

India will fund this international rail project at a cost of Rs. 580 crores.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Dhaka in June last year has laid the foundation stone to construct a bridge over Feni river, adjoining Sabroom, to connect the town with Bangladesh’s hill town Khagrachari.

ET Correspondent Margherita, Aug 4: Margherita Excise Department today conducted a raid at Jagun area under Margherita Sub Division and seized 400 Bottles of foreign liquor and 60 bottles

of beer meant for sale in Arunachal Pradesh. One woman was arrested in this connection and under Section 53(1) A of Assam Excise rule Act a case has been registered against the woman.

2nd Karbi Anglong ‘Tripura Sundari Express’ to make Day celebration to travelling easier from Agartala to Delhi be held in Guwahati

The much awaited ‘Tripura Sundari Express’ weekly passenger train would run between Agartala and the Anand Vihar station in Delhi, covering a distance of around 2,480 km in 47 hours. With the launch of the passenger train, the mountainous border state of Tripura is now connected to Delhi via Guwahati, which is about 600 km from Agartala.

Prabhu said, “We are committed to bring connectivity with Bangladesh. The relation between India and Bangladesh is very cordial and they (Bangladesh) are cooperative in our initiative.

On the Agartala-Akhoura railway link, it would be part of the trans-Asian rail connectivity. Chittagong port is the best port in Asia. We want to connect an Indian railways

Laxman Parmar, a passenger, said, “I come here for purpose of business and earlier there was difficulty of carrying the goods and in travelling. Proper vehicles and communication system was not available and we often use to miss the bus and ultimately our travelling use to get delay. But the launch of this railway connectivity has bought lots of positivity and no such problem will arise now. I am thankful to the government.”

Abhishek, another passenger, said, “Earlier, people often use to face difficulties of connectivity especially people like us who travels from places like Bihar, Delhi and only option left was travelling by air but with the

Such development will open another railway link between the two neighbours after the existing Kolkata-Dhaka and proposed Agartala-Akhaura rail links. (ANI)

Soringchon Zimik, a rising Tangkhul Theatre artist from Manipur Imphal (Manipur), Aug.4 (ANI): In an endeavor to preserve the rich theatre tradition of Manipur, theatrical societies have taken up the challenge to revive theatre. Manipur’s first Tangkhul Naga theatre artiste Soringchon Zimik is once such individual who has won many hearts with her exhilarating performances.

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can promote and develop our culture as well as bring unity within the society. For this, first and foremost, I would like to give credit to God for giving me such opportunities in life. And then I would like to give thanks to my parents because of their unceasing support, financially, morally and mentally, today I have reached up to this platform.”

Sorinchon’s recent debut solo play titled ‘Rose’ in Imphal, had won accolades for her.

The 50-minute play depicts the immortal spirit of a woman who rises from her coffin at midnight and narrates her heart wrenching story of how she fell victim to army brutality under the

draconian law- AFSPA. The show was presented by Soraren Repertory Theatre based in Imphal.

Dr. Abhiram Mongjam, a member of the audience that watched Sorinchon perform, said, “It is fantastic and it is not only given enjoyment but also reminds us the earlier incident that happened in Ukhrul district. At that time, we were very young and when we read in the papers, at that it was just a reading but when we saw this performance acting by a lone girl, it really gives us the vivid feelings. And I think the director and the producers; they have done very well and beautifully produced it.”

N. Jadumani Singh, a well

known theatre personality, said, “I am very happy and enjoyed the show. Even though she comes from the hills and as there are no proper facilities for theatre artistes in our state, she overcame all the hurdles and performed so well today. I can say that she is one the emerging finest young theatre artiste who really works hard and polish her skill.”

The success of Sorinchon has set an example for others that one can achieve anything with hard work and a neversay-die spirit.

Her hard work and perseverance is surely an inspiration for youngsters in the region.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 4: Karbis, one of the major ethnic groups, which also have rich and unique cultural heritage of its own, will celebrate 2nd Karbi Anglong Day celebrations on 6th August in Srimanta Sankardeva International Auditorium in Guwahati.

The theme of the celebrations has been earmarked as “showcasing Karbi Anglong – Glorious Past, vibrant Present and Promising Future”. The entire celebration shall witness a host of

programmes including ones which would showcase the rich culture and heritage of the Karbi community, interactive session and cultural performances. Stalls shall also be put up, displaying ethnic handicrafts and traditional food items.

CM Sarbanada Sonowal to be the chief guest during open session. Whereas, PB Acharya, governor of Assam, to be the chief guest during the inaugural session. There would other dignitaries and guests who shall attend the daylong celebration.

Indian Railways gears up for expansion plans in northeast Agartala (Tripura), Imphal (Manipur)/Dimapur (Nagaland) Aug.4 (ANI): Indian Railways has announced mega expansion plans to improve connectivity and infrastructure in other northeastern states apart from Tripura. Railway Minister Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu recently launched two different projects in Manipur and Nagaland.

Prabhu recently laid the foundation stone of the Imphal Railway station in the presence of Manipur Chief Minister Ikrom Ibobi Singh.

Prabhu also announced the commencement of works on the country’s longest tunnel on the Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal new broad gauge railway line in Manipur. The Railway Board has sanctioned Rs 1,397 crores for the project.

The Union minister also stressed upon the Trans-Asia Railway Network connectivity through this initiative. It will open new gateway for trade and better connectivity.

Prabhu said, “This is a part of Trans-Asian Railway Network that we are trying to develop.

As you know, this is India’s part of signatory on overall agreement for the development of Trans-Asian railway network. Once we bring it as to the border of Myanmar, then we will get connected to South-East Asia. There is already been connectivity between South East Asia and East Asia. So, will actually connect completely and if you real look at it, this also helps us to connect to central Asia in an over period of time. So, Asia will become one continent through connectivity. ASEAN, a UN body is also working on the

overall connectivity of the entire Asian continent.”

Manipur Chief Minister O. Ibobi Singh said, “Today, while Suresh Prabhuji is attending the function here for laying foundation of Imphal Rail station and longest Indian railway tunnel, I would also like to request to extend railway link from Imphal to Moreh as a gift to the people of Manipur. And I think that if it is not extended from Imphal to Moreh, the International border town of Moreh, our honorable PM’s dream for achieving ‘Act East Policy’ will not be able to fulfill.”

Prabhu also laid a foundation stone of Dhansiri (Dimapur)Zubza broad gauge line at the Dimapur railway station.

The new development will fulfill the long-cherished dream of the locals by connecting Kohima to Delhi.

Nagaland Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang said, “The present PM is very keen to implement all the projects, which is concerning the connectivity towards South East Asian countries. So, this is one of the important points where we can implement the ‘Act east policy’ project. Finally, I appealed to the people of Nagaland, specially the land owners, along with the new railway line to cooperate with state government, NE frontal railway, railway board and also assist and facilitate the contractors and their work.”

Improving rail and road connectivity will bring an economic change in the Northeast and will boost connectivity towards the mainland India as well as South-East Asia.

REGION Govt to amend Lapang, Salseng building bylaws shortly await Sonia verdict

PAGE 5

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

Shillong, Aug 4: The State Government will amend the building by-laws shortly to constitute an alternative agency to MUDA to solve disputes arising out of the implementation of the building by-laws in areas outside the jurisdiction of Shillong Municipal Board.

Speaking to media persons after a meeting with UDP and HSPDP leaders here on Wednesday, Urban Affairs minister Ampareen Lyngdoh said that the legislators in the meeting had expressed concern over the difficulties faced by the residents of Shillong due to the implementation of the building by-laws.

Stating that the department would put the amendment process on fast track, she added that the Government also wanted to set up of an alternative agency to MUDA at the earliest. It was earlier alleged that both PHE and MeECL refused to give water and electricity connection unless people

produced the occupancy certificate issued by MUDA. She, however, said that the Government would have to sit with the legal team since there were certain court orders in the recent past which make it binding for the MUDA to operate until an alternative agency comes into existence. In the meeting, Paul Lyngdoh, Ardent Basaiawmoit and Jemino Mawthoh (all MLAs) expressed their displeasure over the style of functioning of MUDA. Chief Minister Mukul Sangma also attended the meeting.

Meanwhile,, UDP leader Jemino Mawthoh informed that accepting the demand of the legislators the Government decided to form a committee, to be headed by Additional Chief Secretary, to give a clearer picture on urban governance and service delivery system. The committee has been directed to finish its task in a month's time, he said.(Agencies)

ASUK asks Sharmila to re-think entering electoral politics

Imphal, Aug 4: The Alliance for Socialist Unity, Kangleipak (ASUK) has called upon Irom Sharmila to re-think her decision to join electoral politics and marry a non-local man.

A statement jointly signed

by ASUK Chairman N Oken and Vice-Chairman Ksh Laba Meitei pointed out that some former revolutionary leaders were assassinated as they turned against the revolutionary movement soon after they got elected as people's representatives.

After popular mass leader Lamyanba Irabot, Iche Sharmila is the only living icon of mass struggle against draconian laws.

"We are using the salutation Iche not on the basis of seniority but out of respect for her iconic status", it said.

All those people who joined electoral politics chose the same path knowing well that it was a cul-de-sac.

ASUK then appealed to Sharmila not to degrade her status by joining electoral politics.

It further remarked that Sharmila's decision to marry a non-local man cannot be called correct. Even though the man is an NRI, he is still an Indian in the eyes of the people of Kangleipak.

The ongoing mass movement for protection of indigenous people can be attributed to the growing incidences of inter-marriage between Indian people and people of Kangleipak and incessant influx from India.

Although most people are not happy with her decision to marry an Indian, people are making no comments because it is a very personal matter. ASUK then appealed to Sharmila to respect the people's identity politics.

There was no guarantee that the Indian man with whom Sharmila purportedly plans to marry was not an intelligence agent of the Government of India. It was also possible that the Government of India used the particular agent to win the heart and mind of Sharmila.

As such, the particular man needs to be observed for sometime. It is crucial to ascertain if he has any vested interest.

If Sharmila was thinking that she would lobby against AFSPA at the UNO with the help of the Indian man, it sounds absurd, added ASUK. Sharmila's marriage to the Indian man would certainly imply the loss of a bright star from the political horizon of Kangleipak.

"When there is no people's movement against AFSPA in Manipur and WESEA, neither the UNO nor any other country would do anything for our people", ASUK said. At the moment, the international community and the UNO have been acting in favour of India. It was the UN Security Council which resolved that a referendum should be held in Kashmir but the same resolution has been swept under the carpet.

The UNO may intervene if the people's movements in WESEA reach a certain trajectory. It would be more prudent to work collectively so as to raise the people's movement to the particular trajectory, it asserted.

As for Sharmila's decision to break her unprecedented fast, the ASUK asserted that it could not be assumed as failure or defeat. There were no strikes, social movements or reformist agitation which achieved 100 per cent of their demands/objectives.

If viewed from this perspective, Sharmila's crusade could be assumed as a spectacular success.

"Iche's campaign as a champion of human rights has exposed the hypocrisy of the Indian State. The UN and many other international bodies have lambasted AFSPA. At the same time, many international organisations have already honoured Iche.

Many international figures including a Nobel Peace Prize winner have opposed AFSPA", it added.

(Agencies)

Shillong, Aug 4: A day after AICC leaders Mukul Wasnik and CP Joshi left for Delhi after their one-toone meetings with the party MLAs and others, the two senior-most Congressmen of the State, DD Lapang and Salseng C Marak, on Wednesday said that they were waiting for the verdict, to be announced by the high command, of the two-day exercise.

Though they did not clearly indicate whether the issue of demand for change of leadership was raised in the meeting with AICC duo, both Lapang and Marak said it was left to the High Command to decide on the leadership issue.

Opinions of Congress lead-

ers and functionaries in Meghalaya as given to AICC leaders during personal interactions, are ready be submitted to Congress president Sonia Gandhi. While Marak on Wednesday indicated that though the strengthening of the party was the main issues discussed in the meeting, the demand for change of leadership was still an issue as raised by certain party men in other forums.

Marak also said that whatever he had conveyed to AICC leaders during his one to one meeting is strictly confidential and not for the consumption of the media. Lapang also echoed the same by stating that he is also waiting for the final word from the Congress president Sonia Gandhi following the meeting of AICC leaders with the party functionaries.

"On my part, I have raised only the issue of strengthening the party with the AICC leaders and as far as the question related to the change of leadership is concerned, it is upto the High Command to decide on the matter", Marak said on Wednesday.

"We will wait for the decision of the High Command and we do not think that it will take more time to get the feedback from AICC", Lapanag said. It was learnt that once AICC leaders submit their report to the Congress president, both Lapang and the Chief Minister Mukul Sangma may

be summoned to Delhi to have a conclusive decision.

Meanwhile, sources said that though the party legislators deny that there was no discussion on the demand for change of leadership, the main exercise of Wasnika and Joshi was to discuss the leadership issue.

According to sources, besides the majority of legislators, the church leaders and business community during their meeting with AICC leaders had painted a negative picture as far as the development of the state is concerned under the leadership of Sangma. (Agencies)

CM asks Nagas to work out acceptable solution to Naga problem Kohima, Aug 4: Nagaland Chief Minister T R Zeliang has called upon the Nagas to work out an 'acceptable solution' to the Naga political problem so that peace, normalcy and all round development can be ushered in the state.

"Nagas should now accept the realities of the changed times and circumstances and work out a solution which is acceptable to us as well as the government of India," he told a gathering of Naga tribal leaders on the occasion of Tsungremong, a pre-harvest sanctification

festival of Ao Nagas at Mokokchung, on Tuesday.

The vexed issue, Zeliang said, can be resolved through dialogue between Indian and Naga leaders and "not from a third country or elsewhere".

He added that the plea of the Naga people at this juncture should be that any solution "should be inclusive of all Nagas and not for a particular tribe or community". "The approach of the government of the day under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership

is positive and so we should also be positive in our approach towards a solution," a release issued by the Chief Minister's Office said.

"We have struggled for 70 years without any tangible solution and 70 years is long enough," he said. Appealing to the Nagas, he said, "Let us not spell out what is possible and what is not possible before the government of India spells out its formula." Talks are going on within the framework agreement which have brought both the parties

closer to each other to arrive at a conclusion, Zeliang said.

Nagas should accept "what India can provide us today, because what India cannot give today will not be possible even after a hundred years", the Chief Minister said. He lauded NGOs like Naga Hoho, Eastern Nagaland Public Organisation, Naga Students Federation, Eastern NSF, Naga Mothers Association etc for working together for the common good of the Naga people.

(PTI)

One year of signing Framework Agreement Nagas are not demanding anything but our rights: UNC Ukhrul, Aug 4 : The political issue of the Nagas is not a demand but a birth right. It is the struggle to have political rights free from political suppression or oppression, stated UNC general secretary Milan during a function to mark the completion of one year of signing the historic Framework Agreement between the Govt of India and NSCN (IM) on August 3, 2015. The day was also observed at Senapati and Chandel.

Speaking at the observance program, the general secretary of the UNC elaborated on the political rights of the Nagas and added that in the history of the Nagas, no Nation had conquered or ruled the Nagas. The UNC general secretary recalled how the Naga Club submitted a memorandum to the Simon Commission in 1929 to leave them alone and let them live free from any foreign domination.

The political struggle of the Nagas got internationalised after NSCN (IM) became a member of the UNPO in 1993, asserted Milan. To settle the Indo-Naga issue, the cease fire agreement was signed in 1997 between GoI and NSCN (IM). The unique history of the Nagas was recognised during the course of the negotiation and after numerous rounds of talk, the Framework Agreement was signed last year at New Delhi to pave the way for a permanent solution.

Seeking to clear doubts, Milan said that under the Framework Agreement a Pan Naga Council would be constituted in order to ensure and safeguard "our political rights, shared sovereignty and joint defence for peaceful co- existence of the two entities." These points have been accepted in principle, he added.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Yaronsho Ngalung chairman ADC Ukhrul called upon all Nagas to unite and keep aside

Mizoram-HPC(D) peace talks next week Aizawl, Aug 4: Peace talks between the Mizoram government and Hmar People's Convention (Democratic) militants will be held here from August 10, state Home Minister R Lalzirliana said on Thursday. Lalzirlianal chaired a meeting of senior home department and police officials to discuss the modalities for the talks.

The HPC(D) delegation would comprise six members while a four-member state government delegation would be headed by additional secretary for home Lalbiakzama, the Minister said.

The negotiations between the state government and the Hmar outfit led by its chairman H Zosangbera fizzled out in August 2013 over disagreement on extension of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) which re-

their differences to help bring a final solution. TNL president Weapon Zimik reiterated the stand to back the Framework Agreement and said 'Nagas must come together as one Naga Nation'.

Special prayer session was also held for leaders of GoI and NSCN (IM) to grant them sound health and wisdom. At the same time the gathering expressed pleasure with the release of NSCN (IM) leader Anthony Ningkhan Shimray at Delhi on bail.

Members of ADC Ukhrul, social organization leaders, well wishers, all zone chairmen, headmen, office bearers of TSL, TKS, TMNL attended the observance program at Town Hall, Phungreitang, Ukhrul.

Senapati frontal bodies, tribe Hohos observe day : Observing one year completion of the Naga Peace Accord signed between the Government of India and NSCN-IM, Senapati district frontal bodies and tribe Hohos organized a commemoration programme at different locations today.

A formal progamme was held at SDWA hall which was attended by NPO members, Senapati ADC Chairman, Vice-Chairman, ADC

Members, Church leaders, representatives of NPMHR, SDSA & SDWA and social leaders. NPMHR activist Joyson Mazamo stressed on the present scenario of the Indo-Naga peace process. He also said NSCN-IM leader Anthony Shimray will be released on bail from Tihar jail this evening.

Former Poumai Naga Union president Ng Lohrii said that certain elements and groups are attempting to sabotage the ongoing peace process and cautioned the people to stay alert against such antiNaga policies and agendas.

ADC Chairman ML Markson also spoke on the need to expedite the IndoNaga peace talks.

According to NPO, a memorandum appended by all tribe presidents was submitted to the PM urging to bring a solution to the Indo-Naga issue at the earliest.

Maram Union observes historic day with prayers : Maram Union organized a prayer service to commemorate the day.

The prayer service was held at MRNBA conference hall and attended by representatives of Maram Union, Maram Women's Union, Maralui Karalimei Swijoikang (MKS), Maram Naga Baptist Association, Maram Area Catholic Association, Maram Christian

Revival Church, Maram Thangal Region, workers, missionaries, evangelists, Willong Circle, Maram Circle, Senapati Circle, political and social leaders.

A two-minute silence was observed as a mark of respect to the departed soul of Isak Chishi Swu. CNPO observes day : Naga civil societies of Chandel under the aegis of Chandel Naga People's Organisation observed a prayer service to commemorate the signing of the historic Framework Agreement at the Indoor stadium today, reports our correspondent.

The programme was attended by 500 Nagas including leaders of various tribal hohos, civil bodies, women organisations, students, Church leaders, village authorities members, social workers and chief functionaries of NSCN (IM).

Thumpa Turiim , co-convener, Steering Committee of NSCN (IM), also delivered a speech on the the Framework Agreement. A memorandum addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also read out by CNPO's joint secretary Wng Prem.

Pastor of Chumbang Baptist Church Rev Y Halpu led the mass special prayer for the success of the Framework Agreement. (Agencies)

The fallout of the failed parleys was the ambush of a team of legislators in which three policemen were killed on March 28 last year near Mizoram-Manipur border Zokhawthiang hamlet.

Many of those involved in the ambush were arrested while one of the militants, Malsawmkima, a state police deserter, was gunned down few days after the ambush. HPC(D), formed soon after the Mizoram government and the original outfit HPC signed an agreement in 1994, has been demanding a separate autonomous district council under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution by carving out the areas adjoining Manipur.(Agencies)

HC to hear contempt case of Adelbert, HYC today Shillong, Aug 4: The Division Bench of High Court of Meghalaya on Thursday will take up the contempt of court case filed against former KHADC chief Adelbert Nongrum and five members of Hynniewtrep Youth Council for ctiticising an earlier verdict of the Court on the issue related to stripping of the powers of headmen.

Earlier on July 19, the High Court had imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 each to five members of HY general secretary Robert June Kharjahrin, organizing secretary Nickson Dohling, vice president Donboklang Kharlyngdoh, adviser Anthony Kharbuli, and assistant organizing secretary

Issac Basawiamoit and ordered their presence besides that of Adelbert Nongrum in the court on Tuesday.

The case was taken by the High Court following the contempt of court by Nongrum after he criticized the December 14, 2014 order of Justice SR Sen related to the headmen. During the hearing of the contemptuous remarks by the former CEM on January 27, 2015, the High Court had ordered a CBI inquiry on the mayhem created by people who were shouting slogans outside the court premises.

The CBI report had named the five HYC members behind the mayhem.(Agecies)

Salseng bats for more powers to plan panel Shillong, Aug 4: Chairman of Meghalaya State Planning Board SC Marak has stressed the need for providing more powers to the Board for its effective functioning.

Critics had in the past pointed out that the Board is like a rehabilitation centre for the MLAs and defeated politicians as it had failed in its role to act as an effective body.

One year of signing Framework Agreement Nagas are not demanding anything but our rights

sulted in the arrest of several leaders of the militant group.

When asked about the role of the Board over the years, Marak said on Thursday," The State

Planning Board is like an advisory body as notified by the state government, and to make it more effective, more powers should be given".

According to Marak, within its limited mandate, the Board is pursuing certain issues, but its role is limited to mere recommendations. To a query on whether the Board should be done away with, Marak said," What is required is strengthening of the Board with more powers". (Agencies)

It's now official: KHADC bins road project NOC Shillong, Aug 4: The Executive Committee (EC) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has officially revoked the NOC on the vexed issue of the two-lane road project from NongstoinWahkaji-Mawthabah and the WahkajiPhlangdiloin-Ranikor road.

Speaking to reporters after the EC meeting on Wednesday, the KHADC CEM P N Syiem said, "The EC has given its seal of approval to not grant NOC for the road project and will officially write to the Uranium Corporation of India (UCIL) to withdraw the tender notice floated for pre-mining activities."

Highlighting on the Rs 20 crore earmarked to repair the existing road from Nongstoin to Wakaji and Phlangdiloin, he said, "The Special Assistance Scheme of Rs 133 crores has not been released by the state government. We have to send a proposal to the state government through the District Council Level Committee which will then be approved by the EC which will forward it to the State Level Committee."

Syiem added that since the road falls under the jurisdiction of PWD, he would write to the state government to issue an NOC to the Council to enable it to proceed with the road repair. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

Oppn 'tutoring' Bulandshahr victims for political gains: UP CM

Oppn, Govt face-off in RS over Arunachal, U'khand New Delhi, Aug 04 : Rajya Sabha today witnessed a face-off between Opposition and government over dismissal of Congress dispensations in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, bringing into close scrutiny the role of governors.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav Lucknow, Aug 4 : Facing flak in the wake of Bulandshahr gangrape incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today hit back at the opposition, accusing them of tutoring the victims to serve their political motives, even as he promised strict action against the culprits.

"The incident is unfortunate. Action will be taken against those responsible.

But the question is what are BJP and other (opposition) parties tutoring the victims and showing the way of politics," he said.

"What are BJP and other people telling the victims inside the room, you (media persons) should also look into it...what are they telling the victims...if they want CBI probe I am willing for it...I am ready to help them

out," he said on the sidelines of a programme here.

Yadav alleged that hype was also built around the Badaun rape case of two sisters to defame his government in the past.

A political slugfest is on in the state over the gangrape of a minor girl and her mother on the national highway in Bulandshahr district, with the state government coming in for severe bashing and leaders of various parties making a beeline to meet the victims.

While a BJP delegation led by state unit president Keshav Prasad Maurya has already met the victims in Ghaziabad, a Congress delegation led by its chief ministerial candidate Sheila Dikshit met them today.(PTI)

Fresh batch of 194 pilgrims leaves for Amarnath Jammu, Aug 04 :A fresh batch of 194 pilgrims today left for the twin base camps of the Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas amidst tight security. The batch comprising 115 men, 27 women and 52 sadhus left in seven vehicles from the Bhagwati Nagar base

camp in Jammu for Pahalgam and Baltal in Kashmir this morning, a police officer said. Over 2.15 lakh pilgrims have so far paid obeisance at the cave shrine of Amarnath since the yatra started on July 1. The yatra will conclude on August 18.(PTI)

PAGE 6

The main opposition party alleged "trampling" of democracy by the BJP-led government which hit back by reminding that Congress had "butchered" democracy by misusing Article 356 about 100 times. Congress pressed for a statement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue, since he talks of "cooperative federalism".

The clash took place as the House took up a discussion on 'Developments in Uttarakhand and Arunachal Pradesh leading to change

in governments there and the role of Governors in the respective States'. What happened in the two states was a "brazen violation of Constitution" and "insult to democracy", said Deputy Leader of Congress Anand Sharma while initiating the debate.

"What happened in Arunachal late last year followed by Uttarakhand in Janauary this year shocked the country and invited censure of the Supreme Court and High Court of Uttarakhand," he said.

Questioning the role of Governors, the former minister said he or she is "not supposed to interfere in dayto-day functioning...take unilateral decisions... Constitution was not respected...It is insult to peoples mandate."

Citing the developments in both the states, he said Governors do not meddle in politics or undermine elected governments but "brazen violation of constitution" occured in both the states. He alleged that the Governors in both the states "willingly became tools to pursue nefarious agenda of the ruling party".

Citing the Supreme Court orders on the dismissal of governments in these two states, Sharma asked why no action was taken against Uttarakhand Governor.

"Sack that Governor. Remove him. If he continues to hold the post you are insulting constitution," Sharma said.

"What happened was shameful. The government conduct was outrageous...

Prime Minister Narendra

Modi speaks of constitutional federalism...At the same time ruling party president talks of Congressmukt Bharat...that is the official position of the ruling party and its national executive...this is insult to democracy and misuse of authority to destabilise elected governments," Sharma charged. Urban Development Minister M Venkaiah Naidu intervened to say that it is "the Devil quoting the scriptures".

This was objected to by the Congress after which Deputy Chairman P J Kurien said he will examine whether it fell under unparliamentary language.

Naidu said, "Issue is ...does the Congress party have any moral right to raise this. It has misused Article 356 at least 90 to 100 times...Such party is giving sermons.(PTI)

India has 18 judges New Zika vaccine to per ten lakh people be tested in humans New Delhi, Aug 04:There are 18 judges per 10 lakh people as compared to 50 judges recommended by the Law Commission in its 1987 report which the Chief Justice of India had recently cited seeking an increase in the judges strength. According to the data put out by the Law Ministry in public domain, the judge to population ratio in India stands at 17.86 judges per 10 lakh people.

Mizoram has the highest judge to population ratio which stands at 57.74. In Delhi, it stands at 47.33, while in Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state of the country, the ratio is 10.54 judges per 10 lakh people. West Bengal has the lowest judge to population ratio at 10.45 judges per 10 lakh people.

The sanctioned strength of the Supreme Court today stands at 31 judges, including the CJI as compared to 25 in 2009. The apex court faces a shortage of 3 judges. Four new judges

were recently appointed to the apex court. The sanctioned strength of the high courts till 2014 was 906 judges and it was increased to 1,079 in June this year.

There are 24 high courts in the country. But despite the increase in the sanctioned strength, the high court, as in July this year, faced a shortage of 477 judges. The subordinate courts in the country, the backbone of justice delivery system, have a sanctioned strength of 20,502.

But there are only 16,070 judicial officers serving in the courts and the shortage stood at 4,432 as on December 31, 2015. Addressing the inaugural session of Joint Conference of Chief Ministers and Chief Justices of High Courts here in April, CJI T Thakur had said since 1987, when the Law Commission had recommended an increase in the number of judges from then 10 judges per 10 lakh people to 50, "nothing has moved".(PTI)

Washington, Aug 04: A new needle-free DNA vaccine against the Zika virus is being tested in people, US health officials have announced - moving forward in the fight against the virus that has been linked to serious birth defects. As a part of an early study run by the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), about 80 volunteers in the US aged 18 to 35 will receive the NIAID Zika virus investigational DNA vaccine.

If the vaccine appears safe and produces a good immune response against the virus, researchers plan to start a Phase 2 trial in 2017 in countries where Zika outbreaks are occurring, said Anthony Fauci, director of NIAID. The vaccine contains a small, circular piece of DNA called a plasmid.

Within that plasmid are

genes that code for certain Zika virus proteins, 'Live Science' reported.

These will cause an immune response against the virus, thus protecting from infection, the researchers said.

This type of vaccine is known as a DNA vaccine, and researchers have used it in the past for diseases such as West Nile virus. All the volunteers will get at least one dose of the vaccine, and some will get two or three doses that are spaced out over a number of weeks.

The vaccine will be given with a needle-free "jet injector," which uses a highpressure stream of fluid to inject the vaccine into the muscle. Researchers will continue to follow the participants for two years to measure how long their immune response lasts, Fauci said. (PTI)

Bihar toppers scam: SciDelhi Dynamos sign midfielders Denson, Amoes ence stream topper held New Delhi, Aug 04: Delhi Dynamos Football Club has signed up dynamic midfielders, Denson Devadas and Amoes Do for the upcoming Hero India Super League. Denson, a highly rated midfielder, joins the team from Sporting Clube de Goa while Amoes, a central attacking midfielder comes from Ozone FC.

Delhi Dynamos said. "I have heard about the ability of the two players from the management and the backroom staff and after analysing their videos and careers I am delighted to welcome them into our family. They will add depth to the squad and will surely play a huge role in the club's success in the upcoming season," he added.

"Our signings over the past couple of weeks make it quite evident that we want to build a very strong team for the season," Gianluca Zambrotta, head coach of

On his signing Denson said: "I am thankful to Delhi Dynamos for this wonderful opportunity. I hope to contribute as much as I can in the success of the club. I

know that the club strives for excellence and success and this is the sole reason why I have joined the Dynamos."

Amoes added: "This is my first shot at the Indian Super League and I am really honoured to be part of the Delhi Dynamos FC team. A number of people will be watching me and I would want to prove myself at this level. I am a little nervous but I believe it will only bring the best out in me. I am really looking forward to train under Zambrotta and grow under his guidance as a player.(PTI)

HC snubs AAP, says LG is administrative head of Delhi New Delhi, Aug 04: In a huge setback for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi High Court on Thursday said that Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung was the "administrative head" of the national capital and was not bound to act as per advice of the Dehi Cabinet.

The High Court gave its verdict on the plea challenging Centre's two notifications which led to bitter turf war between Jung and Kejriwal for control over the capital's administration.

A bench headed by Chief Justice G Rohini observed that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's contention that LG is bound to act on advice of Council of Ministers is without any substance and cannot be accepted.

The court is hearing a total of nine cases related to the standoff between the LG and

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal the Delhi government after the latter government challenged the May 21, 2015 notification by the Centre that gave Jung absolute powers to appoint bureaucrats in the city. However, the Delhi HC observed that the May 21 notification of Centre barring ACB from proceeding against central government employees was neither illegal nor unsustainable.

Along with the May 21 notification, the Delhi government had also challenged the July 23, 2014 notification of the Centre which limited the ACB's jurisdiction to Delhi government officials only.

Meanwhile, sources in the AAP said that the party will now approach the Supreme Court against the judgment.

(Agencies)

Patna, Aug 04: The controversial third rank holder in science stream of the Intermediate Examination from Bishun Rai College in Bihar, has been arrested by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Patna police, which is probing the toppers scam in the state.

City Superintendent of Police Chandan Kushwaha, who is a member of the SIT, said Rahul Kumar was arrested on Wednesday from his uncle (Phupha) Durgesh Singh's house at Azampur village in connection with the toppers scam and sent to jail custody by a local court.

During interrogation it was revealed that a deal of Rs.5

lakh was struck to make him a rank-holder, Kushwaha said.

He was one of the four rankholders of the college, who had been named in the FIR in the toppers scam. The other three rank holders are - Shalini Rai, Saurav Sresth and Ruby Rai. Shalini Rai and Saurav Sresth have still not been arrested. Ruby Rai, the controversial topper in the arts stream of the intermediate exam, was arrested by SIT on June 25 while she was coming out after a retest by the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB).

The retest which was conducted to check her aca-

Power failure hits Delhi Metro New Delhi, Aug 04: Delhi Metro services were disrupted on Thursday afternoon following a major power failure, an official said. Curtailed power supply hit both the busy Yellow Line and Blue Line, a spokesman for Delhi Metro said.

The official said power supply was not available from Delhi Transco Ltd due to which the major metro stations at Subhash Nagar, Dwarka, Chhatarpur and Delhi Airport could not feed power to the two lines.

The Yellow Line links

Huda City Centre in Gurgaon in Haryana with Samaypur Badli in north Delhi. The much longer Blue Line connects Dwarka in west Delhi with Vaishali and Noida City Centre in Uttar Pradesh.

The official said Metro had curtailed services after drawing power from other sources, affecting frequency of trains. Commuters said the trains ran at slow speed and stopped longer than normal at various stations during the disruption. The services were restored after about half hour, officials said. (Agencies)

demic abilities after her comments during a TV interview, after she was declared the topper in Humanities stream this year, had led to the lid being taken off from the toppers scam in the state. She had pronounced Political Science which was one of her subjects as "Prodikal science" which according to her taught cooking.

She was granted bail by a local court here on Monday.

Former BSEB chairman Lalkeshwar Prasad Singh, his wife and ex-MLA Usha Sinha, Vishun Roy college secretary-cum principal Bachha Rai and over three dozen other persons have been arrested in the toppers scam.(Agencies)

mit Shah in Gujarat to select new CM

President Amit Shah New Delhi, Aug 04: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah on Thursday reached Ahmedabad as the process to select a new Chief Minister of Gujarat got underway after Anandiben Patel's resignation as Gujarat Chief Minister was accepted by the party's parliamentary board on Wednesday.

Shah met BJP Joint Secretary V Satish and General Secretary in charge of Gujarat, Dinesh Sharma at his residence, a day after senior party leader M Venkaiah Naidu said that the next CM will be from Gujarat and from among the MLAs. Naidu further said that Shah would head a panel that will choose the next CM. "We have not discussed any name yet. We will hold dis-

cussions soon after consulting everyone. We have a majority government so choosing a candidate is not an issue. We will do it after due deliberations," he had said.

The parliamentary board meeting took place at the official residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 7, Race Course Road to discuss Patel's resignation letter. One of the BJP's apex decision-making forum, the board deliberated upon a worthy replacement for Anandiben Patel after she resigned from her post on Monday.

Following this, Shah had said that he will place before the party's parliamentary board the resignation letter asking the leadership to relieve her of her post.(Agencies)

Massive police crackdown in Valley, 500 held Srinagar, Aug 04: In a bid to end street protests, police have launched a massive crackdown against "hooligans and miscreants" in Kashmir and arrested nearly 500 youth from across the Valley.

"In its continuous drive against hooligans and miscreants, 349 accused persons have been arrested in the Valley," a police spokesman said. The spokesman said 122 persons have been detained under "prohibitory provisions of law".

More than 50 persons have been killed, including two policemen, and nearly 6000 others injured in the ongoing street protests in Kashmir since the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani and his two associates in an encounter with security forces on July 8. Initially, the authorities imposed curfew across the Valley to curb the protests but the strategy failed as more and more people took to the streets.

A senior police official said the security agencies are using video footage and pho-

tographs to pinpoint the "trouble mongers and instigators" among the protestors. "We have deployed some personnel in uniform equipped with cameras for recording the incidents of stone pelting and pinpoint those instigating the protests during the analysis of the footage available," the official said.

He said once the accused person is identified, he is arrested "at an appropriate time".

However, the official admitted that many of the wanted youth are still at large as they are not staying with their families any more.

"They keep shifting from one place to another but efforts are on to nab them as soon as possible".

The modus operandi adopted by the security forces is to conduct nocturnal raids for apprehending the accused persons, a move which has come in for criticism from the separatist camp. The separatists have accused the security forces of "harassing peaceful protestors" under the garb of maintaining law and order.

(Agencies)

Mamata chalks out faster development for Birbhum district Bolpur, Aug 4: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday unveiled a slew of development projects for Birbhum district, among which are a new IT hub, which is already in progress, theme city Gitabitan, housing complex at Prantik and a newly designed Tarapith area.

The chief minister said after an administrative meeting here that the district would immensely benefit with the completion of the ongoing and new projects.

Apart from the under-construction IT hub, an MSME market would be built up to sell produce of small and medium artisans where products of the well-knwon

labels like Tantuja, Manjushree and Khadi would be available. The market would also host a Biswa Bangla outlet, she said.

A 129-acre land has been identified and granted to the Sriniketan-Santiniketan Development Authority (SSDA) for the development of theme city 'Gitabitan' in Bolpur, which would promote the state's art and culture.

A cluster of housing complexes would come up at in the Prantik area to meet the growing demand for shelter by local people, she said adding that work was in progress to re-design the

temple town 'Tarapeeth'.

Lauding the law and order situation in Birbhum district, Banerjee said that the state police would raise another battalion to cope with the emerging situation in the district and its adjacent areas. She asked the police to act impartially. The chief minister held a meeting with the Visva Bharati University authority to discuss development projects.

In the meeting she discussed with the officials the theft of the Nobel medallion of Rabindranath Tagore and observed that she would be the happiest person if the priceless object could be retrieved.(Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Daunting tasks ahead for Pak stresses on mutual among Nepal's new PM Prachanda cooperation SAARC countries

Kathmandu, Aug 04: Mounting challenges on the domestic and external fronts are set to test the political acumen of CPN(Maoist Centre) leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka 'Prachanda', who will be administered the oath of office and secrecy as Nepal Prime Minister on Thursday

by President Bidhya Devi Bhandari.

His task is not easy, given the fact that Nepal stands at the very crossroads of political and constitutional history. There are certain agendas of which he knew well before he became the Prime Minister -- striking a fine political balance among deeply-divided political ideologies, moving ahead with political consensus and fulfilling the promises he made during his speech in parliament before his election as the new Prime Minister, seven-point understanding with the Nepali Congress ahead of the exit of K.P. Sharma Oli-led government, and a three-point

tice mechanism and strike a balance between India and China on the political front.

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari agreement with agitating Samuktya Loktantrik Madhesi Morcha.

Prachanda is beset with limitations too. He is sharing power with the Nepali Congress, the largest party in the house. He needs the crucial support of the opposition Communist Party of Nepal-Unified MarxistLeninist too, since the new Constitution cannot be amended without two-thirds vote needed to redress the grievances of the Madhes

Briton, Canadian university student arrested over Dhaka cafe attack Dhaka, Aug 04: A British national and a student of a Canadian university were arrested over their suspected involvement in last month's deadly terror attack at a cafe in Dhaka that killed 22 people, Bangladesh police said on Thursday.

July 2, police said.

Humayun Kabir, an inspector of Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime unit, produced them before court on Thursday and sought them in a 10-day remand for interrogation in custody.

Hasnat Karim, 47, a former teacher of North South University and a British citizen, and Tahmid Hasib, 22, a student at the University of Toronto, who were witnesses to the bloody carnage inside the Holey Artisan Bakery and O' Kitchen Restaurant on July 1, were arrested on Wednesday night in Dhaka, the Daily Star reported. Neither of the two were seen in public since the end of the siege when commandos stormed the cafe on the morning of

Police have pleaded for taking them into custody to question over the attack, said a spokesperson for the Dhaka Metropolitan Police. The two were among the 32 hostages rescued from the cafe, where the attackers killed 20 people, including 17 foreigners, reported.

Inspector General of Police AKM Shahidul Hoque told on Tuesday that both were "under surveillance".

(Agencies)

Militants ambush foreign tourists in western Afghanistan Herat (Afghanistan), Aug 4 : Taliban militants attacked a group of 12 American and European tourists escorted by an Afghan army convoy in western Herat province today, leaving at least seven people wounded as the insurgents step up nationwide attacks. The tourists -- eight British, three Americans and one German national -- were ambushed by Taliban gunmen in the restive district of Chesht-e-Sharif, while en route from the neighbouring provinces of Bamiyan and Ghor.

It is unclear why they were travelling overland at a time when Western embassies typically warn their citizens against all travel in Afghanistan, citing threats of kidnapping and attacks. "The foreign tourists -three Americans, six Britons, two Scots and one German -were travelling with an Afghan army convoy when they were ambushed by the Taliban in Chesht-e-Sharif," said Jilani Farhad, the spokesman for Herat's governor.

He said the insurgents had been repelled and the foreigners were being escorted to Herat city, adding that at least six foreigners and their Afghan driver were left wounded. The attack comes as Taliban militants intensify their annual summer offensive after a brief lull during the holy fasting month of Ramadan, which ended in early July.

Highways in Afghanistan passing through insurgency-prone areas have become exceedingly dangerous, with the Taliban and other armed groups frequently kidnapping or killing travellers. But that

has not stopped some tourists, including foreigners, from travelling to provinces such as Bamiyan, endowed with stunning landscapes but wedged between volatile provinces prone to the Taliban insurgency.

Bamiyan, famous for empty hillside niches that once sheltered giant Buddha statues that were blown up by the Taliban, is at the centre of Afghan efforts to boost tourism revenue.

The United States has warned its citizens in Afghanistan of a "very high" kidnapping risk after an American citizen narrowly escaped abduction in the heart of Kabul.

The latest attack follows a Taliban truck bombing on Monday at a hotel for foreigners in Kabul, which triggered a seven-hour gun and grenade assault that highlighted growing insecurity in the city. The guests and staff of the Northgate hotel escaped unharmed, but one policeman was killed after the suicide truck bomber paved the way for two other armed insurgents to enter the heavily guarded facility near Kabul airport.

Foreigners are also increasingly being targeted as the conflict escalates. American journalist David Gilkey and his Afghan translator were killed in June while travelling with an Afghan army unit that came under fire in southern Helmand province. Judith D'Souza, a 40year-old Indian charity worker, was rescued in late July, more than a month after she was taken at gunpoint near her residence in the heart of Kabul.(PTI)

parties.

Without the support of Madhesi parties, it was almost impossible for him to get elected as the Prime Minister with resounding vote in parliament.

In the long run, Prachanda has to prove better than his predecessor Sharma Oli in implementing the new Constitution, and address the demands of Madhes parties, accelerate reconstruction work post quake, complete the task of transitional jus-

If he cannot prove himself better, Prachanda's success in toppling the previous government would be rendered meaningless. And he has short time on his hands to prove himself -- he will be the Prime Minister for nine months only as per his agreement with the Nepali Congress.

"I will try to move ahead with national consensus during my premiership," Prachanda said in a statement on Wednesday, minutes before he was elected to the post. "... we should come together on major issues and agendas. As Prime Minister, I will shun the politics of prejudice and politics of denial," Prachanda assured the house.

"We hope and expect that the promise made to us will be fulfilled," said a prominent Madhesi leader Upendra Yadav, while sup-

porting his bid to the top political post. Other contentious matter Prachanda faces is over 53,000 cases of human rights abuses committed during the decadelong Maoist insurgency and now registered with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Similarly, expediting the national reconstruction work after the massive earthquake on April 25, 2015, is another key issue he has to engage with. The Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) leader's second stint as Nepal Prime Minister would not count for much if he is unable to prove his mettle in tackling various problems facing his Himalayan country.

The resignation of the then Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli on July 24 paved the way for Prachanda to become the 39th Prime Minister after the Nepali Congress and Madhes-based parties pledged to support him. (Agencies)

Syrian refugee crowned 'wine queen' in Germany Berlin, Aug 04: A Syrian refugee has been crowned "queen" of one of Germany's top wine-making regions, the first asylum seeker to receive such an accolade. Student Ninorta Bahno, 26, fled the civil war in Syria more than three years ago, on Thursday.

The Syrian Christian was crowned wine queen in the city of Trier, western Germany, in the Moselle wine region near the border with

Luxembourg. She said she hoped the prize would encourage integration. "I want to show that Germany is a welcoming country and that the Germans are very hospitable and work towards integrating refugees quickly and successfully," Deutsche Welle quoted Bahno as saying.

Bahno will spend the next year representing winemakers from around Trier at festivals and events,

the reported. Bahno said she had taken a crash course on local wine-making and that her favourite variety was a sweet Riesling.

The tradition of German wine queens dates back to the 1930s.

Every September, the wine queens from German's 13 wine regions compete for the title of German Wine Queen, the added.(Agencies)

UN condemns rising anti-drugs killings in Philippines Manila, Aug 04: The UN has condemned an increase in executions of suspected drug dealers and drug addicts in Philippines as part of an aggressive anti-narcotics campaign, local media reports said on Thursday.

According to radio ABSCBN, 810 people have died since May 10 - a day after the general elections - till Wednesday in the drug war initiated by new President Rodrigo Duterte, reported.

Of these, 496 were killed in police operations, 240 were executed by unidentified gunmen, and the bodies of another 74 alleged drug dealers had surfaced after being killed. Yury Fedotov, executive director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) condemned it, saying "the reports of extrajudicial killing of suspected drug dealers and users" in the Philippines and called Duterte's anti-drug cam-

paign as a "breach of fundamental rights and freedoms".

During his election campaign, Duterte had promised to kill thousands of criminals and drug addicts to end crime in the country during the first six months of his mandate. "Such responses contravene the provisions of the international drug control conventions, do not serve the cause of justice, and will not help to ensure that 'all people can live in health, dignity and peace, with security and prosperity,'" said Fedotov.

The UNODC official also added they are prepared to help the Philippines "to bring drug traffickers to justice with appropriate legal safeguards, in line with international standards and norms." However, despite recent criticism from sev-

eral international agencies, Duterte expressed his unwavering commitment to the campaign in his State of the Nation address in July.

terior Minister left the venue immediately after the meeting got over despite being the host of the lunch. Singh then took the decision to skip the lunch. The Home Minister later had his lunch at his hotel room along with the members of the accompanying Indian delegation.

After the lunch, Singh left for India.

The ongoing strain in IndoPak relations was also evident at the SAARC Interior/

Saarc had made significant progress despite challenges, he noted. According to Radio Pakistan, Sharif said that Pakistan was committed to jointly working with the member states in fighting terrorism, corruption and organised crimes.

Pakistan Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar said, "Saarc will have to play its role to solve problems of the region. We will have to adopt a common strategy to combat crimes." Nisar added that all countries in Saarc will make efforts to

Dhaka, Aug 04: Pentagon has blocked $300 million military aid to Pakistan after Defence Secretary Ashton Carter declined to give a certification to the Congress that Pakistan is taking sufficient action against the dreaded Haqqani network.

In the absence of Congressional certification, the Pentagon has blocked disbursement of $300 million to Pakistan under Coalition Support Fund, which is essentially reimbursement money for the expenses made by Pak Army in support of US operations in Afghanistan.

"The funds ($300 million) could not be released to the Government of Pakistan at this time because the (Defence) Secretary has not yet certified that Pakistan has taken sufficient action against the Haqqani Network per the Fiscal Year 2015 National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) requirement," Pentagon Spokesman Duterte, sworn in on June Adam Stump said.

30, enjoys huge popularity in the Philippines, and latest polls say 91 per cent of those surveyed trust the controversial figure, the highest score ever received by a Philippine president. (Agencies)

Home Ministers' conference here when Singh came faceto-face with Khan for the first time today and the two leaders barely shook hands.

As Singh arrived at the venue of the conference at the posh Serena Hotel here, Khan was at the gate to receive the dignitaries. The two leaders barely touched their hands, not even a formal handshake, before Singh moved ahead to enter the meeting hall. (PTI)

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif counter drugs and maintain peace in the region.

He added that the region faced crimes like human trafficking and money laundering.

The meeting of Saarc interior ministers kicked off in Islamabad on Wednesday with regional affairs, terrorism, prevention of drugs and human trafficking on its agenda.

The meeting is being attended by interior ministers of all Saarc states except Bangladesh. Dhaka, however, is being represented by senior diplomats and officials. Indian Home Minister Rajnath Singh is also attending the conference.

He, however, will not hold a one-on-one meeting with his Pakistani counterpart, according to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. (Agencies)

Pentagon blocks $ 300-million military aid to Pakistan

"There will be no let-up in this campaign (...) We will not stop until the last drug lord, the last financier, and the last pusher have surrendered or put behind bars or below the ground, if they so wish," he said. He had added that the campaign had led to the arrest of more than 3,600 drug offenders and that 120,000 addicts have been delivered to the authorities.

Rajnath skips lunch hosted by Pak counterpart Islamabad, Aug 4 (PTI) Home Minister Rajnath Singh today skipped a lunch hosted by his Pakistani counterpart Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan after the host himself left the venue. Khan had organised the lunch for the visiting dignitaries, who were here to attend the 7th SAARC Interior/Home Ministers' conference, and had scheduled it after the main meeting.

However, the Pakistani In-

Islamabad, Aug 04: Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday emphasised on mutual cooperation among the Saarc countries as key for regional progress. Addressing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) interior ministers meeting here, Sharif said that the South Asian region is blessed with resources.

He stressed that the region should work together to combat the problems it faces, reported. "Mutual cooperation is important for regional progress," he added.

Pakistan has reimbursed $700 million of the USD one billion they were authorised in fiscal year 2015 under the Coalition Support Fund (CSF).

"With the Secretary's decision, there is no additional FY15 CSF available to Pakistan," Stump said.

The Washington Post, which first reported about it, described this withholding of US military assistance to Pakistan as a "potential blow" to US-Pak ties. Noting that June 30 was the deadline for the Department of Defence to submit its omnibus reprogramming request to Congress, Stump said in order to meet that deadline Carter requested a reprogramming of $300 million remaining in 2015 Coalition Support Funds originally authorised for Pakistan.

"The secretary decided to request reprogramming of the funds to retain the ability to use those funds for other requirements," he said, adding that this decision "does not re-

duce" the significance of the sacrifices that the Pakistani military has undertaken over the last two years.

"We continue to be encouraged by Pakistan's operations in North Waziristan and elsewhere in the FATA. Pakistan's efforts have reduced the ability of some militant groups to use North Waziristan and the FATA as a safe haven for terrorism. However, the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani network continue to operate in other locations in Pakistan," Stump said.

Pakistan has been authorised $900 million in fiscal 2016 CSF. Of that, $350 Million is subject to a Secretary of Defence certification that Pakistan has taken sufficient action against the Haqqani network, he said. "Pakistan is the largest recipient of CSF reimbursements, having received roughly $14 billion since 2002," Stump said. "This is the first time there's been a Secretary Defence's certification required," he added.(Agencies)

U hits China, Russia with steel anti-dumping duties Brussels, Aug 04: The European Union today hit China and Russia with antidumping duties on cold rolled steel imports after complaints by EU producers they were being forced out of the market. The European Commission said the levies, announced provisionally in February, will run for five years as Europe tries to cope with a global steel glut largely driven by massive Chinese output.

"In the wake of the global steel overcapacity crisis, the Commission is applying the

trade defence instruments to re-establish a level-playing field between EU and foreign producers," it said in a statement. Cold rolled steel is used extensively by industry to make all sorts of goods and appliances, from automobiles to refrigerators.

The Commission said the anti-dumping duties on Chinese cold rolled steel will range from 19.7 per cent to 22.1 per cent, and from 18.7 per cent to 36.1 per cent for Russian companies. It said the EU has more than 100

trade defence measures in place, 37 of them targeting unfair imports of steel products of which 15 come are Chinese.

The EU has had a whole series of trade disputes with China, its second largest trading partner and which makes more than half the world's steel. mBeijing has not been slow to respond to what it sees as unfair measures and late last month imposed anti-dumping tariffs on some steel imports from the EU, Japan and South Korea.(PTI)

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

Shows No Result Crores gone to the dust Statistics show that very little has been done in the past two years of BJP rule - in spite of spending Rs 2,958 crore of the Rs 3,703 crore allocated - to improve the condition of the holy river. The response to a Right to Information (RTI) poser by a Aishwarya Sharma, a Class 10 student from the city, to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has revealed that the muchhyped 'Namami Gange' programme is largely on paper, much like the previous schemes declared in the past 30 years. In her RTI question on May 9, the 14year-old Lucknow girl has sought answers to seven queries, which included details of the number of meetings the Prime Minister chaired on the sensitive issue, budgetary provisions and the expenses so far.

Sapra of the ministry responded on July 4 and the answers explicitly show that Modi's 'Ganga Maiya ne bullaya hai' (Mother Ganga has summoned me) credo, which endeared Modi to the masses, specially in Varanasi, was little beyond an attempt to milk sentiments and votes.The ministry said that Rs 2,137 crore was allocated for the national mission of Ganga cleaning in 2014-15. But the union government, despite the hype, spent only Rs 326 crore, leaving more than Rs 1,700 crore

unspent.The situation did not change much in 201516 either and, in fact, the union government slashed the budgetary allocation from the proposed Rs 2,750 crore to Rs 1,650 crore. This is completely baffling, keeping in mind the high-decibel campaign

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself on cleaning the Ganga. For the current 2016-17 fiscal, the student said the union government does not have any details of the expenses so far of the Rs 2,500 crore allocated. Aishwarya also sought to know from Modi why he has not been serious on the crucial project as is evident by the fact that of the three meetings of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA), the Prime Minister chaired only one on March 26, 2015. The other two meetings - on October 27, 2014 and July 4, 2016 - were chaired by Union Minister Uma Bharati. In contrast, Modi's predecessor Manmohan Singh had chaired all the three meetings of the NGRBA held in his second tenure -- on October 5, 2009, November 1, 2010 and April 17, 2012. Modi government has promised to spend Rs 20,000 crore more for this project. Only future can tell how much it will be able to rejuvenate the holy Ganga.

GST Bill Expectations and reality The main objective of the GST is to eliminate excessive taxation.

GST is a uniform indirect tax levied on goods and services across a country. Many developed nations tax the manufacture, sale and consumption of goods using a single, comprehensive tax. The goods and services tax (GST) will undoubtedly give India a facelift on the taxation front. Of course, the suspense over the rate at which GST will be levied remains. While it is difficult to quantify the impact on various sectors until the government announces the final GST rate, analysts and economists are assuming a standard rate of 17-18%. If that happens, then companies in the manufacturing sector are expected to benefit, while those in the services sector stand to lose. Of course, even though the bill has been passed in the current session, it will be another couple of years until GST is fully rolled out. As such, it's premature to conclude how this reform will impact stock prices in the near term. Judging from recent developments , it appears that the government is set to meet its target of implementing the goods and services tax (GST) with effect from 1 April 2017.

Even if the deadline is extended, it will be close to the date that the government has been working on. GST represents not just a change in the tax regime, but a business transformation. Its introduction will necessitate a review and change of tax positions, the supply chain, enter-

prise resource planning (ERP) systems, business processes and accounting, among others. Industry has very limited time to implement the changes. After the introduction of GST, there is likely to be an increase in tax compliance obligations.

A revenue-neutral rate is a single rate at which there will be no revenue loss to the centre and states in the GST regime. As per recommendations, a three-tier rate structure wherein some essential goods will be taxed at a lower rate of 12%; socalled demerit goods such as luxury cars, aerated beverages, pan masala and tobacco products at a higher rate of 40%; and all remaining goods at a standard rate of 17-18%. The National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP) favoured a standard rate in the range of 2325% if goods are taxed at three different ratesa special rate for precious metals, a lower merit rate for some important goods as well as a standard rate that will be applicable to most goods.

The GST bill will empower the states, will increase revenue of states as well as Centre.

It'll ensure that there is 'no tax on tax'. While the increased compliances would bring greater transparency and result in a positive impact on the economy, the industry would need to set in place appropriate processes and ERP systems to handle the change and be GSTready.

India's 'Fat Tax' Debate Kerala unveils India's first "fat tax," sparking controversy as the country seeks ways to fight obesity Ibu Sanjeeb Garg The recent announcement of a new "fat tax" included in the Kerala budget has generated a lot of discussion around India. The proposed tax seeks to tax burgers, pizzas, and other processed foods at 14.5 percent. It also seeks to tax food served by major fast food brands.

Obesity has emerged as a global problem. According to a study published by acclaimed medical journal Lancetin 2014, India has the third largest number of obese people in the world. According to the study, India is home to 30 million obese people; if the current trends continue, this number will skyrocket to 75 million by 2025. Childhood obesity tracks into adulthood, and is an important risk factor for the development later in life of type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome, among others. The obesity epidemic has to do with unhealthy food, sedentary lifestyles, and loss of traditional knowledge.

Given the circumstances, it is indeed laudable that Kerala has taken an initiative to tackle the problem.

The concept of a fat tax, one type of Pigovian tax, is not new. A fat tax seeks to impose restrictions on the unhealthy food regime that has emerged in the world. Japan was the first country in the world to impose a "metabo law." This law, which included measuring citizens' waist sizes, was sought as a tool to fight rising obesity numbers in Japan. Similarly, in 2011 Denmark introduced

a fat tax on certain products as a way to fight rising obesity and lifestyle diseases.

However, after a 15-month stint the law was scrapped.

The government admitted that people had been buying the same food from across the border.

Understandably the introduction of a fat tax in Kerala has lead to discussions over its effectiveness. One of the first points of discussion has been the financial rationale behind this tax. The fat tax would add almost 100 million rupees (roughly $1.5 million) into the coffers of the Kerala government.

Those who do not favor the tax argue that this amount hardly makes a difference into a budget that runs into the tens of billions. Industry insiders argue that such a tax will not signal a shift in consumption patterns but will only add to the burden of consumers. Moreover Kerala does not have large number of fast food chains, compared to the other major southern states, so there as questions as to whether this tax will make any major impact. In summation, critics argue that this fat tax will only mean rising costs for the consumer.

Another major argument relates to the fact that a fat tax on pizzas and burgers is essentially a nonstarter because such "Western" foods constitute a small part of Indian dietary patterns. India has long been a haven of spices and oil, with samosas, pakodas, and other fried items almost inevitable on Indian menus. Kerala has its own share of fried items, in form of its famous banana chips and beef fry.

Each of these items carry huge

Image for representational purpose (Photo: affinityhealth) potential threats to the health of the population. Viewed in this light, the imposition of a tax on pizzas and burgers does not make sense.

Others argue that Denmark's failed experiment must be a lesson for those who seek to tax fast food.

The government of Denmark's decision to wind down the scheme within 15 months, citing administrative burdens, is a sign that such schemes are doomed to fail, critics say.

However each of these myths must be addressed logically. The rationale behind this taxation is not so much to earn taxes as to create awareness about the existence of health hazards. It is true that the Indian diet consists of a large share of unhealthy items; however, what can't be denied is that

products like pizzas and burgers have made rapid inroads into Indian markets and are poised to soon take over from traditional Indian foods.

A recent judgment of the Delhi High Court in 2015 is noteworthy in this regard.

The judgment, delivered in 2015, sought to ban the sale of junk food near schools. It also sought to control and regulate the advertisements of such products in schools.

This undoubtedly shows that policymakers recognize the obesity issue and awareness is the first step toward combating it. This tax would not so much as fill the government coffers as it would create awareness about unhealthy food items. In the long run, such awareness will also spread over to traditional Indian unhealthy snacks.

Hence such a tax should not be opposed merely because

it targets only a particular category of items.

While the Denmark experiment was a failure, there are other examples around the world in different forms which have shown such schemes are successful. For example a soft drink tax imposed by Mexico in 2014 of one peso per liter resulted in the dropping of soft drink sales by 2 percent. It also added about $2 billion to government coffers, almost a third more than what the government had anticipated.

While sales have picked up again since then, the rate of sales are nowhere near pretaxation levels. On the other hand, there have been successful experiments in Hungary, Finland, and France of taxing one junk food item or another. Governments worldwide are waking up to the reality of obesity and un-

healthy lifestyles.

The most important component to this debate, however, is the threat to the poor.

As any economist would tell us, the poor are vulnerable to false impressions of a better lifestyle, because it signals aspiration. Burgers, pizzas, and cold drinks are seen as symbols of a better lifestyle.

This is why perhaps there are stories of McDonald's employees mistreating street children who are later fed by benevolent customers. The fact that such street children hang around fast food chains is a testimony to the vivid imagery that these chains project. And it is this image to which the poor are most vulnerable. In a country like India, which is confronting the poverty challenge boldly, providing a better food basket is an important part of that challenge. To effectively combat obesity, the image of fast food will have to change, from being a symbol of growth to one that is fraught with its dangers.

As we move into a global order food habits and dietary charts will undoubtedly change. For example the consumption of pulses have rapidly fallen in India. Yet it is important to keep reinventing the food basket so that at any point it offers a healthy modicum of choices for the consumer. The fat tax should be seen as a move toward this change of perception. It is not a tool to earn revenue or rapidly shift consumer consumption patterns. It must be seen as a indicator that seeks to check and balance our dietary behavior should it reach dangerous levels. Courtesy: the diplomat.

Is China Already Taking Its Revenge for THAAD? Cultural exchanges have started to become restricted, but can China really give up its addiction to Hallyu?

Jenna Gibson The fight over South Korea's decision to deploy the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system may have just had its first casualty - a chicken and beer festival.

Officials from the Chinese city of Qingdao cancelled their appearance at a festival in their sister city of Daegu at the last minute, and asked the mayor of Daegu not to attend a beer festival in Qingdao this month.

The exchange between Daegu and Qingdao was meant to spark diplomacy and economic engagement, but instead may become part of the fallout from Seoul's decision to deploy THAAD. At the beginning of July, the United States and South Korea officially announced they would be deploying the missile defense system near the city of Seongju, drawing immediate ire from Beijing. After the announcement, China's Foreign Ministry "strongly urged" the two countries not to deploy the system, and the defense ministry posted a statement saying "The Chinese side will consider taking necessary steps to

maintain national strategic security and regional strategic balance."

In a meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Yun Byung-Se, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reportedly said that Seoul "has undermined the foundations of trust between the two countries" and called the decision "regrettable."

While the South Korean government has continued to defend its decision and is moving forward with the plan to deploy THAAD by 2017, Koreans are worried that if China chose to retaliate, it could bring severe economic consequences.

In fact, the retaliation could already be underway. Besides the chicken and beer row, an event involving popular Chinese bloggers was also called off. According to a source in the Gangwon Provincial Office, who sponsored the event, "We were contacted by the power blogger and told that they were in a difficult position [because of the THAAD issue] and hoped the schedule could be postponed."

These one-off incidents may

become the norm in the coming months. Several news outlets in China have been reporting that the Chinese Ministry of Information and Communication is planning to restrict guest appearances on Chinese broadcasts, essentially engineering a boycott of Korean entertainment. While this plan has not been officially confirmed, media insiders have been quoted as saying, "We have heard of such regulations being implemented, but details are still being evaluated." Further, according to Daum News, Chinese broadcasters have already started moving foreign TV programs to non-peak times.

If these rumors are true, this will hardly be the first time politics have interfered with Korean entertainment in China. Last year, for example, a Taiwan-born member of a Kpop girl group was caught in a nationalist battle after she appeared on a Korean web program waving a Republic of China flag. The resulting backlash involved protests and boycotts on both sides, and caused the girl's entertainment company to cancel several appearances in China.

Chinese leadership has long

had problems with the popularity of Korean entertainment among Chinese consumers. In fact, the term Hallyu, which is now used to refer to the explosive popularity of Korean pop culture around the globe, originated in the 1990s in China, where it was meant as a derogatory term for the influx of Korean entertainment into the country.

More recently, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, a political advisory body, spent an entire meeting in 2014 "bemoaning why China can't make a show as good and as big of a hit" as a Korean TV hit according to the Washington Post. One CPPCC member was quoted as saying, "It is more than just a Korean soap opera. It hurts our cultural dignity."

At the meeting, the committee members discussed reasons why China has fallen behind its smaller neighbor, with some of them pointing to the country's censorship process as a major factor.

Ironically, the very show they were discussing was officially rebroadcast on Chinese TV earlier this year - with one

glaring change from the original. The final ending of the show, which is about a handsome alien falling in love with a Korean actress, was changed so that the protagonist is merely a novelist writing a story about an alien - essentially neutralizing the show's main plotline. The reason?

Chinese TV broadcasters strictly prohibit shows involving ghosts or aliens.

ments, Korean content remains wildly popular in China. By the time its finale aired in April, the 16 episodes of "Descendants" had been streamed 2.4 billion times on iQiyi. And sales of the specific brand of lipstick worn by the show's female lead jumped 360 percent year-over-year this March, largely thanks to Chinese consumers.

And in 2016, after the hit drama "Descendants of the Sun" captured the public's attention, China's official military newspaper ran a story saying the show "effectively delivers the national culture of Korea (to viewers) and vividly describes the image of the Korean soldiers." Further, it said the show can be "a piece of great advertisement for conscription." A few days later, however, the Chinese Ministry of Public Security posted a warning on Weibo, cautioning that "watching Korean dramas could be dangerous, and may even lead to legal troubles," citing cases of domestic violence, divorce, and plastic surgery allegedly brought on by taking drama plotlines too seriously.

Despite these announce-

Chinese nationals are by far the largest group of tourists entering Korea each year, making up 48.8 percent of arrivals in June 2016. And a 2014 survey of tourists at Incheon airport found that among Asian tourists, 44 percent stated that Hallyu was a key factor in inducing them to visit.

While the Korean government has said that it will proceed with THAAD, it's possible that economic fallout could strengthen domestic opposition to the missile defense system. It remains to be seen how seriously China will enforce any official or non-official boycotts of Korean entertainment or, perhaps more importantly, whether a Chinese populace crazy for K-culture would fall into line. Courtesy: the diplomat

Dismal Performance In Sports

(Photo: click4products)

Sir, It is saddening that our sports persons performing well in the national or international sports arena are not given proper incentives they deserve. Erstwhile Chiefminister made myriad of commitments to this effect but when the question of payment comes, he made a somersault. How can we shape up our children with their expertise in specific sports? In an age of unemployment, cash incentives must be declared if we want that some of our youths fare well in the national or international level. We remember the case of Supriya Gogoi of Tengakhat, despite her being a part of the gold-medal winning Indian team in the last South Asian games held in Guwahati, she is still deprived of her dues. Likewise, Shiva Thapa, the ace boxer of Assam also is yet to receive the committed amount. So is the case with all other sports persons from Assam who brought laurels to India in the said game.

It is heartening now to see that in the last Assam budget provision of Rs. One crore is kept for Mr. Thapa subject to his winning a medal in the Rio-Olympic and that Rupees ten lakhs and five lakhs are given

to Shiva Thapa and Tania Kashyap. We understand that India's performance in the international games, particularly in the Olympics is always dismal compared to many small countries of the world. One of the reasons we may attribute to the failure of our national leaders and their counterparts in the state in declaring good amount of cash incentives to any sports persons bringing laurels to India from the international games. There are so many bright but poor sports stars lying unknown here and there throughout India, they should be jolted to their sense about the incentive. Presence of SAI makes no difference. The need of the hour is arousing a sense of awareness.

Only our cricketers of Team India receive hefty amount. Why not other stars brining laurels to India?

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

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On the serpent's trail: What it is like to be a female snake rescuer Roshni Nair It was four past nine on a certain Wednesday night when Siddhi Ghadigaonkar returns to her Lalbaug home after rescuing adhaman (rat snake) from BPT Colony. It was an early call: the south Mumbai volunteer for Spreading Awareness on Reptiles and Rehabilitation Programme (SARRP) usually tends to embattled serpents at the oddest of hours - mostly round Delisle Road, an area where snake sightings are so common, she says, locals are as accustomed to the reptiles as to Ghadigaonkar herself.A full-time HR professional, Ghadigaonkar is one of Mumbai's (very) few women snake rescuers. Four years into the profession which she believes has given her a sense of purpose, she has rescued 100-plus snakes

from the fangs of urbanisation.

"People would be surprised when I'd reach the spot, not expecting a woman to handle the snake in their midst. Especially men," she says, recalling initial months on the field.

"Other than the pressure to drop everything in life for marriage and kids, there's an unwritten rule that you shouldn't take to perceivably 'dangerous' jobs."

Ghadigaonkar's love of snakes has its roots in childhood: the reptiles appeared regularly in her dreams - to the point where her father wondered if she had naag dosha. "But that was in passing," she chuckles.

"My family supported me from the outset."

It wasn't as smooth sailing for Dr Madhurita Gupta.

When the president of Snake Conservation Trust India (SCTI) - part of her

rescuers how to do their jobs," Dr Gupta tuts.

"There's also more pressure on a woman to 'prove herself' in this field, lest people go 'See, women can't handle snakes'."

Image for representational purpose Photo: static.dnaindia MyVets Charitable Trust & Research Centre - returned to her calling a month after delivering son Arnav, she was the recipient of many a disapproving shake of the

Why Avoiding Early Diagnosis Of Autism Is Unfair To Our Children

head. From her base in Kharghar, she embarks on rescue missions to the outskirt's hills and villages, tending to six-seven calls daily during the monsoon.

Panicky people add as much to a rescuer's frustration as to a snake's, she explains.

"Men in the crowd think it's their duty to tell women

There's also a lack of women in herpetology, she adds - and Dr Sunetra Wadke Rane agrees. Her Borivali clinic is around 54km away from Dr Gupta's, but both tread common ground. The Indian rock python, a common sighting in Navi Mumbai, is also alienated in its habitat from Goregaon-Dahisar, unwittingly scaring people with its size and unfounded reputation. Rane has rescued several of these snakes, as she hasdhamans and India's 'big four' (the spectacled cobra, common krait, Russell's viper and saw-scaled viper).

"As veterinary students, our knowledge of snake species was limited to zoo visits. Handling was never taught," she bemoans. But as a self-taught collegian, she'd find herself being asked to rescue trapped snakes - a job she enjoyed.

When tools like snake sticks/hooks, bags and antivenom kits became the norm, Rane polished her skills with SARRP, for whom she is now the go-to vet.

That organisations like Reptile Rescue and Study Center (RRSC), Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare (RAWW), SCTI and SARRP have many volunteers associated with the Forest Department has helped long-term interests of reptiles, although selfprofessed, untrained rescuers are cause for concern.

Poor awareness about and cruelty towards snakes, and a profession that isn't mon-

etarily rewarding are other thorns. But these ladies don't bat an eyelid. Dr Gupta, for one, is training foot soldiers for her Women Herpetologists Group, who will rescue snakes in distress outside Mumbai city limits too. Because, as she says, "No profession should be gender-based."

Before responding to another SOS in Delisle Road, five-foot tall Siddhi Ghadigaonkar looks back on the first lot of snakes she handled: a 10ft long Indian rock python, a bellicose Russell's viper in Borivali and a dhaman in Gorai that refused to surface from building wreckage for hours. "You know, physicality is nothing to do it," she smiles. "Avad aahe toh savad aahe (If you have a passion for it, you can do it)."

Courtesy:DnaIndia.

Kerala's Gender Problem: Why Do Women Fail As Politicians In The State?

Sreedevi R S

Image for representational purpose (Photo: wpengine.netdna)

Darby Herkert If you knew that parents and doctors were postponing treatment that could minimise the difficulties associated with an often life-long challenge, how would you feel?

Unhappily, this is currently the case with autism in India.

Autism is a neurological disorder that affects social interaction and communication skills. It generally manifests itself before the age of three.

Symptoms of autism include learning disability and speech delay, inappropriate social interaction, and compulsive behavior, along with many more. The severity of autism ranges from a mild learning and social disability to severe impairment and highly unusual behavior. Autism is classified as a continuum, known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), in order to account for these differences.

India is home to about ten million people living with ASD. Regrettably, the Government of India only recognised autism as a disorder in 2001. And while progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of ASD, there are still significant obstacles to overcome.

Autism is often viewed as a lifelong condition, but recent studies have shown that a number of children who were diagnosed with ASD can achieve a very high quality of life, and sometimes progress to a point that they no longer meet the diagnostic criteria. How-

ever, this progress is the result not of children simply 'growing out' of autism, but rather of early diagnosis and years of early intensive applied behavior analytic interventions. In applied behavior analysis, children are taught the necessary skills for an improved quality of life. The success of early intervention stands in glaring contrast to the current majority of autistic adults who have an IQ unchanged from when they were diagnosed at about the age of six.

Early diagnosis of autism is extremely important because it allows the intervention to occur when brain plasticity is much greater, which allows the intervention to have its greatest impact.

In fact, 75% of brain development takes place by two years of age. Unfortunately, there is great stigma currently associated with the early diagnosis of ASD, due to the fear of a child being labeled as autistic for the rest of his life. Both parents and physicians tend to downplay the early signs of autism, suggesting that the symptoms are 'just a phase'. This causes about 50% of children seeking a diagnosis to be put on a 'watch and wait' list, so that diagnosis and treatment are deferred.

In India, most children with ASD are diagnosed between the ages of three and six. One study found that on average Indian parents tended to wait two years between initially recognising the

symptoms of ASD and taking the child to receive a diagnosis. Appallingly, Indian parents reported that they had seen an average of 3.5 doctors before they received a diagnosis.

This delay is extremely unfair to children since it prevents them from receiving the resources, support and training that they need in order to reach their full potential.

So, what can be done?

Firstly, we should not fear autism. Being proactive about getting a child diagnosed for early symptoms leads to a much more significant intervention impact. Secondly, we should work towards building social acceptance of persons with autism and raising awareness about the necessity of early diagnosis. If we eliminate the stigma associated with autism, parents will be much more likely to seek an early diagnosis and ensure that their children get the help that they need. Finally, we should ensure that professionals are properly trained on the use of diagnostic tools, so that children can be properly diagnosed as soon as possible. Delay in early detection and diagnosis is unfair to our children, by preventing autistic children from receiving the treatment they need to reach their full potential.

By working against the stigma associated with autism, we can promote early diagnosis and allow essential support and training, so that everyone can live their most fulfilling life.

Courtesy:youthkiawaaz

Over 20 years and five assembly elections- as women became better educated, led a variety of popular movements, voted in and contested elections in ever greater numbers in Kerala the number of directly elected female legislators has steadily declined, according to our analysis of electoral data.

The percentage of female members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) fell from 10.23% in 1996 to 6.06% in 2016, even as the number of women candidates doubled over these five elections.

In an overwhelmingly male-dominated country, this statistic from Kerala's 2016 assembly elections appeared remarkable: 105 women contested- a third as independents, as we reported, indicating a determination to go it alone- up from 83 in 2011.

As the Left Democratic Front returned to power after five years, no more than eight women were elected in a 140-member house, which means Kerala has just one more female MLA than 2011.

Even if more female MLAs were elected, that may not be enough to alter gender equations, said experts.

"Merely increasing the number of women representatives will not ensure a qualitative change towards gender inclusion," said Binitha Thampi, Professor of Development Studies in Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Madras. "It is time to promote female politics (Sthree Rashtreeyam) that will address practical gender

Image for representational purpose (Photo: cloudfront) needs."

Thampi suggested reservation for women in panchayat- or village-levelpolitics as a start, to ensure an expansion of the female agenda. "Quotas for women are being pushed by a creamy layer and woman politicians are accessing honorary masculinity in public spaces," she said.

India's most emancipated women face traditional prejudice The declining electoral success of Kerala's female MLAs does not represent their emancipation and, instead, appears to indicate hardening resistance to their social presence.

Women led 2014's Nilpu Samaram (Standing Agitation), which demanded that the government implement tribal rights over land that allow local communities to use forests and curb police excesses.

Women also led Pembilai

Orumai (Female Unity), a 2015 protest in the tea-growing hill town of Munnar that demanded higher wages and facilities for plantation workers.

This confidence in the public sphere reflects the status of emancipation of Kerala's women, who are India's most literate (92% female literacy; national average for women- 65%), bear fewest children (1.7 total fertility rate; national average-2.5) but have a lower participation rate in the labour-force (18%; national average-25%).

Consider the credentials of some of Kerala's losing female candidates: " C K Janu, a popular tribal leader, contested as an independent candidate with support from the National Democratic Alliance from the Sulthan Bathery constituency in Wayanad, a northern district with the highest percentage of

tribals in Kerala. She finished third among eight candidates with 16% of the vote. " P K Jayalakshmi, Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Tribes in the previous government, was the United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate from Mananthavady in Wayanad district. She was second with 42% of the vote.

The brutal rape and murder of a scheduled-caste female law student after the election was showcased in the media as an indicator of continuing gender inequality and brutality against women in Kerala.

"Women voters should have trust in women candidates‌ that trust is gradually fading away," said Janu, the tribal leader. "Voters are concerned whether women candidates can meet their demands after being elected because the responsibilities

of women towards households cannot be broken easily. There are cases where husbands of elected women representatives are taking decisions instead of them."

Successful female politicians agree Kerala has a gender problem that extends into the family.

"The male-female relationship should be reconstituted, and it should start from sharing domestic responsibilities," said K K Shylaja, minister of health and social welfare. "It has become vital to rethink the role of women as agents of change."

While female representation in the current cabinet has doubled (two ministers-K K Shylaja and J Mercykutty Amma) compared to the previous government (one minister- P K Jayalakshmi), Kerala's first cabinet in 1957 had five women. Courtesy: Indiaspend

Why The Loopholes In The Child Labour Bill Are Good News For The Middle Class Indian Pranav Prakash A few months ago, I had the distinct pleasure of conversing with one of the country's greatest economists, who in characteristic modesty and in a manner far less emphatic than the issue deserved, recounted a speech by a famous political scientist from MIT who had visited our capital over a dozen politically iridescent summers ago.

For the purpose of the narrative, I will paraphrase his speech and include a few additional details, in an attempt to provide a more vivid representation of the idea.

The thought experiment that he had proposed to the audience in attendance was simple.

He began by recounting how, in every one of his trips to the subcontinent, he would get to meet, and often closely interact with, several of his 'middleclass' acquaintances who worked and lived supposedly modest lives here. A typical visit to the homes of these hos-

pitable colleagues of his would make for fascinating, but also to no small measure - paradoxical, tales that he could recount to his friends and fellow academics back in the States. For instance, he would travel by rickshaw and alight in front of a humble suburban home that, in and of itself, would suggest a lifestyle and an economic status that would resonate with a sizeable fraction of the country. He would, with great reverence, be invited into the house and would make his way past a maid sweeping the halls and into the dining room. In the midst of exchanging pleasantries with his hosts, a cook would step in and serve him lunch, prepared just moments before. As they continued dining, the doorbell would ring and the locale's ironman would bring in a bag of freshly pressed clothes for the week, as the maid toiled away simultaneously washing the used ones.

On occasions, he would even be present for a run-in with a servant who would appear twice a week just to clean the

toilets.

Whenever these stories were shared with those abroad, especially to someone who had never set foot in India before, their reactions would typically range from curiosity to disbelief; it was, quite unsurprisingly, difficult for a person to fathom that the bulk of the middle class in a developing country such as ours could enjoy the luxury and lavishness that only their affluent counterparts, even in the most advanced economies, could hope to.

Now, as the audience, here's what you have to do. Imagine you were transported back some sixty years ago to when the government of the day, was still creating policies for a fledgling democracy. Your task is to devise a method that would give the middle class a taste of the opulence that was just described and which could rival the greatest economies of the West. If you could suggest just one policy directive to ensure that this happened in the

years to follow, what would it be ?

The answer is chilling. In order to guarantee that the middle class could continue to live a life of convenience, all you would have to do is to systematically ensure that a majority of the country's population was denied education and hence, would continue to live under the shackles of a certain type of occupation, generation after generation.

The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2016 which has just been passed in the Parliament seems to have been drafted with the frightening intention to keep education a prerogative of the middle class. Despite its progressive rectitude of making the employment of children below 14 years an offence and increasing the penalties and jail terms for offenders, it has created a loophole the size of Uttar Pradesh by allowing children to be employed in 'family enterprises'.

In fact, the probable lack of

state capacity to prevent the perpetuation of child labour under the guise of family enterprises could only be surpassed by the sheer dearth of state will to prevent this exploitation, as evinced by the amendment.

One would have to look no further than one's immediate neighbourhood to find the, often unknowing, beneficiaries and victims of this systemic and vicious cycle of vocational entrapment that has sustained for decades. The Right to Education Act now faces an uphill battle against this provision of the Child Labour Amendment Bill, as families from already disadvantaged sections of society would now, legally, be able to send their children to work in order to supplement their income, leaving practically very little hope for the kids to grow out of these professions as they grow up. The lifestyle of the middle class, however, carries a covenant of comfort for another generation.

Courtesy: youthkiawaaz

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

Xerox targets small towns and SMBs Mumbai, Aug 4: The Indian subsidiary of the U.S.-based Xerox, is focusing on smaller towns and the small and medium business (SMB) segment to grow its volume in India, said a top official. "In the last two months, we have rolled out 14-16 products in the office segment. We did exceptionally well in the office business segment during 2015 and the first half of 2016 has also been good. We see good potential for our products in small and medium business (SMB) and also in smaller towns," said Xerox India Executive Director Technology channels & International Business, Balaji Rajagopalan. (Agencies)

Nimesh Kampani resigns as MD of JM Financial Hyderabad, Aug 4: Wellknown investment banker and a market veteran Nimesh Kampani, who is currently the managing director of JM Financial Ltd has voluntarily announced his decision to step down from the executive role of the company with effect from September 30 on his attaining 70 years of age and as a part of succession planning at the company.

According to a statement issued to the stock exchanges, Mr. Kampani will continue to be the non-executive chairman of the company as well as of the group and will also continue to be a director on the board of a few group companies at JM Financial. (Agencies)

Wai Wai makes in a grand entry in India

ESI contribution rate to be lowered to 4%

Guwahati, Aug 4: Wai Wai, a popular noodles brand from Nepal, is making a big push to further grow its brand in India. It is currently number two in India after market leader ready-to-cook noodles brand Maggi, and has a 27 per market share in the noodles segment. So far, the brand has grown in India through word-ofmouth publicity and by the students' community from the North-East who carried Wai Wai wherever they went to study or work. Now, CG Foods, which owns Wai Wai, has sensed a larger opportunity and is making a serious attempt to ensure that the product reaches in the nook and corner of the country. Wai Wai, a brand

New Delhi, Aug 4: The Centre has proposed a reduced rate of contribution from companies towards the health insurance scheme for workers in areas where it plans to set up a dispensary or a hospital for the first time. The ministry has proposed that employers contribute four per cent, instead of 6.5 per cent of a worker's income towards the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) scheme, as per the draft rules dated July 25, reviewed by a company. At present, the ESI Corporation has a presence in certain parts of 393 districts of the country. The corporation has plans to cover all the states and expand the scheme to India's 683 districts by March next year.

ESIC is present in all states, except the north-eastern states of Manipur, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. Workers drawing salary up to Rs.15,000 per month are entitled to medi-

Coimbatore, Aug 4: Kalyan Jewellers would foray into Saudi Arabia in the next 6-8 months as part of an expansion drive that would propel the Kerala-based jewellery major's revenues to about $2 billion (13,000 crore) in 2016-17. Kalyan is aiming to grow revenues by 30% in 2016-17, said Ramesh Kalyanaraman, executive director, Kalyan Jewellers. "There is a huge shift from the unorganised jewellery to the organised sector. People are brand as well as quality conscious now," he said. Kalyan Jew-

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: 3.bp.blogspot) of ready-to-eat noodle, was first introduced in Nepal 35

New Delhi, Aug 4: IT services firm HCL Technologies reported a 14.8 percent increase in net profit to Rs 2,047 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2016. The Noida-based firm had posted a net profit of Rs 1,783 crore in the corresponding quarter of the last fiscal, HCL Technologies said in a statement. Its revenues for the reported quarter were up 15.9 percent to Rs 11,336 crore, from Rs 9,777 crore in the yearago period, as per US GAAP accounting norms.

For FY2016-17, the company expects its revenue to grow 12-14 percent without fluctuations in

ellers, which has hit the 100stores mark-both local and overseas-would open five stores in the Gulf region in the current financial year.

The company is opening 20 stores in the country during the period. "We are investing 700 crore for expansion in the country and 200 crore for the overseas expansion," Ramesh, who was here to open the redesigned Kalyan showroom in the city, said. Kalyan, which has tied-up with online retail major Flipkart for jewellery sales, would launch its own e-commerce portal around Diwali, he said. "Gifting jewellery is a huge business segment. The portal would help us in growing our presence in the segment," Ramesh said. The portal would offer gold, silver and diamond gifting items, he said. Kalyan has also opened exclusive lounges in 12 major cities including Chennai and Mumbai for celebrities and high networth individuals, Ramesh said. (Agencies)

currencies. On constant currency basis, HCL Tech's revenues were up 11.2 percent year-on-year.

The company earlier followed the July-June fiscal but has now moved to the April-March cycle as mandated by the Companies Act. In dollar terms, the company's net profit grew 9.5 percent to USD 305.2 million, while revenues rose 10 percent to USD 1.69 billion compared to the year-ago period.

"We commence FY2017 on a positive note, continuing our robust financial performance, with a strong 6 percent growth quarter-on-quarter in constant currency terms,"

veloped for the youth and larger section of the society.

It is a ready-to-eat noodle in the true sense and we want to grow this market through awareness," said Dr Binod K Chaudhary, Chairman, CG CorpGlobal, the parent of CG Foods. Nirvana Chaudhary, Managing Director, CG Foods said, "With the campaign, we are now ready to reach out to a larger base and cater to every corner of India." The campaign has been developed by Colvyn Harris, the former South-Asia CEO of JWT. This is his first campaign after moving out of JWT. "We are looking at two clear market segments - mainstream India and Digital India with a dominant online presence," Mr. Harris said. (Agencies)

Ahmedabad, Aug 4: Vini Cosmetics, Ahmedabad-based maker of Fogg deodorant, is in talks with leading private equity firms to raise about `600 crore by selling minority stake, two people close to the development said. The company is in talks with Apax Partners, TA Associates and Advent International, they said. "Vini's promoter has held multiple meetings with the private equity firms in the

HCL Technologies president and CEO Anant Gupta

said. The growth momentum is broad-based, encompassing all sectors

Extension of MIP seeked by steel industry

past one month," said one of the persons, who did not want to be identified. The company could firm up a deal in the coming month or two, another person said.

Vini Cosmetics, started by Darshan Patel, who was among the family promoters of Paras Pharmaceuticals, manufactures personal care, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. The company is looking to expand in

the cosmetics business and is likely to use the funds raised for acquisitions. In 2013, it had raised about `150 crore from Sequoia Capital by parting with a minority stake. Patel is expected to hold majority stake in the company after fresh investment by private equity firms, the people cited earlier said.

A spokesperson for Apax Partners refused to comment on the matter. Patel, who was

in the United States, did not respond to an email query.

Patel had launched Vini Cosmetics after Paras Pharmaceuticals was acquired by the British consumer healthcare giant Reckitt Benckiser. In 2010 Reckitt Benckiser had bought Paras Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Moov, D'Cold and Krack cream, for `3,260 crore. Two years later, Reckitt Benckiser sold the personal care portfolio of Paras Pharmaceuticals including Livon, Zatak and Setwet to Marica for `600 crore. In the past two years Patel has made a substantial impact with Fogg, turning it into one of the largest selling deodorant brands in the country. According to industry trackers, Fogg commands a market share of 1015%, which could increase in the days ahead. The promoter had earlier indicated that he may be looking for some acquisitions in the sector. The people cited earlier said that in the coming year the company will focus on its growth plan and try to increase its market share in deodorant business by adding a few products. (Agencies)

Sanak Mishra, secretary general, ISA. (Photo: twimg) Bhubaneswar, Aug 4: Even as the steel industry is urging the Centre to continue the minimum import price (MIP) protection scheme to guard against increased imports, user-industries have started protesting against any extension of the scheme. The MIP scheme was introduced in February, 2016 for six months. PostMIP, the industry has been able to marginally improve its viability after a prolonged period of subdued prices and eroded profit margins, according to the Indian Steel Association (ISA)."While MIP cannot possibly be an all-encompassing framework for a complete turnaround of the Indian steel industry, it has provided a cushion against surging imports," said Sanak Mishra, secretary general, ISA. The Indian steel industry does not see MIP as a perpetual protec-

tionist step, but as a necessary temporary measure that will allow time for recovery, according to ISA. The Indian steel industry's outstanding loan is estimated at Rs.3,00,000 crore, of which 35 per cent may be stressed. MIP was imposed on February 5, 2016 on 173 steel items covering both flat and long products. The ISA said that accelerating imports at predatory prices from three steel-surplus Asian countries has been a major concern for the domestic industry since September 2014. Steel imports, which had peaked in July 2015 registering a 114.6 per cent increase year-on-year, started to decline around November 2015 (when a provisional safeguard duty was imposed). Post-MIP it has dropped in range of 24.6 per cent and 43.1 per cent in the first quarter of the current fiscal. (Agencies)

43% rise in Indian Bank's Q1 profit

Galaxy Note 7 launched by Samsung earlier reasoned saying, "First, the Galaxy Note7 will complement our Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, and unify our product portfolio. Second, the Galaxy Note7 will minimize confusion about the latest mobile technology from Samsung, and provide full alignment with Galaxy S smartphone." "Galaxy Note7 will help people do more in work, at home and everywhere in between. We can't wait to tell you more about it," Samsung added. The Galaxy Note 7 is the first with USB Type-C for fast data transfer. It's coming to the market on August 19 with the pre-orders to begin in a few days. The Samsung Note comes with an Iris Scanner.

The Galaxy Note 7 will come with 15GB of free space on

HCL Technologies president and CEO, Anant Gupta.

(Photo: thehindubusinessline)

and service lines, propelled by the company's robust 21st century Enterprise strategy and robust business model, he added. The company has announced a dividend of Rs 6 per share. During the quarter, HCL Technologies added 1,211 people, taking the total headcount to 1,06,107 as on June 30 2016. Attrition in IT services (last 12 months basis) in the reported quarter stood at 17.8 per cent.

HCL signed 13 transformational deals this quarter, across service lines and industry verticals. The company's cash and cash equivalents stood at Rs 1,240 crore at the end of June 30, 2016. (Agencies)

cal benefits for treatment during incidences of sickness, maternity, disability and death due to injury during work. The ESI Act applies to factories with 10 or more workers and it is also applicable to shops, hotels, restaurants, cinemas and road transport undertakings. While 4.75 per cent of a worker's salary goes towards ESI as employer's contribution, 1.75 per cent of the income goes as the employee's share. This is proposed to be decreased to three per cent and one per cent for two years, respectively. "Our plan is to expand ESI to all parts of the country. Since the medical facilities at places where we want to open a new dispensary or hospital will not be at par with our established units, we have decided to take less contribution from companies for a period of two years," said a senior ESIC official, on condition of anonymity. (Agencies)

Stake might be sold by Fogg maker to raise Rs 600 crore

TECHNOLOGY As expected, Samsung Electronics unveiled the Galaxy Note 7. However, it came with interesting features such as Iris Scanner, HDR content and Gorilla Glass, firsts in any smartphones. DJ Koh, President, Mobile Communications unveiled the Galaxy Note 7 and as romoured had it, it's a 5.7-inch device and comes in four interesting colours of Black Onyx, Gold Platinum, Silver Titanium and all-new Blue Coral. The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 also comes with a HDR and 64GB of internal memory as against the rumoured 32GB. It is also expandable up to 256GB via a microSD card. With the Note 7, Samsung has skipped a number in its Note series - i.e. the Note 6. Clarifying on this, Samsung had

years ago and was imported into India till the company

set up its first factory in the North-East 10 years ago. In these years, the company has set up has seven manufacturing plants across India including Guwahati, Purnea, Sikkim, Rudrapur, Silchar and Chittoor. One more is coming up at Ajmer that will cater to the demand from the North and Western India markets. To further popularise the brand, CG Foods is rolling out its first advertisement campaign in India, which will showcase the "versatility and taste edge of Wai Wai, besides creating a strong connect with its primary audience, the youth," a top official said.

"Now the time has come to go big in India. Wai Wai is completely different and de-

Q1 net profit of HCL Tech grows 15% to Rs 2,047 crore

Kalyan Jewellers to foray into Saudi Arabia, aims $2 billion sales

Ramesh Kalyanaraman, executive director, Kalyan Jewellers. (Photo: thepeninsulaqatar)

BUSINESS

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Samsung Cloud. It comes with 3,500 mAh battery though slightly smaller than S7's 3, 600mAh battery. The Galaxy Note 7 comes with internal memory of 64GB, expandable upto 256GB. The Galaxy Note 7 also comes with HDR content to mobile for the first time. The Galaxy Note 7 is the first smartphone to come with Gorilla Glass 5.

The S Pen is a multi-purpose device - a translator, screen magnifier, screen locker, a GIF maker. The S Pen is also a translator. The tip size of the S Pen has been reduced from 1.6 mm to just 0.7 mm. The phone comes in four beautiful colours - Black Onyx, Gold Platinum, Silver Titanium and all-new Blue Coral.

It also has a curve like the S7 Edge. (Agencies)

Chennai, Aug 4: Stateowned Indian Bank saw firstquarter profit rise 42.77% to Rs 307.35 crore from year ago after the bank saw its net interest income rise and expenses shrink. Total income rose marginally by 0.40% to Rs 4,512.96 crore during the June quarter, compared to last year. The bank said it has managed to reduce expenses this quarter as it had finished paying off the arrears from the revision of salaries after the pay commission. Total expenses fell 4.7% to Rs 3,609.77 crore in the first quarter compared to the corresponding quarter last year.

Net interest income - what the bank makes on its loans minus what it has to pay out on its deposits - rose 10.35% to Rs 1,236.32 crore. Gross nonperforming assets (NPAs) rose 53% to Rs 8,894.23 crore

from Rs 5,815.14 last year. Net NPAs also rose 74% to Rs 5552.04 crore from Rs 3193.29 crore. "We have identified iron and steel, infrastructure, textiles, engineering and mining as stressed sectors. We have seen higher NPAs in these areas," said Mahesh Kumar Jain, MD & CEO, Indian Bank. As of June 30, 2016, Indian Bank had identified 69 accounts as willful defaulters with the amount run-

ning to Rs 959.89 crore. "There have been 11 new accounts identified as wilful defaulters in the first quarter of 2016 and this has more to do with the general state of the economy than any lack of prudence on the part of the bank." Indian Bank increased its provision against bad loans by 2.1% to Rs 416.99 crore. The bank also increased its capital adequacy ratio to 13.98% from 12.12%. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

Features

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TRAVEL & TOURISM

Road trip to the roof of the world: Ladakh Buckle up for the most precious bike trip of your life time. Stopover in sapphire lakes, rusty terrains, peaceful outbacks and almost anywhere your heart wants to. This is not where your burdens will dare to follow you; this is where you dig out your fantasy and put it straight into reality. So, let the magic of marooned monastery, independence and soft breeze, swirl up your senses for the good.

Read the details further for a better idea of the journey.

It doesn't need much of an introduction - the road trip from Manali to Leh is legendary amongst bikers around the world. Here is a great sample itinerary which might come in useful.

Day 1: Drive from Delhi to Chandigarh: 6 hours Day 2: Bike to Manali: 320km Day 3: Acclimatise in Manali Day 4: Bike Manali to Tandi: 115km Day 5: Bike Tandi to Sarchu: 125km Day 6: Bike Sarchu to Leh: 250km Day 7: Relax in Leh Day 8: Bike Leh over Khardung La to Nubra Valley (Diskit): 120km

Day 9: Bike Diskit to Hunder to Leh: 130km Day 10: Bike Leh to Pangong Tso (Lukung): 135km Day 11: Bike Pangong Tso to Leh: 135km Day 12: End of trip Day 1: Escape Delhi to Chandigarh The first part of this trip is called "Escape Delhi", and involves driving 6-7 hours out of our beloved capital to Chandigarh, where you'll be introduced to your guide, your mechanic and your bikes. Then the whole gang goes out for a big slap-up dinner.

Overnight in hotel in Chandigarh Day 2: Bike Chandigarh to Manali: 320km Get on your bikes and head for the hills. The relatively easy road from Chandigarh to Manali gives you a chance to get a feel of your motorcycle before hitting the tougher roads higher up - although there are some involving twisties closer to Manali. It's a long day's ride but there is some serious chilling to look forward to in Manali.

Overnight in Hotel Drifters, Old Manali Day 3: Acclimatisation in Manali

Relax, you're back in the swinging 60's in the charming hippy heaven of Old Manali. You also need to get used to the altitude before bashing on to higher climbs so take it easy - a dip in the hot springs at Vashisht and a beer on the terrace might

not be a bad idea.

Overnight in Hotel Drifters, Old Manali Day 4: Bike Manali to Tandi: 115km The adventure begins here as we hit the higher Himalayas, riding over the Rohtang pass and on to our

camp for the night at Tandi.

Overnight in camp Day 5: Bike Tandi to Sarchu: 125km Ride past Keylong, stopping for lunch beside the turquoise lake at Patseo, onwards over the Baralacha La pass at 16000 ft., past the

Vishaal Taal lake and into the Ladakh district. Get a good night's sleep in a nice tented campsite at wild Sarchu.

Overnight in camp Day 6: Bike Sarchu to Leh: 250km Today we ride bravely on-

Ultimate unsustainable tourist guide to meghalaya subject? For the road to be constructed towards this village, I will leave it all to you to throw your views on whether it should be constructed or not. Or may be other alternative measures can be discussed and taken into consideration to avoid cutting the hills which will damage the environment and its valuable ecosystems.

Sameer Gurung One of the Seven Sisters of North-East India.

Meghalaya is popularly known by its Sanskrit meaning 'The Abode of Clouds', while its capital, famously known and tagged as'Scotland of the East'. Quoting small lines from Wikipedia, "the state of Meghalaya is mountainous with stretches of valley and highland plateaus. The state is the wettest region of India and about 70 percent of the state is forested. The Meghalaya subtropical forest eco-region encompasses the state; the mountain forests to the North and South. The forests are notable for their biodiversity of mammals, birds and plants". By reading and picturing the name tags of both the State (the Abode of Clouds) and its Capital (Scotland of the East) from travel and tourism perspectives, a traveler/tourist would compel himself to visit this very unique destination and also with the help of the beautiful scenic and landscape photographs from the internet, one would desire to set foot and witness with one's own eyes.

The development of travel and tourism sector in the state is still in its adolescence. The government plays the role of the modern parents who are busy in making money while meeting the financial demands of their children without thinking about their future. On the other hand I appreciate the government for also being responsible parents in developing and grooming the adolescents (tourism activities and destinations) and making them stand on their own feet. But it also failed to groom, prepare and teach the children for their future survival. We can see through the window of tourism, that the state is developing itself in various tourism activities,

Laitlyngkot viewpoint welcomes you with an awful smell from the sanitary and menstrual pads thrown beneath and in the corners of the rocks.

Photo: Sameer Gurung

be it natural or man made.

Meghalaya naturally provides the requirements for man made activities like Kayaking, zip lining, motor powered parasailing, etc. And it offers the bountiful experience on mother nature. The Cleanest Village in Asia, the Wettest Place on Earth, the Magnificent Living root bridges, the Sacred Groves, the beautiful rivers, the gorgeous cascades and waterfalls, the canyons, valleys and hills, the dense forests, rich biodiversity, varieties of flora and fauna and many more. Day by day the state is growing faster and faster and it is becoming very popular. But, when you really open up your eyes wide, what do you see to your right and left, in front, beneath and behind the scenes?

On arriving in Meghalaya, 'Welcome to Meghalaya, this is Umiam Lake viewpoint and as you can see the beautiful lake over there, these are also the garbage lying in and around the viewpoint, littered by locals as well as tourists'. Moving on, 'We are entering the Shillong city, you can pull up the windows or you can open to get the fresh breeze and smell the city's dump from Marten. You will also

have a great experience of similar scenes en route to the other destinations and if you want to take a leak you can do it on the road sides'.

Not solely blaming on the handicapped functioning government but individuals themselves are the ones who blindfold oneself with ignorance and greed. The proprietors or communities of the various destinations are being taught to know more about the value of money rather than the value of culture and sustainability of the destination. The people in the popular areas have lost their culture resulting to a failure in understanding that culture is an identity and it also plays an important role in travel and tourism; while they focus only on the monetary benefits gained through the activities. The areas are overcrowded and packed, uncontrolled flow of visitors will lead to pollution and destruction of the natural habitats of a particular destination.

Mawlynnong 'Asia's Cleanest Village' and its living root bridge fully packed with visitors. How long can it hold such capacity? There is traffic jam in Riwai village. And, recently, known for no

safety measures for tourists and visitors where, 'The heroic act of one man identified as Eveningstar Khongthohrem(45) hailing from Nongsohphan village near Mawlynnong, garnered much applause and appreciation after he rescued one tourist from drowning'. Where is proper safety for tourists?

Trekking is one activity where almost everyone loves doing, going into the wilderness of mother nature. For this activity the famous destination is Nongriat village beautifully surrounded by amazing tall waterfalls flowing from the hills. But who would want to go on a trek climbing up and down approximately 3000 or more concreted/cemented steps? The unorganized and massive trekking events led by many organizations and also students from various colleges and universities has loosened the roots of the upper deck of the famous Double Decker Living Root bridge which took almost 40 to 60 years or more to grow strong and firm due to over capacity and they also contributed to massive littering in this serene village. What is the use of studying the compulsory Environmental Studies

Caving is an adventure activity and is supposed to be thrilling and also to experience the silence and the darkness inside. And instead of giving proper training to the local hosts the knowledge of caving activities and the safety measures, for people to go in fully geared up with proper caving suits which will give them a feeling and sense of adventure.

The useless lighting systems inside contributes nothing to the sustainability of the caves in fact one hammer for nailing the electrical cords inside the stalagmites and stalactites or sandstones contributed to destruction for over an approximately 19,0000 years of formation and history and the different species of bats disappear in response to the light inside. The corners become peeing spots for tourists. What's the point of going inside a well lit cave and where's maintenance?

Talking about individuals, local visitors going to rural destinations travel in their beautiful and posh cars, loud music and cases of booze stuffed on the back of their vehicles, beautifully dressed up like supermodels and celebrities with huge and colorful sunglasses/shades, finishes a packet of chips and a sip from the bottle by throwing outside the car's window and after sometime stops the car somewhere and pee on the road side. Intoxicated youths are breaking bottles all over the destination. Domestic tourists pops out their heads and spray their

puke and spitting pan/ kwai all over the place and even the vehicles following behind. No complaints for International tourists, they acquire standards once warned (except on their safety). Trekkers and visitors while trekking to areas or going inside the caves tend to write meaningless words on rocks like'Mr. This and Mr. That was here' (as if they founded the places/caves before their forefathers did). These are the things you will witness while traveling in and around Meghalaya.

We all know most of the local people in the rural destinations have their own simple lifestyles are trying their best in keeping their village clean.

With the visitors being over educated, they tend to forget the efforts of the villagers in maintaining the village instead break the provided rules, litter and pollute, and when the villagers/village committee takes action on such behavior they will surely blame them for still being cannibals and also illiterate, rude and uneducated!

Whose fault is it?

I am not blaming the government or any individual. In the meantime, the need of the hour is for us to not wait for the government, an organization or any individual to start.

We are all responsible for our own actions. Let us try to change and be responsible citizens. Meghalaya still have many villages that are very clean with a healthy environment. We should not litter, be it anywhere. Keep in mind while finishing a candy, chewing gum or packet of chips or any snacks, it must be noted that wrapping papers/plastics should be kept in your bag and thrown in a proper dustbin, also even after finishing a bottle of beer please keep the bottle in a proper and visible place for easy collection or throw it in a proper dustbin.

Courtesy: raiot

wards through the Sarchu flats, Gata Loops, with views of Nakeela (15,500 ft) and Lachulung La (16,600 ft), on to Pang, the Moore Plains and over Tanglang La at 17,500 ft, the third highest motorable pass in the world, and on to Leh. Overnight in hotel in Leh Day 7: Relax in Leh Another day to chill, this time in Ladakh's beautiful capital, Leh. You can visit the Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Leh Gompa and wander the old town market, or alternatively, put your feet up.

Overnight in hotel in Leh Day 8: Bike Leh - Khardung La - Nubra Valley (Diskit): 120km Today we ride the highest motorable road in the world; Khardung La at a gaping 18,380 ft, to enter the stunning Nubra valley, a mix of desert sand dunes and lush green villages tumbling down the hillside. We then spend the night as guests in a family home-stay at Diskit.

Overnight in Diskit Day 9: Bike Diskit to Hunder - Leh: 130km We head on 8 km down the road from Diskit to the village of Hunder before heading off back to Leh the way

we came.

Overnight in hotel in Leh Day 10: Bike Leh to Pangong Tso (Lukung): 135km Today we scale Chang La, the world's third highest motorable pass at 17,800ft, a trying pass compared to the others, and it will make you feel it. Enter Tak Thak, a narrow valley with a carpet of fresh green grass through which a free-spirited stream and the road intertwine each other like serpents.

Our destination is Pangong Tso, a 134km long lake, 60% of which is in Tibet.

5km wide at its widest, it's more a land-bound ocean at 14270ft above sea level.

Overnight stay in Lukung, a settlement on the shore of the lake with Eco-huts and very basic necessities.

Overnight in Lukung Day 11: Bike Pangong Tso to Leh: 135km It's our final day of riding together as we traverse the same challenging route back to Leh. Overnight in hotel in Leh Day 12: End of trip After breakfast at the hotel, carry on your own merry way - fly back to Delhi or spend some more time chilling in Ladakh.

Courtesy: escapedelhi

Places to see in and around Ziro

It's less polluted air and salubrious climate, the cool breeze and the sound of the forest make Ziro worth the travel Photo: webindia123

Situated 164 km from Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, 'Ziro' is one of the most famous hill station in the state. It is the headquarter of Lower Subansiri District. Located at an altitude of 1688 meters above the sea level, it comprises the original Ziro village and the new Zero town (Hapoli). The distance between these two places is 5 kms. Shops, markets, Government's handicraft center and banks are in new Zero town.

Ziro is inhabited by more than 30,000 Apatani tribal people. One of the most advanced tribal groups in Arunchal Pradesh state, they famous for the conservation and Paddy-cum-Fish culture which is unique amongst the Arunachal tribals. They also have a unique home bamboo plantations. A visit to an Apatani tribal home is a must. As per folklore, the women of the Apatani tribes were so beautiful that they wanted to look unattractive to males from neighboring tribes. So they were driven to safeguard themselves by tattooing and putting coin-sized nose plugs. Now these system been banned.

Places to see in and around Ziro District museum Established in 1956, the museum displays a rich collection of ethnographic and cultural materials related to the people of Arunachal Pradesh. It has textiles in the form of costumes, bags, artefacts, turquoise and coral jewellery, bone and ivory ornaments, bamboo and cane household prod-

ucts and a small collection of Dao machetes.

Open from 10am to 5pm.

Closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Government handicrafts museum Situated at the end of the new Ziro town, one can buy souvenirs, including Apa Tani weaves, cane and bamboo products from here.

Talle Sanctuary Covering an area of 337 sq km, Talle Sanctuary is 38 kms from Ziro. It has varied flora and fauna. Covered by sub-tropical evergreen forest, temperate broadleaved and conifer forest, the sanctuary is a breeding ground for birds especially the rare long-billed wrenbabbler. It also has a collection of endangered plants and rare orchids.

Some of the famous attractions found over here include Elephant, Barking deer, Giant squirrel, Himalayan squirrel, Himalayan black bear, Indian porcupine, Leopard, Malayan giant squirrel, Hoary bellied himalayan squirrel, Wild boar, Slow loris, Tiger, Wild dog, Gaur, Mithun, Clouded Leopards, and Bears. The sanctuary is also a home to Mithun (cross breed of wild gaur and the buffalo).

Pange, on the way to Talley, is an ideal place for angling.

Accommodation facility is available at the Forest Bungalows.

Tarin Fish Farm This regional high-altitude fish seed farm at Tarin, near Ziro, is a great example of the Apa Tanis' paddy and fish culture. Courtesy: tourism

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Independence Cup Football Roston Chase defies India with maiden ton as West Indies salvage draw Tournament 2016 Miao Organised by Miao Sub -Division Yo uth Organisation (MSYO)

The 24-year-old Barbadian batted through the entire day to finish unbeaten on 137 Kingston, Aug 4: Roston Chase made history with a maiden Test century to lead a magnificent rearguard by the West Indies and salvage a draw at 388 for six in their second innings on the final day of the second Test against India at Sabina Park in Jamaica on Wednesday.

Indrajit Tingwa Miao, 4 Aug: In the second round clash today, Kuttum FC defeated Govt. Higher Secondary School(GHSS), Miao in the extra time penalty shoot out. In a thrilling match both teams were at 11 in the first half. In the second half too, both teams could not increase their scores leading to a 10

minute extra time. In the extra time also, both the teams failed to net any goals.

The first goal of the match was scored by Kuttum FC. Kuttum FC's captain Munglong Ngemu (Jersey No.20) scored the goal by a header while making the best use of the second corner it got at the 13th minute

into the game. GHSS Miao equalised the score at the 28th minute when their player Jersey No.7 also converted their corner shot into a goal by a header.

Jersey No.10 of GHSS Miao was given a yellow card in the match.

In the extra time penalty shoot out (a slightly modi-

fied version of sudden dead) GHSS proved to be unlucky and Kuttum FC defeated them 4-2 in the five men each round of the penalty shoot out. Kuttum FC will next lock horns with UMFC in the quarter finals.

Tomorrow's match : Scorpion Returns will face Songking A

US judge delays Honduran sentencing New York: A US judge has delayed until January 27 this week`s planned sentencing of disgraced former Honduran president Rafael Callejas in the sweeping corruption scandal rocking world soccer.

The 72-year-old was scheduled this Friday to become the first defendant sentenced in the FIFA scandal in New York after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit racketeering and wire fraud.

But Judge Raymond Dearie

has accepted a request from the defense, with consent from government prosecutors, to adjourn until January 27, a court document showed. No reason was publicly stated.

It is the third sentencing to be adjourned, following former FIFA vice president Jeffrey Webb and Argentine-Italian marketing executive Alejandro Burzaco, delayed until November and December respectively.

Callejas has been free on a $4 million bail in the United

States since leaving Honduras by private jet last December to face justice.

He served as president of Honduras from 1990 to 1994. He was head of the country`s football federation from 2002 to 2015, and is also a former member of FIFA`s Television and Marketing Committee.

He originally faced eight charges of racketeering, fraud and money laundering, to which he pleaded not guilty on December 15. He subsequently pleaded guilty

Rio Olympics 2016: Serena Williams in no mood for quitting World number one Williams arrives in Rio with a seventh Wimbledon title wrapped up.

Rio de Janeiro, Aug 4: Serena Williams insisted Wednesday that retirement is not on her agenda as the 34-year-old American superstar targets a sixth Olympic gold medal.

World number one Williams arrives in Rio with a seventh Wimbledon title wrapped up, which allowed her to pull level with Steffi Graf`s Open era record of 22 majors.

But even if she secures a second successive Olympics singles gold and fourth in doubles with sister Venus, she still has no intention of hanging up her racquet.

"I love what I do every day and enjoy being on the court. I enjoy competing," said Williams, whose career is comfortably into its third decade.

"I just don`t see a time when I say I don`t want to do this anymore. I always give my maximum and that`s what I bring to the court."

Williams won her first Olympic singles gold in London four years ago and then doubled up with Venus.

The sisters had also won doubles gold in Sydney in 2000 and Beijing eight years later.

The only blot on her Games record was having to miss the 2004 Olympics in Athens with a left knee injury.

Williams said she still remembers her maiden gold medal alongside her older sister in 2000 when she was just 18.

"We all dream of the Grand Slams and winning them, but

the Olympics are different," added Williams who will be top seed in Thursday`s draw for Rio. "The first gold medal I won was something I appreciated more than a lot of my trophies.

"It`s really great to have another opportunity to win the title. Having won it already definitely takes the pressure off."The Olympic tennis tournament which starts Saturday has been hit by a number of high-profile pull-outs.

Five of the top 10 in the men`s rankings, including Roger Federer, as well as leading women`s stars such as Victoria Azarenka, Maria Sharapova, Simona Halep and Belinda Bencic, are missing.

Also out are Williams` fellow Americans John Isner and Sam Querrey as well as defending men`s doubles champions Mike and Bob Bryan.

However, 36-year-old Venus said missing the Olympics was never an option.

"We felt we couldn`t say no -we wanted to be here," she

said.

Both Serena and Venus fielded questions over the current inflammatory political climate in the United States.

Serena took an indirect swipe at US presidential candidate Donald Trump who has fuelled controversy with comments on Muslims, Mexicans and military veterans.

"I don`t involve myself in politics but it`s important for me to pass a message of love and unity across all nations," said Serena.

"Being an African-American, I am sensitive to these things.

We should pass a message of love."

Venus, meanwhile, opted not to comment on the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States.

"We are focussing on medalling in Brazil not on movements in the United States," said the veteran.

"We are focussed on the world community and if that means positivity in the United States then we are all for it."AFP

to two counts on March 28.

US prosecutors in New York have indicted 40 football and sports marketing executives over allegedly receiving tens of millions of bribes and kickbacks in the largest corruption scandal in the history of soccer.

The corruption investigation precipitated the downfall of longtime FIFA president Sepp Blatter and his former heir apparent, Michel Platini, who have both been banned from the sport for six years for ethics violations.(AFP)

2nd Test: West Indies vs India 2016 Related Gallery 2nd Test: West Indies vs India 2016 In just his second Test, the 24-year-old Barbadian batted through the entire day to finish unbeaten on 137, an innings that occupied six hours during which he faced 269 balls, striking 15 fours and one six.

His outstanding effort complemented a fivewicket haul in India`s only innings, making him just the fourth West Indian and first since the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers 50 years earlier to complete the rare feat of century and a fivewicket innings haul in the same Test match.

"It`s a great feeling to help my team draw the match after falling so far behind," said Chase after receiving the Man of the Match award. "The captain asked the players to show some fight and we just went with the mindset that we were at war and we can`t die today."

He received excellent support from all the other middle and lower-order batsmen who featured in the protracted fightback on the

last day.

Jermaine Blackwood, Shane Dowrich and captain Jason Holder contributed half-centuries to a cause that seemed lost when they started the final day, with the innings in apparent ruins at 48 for four and needing to get to 304 to avoid a second innings defeat in as many matches.

India still held out hope of taking the last four wickets in the final session and chasing a modest target to win the match, but Holder`s stroke-filled unbeaten 64 in an unbroken 104-run partnership with Chase killed off their chances and the captains agreed to call off the match half an hour before the scheduled close.

Having put on 93 runs for the fifth wicket with Blackwood in the morning session to set the tone for the home side`s unexpected resistance, Chase found another able partner in Dowrich, the wicketkeeper-batsman stroking 74 in a 144-run sixth-wicket stand before appearing to be harshly adjudged leg-before off the bowling of leg-spinner Amit Mishra.

"We lost most of yesterday but that`s no excuse," said India`s disappointed captain Virat Kohli after the skippers` handshake. "Credit to the way the West Indies played today. Our bowlers

Mishra had come close to dismissing Dowrich earlier in the session but Ajinkya Rahane just could not hold on to a diving attempt at a catch at slip when the bats-

Expensive mobiles to Indian food, athletes have a ball Rio de Janeiro, Aug 4: Indian athletes were in for a pleasant surprise here at the Olympic Village on Wednesday after they were handed over an expensive mobile phone of sponsoring company along with check in.

But one Indian who is going to miss this expensive gift is national record holder in 200m, Dharamvir Singh, who failed a dope test recently. This Haryana's lad mobile was collected by an Indian official in advance as he was to reach Rio soon.

However, with news of his failing the dope test, it has been decided to hand the mobile back to the organisers.

Dharamvir didn't board the flight to Rio on Tuesday. He is likely to face life ban as this is his second offence. The 27year-old sprinter is the third Rio-bound athlete to test positive after wrestler Narsingh Yadav and shot-putter Inderjeet Singh. Narsingh, however, has been cleared by India's National Anti-Doping Agency on benefit of doubt of conspiracy.

Shudh desi khana With the initial batch of athletes from India having settled into the Athletes' Village here, guess what it is that has brought cheer to these sports persons? Shudh Desi Indian Khana (Indian food)!

Rakesh Gupta, India's chef de mission at the Rio Olympics says that for the Indian contingent at the Olympic Village it was a matter of worry whether they will get vegetarian food or will be greeted with nonvegetarian continental cuisine that they cannot eat.

Gupta is also hopeful that 120member strong Indian contingent, the largest-ever at an Olympic Games, will deliver the best results at Rio 2016.

India won six medals, two silver and four bronze, to register the country's best-ever Olympic haul at the 2012 London Games.

More furniture at own cost Another good news for the entertainment-starved Indian athletes here is that Gupta, after requesting the Organising Committee to provide more furniture and TV sets for the contingent, has decided to purchase the TV sets and chairs on own expense with the help of Indian Embassy here.

"Following a request from our hockey teams to provide them with more chairs and TV sets, I had spoken and also written to the Organising Committee (OC) to do so. The Organising Committee's representative replied, saying 'Unfortunately, Rio 2016 is only providing TVs for the Chef de Mission office and the TV Lounge on the common spaces," said

tried hard but you just have to doff your hat to them."It was the first time in the 88year history of the West Indies in Test cricket that batsmen from numbers four to eight in the batting order had each scored over 50 in a single Test innings.

Gupta on Wednesday.

The request for the items came at the managers / coaches meeting and after OC refused to provide all, he has now requested the Indian Embassy to purchase these items for the contingent.

"Now we have decided to put one TV set on each of the floors and also put additional chairs also. The equipment is expected to be placed in the apartments in the next few days," said Gupta.

man was on 53.

As in the very first session of the match when he plundered a run-a-ball 62 four days earlier, Blackwood counter-attacked spectacularly at the start of a sundrenched day following a soggy day four which had been limited to just 15.5 overs in which the Indians looked on course for a complete rout of the home side in the manner of their innings victory in the first Test in Antigua.

His furious 63 off 54 balls included nine fours and two sixes but came to an end via an excellent catch by Cheteshwar Pujara at forward short-leg off Ravichandran Ashwin.

Such was the power of the diminutive right-hander`s shot-making that the spinner had pulled out of attempting to take a caughtand-bowled chance when the batsman was on 37.

Leander Paes refuses to share flat with doubles partner Rohan Bopanna: Report "Leander is en route to Rio and is reaching this evening," Vece Paes, Leander's father said.

Indian Flag hoisted On Tuesday, the Indian Tricolour was hoisted at the formal welcome ceremony in the Games Village amid the singing of India's National Anthem.

More than half of the Indian contingent, elegantly dressed in white tracksuits with India written on them, appeared to be upbeat.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president N Ramachandran presented the Mayor of the Olympic Village Janeth Arcain, former basketball player and two-time Olympic medallist, with a pair of silver elephants and goldplated peacock with the IOA logo embossed at the bottom of the frame.

New Delhi, Aug 4: Just like London 2012, there is trouble brewing within the Indian tennis team just two days ahead of the Rio Olympics.

According to a report on CNN-News18, Leander Paes is yet to arrive in Rio despite others getting there on August 1.

This has forced Rohan Bopanna to practice with other players.

The reported further added that the veteran star has informed the Indian Olympic Association that he didn't wish to share a flat with doubles partner Bopanna in the Olympic Village.

Despite playing together in the Davis Cup tie few weeks back, the duo does not share a great relationship.

Bopanna, whose first choice was Saketh Myneni, was forced to pair up with Leander due to a directive

by All Indian Tennis Association (AITA).

"Leander is en route to Rio and is reaching this evening," Vece Paes, Leander's father, told the channel.

Senior Paes also stated that his son was only late by half a day and this was discussed by the team during the Davis Cup tie in Chandigarh.

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