06 July, 2016, Wednesday

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Vol. II

Issue 18

NORTHEAST HORTICULTURAL PRODUCT WITH GI TAG

Dibrugarh, Wednesday, July 6, 2016

3 held for allegedly selling infant Golaghat, July 5: A sensational incident came to light in Golaghat when three women were caught by Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for allegedly selling a one month old child to a couple.

According to reports, three assistants who work at doctor clinic, located near KK Civil Hospital in Golaghat bought the one month old child of Anil Majhi and Mousumi Majhi from Bilgaon in Barpathar by giving an amount of four thousand rupees and later sold the child to a couple named Lakhi Changmai and Rupali Changmai of Borhulla in Jorhat.

The three women nabbed by the CWC team for allegedly selling the infant were identified as Rina Das, Jeuti Begum and Rita Begum. (Correspondent)

HPDCAPL is now the skill development partner of Arunachal Itanagar, July 5: An MoU signed with the Power Sector Skill Council under the aegis of Ministry of Power and Skill Development, Govt of India. From now on Hydro Power Development Corporation of ARUNACHAL Pradesh Limited (HPDCAPL) will be the skill development partner on behalf of state govt for entire power sector manpower.

The MoU was signed with approval of HCM and in presence of Shri Phosum Khimhum, Hon'ble Parliamentary Secy ( Hydro Power Development), Govt of Arunachal Pradesh in Between self and Shri Vinod Behari, CEO, PSSC in Delhi on 4th July,2016. (Staff Reporter)

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Assam Govt warns severe action for submitting false income certificate in colleges Assam govt takes several steps for students having low percentage of marks ET Bureau Guwahati, July 5

The State Government has taken various important actions for admission into Degree courses for the students who cannot pursue the regular courses due to high level of pass percentage of the students in the higher secondary final examination 2016.The State Govt. requested the concerned Universities to increase the number of seats in the regular classes, open the morning/ evening shift without violating the existing norms.

The concerned Governing body of the Colleges will be able to take necessary action and in conformity with the University guidelines Vide No.AHE.353/3013/5 dated 11 July, 2013 issued by the Govt.

of Assam regarding opening of morning and evening shift. The state Government also requested the Vice Chancellor and Registrar of K. K. Handique open University to activate all their study centre in the colleges and also to introduce new studies centres in colleges, so that those student who cannot pursue the regular courses in other Universities like Guwahati University, Dibrugarh University, Assam University etc. can be accommodated in the said University.

The State Government also appealed the interested candidate to apply for admission into the study centres in different colleges under the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) as the Degrees

STEPS FOR DEGREE ADMISSIONS All Universities are requested by the govt to increase the number of seats in the regular classes, open the morning/evening shift K. K. Handique open University is requested by the Govt to activate all their study centre in the colleges and also to introduce new studies centres in colleges All college authorities have been asked to publish the names of all students admitted in their colleges in their web site including those who have been admitted based on their income certificates of Rs. One lakh or less

provided by this University is equivalent to the Degrees provided by other Universities.

To extend a helping hand to the students seeking admission in the colleges in greater Guwahati, a district level committee has been formed with the Principal of B. Barooah College as the coordinator who will allot seats to any of the colleges in greater Guwahati as per availability of the seats.

The State Govt. has requested all DCs to start similar process in their respective districts. Moreover under the scheme of fees waiver to the BPL students who are not required to pay any fees, many such students had applied in different colleges and also got enrolment.

Contd. on Page 4

World’s largest Arunachal CM distributes ex-gratia relief for landslide botanical herbal garden victims at Bhalukpong to come up in Sonitpur ET Bureau Bhalukpong, July 5

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul handed over ex-gratia relief of Rs 4 lakh each to the kin of 10deceased person who lost their lives in the massive landslide of July 1.

The Chief Minister handed the ex-gratia payment to the families of late Lil Bahadur Chetry, 56, late Dilip Kol, 16, late Hiren Barman, 52, late Durga Barman, 49, late Rina Barman, 25, late Pinky Boro, 40, late Sanjana Chetri, 9, late Niki Boro, 10, late Angel Lenuo Solo, 9 months and late Purnima Chetry, 43 during a simple function organized in the Indigenous Faith ground.

The CM also handed over ex-gratia relief of Rs 1 lakh to the injured Mohan Barman, 29, Dev Bahadur Mizar, 21, Santosh Thapa, 20 and Pankaj Siyakati.

In addition, the Chief

Minister assured that the government would extend further help financially for the injured in their treatment.

Extending humanitarian gesture, the CM offered a government job to Samina Boro, as work casual who lost her mother Pinky Boro and sister Niki Boro in the accident.

Asserting that there should be no discrimination in distribution of relief, the Chief Minister said that it is perhaps first time that ex-gratia relief is also being handed to the nontribal community, who earlier did not receive such benefits.

He also said the present government is committed to prevent misuse of relief funds as was done earlier and announced that there would be no fund shortage for relief informing that each district has been sanctioned Rs 50 lakhs.

Contd. on Page 3

Shambhu Boro Tezpur, July 5

A world largest botanical herbal garden to come up in Sonitpur very shortly. Central executive member of Patanjali Group, Udayaditya Goswami announced recently here that the World’s Largest botanical herbal garden will be set up at Sijucha Na-mora area along the Assam-Arunachal border in Sonitpur District covering an area about 21 thousand hectors of land under supervision of Patanjali Group and in cooperation with Arunachal Pradesh government.

He further added that this garden will be reckoned as the world’s largest garden having varieties of medicinal plants in contrast to others botanical gardens.

“We have indentified around seven thousand variety of medicinal plants which can be

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planted here.” Goswami said adding that there will be hardly five thousands of such medicinal plants available in other botanical gardens in the world but here they could put forth around seven thousand medicinal plants.

It is pertinent to mention here that the government of Arunachal Pradesh has decided to allot the land for the proposed botanical herbal garden in the month of September.

Goswami expressing his gratitude towards both Assam and Arunachal government for extending their helping hand in this venture further said that Baba Ramdev, a founder member of Patanjali Group, Acharya balakrishnan and Deputy Chief minister, Government of Arunachal Pradesh have been trying their level best to bring into the project into a force as soon as possible.

“ NE people are often racially discriminated because of ignorance of the abuser” ET Bureau Itanagar, 5 July

North Eastern people are often racially discriminated and abused at mainland India out of ignorance and lack of knowledge of their culture and ethnicity, felt Deputy Chief Minister, Kameng Dolo.

He was speaking at inaugural day of 6 days National Integration Youth Camp organized by Arunachal Chapter of National Youth Project (NYP) here today at Dera Natung Government College auditorium.

Dolo said that fellow Indian brothers resorted to such

discrimination because of ignorance. They have never been given opportunity to know the culture and ethnicity of their fellow brothers and sisters, who are jealously guarding the international border at this Himalayan State of India, he added.

Arunachal is a potpourri of religions, communities, languages and cultures. People here known for their peaceful co-existence despite diversity in their languages, food habits, and culture putting asides all differences.

Appreciating the National Youth Project for organizing the camp, he felt that our youths would get an opportunity and exposure to know the complexities of tribal culture, and its society.

Further he said, they would definitely act as “harbinger of peace” when they go back to their respective home states.

Dolo told the gathering that

Expressing his gratitude to the Dr S.N Subha Rao, Chairman, NYP efforts to bring Arunachal Pradesh in the national map of India through cultural exchanges and exposure trips given to our youths, Dolo exuded hope that National Integration Camp would help in instilling a spirit of unity, Contd. on Page 3

Assam CM direct authorities concerned to ensure road connectivity to all villages of the state within next 3 years A Staff Reporter Tinsukia, July 5

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today directed authorities concerned to ensure road connectivity to all villages in the state within the next three years.

"Road connectivity within the next three years is a priority and I have told officials to take various steps and initiatives to ensure better maintenance of roads, especially the rural road network," he said after addressing officials of various departments in Upper Assam's Tinsukuia district.

Sonowal also directed

Public Works Department (PWD) officials to immediately create a roadmap for proper maintenance of the rural road network.

"Our government is highly concerned about the increase in the number of road accidents and have asked district transport officials to take effective measures to reduce it and stop underage people from driving," the Chief Minister said.

Issuance and renewal of licenses and deposit of taxes must be a simple and transparent and citizens should not be running from pillar to posts, he said.

Sonowal emphasized on the

need for maximization of revenue collections, find a solution to stop revenue leakages from forest resources and to ensure effective tax collection procedure and that there is no tax evasion. He directed the Food and Civil Supply department to keep prices of essential commodities under control.

The Chief Minister also reviewed medical facilities and infrastructure at various subdivisions of Tinsukia district and assured that the government will take steps to ensure that the required numbers of doctors are present in these facilities.

Assam Minister returns without inaugurating a building, declares legal investigation ET Correspondent Sivasagar, July 5

In a very unusual situation that occurred in Sivasagar today, Pramila Rani Brahma, the Forest & tribal affairs minister of the state returned without inaugurating a building as per her schedule.

According to reports, Pramila Rani Brahma went to Sivasagar on Tuesday to inaugurate the BR Ambedkar Bhawan which was built with a total fund of 91.14 lacs by the state government, dedicated for the welfare of the

Tribal & Schedule Caste.

The concern department have prepared all the arrangement of the inauguration program including, ribbon cutting ceremony and other religious ceremony. However, she denied to inaugurate the Building when she was handed the details report of the building at the program.

She reportedly was surprised when she came to know that the building wasn’t built according to the reports mentioned. She found huge

anomalies in the construction work as the quality of work was too poor.

Before returning from the spot without inaugurating the building she declared before the media that no one will be spared involved in the swindling of the government fund and a thorough investigation will be made.

She confirmed that the building will be unveiled only after proper construction work. Even Virendra Mittal, the DC of Sivasagar has also declared an investigation in to the matter.

Apatanis progressing culturally, economically and educationally: Deputy CM, Chowna Mein

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Apatanis in Namsai today celebrated Dree with traditional zest marked by sacrificial offerings and prayers at Circuit House, Mahadevpur in Namsai district which was attended

by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein as Chief Guest on the festive occasion.

Among other invitees, Parliamentary Secretary Tax & Excise Chow Zingnu Namchoom, ADC Namsai M.K.Deori, DIG (East) A. Biten, EAC Mahadevpur H.N.Dubey, EAC Namsai J. Pertin, ZPC Namsai Chow Kyasing Mounglang along

with HoDs and officers from the district also attended the celebration.

Extending heartiest festival greeting to the Apatani community, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein in his speech lauded the efforts of Apatani people in preserving the age old tradition and culture. He said that Apatani tribes as of today are way ahead culturally, economically and educationally because of their self disciplined nature and dignity of labour. Mein hoped that Dree festival will bring cheer, happiness, health and prosperity to all.

If you are in Rome, be a Roman, quoting the famous

line the Deputy Chief Minister applauded the efforts of Apatani people in Namsai district in showcasing the Apatani culture and organizing the Dree festival in a grand manner despite their population to only 50 families.

Arunachal CM Pul promises a memorable Golden Jubilee Dree Festival - 2017 with a new Dree Ground Ripunjoy Das Ziro, July 5

Festivals form an essential part of the socio-cultural aspect of our people, hence the festivals not only characterize colour, fervor, feast and prayers and rituals but also bear testimony to its rich culture heritage and India is a secular country, every religion has to be respected,

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Kalikho Pul today promised a memorable Golden Jubilee Dree Festival - 2017 with a new Dree Ground to be developed with a 3 crore package from the state government. "Apart from the new ground, the main stage of the festival should also be a permanent one with all kind of modern amenities.

Contd. on Page 3

Contd. on Page 3

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ET Bureau Namsai, July 5

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

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ASTRO FOR YOU Aries You can make a difference to others' lives. Considerate and thoughtful, today, you will be treasured more than ever as a boss, colleague, parent or beloved. Utilise this exchange of energy to sort out difficult issues.

Taurus Today, your mind shifting from your professional affairs and drifting, time and again, towards your home and family. You are likely to return home early and get happily engrossed in discussing pressing domestic issues with your family members. This will possibly be followed by a festive evening filled with fun and laughter. You're going to devote the whole day to your home and family and will be inclined to do little else.

Gemini You will be lost in the memories of the past today. You will be in a nostalgic frame of mind.

Intellectual pursuits will attract you. Do not let your past lay a shadow upon your present and your future.

Cancer The day shall find you in buoyant spirits.. As you are feeling lively and full of beans, you will not mind slogging it out, even if in some mindless activities or chores. It is a perfect day for activities like gardening, cooking, baking and even for a nice house warming gettogether. Evening stars encourage you to go all out and splurge - emotion-wise, moneywise or time-wise - on your sweetheart!

Leo The trader in you comes to the fore today. With an impeccable eye for recognising profitable avenues, you will quickly spot opportunities that arise from buying goods at cheaper prices, and selling them off at a rate that leaves you with a lump sum profit. Start with small transactions, and treat each transaction with care before you plunge into bigger ventures, like the Bull-n-Bear tussle of the stock markets.

Virgo There is a strong indication that you will dabble in writing or performing arts, and emerge with excellent results. Since these are your passions, you may cultivate hobbies in these fields, if they are not already your profession. Enjoy the power you have over people today as you grip them with sweet words, swinging to your whims.

BSF frontier conducts organs donation awareness campaign in Guwahati A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jul 5 : Border Security Force (BSF) Frontier Headquarter Guwahati conducted awareness program on Eye/Organ donation at Patgaon Campus. The program was arranged at Patgaon, in collaboration with Doctors of GMCH, Guwahati, Ftr HQ BSF Guwahati and Composite Hospital, CAPF Patgaon, The inauguration was done by lighting of lamp by SK Maghu, DIG/PSO, Dr B J Lalwani, DIG (Med) MS, CH CAPF Patgaon,Dr Prasun Maiti, Comdt (Med), Ftr HQ BSF Guwahati,DrJayantaThakuria,

Registrar, RIO, GMCH, Mr Kamal Hossan, Eye Technical, ROI (GMCH).

After a brief welcome address

by Dr B J Lalwani, DIG (Med), MS, CH CAPF Patgaon, Sh S K Maghu, DIG/PSO, BSF Guwahati Ftr addressed the audience comprising of Officers, SOs, Ors of BSF, CH CAPF & 1stBn NDRF, along with their families. He exhorted all present in the event to voluntarily come forward to donate eye. Eyes are one of the most important sensory organs in the human body because it renders vision and the power

to see. Visually impaired people feel that their life is incomplete as they can just touch, feel and smell things but can’t see it.

Donated eyes can be used to restore vision in people who are suffering from corneal blindness.

The front, clear and transparent tissue of the eye called as cornea can be used to restore vision in a corneal blind person. The other portions of the eye are also used for research and training purposes to develop cures for some of the

ET Bureau Guwahati, 5 July: Upon receipt of reports from the Food Analyst to the Govt. of Assam, Referral Food Laboratory, Gaziabad and upon consideration of the same, it reveals that the sample of ‘Silver Drop’ packaged Drinking water is unsafe in terms of the pro-

Scorpio The target is locked in and the arrow is shot. It is only a matter of time before Cupid celebrates and hits the bull's eye and you find yourself in the mush of things. Sentiments and romance will be the order of the day. There is a good chance that marriage proposals or new relationships will find their footing today.

Pisces An action-packed day awaits you, busy as you will be corresponding with old contacts, telephonic interviews, organising meetings and scheduling tasks. Do not forget to breathe!

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 6-7-16 (WEDNESDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Hindi Language Lesson 6-30 A.M-Vidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Surar Satsori (Request Programme of Assamese Songs) 12-30 A.M- A Feature on Eid-Ul Fitr 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 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 7-15 P.M-Karpumpuli 7-35 P.M-Ujjwal Bhabishyat 9-16 P.M-Eidor Gaan 9-30 P.M- Kramasha (Serial Novel Reading)-"Theng Phakhri Tahsiladaror Taamor Tarowaal", Written by Mamoni Roysam Goswami,Read by Tribeni Das Gogoi, Music-Hiren Gohain, Direction-Lohit Deka, Production-Jayantajit Das (Part-2) Sd-/H.O.P

AASU felicitated HSLC examination with top rank, distinction and first division holder in Kokrajhar district.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, July 5: The All Assam Students Union (AASU) demanded full facilities from the state government for the students during admission in colleges so that they could gain educational spirits across the state. The students union warmly welcomed and felicitated students, who passed HSLC examination with top rank, distinction and first division holder in Kokrajhar district on Tuesday.

Altogether 56 students were given warm welcome and felicitated with traditional Phulam Gamocha, citation and study materials at a

Police though tried clear the blockade were successful only after several at-

tempts. Meanwhile, the members of NSUI also staged a stand in demonstra-

Whereas the sample of Silver Drop Packaged Drinking Water does not conform to the standard laid down under Regulation No. 2.10.8 of Food Safety and Standards.

programme organized by the Kokrajhar district unit of AASU, held at Science College in Kokrajhar.

Nabajyoti Roy, Assistant General Secretary of AASU while attending the programme demanded that government should initiate all the facilities to the students during admission in colleges, who passed in the final examinations across the state.

He said that students should get healthy opportunity while taking higher studies in the state through which society will be benefited with quality educational environment. He also demanded that government should imple-

ment what they have promised to do towards educational development.

ET Correspondent Margherita, 5 July: With the help of Legal Awareness Network Centre, Margherita, today, a child working as labour was rescued from the Apakhya Hotel owned by Biku Sharma of Margherita. The child who was rescued by the Sub Division Extra Commissioner, Dr. Mithun Borgiary was reportedly working at the hotel since 3 years and he has to work for 12 to 14 hours every day.

Sarmistha Chakraborty, vice-principal of Science College, Nazmul Haque, student leader, Pungkha Brahma, ABSU leader were prominent attendees on the occasion with Subadh Roy, president of Kokrajhar district unit Dr B Mili, Sub Division Labour officer in AASU in the chair.

Margherita said that we “We felicitated passed out shall detect the age of the students, who brought rescued Child Labour and if good result in the district proved that he is below 14 under organization’s edu- years of age than as per cational programmes. The Child Labour Protection government should initiate Act the guilty shall be punstudents’ welfare and edu- ished with 3 months impriscational steps to gain edu- onment or Rs 20,000 fine. cational integration in the Papu Sah, President of Legal Awareness Network state’, said Roy.

Centre of Margherita said that we have been doing awareness programme regarding Child Labour for many days and have been keeping strict eyes on Hotels, Garage and other places where children below 14 years can be possibly kept as child labours.

“Three days ago, I saw at Apakhya Hotel that a child below 14 years of age who was rescued today is working till 9:00 pm and then I informed the Sub Divisional Extra Commissioner and Margherita Sub Divisional labour Officer who have then rescued the child from hotel and I demanded that strict punishment should be given to those persons who violate rules of Child Labour Protection Act, “said Papu Sah, President of Legal Awareness Network Centre, Margherita.

CRPF of Sonari constructs toilets and drinking water facility under civic action programme ET Correspondent Sonari, July 5: 149 Bn of CRPF as part of their civic action programme in Sonari Hindi LP School, installed toilets and drinking water facility which was inaugurated today by Dhiraj Das, SDC, Sonari in presence of Samir Kumar Srivastav, CO, 149 Bn. Of CRPF. An inaugural meeting

Sivasagar boils under the Oil Field bidding issue ET Correspondent Sivasagar, 5 July : On the issue of the union government's decision of privatization of the twelve oil fields of Assam, state wise protests in full spirit in Assam are going on since days ago. Today it was in Sivasagar. Hundreds members of AJYCP came out on Tuesday morning and blocked the NH 37 as a part of their protest schedule.

Hundreds of members of the student union consisting of male and female protesters formed a strong blockade on the national highway following which hundreds of vehicles had to halt for several hours on both the sides of the blockade area.

vision of Section 3 (I) (zz) (iii) (x) of the Food Safety & Standard Act, 2006.

Child labour rescued from a hotel in Margherita

Sagittarius The way you keep your interests alive will keep your mind occupied. Leisure activities and by-lines will by-pass the mundane routine today.. Pamper yourself by doing what you like, be it gardening, cooking or even plain old reading.

Aquarius If you are an astrologer, doctor or a spiritual leader, today is a favourable day for you.

Those who may want to challenge you must reconsider the thought of testing your strengths.

Doing charity work, helping the needy, and working for humanitarian causes give you a feeling of contentment. Today, it will be one of those extremely fulfilling days.

the deceased did not pledge to donate his / her eyes before death. Age or systemic illness such as diabetes or hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease is not barriers for eye donations. The corneas of a person are unaffected even if they have undergone any eye surgeries in the past and hence will be useful can be transplanted in others. The program ended very successfully, participants also registered their names for donating eye.

The participants also clarified many doubts relating to donation of eye during the entire program.

Government prohibited AASU demands admission facilities Assam selling and drinking of ‘Silver for the students of Assam Drop’ packaged drinking water

Libra You will spend time with your family members by putting them above other commitments.

There may be plans made to go out for dinner or for a short excursion with them. Health of a close relative may be a cause of concern for you today.

Capricorn New projects and partnership will keep you busy today.If a meeting is scheduled, you may be praised vociferously for your ability to make the right decision at the right time. You may also bag rewards for the commendable efforts you'd put in the past.

common eye diseases. From each pair of donated eyes, two blind people will get vision and light in to their life, thus making it more divine.

The awareness program on eye donation found avid listeners and Dr JayantaThakuria, RIO, GMCH found many keen audiences when he delivered the lecture. He emphasized that Eye donation is an act of donating one’s eyes after his/her death. It is an act of charity, purely for the benefit of the society and is totally voluntary.

The eye donation of the deceased can be authorized by the next of kith & kin even if

tion in front of the Head office of ONGC in Sivasagar and shouted against both the central & state government.

CRPF of Sonari constructs toilets and drinking water facility under civic action programme.

school. The inaugural meeting was also attended by Samwal Zamir, Deputy Commandant, Assistant Commandants Brajbhushan Kumar and Bijay Singh Chawhan along with CMO Dr. Surendra Palukuri. Students and guardians thanked the CRPF for constructing the much wanted toilet and drinking water facility in the school.

AJYCP blocks Golaghat DC strongly road at Tinsukia denies allegation charges raised against her

Spl correspondent.

Tinsukia, July 5: Members of Asom Jatiyavadi Yuva Chatra Parishad blocked makum road at Tinsukia town at 12.00 in the afternoon on Tuesday. The members were protesting the decision of centre to auction 12 oil fields of Assam.

Members of AJYCP shouted slogans including Delhi ki gundagardi nahi chalegi - nahi chalegi, meaning centre's hooliganism won't be tolerated.

The protestors alleged that the centre was playing with emotions of the people of Assam and they will not allow the centre to auction property of people of Assam to private companies.

AJYCP holds protest over centre’s decision of auctioning 12 oil fields in Bajali

held in this connection which was anchored by Salilesh Chandra Ojha, headmaster of Sonari Hindi LP School. The meeting was addressed

by Dhiraj Das, Samir Kr. Srivastav, BJP leader Anup Singh Rajpurohit and social worker Nipen Borgohain.

Number of cultural items were presented by students and teachers of the

In the meatime, Kon Gogoi of AJYCP condemned the state-

ment of Assam Chamber of Commerce in which they supported centre government move to auction oil fields of Assam. Gogoi said, how will these corrupt businessman who are black marketing essential commodities and resulting in price rise understand the feeling and emotions of the people of Assam. They need to introspect and work for the benefit of people of Assam by curbing prices of essential commodities, Gogoi added.

Gogoi threatened Assam Chamber of Commerce to restrain from such statements in future or face the organization's anger.

Earlier, the protestors burnt tyre after blocking road disrupting traffic.

ET Correspondent Golaghat, July 5: The allegation charges raised against Golaghat DC, Varnali Deka, was strongly denied by her.

Today in a press meet held at her office, in an aggressive mood, DC Varnali Deka denied all the allegations raised against her, on the basis of the statement from JC Phukan, Superintendent of Excise, Golaghat, who was caught red handed by the Anti-Corruption sleuths

while taking bribe.

Varnali Deka told that she had become a victim of conspiracy and dirty politics. She also said that she had come to serve her own land for which she had rejected many offers from other states and even from foreign countries. Varnali Deka in the press meet also said that no one can malign her image and have faith in the government for which she had rendered her service.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

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Arunachal CM conducts a Chief Minister Kalikho Pul visits Ziro General Hospital, surprise inspection of GHSS, Ziro assures overhaul of health sector ET Bureau Ziro, July 5: Chief Minister Kalikho Pul today today conducted a surprise inspection of the Government Higher Secondary School, Ziro and reviewed the status of infrastructure and other facilitates here.

ET Bureau Ziro, June 5: With the aim to familiarize himself with the public health system across the state and its operational conditions, Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, has been making several visits to the hospitals and other medical institutions.

Parliamentary Secretary for Home Paknga Bage, Yachuli MLA Likha Saaya, Raga MLA Tamar Murtem, Tali MLA Markio Tado, Ziro MLA Tage Taki, Commissioner Health Hage Kojeen and Deputy Commissioner Kemo Lollen accompanied the Chief Minister.

His latest visit took him to the General Hospital, Ziro, where he found the hospital infrastructure to be in deplorable condition and with acute shortage of manpower, equipment and machineries.

The existing hospital building is five decades old with hollow walls, fractured floors and poor water supply system.

Expressing exasperation at the poor infrastructure, inadequate equipment and manpower, the Chief Minister assured complete overhaul of the hospital.

He asked the health authority to submit a comprehensive proposal mentioning all requirements such as medicines, manpower, equipment and machineries including all renovation works and new constructions if need be.

The CM asked the authority prepare proposal purely on need base, and said that the government would fund for a complete proposal rather than for piece-meal

requirements.

He inspected the eye operation room and the working conditions of the equipment.

While on way towards examination room, he stumbled upon steel materials lying on the path.

Annoyed, the CM directed the authority to auction or dispose all unused equipment and machineries so that more rooms can be created. Also he instructed to conduct social service on Saturdays to keep the hospital compound and buildings clean.

He also visited the blood bank, sisters’ duty room and the examination room. The hospital had 800 unit of blood, which the doctors

mentioned that it was more than sufficient. On enquiring about the power supply to the blood bank, the doctors informed that it was powered by solar and main power line.

During inspection of the XRay room, the doctors informed the Chief Minister of lack of specialists such as Radiologists, Medicine specialists and ENT surgeon.

The CM visited the maternity ward and neonatal intensive care unit. He found the operation room with leaking roof that had completely drenched the floor due to heavy downpour in recent days. The Chief Minister asked the authority to bring along the department engineers for complete survey for such

renovation works.

He also visited the operation theatre, where he was informed of equipment shortages such as Boyle’s Apparatus, C-Arm, digital LED shadowless OT light, Autoclave and Incinerator.

Taking round of the hospital, the Chief Minister met few patients at the patient ward. He asked them about the facilities being provided and sought to know if they were satisfied with it.

The CM urged upon the need for the hospital system to be monitored more stringently, and assured that the government would do all its best what it can do provide best health care facilities.

Arunachal CM distributes ex-gratia relief for landslide victims at Bhalukpong Contd. from Page 1 Meeting the families of the victims, the Chief Minister offered his heartfelt condolences and regretted that he could not visit them earlier, as he was in New Delhi at the time of the accident. He also sent words of condolences on behalf of Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju.

On hearing about the accident, the CM said he had immediately directed the DC Bomdila to reach on the spot with all department officials, police team and medical team and to carry out the search and rescue operation.

He informed that he had also asked the administration to use Rs 30 lakhs on its disposal for immediate relief

activities and has sanction Rs 1 crore for further restoration activities.

The Chief Minister thanked paramilitary personnel, BRTF, NDRF, HODs, panchayat leaders, and the local people for rendering help in search and rescue operation.

Terming the incident as unfortunate, the CM urged the people to learn from the tragedy. “The accident is our own making,” he asserted and observed that the accident site became prone to landslide because of the earth cutting activities.

The Chief Minister asked the district administration to strictly ban people from unmindful and rampant earth cutting to prevent such accident in future. He also directed the administration to impose strict penalty especially

“ NE people are often racially discriminated because of ignorance of the abuser” Contd. from Page 1

a sense of brotherhood, love, peace and communal harmony amongst the citizens of India.

While exhorting the youths to carry on legacy of maintaining peace and tranquility in the country, State Power Minister, Tsering Norbu Thongdok said religious tolerance and respect to others culture is the mantra to bring peace, progress and prosperity in a society.

Extending his support to NYP movement for integration of the youths into one mainstream through communal harmony, the minister said despite diversity in culture and languages, the tribal people in Arunachal Pradesh co-exist peacefully since time immemorial, which reflects the unity in diversity of the country.

Expressing his surprise over the missing of Arunachal Map in

Geography textbook, Thongdok felt that communication gap could be bridged between the mainland people and northeastern region through cultural exchanges and would offer better understanding among the different communities to respect each other ’s religion, history and culture.

those involved in rock and gravel mining on the banks of the river.

The CM expressed regret on absentee officials who despite the tragic accident were not present in their posting place. Lamenting their absence, he asked the administration for disciplinary actions and suspension of erring officials.

The Chief Minister earlier visited the accident spot where the buildings of the inspection bungalow and circuit house suffered damaged. He visited the spot where all the deceased had met their tragic end and also inspected the extent of damage to the buildings, and the damage caused to the water and power supply system.

For restoration of the IB and the circuit house, the CM

The Chief Minister inspected classrooms to see for himself the condition.

He also inspected the toilet facilities for the students.

The school authority placed the demand for two numbers of subject teacher in the position of senior teachers including a junior teacher for English subject.

Also they asked the Chief Minister for funds for construction of boundary wall around the school com-

pound.

The Chief Minister instructed the authority to prepare a proposal for complete requirement of infrastructure and manpower and also enquired on the staff position such as peon, sweepers etc. He also asked them to prepare proposal for internal roads and directed to construct cattle trapping facilities and drainage facilities with proper sewage system.

The CM further instructed the school authority to keep

provisions for three sources of power and water supply system. He asked them to keep options for solar, DG set and main line for electricity supply; and for water supply, he asked them to keep options for boring water, overhead tank and main supply line.

He inspected the principal’s office, teachers’ common room and moved around the school campus to have better grasp of the school condition.

Low Cost Sanitary Napkin production unit launched at Khonsa, Tirap District ET Bureau Khonsa, 5 July : ‘WE CARE’ brand sanitary Napkin production unit was launched at DC office complex Khonsa on 5th July 2016 by Ravi Jha IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Tirap District. DC said that the concept of hygiene was found to be lacking in the villages.

The situation is grimmer in the remote villages of the district. In particular the hygiene practices employed by rural women during the menstrual cycle were found to be very poor.

As per the survey conducted (via questionnaire) in collaboration with NERCORMP Tirap, it was found that village women do not use any kind of sanitary pads during their menstrual cycle. . The findings of the research was that many women in the village used scrap cloths or nothing, the very traditional method for managing monthly period, leading to many health related problems for the women folk.

The reason behind non-us-

age was attributed by them to lack of awareness and monetary constraints. Further, majority of the women expressed willingness to use pads if a low cost alternative is made available to them.

Consequently, a Low Cost Sanitary Pad Project has been undertaken in the district. The project is based on the low cost sanitary pad machine invented by Sh. A r u n a c h a l a m Muruganantham of Coimbatore who is one of the vanguards of sanitary pads movement in India (named among Times 100 ).

The operation of the project will be done by women SHG under the aegis of

NERCORMP, Tirap whereby low cost pads will be manufactured by the women and sold to the rural women. The cost of an eight pad packet will come around to Rs. 23/- only. The project will have benefits of good health, improved hygiene, employment creation and will give an impetus to SHG movement in the district. ‘WE CARE’ will provide better menstrual hygiene and health care for women in the district and give livelihood opportunities to rural women. It will also create sales and distribution models through village level women entrepreneurs.

‘WE CARE’ production

unit is run by women group named Women Development SHG promoted by NERCORMP Tirap and Longding. Mr. Kannan from Coimbatore has come to Khonsa to train the SHG women members.‘WE CARE’ pads are UV rays sterilized and adhere to BIS standard for sanitary napkins. The product will be available at lowest market price. We care pad is fully biodegradable under compostable condition, solving the problem of rural disposal and ensuring minimal damage to the environment.

In the initial stage ‘WE CARE’ production unit will be monitored and supervise

by NERCORMP Tirap till the Women Development SHG could handhold the unit.

WE CARE will be the first napkin production unit in the state, Arunachal Pradesh with an aim to provide better menstrual hygiene to the women and reach the women of the most remote and interior villages in the district of the state at the lowest price.

Apatanis progressing culturally, economically and educationally: Deputy CM, Chowna Mein Contd. from Page 1

every society social system has to be respected, every believe has to be recognized and the government at the centre and the state recognized this and I follow this guideline, he added.

Appreciating the effort of the Apatani community in making the Lower Subansiri district plastic free zone, Mein appealed all to do the same in Namsai district. He called upon the people of area and youths for inter-tribe interaction programme with the Apatani people to learn their ways of life and shared his experience on practicing improvised mediation for focused and calm mind.

The Arunachal Chapter, NYP, President, H P Biswas and its Vice President cum senior journalist, Pradeep Kr Behra and Netrapal Singh, one of former dreaded dacoits of Chambal Valley, who had joined the national mainstream at the The mythology on Dree is call of Jai Prakash Narayan amongst other about agriculture system of attended the inaugural the Apatani tribe. All festival celebrated in State are related function.

It was also marked by a group dance performed by school children and local youths on Bharat ki Satan, choreographed by NYP Dance Director, Narendra Bhai and tuned to the floor on song sung by Dr Rao, lovingly called Bhaiji.

asked the administration to prepare a proposal for reconstruction of the buildings.

He also asked for immediate repair and restoration of water facilities on top priority and SOS basis assuring that there would be no shortage of funds in repair works.

The Chief Minister also visited the Tippi bridge point and Kola camp to inspect river erosion and asked the department to prepare proposals for protection works.

He also for a proposal for a protection walls near the Bhalukpong guesthouse whose boundary walls faces the risk of falling due to river erosion.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Power Minister TN Thongdok, Yachuli MLA Likha Saaya, Tali MLA Markio Tado and Raga MLA Tamar Murtem.

"Each classroom in the school accommodated 150 students on average leading to overcrowding. The school built in 1953 urgently need complete renovation and overhauling, urged the school authority."

The CM found the school infrastructure in deplorable state with broken walls, floors and poor water supply.

to socio-agricultural festival, Sangken like Dree is also socio-agricultural festival of Khampti tribe. Agriculture being the main activity of all the tribes, we must learn the unique way of sustainable and efficient methods that the Apatani people have been following to cultivate rice, he added.

Mein exhorted that it is also important to preserve the indigenous varieties of crop.

For fulfilling the high yielding demand, people are mixing the various indigenous crops and so it is losing its natural aromas and its originality. If steps to preserve the indigenous varieties of crop are not taken now than it won’t be long that we may lose all indigenous crops for want of quantity not quality.

The Deputy Chief Minister congratulated the newly inducted APPSCE Circle Officer from the Apatani community Ligang Ampi who joined in Namsai.

Welcoming her, the DCM hoped that she discharges her duties diligently and will contribute for upliftment of the district. He also appreciated Dr Lod Tayo posted in Mahadevpur for performing his duties sincerely.

Speaking on the occasion, Parliamentary Secretary Tax & Excise Chow Zingnu Namchoom wished the entire Apatani community for bumper harvest and prosperous Dree festival. He also suggested the Dree

Festival Celebration Committee Namsai district for organizing the Dree festival next year in Namsai in a grand way.

Others who spoke on the occasion included Chairman of Dree Celebration Committee Dr Rani Rika and the mythology of Dree festival was read out by Ligang Ampi.

The unique and interesting part of the festival included distribution of cucumber, symbolizing the sacredness of vegetables, to guest and participants. Other highlights of the festival included Daminda dance performance by all dignitaries which added festivity, fervor and colours to the day. Besides seeking blessings of almighty for a bumper harvest along with colourful cultural programmes presented by the Nyishi, Galo, Singpho and Apatani dance troops , the community feast served with delicious rice and millet beer added attraction to the celebration.

Earlier, Deputy Chief Minster Chowna Mein unfurled the Dree flag and Parliamentary Secretary Tax & Excise Chow Zingnu Namchoom inaugurated the Dree festival by cutting the cucumber in pieces.

Arunachal CM Pul promises a memorable Golden Jubilee Dree Festival - 2017 with a new Dree Ground Contd. from Page 1

We will sanction whatever funds is required to construct the new stage from the state government's corpus fund", Pul said which addressing a mammoth gathering at the Dree Festival Ground, here today. The Chief Minister was responding to a formal request made by the local MLA Tage Taki, who is also the Chairman of the Central Dree Festival Orgainsing Committee. In his speech, Taki had earlier requested the CM to sanction an additional amount of 2 crores - in addition to the already sanctioned 1 crore by the state government for development of the new Dree ground in Ziro. "A bad habit has been noticed among our new generation.

We are adopting the western culture but forgetting our own rich tradtion. Of course, for this we cannot blame the youths alone. We will have to take equal responsibility, we will have to show them the way so

that even if they adopt western culture, they do not neglect their own culture", the chief minister said. Pul also promised a more developed an organized Ziro if he continues to remain the CM of the state in the next three years. "We will develop the hospital which I visited this morning, I will also consult the matter of a new police station for old Ziro with deputy CM Kameng Dolo which is also holding the charge of home as well as with the state Director General of Police immediately, we will help Ziro develop so that more visitors and tourist come here and have a memorable stay", the CM said.

Delivering his speech, Paknga Bage, parliamentary secretary for home and MLA, Dumporijo announced an assistance of 5 lakhs for the development of the Dree Festival ground. Bage also called upon the youths to be more responsible and follow the three Ps -

protection, preservation and promotion of their own culture which is rich and at the same time value based.

Earlier, the festivities got underway with the unfurling of the Dree flag by the local MLA Tage Taki, who is also the Chairman of the Central Dree Festival Orgainsing Committee. Apatani women and young girls dressed in their best traditional attire presented various group dances. A couple of dance troupes from Nyshi tribe from Raga and Yazali also took part during the festival.

It might be mentioned that Dree festival is an agrarian based festival of the Apatanis of Arunachal Pradesh. It is the biggest festival of the tribe and is being celebrated with a mixture of tradition and modernity since 1967. It is celebrated with zest marked by sacrificial offerings and prayers. Likha Saaya, MLA, Yachuli, Markio Tado, MLA, Tali and Tamar Murtem, MLA, Raga were also present among other dignitaries.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

PAGE 4

Cachar MP expresses serious concern over delay in construction of East- West corridor ET Correspondent Haflong, July 5: Expressing serious concern over the delaying attitude of the NHAI in constructing EastWest corridor (SaurastraSilchar), the Cachar MP, Sushmita Deb said, she would definitely raise this issue in the Parliament. Ms Deb was here at Haflong on Tuesday to take the stock of the situation of BG and Mahasarak. She was accompanied by NHAI Project Director, Project Managers of HCC, NKC and JKM, Chief Administrative Officer, NF Railway, Chief Engineer, N F Railway etc.

After reaching New Haflong Railway station she held a meeting with all the railway, NHAI and company officials and wanted to

MYS donates money for buying tiles ET Correspondent Golaghat, July 5: For the upcoming occasion of Eid, the organization under the banner of Maheswari Yuva Sangathan, Golaghat, donated cash money for tiles to Islampatyy Mosque.

Secretary of Mosque, Akbar Ali who was present at the time of receiving cash amount, praised the noble work of the organization. Its need to be mention that the motto behind this work is to spread the message of unity.

by heavy landslide resulting to disruption of rail services. She said both Lumding- Silchar BG and East – West corridor are the prime life lines of the people of Barak Valley and Dima Hasao and even to neighboring states like Tripura, Manipur and Mizoram also.

know why the NHAI has failed to keep the NH-54 E motor. She then visited the Migrendisa site of railway, where the foundation of track was damaged due to heavy land slip followed by incessant rain, resulting to disruption of rail services

since May 16th.

Talking to the media MP Deb said during last two and half years, the NHAI has done less than zero progress in the construction of EastWest corridor but raised excuses like land dispute

etc. She argued, if railway could manage then why not NHAI in negotiating with the problems.

Railway MP said, the railway has been doing its best, despite many challenges like incessant rain followed

Namrup demands early settlement of Namrup IV fertilizer plant A Correspondent Namrup, July 5: Being the lone Fertilizer Industry in the entire North – Eastern Region, the Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Ltd (earlier FCI & HFC) whose inception has enormously contributed to the economic, agricultural and industrial sector in Assam is under worse scenario, since the 2nd and 3rd units of the BVFCL, set up in the way back 1976 and 1987 respectively has already lost its technical viability.

During his last visit to BVFCL Namrup on June 26, 2006, the Union Minister of Fertilizer and Chemicals, Ram Vilas Paswan, declared that Namrup IV Fertilizer plant would be set up at the earliest possible time but since then no positive intention has been seen from the central government. Instead of investing directly on this proposed plant, the Central Govt. has planned to complete the project in the Joint Venture, in-

formed by a reliable source. Therefore the process of setting up the Namrup IV plant is still in a stagnant position.

Sources disclosed that M/S Gujrat State Fertilizer & private sector enterprise Adani Group are keenly interested to invest the 52% of capital.

Hence, a sense of fear has already gripped the people of Namrup with the assumption that if the private enterprise like Adani Group gets the tender for 52% share of

Flood situation creates havoc in Governor extends Morigaon district, Pobitora Eid greetings Sanctuary under serious threat ET Correspondent Morigaon, July 5: The overall flood situation of Morigaon district took a grim turn today as the Brahmaputra River inundated more than 50 revenue villages in Bhuragaon and Mayong revenue circles, affecting more than 30 thousand people.

The situation of Pakariya mouza is worsening day by day due to the surging water which is damaging the standing crops of the reason rapidly. More than 700 hectres of land has been damaged.

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctu-

Ajit Pandit, CAO, NF Railway said, track laying and linking in the diverted alignment will be completed today itself and we are expecting to run ballast train by tomorrow and the services would be started before July 10 as targeted.

He also said that for few days there will be goods trains and after proper observation the train service will be made open, but with limited speed.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July 5: The ary- the world's densest Governor of Arunachal habitat of one horned rhi- Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has nos was flooded by the extended his heartiest Brahmaputra's water this greetings to the people of morning. According to the State and all the MusPobitoara's authority, lim brethren in India and more than 70% areas of all over the world on the the sanctuary is under auspicious occasion of flood, forcing wild ani- Eid-Ul-Fitr, which marks mals including one horned the culmination of the rhinos to go nearby high- Holy month of Ramzan. land of the sanctuary.

The forest staff of He expressed hope that Pobitora launched 24 the festival will inspire all hours vigil to protect the to follow the path of wildlife of the sanctuary. peace, harmony and tolerNo poaching was reported ance, informed in a press so far. However, one rhino release issued by the addied naturally during last ministration. week inside the sanctuary, informed forest staff of In his festival greetings, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctu- the Governor said that Idul-Fitr is observed across ary.

the country and the World over, with traditional gaiety and piety. The month long fasting culminates in celebration by the festival of Eid-Ul-Fitr with feasting and merriment cutting across all differences. The spirit of generosity and charity that is highlighted by this festival, promotes the feeling of universal brotherhood amongst all citizens.

“May the noble ideals of Id-ul-Fitr fill our lives with peace, prosperity, harmony and happiness and unite us all in the spirit of universal brotherhood of entire humanity,” the Governor wished in his message.

"Jogi de Naal" is a song which exuberates the melody of Sufi music and the rhythm of Qawaali in a delicate balance, blended beautifully with contemporary music,’’ said Kashyap.

Kaushik has been a fantastic singer and can sing all types of songs. His journey towards music stared from a tender age and he got for-

sion for the audience’’ he added. The music is composed by Vivian Vaidya , an avid music composer and an ex- navy official whose composition mesmerizes every listener with this enchanting rhythmic melody.

mal education on music from his home. In 2012, he sung ‘Mur Ganor’ for an Assamese Short film ‘Salesmen’ which got lots of appreciation from the audience.

Moreover, the video plays

an equally important role for "Jogi de naal",as the visualization gets a treat adding the mystic and sufi touch to the song. “I think that every section of people will love our song and it will be a completely different experience of Sufi-fu-

Kashyap has performed in many concerts in India. He was the lead vocalist in the troupe of Ali Quli Mirza and they have together performed in many shows.

Apart from that Kashyap has also acted in an international short film "Hunz & Gunz" which has received a lot of acclaim.

Over the years, Sufi music has seen transformations and evolution with inclusion of rock, pop and Persian touch to the Indianized sufi songs.

ET Correspondent Morigaon, July 5: The economy of Assam is mainly agrarian with agriculture contributing about 25% to the state’s net domestic product and providing livelihood support to more than 50 percent of the rural population. Though it is basically an agrarian state, the productivity of oilseeds and pulses are very low and their total production are also inadequate to cater the need of the state.

Paddy is a major food crop and has substantially increased production of paddy in the state. However oilseed production is yet to get a boom in the state. The Dept. of Agriculture and Cooperation, Govt. of India, therefore have taken up a massive programme on cluster demonstration on pulses and oilseeds (through ATARI Zone III stationed at Barapani) which has given a scope for conversion of some monocropped areas into double cropping resulting into additional employment generation during rabi sea-

son in the farm sector.

Under the programme of oilseeds for summer season an area of 10 hectare was selected and programme was conducted in Jagi Bhakatgaon and Daburghat enveloping a total of 25 farmers. Now, at the end of the year, it is time to see back and analyze the success and failure of the programme through the eyes of participating farmers, villagers and the officials of Assam Agricultural University. The crop is in harvesting stage so a field day was conducted to access the farmer’s satisfaction in the technologies and also their willingness to adopt the same in the next season.

Programme coordinator, Krishi Vigyan Kendra Morigaon expressed sincere gratitude to the farmers for their effort in making the project activities successful through their dedication, hard work and wished them success in farming and asked them to come forward

capital investment for the Namrup IV plant then the Shradha NGO holds awareness maximum share of the meeting in Lakhimpur said new plant would be under the hands of pri- ET Correspondent Kamalaboria Gaon vate control.

Lakhimpur, July 5: Panchayat area covering Shradha, a non-govern- Rangchali, Alengmora, Therefore the masses of Namrup as well as the mental organization Bantou Bangali area etc. employees of BVFCL (NGO) who has been It is noteworthy that sevhave urged upon the Cen- implementing survey of eral child labours were Labour in rescued from the mentral Govt to reconsider Child the entire issue and take Lakhimpur under Na- tioned areas. urgent and quick steps to tional Child Labour set up Namrup IV plant Project organized an Participating in the meetat the earliest for the sur- awareness meeting on ing, the co-coordinators of the NGO suggested of vival & sustainability of Child Labour.

Child the lone Fertilizer indus- This kind of meeting was establishing try of the entire NER. also held on 3rd July at Labour Training Centers.

PPLAWC strike against NEEPCO

AACWA expresses concern over Chief Minister Office

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July 5 : The 12-hour Pare Hydro Electric Project (PHEP), NEEPCO Ltd bandh called on Tuesday by Pare Project Land Affected Welfare Committee (PPLAWC) passed peacefully, with all working sites of project areas, HoP office and HCC Ltd and other company office completed closed.

ET Bureau Itanagar, 5 July : The All Arunachal Contractors welfare Association (AACWA) express serious concern over the non-response attitude from the Chief Minister office (CMO) regarding a memorandum submitted regarding Abolition of Authorization system, Immediate posting of Regular Chief Engineer CSQ PWD and Adoption of 2.5 % BG for tribal’s contractors. “The Govt. should instruct its officers to address any association or organization that is submitting memorandum for the interest of people,” lamented AACWA in an official press release.

The 12-hour Pare project area bandh was called to press for immediate appointment of 50 ITI trainees as per the agreement between PPLAWC and NEEPCO Ltd management in early 2012 and for immediate cancelation of special recruitment for STs, SCs and OBCs. Sensing the apathetic attitude of the NEEPCO Ltd authority, the PPLAWC said that it would continue with its bandh call against NEEPCO Ltd in the project area of PHEP till the demands are fulfilled.

Dibrugarh boy lends voice in Sufi-fusion song ‘Jogi de Naal’ A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jul 5: Dibrugarh boy Kaushik Kashyap’s first ever sufifusion song ‘Jogi de Naal’ is going to release shortly in Mumbai. Kaushik has lended his voice to this exclusive song and acted as a protagonist in the video as well. “I am singing this song for Audumbar Arts production. I am very much excited about the song to release.

KVK Morigaon conducts Field Day on sesame under Cluster Frontline Demonstration of Oilseeds

"Jogi de naal"is penned by an upcoming lyricist from Bollywood Alok Ranjan Jha, who has brilliantly put words and emotions together to ensemble the song with richness of Sufi .Alok Ranjan is the lyricist of the song "Baroodi Hawa" from the recently released film "Shorgul".

The song is produced by Audumber Arts , an upcoming Production House,headed by Soumya Mohanty Vilekar,who is a published author, poet, writer and blogger whose works are featured in many anthologies and journals and who is a recipient of the Sahityashree award conferred by IICCA(InterContinental Cultural Association)for her work in literature and poetry.

Even after completing works as per work orders, contractors didn’t get their bills because they require authoriza-

tion from the Finance Minister and the Dept of finance is hold by the Chief Minister Himself. But it’s difficult to get the approval because he is always busy. Due to delay in getting authorization from him, concerned executing agencies are unable to make payment to contractors and hence the contractors faced difficulties in completing remaining work on time which hamper the development activities in the state, the press release stated.

AACWA also urge PWD Minister to take care of the conditions of the twin capital. Due to heavy rainfall, conditions of the capital road are even fit for moving of tractor or JCB. Several potholes have grown even after the black toping done recently by the Department of Highway.

and associate themselves with newly established Krishi Vigyan Kendra in the district. The field day was graced by Associate Professor, Dr Manoj Kumar Kalita from Biswanath College of Agriculture.

Speaking at the occasion Dr. Kalita urged the farmers to take up the technologies initiated by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Morigaon and talked to the farmers about the project, its success and loopholes. During the interaction farmers raised various questions which were answered by official on all queries raised by them.

The meeting was attended by farmers from the village and nearby villages. Among the other officials of KVK present in the meeting were Mrs Julie Sharma, Mrs Ranjita Bezbaruah, Mrs Rupjyoti Bhattacharjee, Mrs Pallavi Saikia and Mr Jiaul Hoque. AEA of the area was also found present in the programme. The programme was anchored

by Mrs Pallavi Saikia.

Rajya Sabha MP, Bhubaneshwar Kalita likely to be appointed as APCC President ET Correspondent Guwahati, Jul 5 : Former Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president and Rajya Sabha MP Bhubaneshwar Kalita is likely to be appointed APCC president by the end of this year for a full term.

According to AICC sources, the party leadership at New Delhi is on the lookout for someone who is acceptable all through the state, and cutting across all communities and groups.

“Kalita has been among the most successful APCC president in the recent past, and in the 2009 Lok Sabha election Congress won 7 seats and also won the 2011 assembly election with a thumping majority. Both these elections wee contested under his leadership,” said a senior AICC secretary.

On being asked about in charge APCC president Ripun Bora, he said that Bora will not be made a full time president and it is only for a shortperiod.

“The party leadership wanted some time to arrive at a decision on the best person for the post, so for that period had appointed Bora,” said the secretary.

Assam Govt warns severe action for submitting false income certificate in colleges Contd. from Page 1

In this process such students had blocked some seats unnecessarily. The Govt. of Assam appealed to all such students to decide before 10th of July, 2016 as to which college he or she will like to pursue his/her studies and to surrender his/ her seats and if it is found that the students who are enrolled in more than one college, their admission may be liable to be cancelled. The Govt. of Assam is committed to help those who in spite of their academic performance cannot pursue higher studies for poor income of their parents.

This scheme is meant for such student, whose parent’s annual income is less than 1lakh. So, the Govt. of Assam appealed to all concerned parents who should not deserve the benefit of the above scheme to withdraw the income

certificate from the concerned college and submit the required fees to college authorities by 10th July 2016. In case it is found that the income certificate submitted by a student is false, the state Government will take necessary action it deems fit. The state Government will also take necessary action against any state Government officials including Mouzadar who has issued such false certificates. The college authorities are requested to keep concerned original documents submitted by the students including the income certificates, marks sheets and pass certificates of the higher secondary examination during the process of verification by 10th July, 2016. Similarly all students who submitted duplicate attested copies of their certificates for admission are requested to deposit the original above copies to the college authorities by 7th of July,

2016.

All college authorities have been asked to publish the names of all students admitted in their colleges in their web site including those who have been admitted based on their income certificates of Rs. One lakh or less. Any person having any genuine doubt regarding authenticity of such certificate may submit complaint to the concerned Principal of the College with necessary supporting document for verification.

The Government of Assam in the Education Department is committed to all sections of the society, more particularly the student community that it is concerned and fully responsible for providing Higher Education to our students by making it accessible to all. In this regards, the Education Department, Govt. of Assam solicits the best of cooperation and support from all.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

PAGE 5

Pan-Naga body is a people's figment of imagination : Sat-yendra Garg Imphal, July 5: Ministry of Home Affairs, Joint Secretary (North East in-charge) Satyendra Garg has categorically stated the speculation that establishment of a pan-Naga body would be the solution of the peace talk between the Government of India and NSCN-IM is some people's figment of imagination.

A seven-day training programme on commercial flori- culture was opened today at KVK Hengbung.

The training programme organised by Foundation for Environment and Economic Development Services (FEEDS) is being participated by around 60 farmers.

Speaking to media persons after the inaugural session of the training programme, Satyendra

Joshi 'unaware' of dissidents' demand Shillong, July 5: The AICC general secretary in charge Meghalaya CP Joshi, who arrived here on Monday night, was in a denial mode when asked about the demand of the dissidents for a change of leadership.

When his reaction was sought on the demand for change of leadership by the dissidents, Joshi said, "I am not aware of this".

To the repeated questions on his assessment of the political situation in Meghalaya, the AICC leader told reporters that he has to first acquaint himself about the party matters in the state.

"I have to understand myself the party affairs in Meghalaya", Joshi said.

To a query on whether there will be a CLP meeting on Tuesday, the AICC leader said he would meet MLAs who are part of PCC indicating that no CLP meeting has been scheduled to settle the leadership issue once and for all.

When asked on the comments of BJP leader Nalin Kohli about the fall of the Congress led MUA-II government in the state, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma intervened and said," Floor management is my job.

As a seasoned politician, I am aware how floor crossing takes place" Answering a question, Joshi, however, claimed that the vote share of the Congress is intact though BJP came to power at the Centre in 2014 even as he asserted that the Congress enjoys the confidence of majority of voters in the country.

Commenting on Assam situation, Joshi threw a challenge to the BJP leaders in the neighbouring state to see what will happen in 2019, indicating a reversal of results in the Lok Sabha polls then.

(Agencies)

Garg stated that rumours and hearsays should not be taken as truths.

The long peace process (with NSCN-IM) would not be affected by the demise of the outfit's Chairman.

The peace process will go on and it will arrive at a solution, asserted the Joint Secretary.

He further assured that all stake holders would be consulted before a final solution is worked out.

Stating that New Delhi has initiated dialogue process with many UG groups which are under Suspension of Operation (SoO) Pact, Satyendra Garg exuded that an amicable solution can be explored.

He added that the Government of Manipur is also a party to the dialogue process.

Pan-Naga body is a people's figment of imagination With regard to the insurgency affected State of Mani- pur, Government of India follows two strategies.

The first strategy is about making all efforts to bring the insurgents to negotiating tables and resolve the issue through dialogue. The second strategy is about providing assistance to people who stay away from insurgency for their eco-

nomic development.

The Government of India has no objection to enforcement of Inner Line Permit System or a similar mechanism in Manipur but the three Bills passed by the State Government towards this effect were opposed by tribal people of the State.

In the anti-Bills protest at Churachandpur, nine people were killed and their mortal remains

have not been put to rest till date.

The State Government should address the tribal people's sense of insecurity and bring a consensus or an understanding on the issue.

Different communities of Manipur have been living together for ages and they can certainly reconcile with each other. There must be a way of reconciliation, Satyendra Garg asserted.

The Government of India would work for the welfare of Manipur, he said and went on to ask as to why there should be difference of opinions in implementing ILPS or a similar mechanism in the State.

The State Government should resolve the issue by holding dialogue with all stake holders, he continued.

As for the UG groups

which are under Memorandum of Understanding, it is the duty of the State Government to build proper desig- nated camps for them. The Centre will provide assistance, if required, he added.

Earlier speaking at the inaugural session of the training programme, Satyendra Garg stated that the people of Manipur have been suffering since 1947/49 but lately they have imbibed a positive attitude. The seven-day training programme would certainly prove to be immensely beneficial to the farmers, he remarked.

Prof JM Laishram of CAU's College of Agriculture, Senapati DC Jacintha Lazarus and former MU Registrar RJ Ranjan were also seated on the dais. (Agencies)

Key dissidents to give Joshi meet the slip Shillong, July 5: Several dissidents have decided to skip the meeting to be chaired by the new AICC general secretary incharge Meghalaya CP Joshi on Tuesday at Congress Bhawan since Joshi would not be holding one-to-one meeting with them to address the key issue of demand for change of leadership.

As per schedule, Joshi will address the gathering of the MPCC office bearers, MP, MLAs, MDCs, district and block functionaries and heads of departments of the party at Congress Bhawan at 11 am on Tuesday.

Later, at 2 pm, Joshi will hold separate interactions with the same group before he leaves Shillong at 5.30 pm.

On the eve of the meeting, the party sources said that those legislators who have decided not to attend the meeting include PN Syiem, Comingone Ymbon, Kennedy C Khriem, Celestine Lyngdoh, and Ronnie Lyngdoh.

According to sources, Kennedy who is the CLP secretary and others are already out of station.

Since no notice for CLP meeting was issued for Tuesday, the issue of solving the leadership is-

sue in CLP will not be a reality, and hence the issue will still linger on, sources added.

Soon after the arrival of Joshi accompanied by Assam Congress legislator Rockybul Hussain on Monday night at Hotel Pinewood, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, MPCC president DD Lapang, Cabinet Ministers Prestone Tynsong, Sniawbhalang Dhar, Deborah Marak, Zenith Sangma, Roshan Warjri and former Congress legislator Abdus Saleh met the AICC leader.

Sources, however, said that there is growing frustration among the

dissidents that the AICC leader's visit will be a routine exercise without addressing the core issue which is the demand for change of leadership.

"We had seen in the past that after the erstwhile AICC leader in charge Meghalaya V. Narayanasamy assessed the political situation in the state, there was no favourable outcome", a dissident legislator said.

In a new development, the Chief Minister Mukul Sangma had met the MPCC president DD Lapang on Sunday night seeking his support to work together and to ensure unity in the party.

Party sources said that the Chief Minister also met some of the ministers to ensure their support to him till the end of the term.

Earlier in the day, the MPCC president DD Lapang told reporters that as the state party chief, he does not wish to be projected as the leader of the dissident group.

"As MPCC president I want to be neutral and hence I do not want to come to the forefront", he said. He, however, did not deny the demand for change of leadership from several Congress legislators.(Agencies)

Manipur CM urges sheltered villagers to return home

Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh Imphal, July 5: Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh on Monday appealed to the people of Nungei Meetei villages, having taken shelter at relief camps at Lilong Chajing, to return to their home.

Ibobi told media the differences between the two groups, following the June 27 violence, have been resolved.

All the differences between the two groups have been sorted out with the involvement of respective JACs, he said.

Curfew remained in force in the violence-torn Nungei locality in Thoubal district during certain period of the day but the situation showed signs of returning to normalcy since the June 27

clashes between two groups of neighbouring villages, a police officer said earlier in the day.

Displaced villagers of Nungei Meetei hamlet, numbering around 400, earlier told local media they will not return to their homes unless the government provided enough security.

The displaced persons have taken shelter at Lillong Chajing in Thoubal district and Iram Siphai in Imphal West district ever since June 27, JAC Convenor Khaidem Sanjay said.

A teenager was killed in gunfire and at least 12 persons were injured in the said incident which was marked by stone pelting, reports said.

(Agencies).

All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) stormed the MOBC office

Air travel controversy in KHADC refuses to die down Shillong, July 5: The air-travel controversy involving KHADC CEM P. N Syiem and his EMs refused to die down on Monday with the CEM acknowledging that he visited Delhi to meet AICC general secretary in charge Meghalaya V. Narayanasamy, to pursue the pending Bill related to empowerment of headmen.

Over Rs 9 lakh was spent for the visit of the CEM and a group of EMs to Delhi by air.

Observing that accep-

tance by the CEM revealed a peculiar attitude which is perplexing, the HSPDP MDC Pyniaid Sing Syiem said that as he had taken the money from the KHADC to visit Delhi for issues regarding the Congress party, it is clear that the visit was not to raise the issues concerning KHADC affairs.

"He has lied to the people that his visit to Delhi was for the issues regarding the problems faced by KHADC", the MDC said,

Shillong Civil now eHospital Shillong, July 5: Patients can now book OPD appointments online at the Shillong Civil Hospital with just the click of a button. The online registration system was launched at the hospital here on Monday by Health and Family Welfare Minister, A.L. Hek as part of the Centre's Digital India campaign.

The initiative aims to reduce waiting time of patients at the OPD counters and streamline the rush for out-patient consultations.

The patients can use their Aadhar or mobile phone number to avail the online registration system facility, Hek informed after the inauguration. Patients using mobile phones can get confirmation through SMS. Post the launch, Shillong Civil Hospital also became the first hospital in the State to offer online services to patients including registration for doctor's appointment, status of lab reports etc.

On being asked whether rural folks can grasp the notion of online booking for they are not computer literate, Hek did not give a direct answer but expressed confidence that things will fall into place with time.

"It's a slow process‌ It is the beginning. Most people did not know how to use mobile phones when they were first introduced," he said adding that a help desk should be in place to help people under the new system.

On the problem of connectivity that ails mobile phone users in far flung areas, Hek said, "We will try to meet the demands of the people.

The CHCs and PHCs in rural areas have internet connectivity and people can make online registration through these health centres. It will be much easier with mobile phones."

On the occasion, Hek also appealed doctors to be punctual.

"The doctors should arrive on time and should not make the patients wait for hours," he said even as he urged the nurses to be polite and to patients.

Others present during the inauguration function included K.W. Marbaniang, Secretary Health and Family Welfare, R. Wankhar, DHS (MI), R.O. Budnah, DHS (R), B. Mawlong, Medical Superintendent, Shillong Civil Hospital.(Agencies)

According to the MDC, the reply to RTI query did not reveal that he met the AICC leader over VAB. By acknowledging that he met Narayanasamy, it will be the first step to his downfall," Pyniaid said.

Pyniaid's criticism came after the CEM clarified to the media that his Delhi visit on May 26 last is to seek Narayanasamy's intervention over the indifferent attitude of the state government regarding the VAB to ensure that

the Bill gets the assent of the Governor.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Pyniaid alleged that the CEM and EM of Finance Antonio War is taking advantage as they went to Delhi for their personal benefits.

"Visiting Delhi for the party's benefits will endanger the finances of the KHADC and many a time I have pointed out that the Executive Committee of the PDF should be economical and not waste money of the Council," Pyniaid said.

He also demanded from the CEM and EM finance to clarify on the air-tickets from Guwahati to Delhi to meet the AICC general secretary.

While CEM spent Rs.50, 648 for air travel, War spent Rs.65, 880 besides availing (TA/DA) amounting to Rs.20,000, while other MDCs availed Rs 17,000 for their journey.

The last visit of the CEM to Delhi was on March 17-21 incurring an expenditure of Rs 77,146.(Agencies)

Press Council team visits Imphal

A three-member sub-committee of Press Council of India (PCI) on Monday arrived at Imphal to recommend framing of guidelines for media and security forces in North East India Imphal, July 5: A threemember sub-committee of Press Council of India (PCI) on Monday arrived at Imphal to recommend framing of guidelines for media and security forces in North East India.

As per the decision of PCI taken on June 10, the Sub-Committee has also been asked to examine

the issue of recent directions issued by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to the media fraternity of Manipur, said a press release issued by All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU).

The arrival of the SubCommittee team is related to the summoning

of a few Imphal-based editors by NIA in connection with the ambush by a conglomeration of proscribed outfits CorCom which led to the dead of six Assam Rifles jawans in the Indo-Myanmar borders in the state's Chandel district on May 22.

The publication of the news about the ambush led the NIA to summon the Imphal-based editors to reveal the sources but AMWJU complained to the PCI stating it was a breach on freedom of press and professional ethics, said an advisor of AMWJU. The PCI Sub-Committee team which included Ravindra Kumar, Kosuri Amarnath and CK Nayak will further interact with other relevant government representatives and other stakeholders till their departure on July 6, said the release.(Agencies)

All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) stormed the MOBC office at North AOC on tuesday

Imphal, Jul 5 : Demanding release of funds meant for students' scholarship, a large number of students led by All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) stormed the MOBC office at North AOC today.

Security guards posted at the MOBC office locked the office as the students marched forward. The students tried to break open the doors.

Security guards, after a peaceful talk with the students opened the front lock and allowed the students to go up the first floor of the MOBC office building where they staged a protest demonstration shouting slogans demanding timely release of funds meant for scholarship.

As the situation went out of hand, the office doors were locked to keep the students from approaching into the office.

Police arrived at the scene when the protesting students

tried to force open the office.

After a brief talk with the students, the police allowed a team of six students inside the MOBC office to meet the officials.

AMSU general secretary Manjit Sarangthem said scholarships meant for students are not released in time.

The student body has submitted various memorandums to the MOBC Department demanding timely release of funds meant for scholarship but there has been no positive response till date.

An enquiry committee was set up to investigate into alleged forfeiture of several benefits entitled to students by the Department but the reports collected by the committee have not been released till date, the student body secretary said.

He further warned of intense agitation in case the scholarships are not released at the earliest. (Agencies)

Zoramthanga leaves for Thailand to broker peace Aizawl, July 5: In an effort to broker a peace deal between the ethnic-based insurgent groups of Myanmar and the Myanmar government, former Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga on Monday left for Bangkok to meet representatives of 16 such militant groups.

Zoramthanga, a former Mizo National Front (MNF) underground leader, told, "The militant groups are in the process of formulating their demands to the Myanmar government for continuation of parleys and wanted to learn about the Mizo Peace Accord signed between the Indian government and the erstwhile underground MNF in 1986."

He said his meeting with the representatives of the 16 militant groups would mainly be held in Chiangmai and Bangkok in

Thailand.

The former Mizoram chief minister said that the Myanmar insurgent groups have more faith in the new civilian government than the military junta and was optimistic on the outcome of the negotiations.

The ethnic-based militant groups including Kachins, Karens, Chins, Was, Arakanese and Shans have been fighting for regional autonomy for years and a few groups recently signed a ceasefire agreement with the government in the presence of Zoramthanga and India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit K. Doval.

The MNF chief had been involved in the Myanmar peace process at the invitation of the ethnic-based militant groups and the Myanmar government.

(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

PAGE 6

Apna Dal, BJP alliance will free UP from clutches of SP, BSP: Anupriya Patel New Delhi, July 5: Apna Dal MP Anupriya Patel, who is among the 19 new Ministers of State inducted in the Union Council of Ministers, today said that her party in alliance with the BJP will make Uttar Pradesh free from the clutches of the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

The Mirzapur MP said the relationship, which was established in 2014 between the Apna Dal and BJP, has now scaled new heights."In these two years, both parties have worked together with harmony, affection and admiration. And if we continue to work in

this manner then we will definitely be successful in our mission to rid Uttar Pradesh from the grasp of the SP and BSP," Patel, who is the daughter of OBC Kurmi leader late Sone Lal Patel, told.

"I would like to congratulate both parties on this occasion. I hope will be able to meet our goal by 2017," she added. The 35-year-old Apna Dal MP also thanked BJP president Amit Shah and all the senior leaders in the party for considering her to be a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Cabinet.

"Above all I would also like to thank the BJP and Apna Dal. It is Dr Sone

Civil Aviation ministry advises UP government, AAI to implement regional connectivity scheme at seven airports

AAI to implement regional connectivity scheme at seven airports New Delhi, July 5: The Ministry of Civil Aviation has advised the Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to implement the draft regional connectivity scheme at seven airports in the state as per the guidelines incorporated in the National Civil Aviation Policy announced on June 19, 201.6 Minister of State for Civil Aviation Mahesh Sharma and Civil Aviation Secretary Rajiv Nayan Choubey met state government and AAI officials to assessn the progress made on the development of airports in Uttar Pradesh and also on the implementation of the RCS. Earlier, the AAI had signed an MOU with the Government of Uttar Pradesh on February 24.2014 to develop airports and civil enclaves at seven airports namely, Agra, Allahabad, Bareilly, Kanpur, Faizabad, Meerut and Moradabad.

For this, the Master Plan has already been prepared

by AAI and the land requirement projected is of

state government. The state government has started the land acquisition proceedings and the land will be available for Agra, Allahabad, Bareilly and Kanpur by October 2016.

It has been decided to construct No Frill Airports/ Civil Enclaves at these airports. Considering this, the state government has requested that the land requirement for Meerut, Faizabad and Moradabad is to be reworked out.

It was decided to revise the complete Master Plan within one month's time so that the state government can start land acquisition proceedings.

For Jewar airport, the state government has submitted an application for getting the site clearance from the steering committee.

It was advised that the obstacle survey to be completed by the state government at the earliest so that the application for site clearance can be processed.

Sharma asked the Uttar Pradesh government and its officials to expedite the process. (ANI)

Fifth batch of pilgrims leave for Amarnath Yatra Srinagar, July 5: The fifth batch of Amarnath pilgrims today left for the holy cave shrine situated in the south of Himalayas from Jammu.

The fresh batch of pilgrims this early morning left from the Bhagwati Nagar-based Yatri Niwas in a convoy of 53 vehicles.

The yatris comprised of 1408 males, 362 females, 127 sadhus and 27 sadhvis. 56 vehicles, including LMVs and SRTC buses, carried the devotees to Kashmir Valley.

The pilgrimage from Jammu base camp is go-

ing on smoothly since July 1 and batches are leaving for the valley everyday regularly.

The authorities have made elaborate arrangements for boarding and lodging of yatris in Jammu and other parts of the state.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had earlier this month conducted mock exercises at Baltal and Pahalgam base camps to assess the preparedness and response mechanism of all those involved in management of the Yatra.

(ANI)

Apna Dal MP Anupriya Patel Lal Patel's hard work and dedication that Apna Dal got the opportunity to become a part of the Cabinet," she added.

Apna Dal, the NDA ally

in Uttar Pradesh, is likely to merge with the BJP any time soon. With the BJP eyeing to conquer the throne of Lucknow, its merger with the Apna

Dal prior to the polls will be significant as it would add the Kurmi vote bank to its kitty.

In a much-awaited Cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Modi today inducted 19 new faces, who have been chosen after an exhaustive vetting process to carry forward the government's vision of 'Gaon, Garib aur Kisan'.

President Pranab Mukherjee administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new Ministers at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Ministers of State are Faggan Singh Kulste, S.S. Ahluwalia, Ramesh Jigjinagi, Vijay Goel, Ramdas Athawale,

Rajen Gohain, Anil Madhav Dave, Parshottam Rupala, M.J. Akbar, Arjun Ram Meghwal, Jaswant Sinh Bhabhor, Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey, Ajay Tamta, Smt. Krishna Raj, Mansukh Mandaviya, Smt. Anupriya Patel, C.R. Chaudhary, P.P. Chaudhary and Dr. Subhash Bhamre.

Minister of State with independent charge Prakash Javadekar has been elevated to the rank of Cabinet Minister. This was the second expansion of the Narendra Modi government. The first major Cabinet reshuffle was in November 2014. (ANI)

Rajendra Kumar 'just an excuse' to target Kejriwal: AAP New Delhi, July 5 : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday dubbed the allegations being levelled against Principal Secretary Rajendra Kumar as baseless and said the main target here is Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Slamming the Centre over Kumar's arrest, AAP leader Ashutosh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is 'scared' of losing the upcoming elections in Goa and Punjab and is, therefore, targeting Kejriwal.

"The main target is Arvind Kejriwal in this (Rajendra Kumar's arrest). They want to paralyze the government. You are targeting all the officers without permission, not allowing anyone to grow.. Rajendra Kumar is just an excuse, the main target is Arvind Kejriwal," Ashutosh told.

"They are not allowing the AAP to function in Delhi. Modi ji is scared that if the AAP wins in

Punjab and Goa then there will be no stand of the BJP in this country.

The fear is leading them to do all this," he added.

The AAP leader dared the BJP-led Centre to produce all evidences against the Principal Secretary.

"If they have evidence against Rajendra Kumar, then where were these evidences from the past six months?...How come all of a sudden there is evidence? They are putting baseless allegations," he said.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) yesterday arrested Rajendra Kumar, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and a trusted and close aide of Kejriwal, on charges of alleged corruption.

According to CBI sources, Kumar has been charged with abusing his official position to award contracts to M/s Endeavour Systems Pvt. Ltd. and securing government tenders worth Rs. 9.5 crore

Principal Secretary Rajendra Kumar between 2007 and 2014 for the company.

Kumar has been booked under Section 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and under the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. According to CBI sources, Kumar has emerged as the kingpin of the 50 crore scam which first started activity in 2006.

Kumar had moved an appeal before a special court in March this year seeking the release of his

laptop, iPad and cash seized by the CBI. A trial court had in April also ordered the de-freezing of two bank accounts of M/s Endeavour Systems Pvt. Ltd. The Delhi High Court had then stayed the trial court's order allowing for defreezing of accounts of M/ s Endeavour Systems Pvt. Ltd. The CBI had in December last year raided Kumar's office at the Delhi Secretariat in connection with this case. (ANI)

Modi Govt. has become victim of 'manipulative statistics': Congress New Delhi, July 5 : The Congress on Tuesday lambasted the BJP-led NDA regime prior to the Cabinet reshuffle and said even bringing in hundred new ministers won't make any difference as the ruling dispensation has failed on both foreign as well as domestic front.

Justifying his assertion, Congress leaderSandeep Dikshit said the government has fallen very sharply in the last two years in people's views.

He, however, said it is Prime MinisterNarendra Modi's prerogative to expand or change his Cabinet.

"But I think it's not changing of ministers or getting new faces that will help this government. Very rarely has a government in two years fallen so sharply in the people's views. It has a failed foreign policies, its domestic policy is not working.

The way it handled drought, everybody criticised it. Irrigation just hasn't worked, smart cities have become elite concerns," Dikshit told.

"They manipulated statistics to show a growth rate that is not really felt by the people. So, they have become victim of their own manipulative statistics which is why they believe that the nation is doing

Congress leaderSandeep Dikshit well. In fact, the nation is in serious trouble," he added.

The Congress leader further alleged that all power lies with the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), adding the Ministers of State have no significance in the present regime.

The much-awaited reshuffle and expansion of the Union Council of Ministers will take place later in the day and some new faces are expected to be inducted while few ministers likely to be dropped.

President Pranab Mukherjee will administer the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at a function at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here at 11 a.m.

At present, there are 64 ministers, including Prime Minister Modi, in the

Council.

Prime Minister Modi will in all probability induct 19 new faces, who will bring their unique rich experience and expertise to their office.

According to sources, the selection framework clearly laid out by the Prime Minister was to bring in "doers and performers", who would deliver on his vision of development and good governance and further his central priority of "Gaon, Garib and Kisan".

BJP MPs S S Ahluwalia, Vijay Goel, Purushottam Rupala, Mansukhbhai Mandavia, Anil Madhav Dave, M J Akbar, Arjun Ram Meghwal and Anupriya Patel of Apna Dal and Ramdas Athawale of RPI among others most likely to find a place in the

expanded Cabinet.

The expansion comes after an exhaustive whetting and selection process to find out the best talent and people, who were assessed on the value they would bring to the Union Council of Ministers, said sources.

This marks a firm departure from the usual routine of frequent changes based on caste, religion and other time serving political considerations - and is a firm endorsement of the brand of developmental politics that the Prime Minister champions, they added.

The decision of expanding the Council of Ministers came after taking into consideration a diverse range of factors. The new ministers were identified from various walks of life who would bring their unique rich experience and expertise to their office, said sources.

The Prime Minister, who had reviewed the performance of various ministries indicating a reshuffle earlier on June 30, last expanded his Cabinet in November 2014.

According to the Constitution, the total number of ministers in the Council of Ministers must not exceed 15 percent of the total number of members of the Lok Sabha i.e. 82.

(ANI)

SC pulls up Google, Yahoo for hosting pre-natal sex determination sites

SC pulls up Google, Yahoo for hosting pre-natal sex determination sites New Delhi, July 5: The Supreme Court on Tuesday slammed search engines Google, Microsoft and Yahoo for showing sex determination contents on its websites and called on the Centre to come up with a memorandum to stop the 'abuse'.

The Apex Court also directed the government to hold a meeting with the major search engines and petitioners in the case.

Asserting that the Centre must immediately come up with a memorandum in the matter, the Supreme Court will hear the matter again on July 25.

"Can these search engines continue to violate

the law? Is there nothing that can be done to completely stop them?

Google, Microsoft, Yahoo can't continue doing the illegal activity in the name of being an intermediary," the Apex Court observed today.

The PIL was filed by Sabu Mathew George, which sought court intervention to get the government to crack down on advertisement of sex-determination kits, tools and clinics on these sites.

The PIL has alleged, sexdetermination ads and links were freely available on the search engines, defeating the very purpose of the law. (ANI)

Will fulfill B.R. Ambedkar's dream of upliftment of Dalits: Athawale New Delhi, July 5: Republican Party of India (RPI) leader Ramdas Athawale, who will today be inducted in the Union Cabinet, said that he would fulfill Dr B.R. Ambedkar's dream of upliftment of Dalits and the poor.

"Our aim will be to work for development. Whatever department will be given to me, I will work hard," said the Rajya Sabha MP from Maharashtra.

Athawale had earlier thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this opportunity and vowed to work for the backward sections of the society.

"I just talked to Amit Shah ji and he has given me the message of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He told me that I will be taking oath tomorrow. I am very happy that Prime Minster Modi and party president have given us this opportunity," he told the media yesterday.

The much-awaited reshuffle and expansion of the Union Council of Ministers will take place later in the day and some new faces are expected to be inducted while few ministers likely to be dropped.

President Pranab Mukherjee will administer the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at a function at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here at 11 a.m.

At present, there are 64 ministers, including Prime Minister Modi, in the Council.

Prime Minister Modi will in all probability induct 19 new faces, who will bring their unique rich experience and expertise to their office.

According to sources, the selection framework clearly laid out by the Prime Minister was to bring in "doers and performers", who would de-

liver on his vision of development and good governance and further his central priority of "Gaon, Garib and Kisan".

BJP MPs S S Ahluwalia, Vijay Goel, Purushottam Rupala, Mansukhbhai Mandavia, Anil Madhav Dave, M J Akbar, Arjun Ram Meghwal and Anupriya Patel of Apna Dal and Ramdas Athawale of RPI among others most likely to find a place in the expanded Cabinet.

The expansion comes after an exhaustive whetting and selection process to find out the best talent and people, who were assessed on the value they would bring to the Union Council of Ministers, said sources.

This marks a firm departure from the usual routine of frequent changes based on caste, religion and other time serving political considerations and is a firm endorsement of the brand of developmental politics that the Prime Minister champions, they added.

The decision of expanding the Council of Ministers came after taking into consideration a diverse range of factors.

The new ministers were identified from various walks of life who would bring their unique rich experience and expertise to their office, said sources.

The Prime Minister, who had reviewed the performance of various ministries indicating a reshuffle earlier on June 30, last expanded his Cabinet in November 2014.

According to the Constitution, the total number of ministers in the Council of Ministers must not exceed 15 percent of the total number of members of the Lok Sabha i.e. 82.

(ANI)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

Chinese PM committed to solving maritime disputes via dialogue

Chinese PM committed to solving maritime disputes via dialogue Beijing, July 5: Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has said that China is committed to solving maritime disputes through dialogue and negotiation directly with the concerned countries in line with international laws and on the basis of respecting historical facts.

Prime Minister Keqiang made the remarks at a China-Greece maritime cooperation forum on Monday.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras also attended the forum.

Premiere Keqiang said as a state party to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), China strives to safeguard the principles of the convention, stick to the path of peaceful development and oppose any maritime hegemony.

"China will not impose its own will on others.

Meanwhile, we will firmly safeguard China's

legitimate rights," he said and added that Beijing is willing to maintain maritime peace and stability through continued cooperation with relevant countries.

He said the aim of the maritime cooperation forum is to work with Greece to forge ahead the harmonious development of maritime business and promote maritime cultural exchange.

On the project of the Piraeus port between China and Greece, Premiere Keqiang said it is a model of bilateral cooperation of equality and mutual benefits and is an affirmative vote of Chinese enterprise for Greece.

Greek parliament ratified last week the landmark agreement with China's COSCO Shipping for the acquisition of a majority stake in the Piraeus Port Authority, the largest port in Greece. (ANI)

Iraq PM Abadi calls for withdrawal of Britishmade fake bomb detectors

Iraq Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi Washington, July 5: In the aftermath of one of the deadliest attacks in Baghdadwhich killed at least 157 people, Iraq Prime Minister Haidar alAbadi has ordered the removal of British-made fake bomb detectors which the security forces have been using for the past nine years.

The wands were proven to be fake long ago, reports the Guardian.

Prime Minister Abadi ordered a renewed corruption investigation into the sale of the devices from 2007-10, which cost Iraq more than 53 million pounds and netted the Somerset businessman James McCormick enormous profits.

McCormick was later sentenced to a 10-year jail sentence for fraud.

The withdrawal of wands follows years of insistence by the Interior Ministry officials that they were effective in sensing odours from explosive components.

Reportedly, the citizens have complained for years that the wands don't work and warnings were

also issued by the British Government and US military that the wands have no scientific value.

"They are fakes, fakes.

They have been laughing at us by making us use them," said an officer Sayyed Hamza while welcoming Prime Minister Abadi's announcement. He added the move was 'past due'.

In a statement, the Prime Minister said: "All security forces must take away the handheld detectors from checkpoints and the (ministry of interior) must reopen the investigation for corruption in the contracts for these devices and follow all entities which participated in them."

A senior Interior Ministry official while justifying the reluctance to ackonwledge that the wands are useless said the people need some sort of reassurance.

"To say that these don't work says that we don't have anything better. The people need some sort of reassurance. Sometimes it is better to pretend," he added. (ANI)

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Govt opts for term 'Rakhine ethnics' to calm protesting Buddhists Naypyidaw, July 5: To calm Buddhist protestors, the government of the restive Rakhine State of Myanmar has issued a statement saying it would call the state's Buddhist majority as "Rakhine ethnics" rather than using the phrase "the Buddhist community in Rakhine State" as suggested by State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's government.

Controversy over terminology continues to simmers as thousands of Buddhists, including monks, demonstrated yesterday against the Union Government's

edict to refer to Muslims as the 'Muslim communities of Rakhine' rather than describing them as 'Rohingya' or 'Bengalis' and use the phrase "the Buddhist community in Rakhine State" to refer to the Buddhist majority.

U Tin Maung Swe, executive secretary for the General Administration Department of Rakhine State, said the state government would soon issue an additional statement about how Muslims in Rakhine State would be referred to.

"I can't say exactly what that is, and I can say keep waiting for that name at the moment," the Myanmar Time quoted

Govt opts for term 'Rakhine ethnics' to calm protesting Buddhists Swe as saying.

Rakhine State is home to about a million stateless Muslims who self-iden-

tify as Rohingyas and are reviled by Rakhine Buddhists.

The government has

sought to defuse the row over the term "Rohingya", by ordering officials to refer the Muslim community in the restive province as "Muslim communities in Rakhine".

But the protesters deem that unacceptable as it hands Muslims recognition in a Buddhist state.

U Soe Naing, a nationalist activist, reiterated that the Rakhine people would not accept the government's hesitancy about using "Bengali" to refer to the state's Muslim population that selfidentifies as Rohingya.

"Bengalis are Bengalis. It means they came from Bangladesh. Therefore,

Pakistan police doing little to ensure safety of Christians, says Asian Human Rights Commission Hong Kong, July 5 : Police in Pakistan are doing little to ensure the safety of the Christian community, the Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has said in a statement on the basis of information that it has collected over the last couple of months.

The AHRC said that it had recently received information that Muslims residing in Chak 44, Mandi Bahaudin, Punjab Province, have turned aggressive against Christians living in the area, causing a great deal of restlessness and chaos within the community.

Referring to some local news reports, the AHRC claimed that the Muslims have put two conditions before the Christians namely (1) To convert to Islam if they want to continue living in the village (2) Or, leave the village forever.

The AHRC has said in one of its reports that police have done little to protect the community from the vengeful Muslim mass which is being often incited by local clerics who have leveled unsubstantiated allegations of blasphemy against Christians.

Citing information received from the Christian True Spirit (CTS) and Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and

Settlement (CLAAS) in London, the AHRC claims that the besieging of Christians started a couple of months ago, and included the deployment of a few young Muslim men for surveillance of some Christian homes to apprehend those persons they found guilty of the draconian Blasphemy Act. Some months ago, Muslims clerics and goons of the area have also demanded the handing over of Imran Masih, the son of Sharif Masih, a resident of Village Chak 44, Tehsil Phalyian, District Mandi Bahauddin in Punjab. Imran is a young Christian employed at a local healthcare centre as a janitor. As he was on good terms with his coworkers, he was invited to attend the wedding ceremony of a colleague's daughter. At the wedding, on April 16, 2016, Imran recorded a part of the wedding ceremony on his cell phone.

When he went back to work, his colleague asked him to show them the movie clip he recorded; he handed his cell phone to one of his colleagues and left to finish his work.

When Imran came back he saw that Bilal, a local Muslim drug store owner, whose store is located adjacent to his work place, was holding Imran's phone and showing the provocative lectures of Pastor Sami Samson to other workers

standing around him.

When Imran asked Mohammad Bilal to return his phone, he refused to give him the mobile phone back. Bilal accused Imran of watching anti-Islamic lectures of Christian pastors on YouTube.

Imran swore to Bilal and his angry co-workers that he had never browsed Pastor Sami Samson's lectures, but they refused to let him go. After beating him severely, they locked him in an empty room; luckily Imran had another cell phone hidden in his pocket; he used that phone to call members of his Catholic Church Committee and informed them of his confinement in the health centre.

After receiving Imran's phone call, Aamir Masih and Arif Masih, along with a few other Committee members, went to Imran's work place to rescue him. They told the senior doctor at the health centre that the accusation was baseless as Imran is illiterate. He cannot operate a search engine on the cell phone.

After much persuasion, the committee members were successful in securing Imran's release.

However, three days after the incident, Imran found out that religious scholars from Sarghoda had pronounced a decree against him. He had been pronounced liable to be killed according to the de-

Police in Pakistan are doing little to ensure the safety of the Christian community cree. He was advised by his colleagues to escape.

Imran got extremely scared and did not return home that night. The next day Imran's father Sharif Masih called the health centre to inquire about his son. The doctor on duty told him that Imran was not at work. After not receiving a satisfactory answer from the doctor, Sharif Masih took few church committee members and went to Imran's work place, where he was informed that Imran had fled to save his life.

Muslims from all walks of life, including clerics and businessmen, have been baying for Imran's blood and have even put a prize on his head.

According to the AHRC, the police feel that the issue is not that serious as is being made out. Christians on the other hand maintain that the police did not speak to any of them and never returned to patrol at night.

They claimed that till date

75 percent of the Christians have fled from the village, while those who remain have no food to eat as local Muslims refuse to sell them anything.

According to the AHRC, the situation is getting worse with each passing day, as Christians are living in constant fear that their houses may be set on fire by Muslim mobs.

The AHRC has called on the Pakistan government to ensure the security of Christians such as Imran Masih and provide them alternative safe houses. It has also called on the government to proactively work towards encouraging inter-faith harmony and prosecute perpetrators of violence in the name of religion without fail or delay.

The AHRC has said that it has written a separate letter to the UN Special Rapporteur on the freedom of religion or belief calling for the Special Rapporteur's intervention in the matter. (ANI)

Dhaka attack: Bangladesh minister defends Indian media against Pak diatribe Dhaka, July 5: With Pakistan slamming the India media for reporting its involvement in Dhaka's terrorist attack as "highly regrettable, irresponsible and provocative stories", Bangladesh Information Minister Hassanul Haq Inu said the media didn't levelled charges on Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) on its own as it were some of the senior political officials in his country who pointed a finger at them.

"Pakistan makes such statements time and again; if they deny their involvement in the Dhaka attack, its good but the investigators in Bangladesh are looking for all possibilities," said the minister.

"For the past 45 years, Pakistan and ISI have

Bangladesh minister defends Indian media against Pak diatribe been involved in Bangladesh, from the war of liberation till now in terrorist networks. There are clear evidences of the involvement of ISI and Pakistan in our terrorist networks," he alleged.

"If the Pakistani agencies aren't involved, we accept their statements and thank

them, but if other evidences come out then it will be very sad for the relations of both the countries (Bangladesh and Pakistan," Inu added.

"We know the character of Pakistan they are the greatest harbour of terrorism in world. It is because of Pakistan that many ter-

rorists are involved in subversive activities in many countries," alleged Inu, adding that it is very sad but the reality is that Pakistan cannot have a clean chit.

The Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on Monday said allegations of Pakistan's involvement in Dhaka's terrorist attack are highly regrettable, irresponsible and provocative stories being carried in the Indian media.

"They are utterly baseless and unfounded and Pakistan strongly rejects such allegations," said MoFA spokesperson Mohammed Nafees Zakaria in a statement issued in Islamabad.

In this context, the spokesperson drew attention to the statement by Prof.

Gowher Rizvi, the Adviser to Bangladesh Prime Minster Sheikh Hasina,

refuting the Indian media story attributed to him regarding Pakistan's involvement as "utter nonsense" and "a proof of the Indian media's malicious intent".

Rizvi purportedly said he had never issued any statement or spoke to any TV channel on this issue.

The terrorist attack a cafe on Friday claiming lives of 20 civilians, mostly foreigners, and two police officers.

Nine Italians, seven Japanese, one Indian, one Bangladeshi-American and two Bangladeshis were killed in the terror attack at Holey Artisan Bakery in Gulshan on Friday night.

The 12-hour-long hostage crisis at the cafe popular with foreigners ended after a two-hour long assault by armed forces' commandos killing six gunmen. (ANI)

the government must call them this name," he said.

The controversy over wording comes amid heightened anti-Muslim sentiment recently, with two mosques torched by Buddhist mobs in as many weeks.

Leader of the Muslim community in Rakhine State U Kyaw Min said that problems over the terminology could be resolved by negotiation between the opposing sides.

"I think it should not be for one community to be denied [the ability to selfidentify] by another community - because this is our own right to selfidentify," he said. (ANI)

Chinese firm stops work on Pakistan's Tarbela power house following death of engineers Swabi (Pakistan), July 5: After the death of three Chinese engineers, Chinese firm Sinohydro has halted the construction of Tarbela Dam in Pakistan for an indefinite period.

Sinohydro is involved in the construction of a new power house as part of the Tarbela Dam's fourth extension project.

The work was halted after after six persons, including three Chinese and a Pakistani engineer, were killed when scaffolding at an under-construction site came down due to torrential rain on Sunday morning, reports.

Officials have confirmed the stoppage of work on the power house for an indefinite period, saying it was not yet clear when the work would resume and that the company management would inform the workers whenever they decide to resume the work.

Meanwhile, the workers said they were told by the company that they were on leave till July 12.(ANI)

Officer injured in suicide attack on Indonesian police station Lahore, July 5: A police officer was injured when a suicide bomber attacked a police station in Solo, Indonesia, on Tuesday.

The Dawn reports that the attacker forced his way into the yard of the station in the city on Java Island and argued that he wanted to go to the canteen, following which he forced his way in using a motorbike and blew himself up.

In January, a suicide bombing and gun attack in Jakarta left four civilians and four attackers dead, the first major attack in Indonesia for seven years.

Indonesia, which is the world's most populous Muslim-majority nation, has come in the list of nations recently suffering deadly attacks.

According to reports, several Indonesians have travelled to the Middle East to join the militants, stoking fears that extremist groups are being revived and more attacks are imminent. (ANI)

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

Make in India Plans to boost the campaign

The main aim of Make in India Campaign is to increase the GDP and tax revenues in the country by manufacturing products, with high quality standards and minimising the impact on the environment. Besides fostering innovation, protecting intellectual property, and enhancing skill development. And focus on areas under the policy: New initiatives -- for ease of doing business; FDI-government has allowed 100 percent FDI in all sectors except space, defence and news media; Intellectual Property Rights-to protect the rights of the innovator; National manufacturing-to increase manufacturing sector's growth and job creation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious "Make in India" program last September, pledging to lower barriers to doing business and promote foreign investment. He is hoping to transform Asia's third-largest economy into a manufacturing powerhouse like China. For many years, India has harboured hopes of chasing down China to the forefront of economic growth but its attempts kept faltering as unwieldy coalition governments held back much-needed reforms for nearly 25 years. The Indian economy, which grew at a nearly doubledigit rate in the middle of the last decade, slowed down 5.08% in 2012 before recovering to 7.2% in 2014. The contribution of manufacturing in India's GDP growth has come under fresh scrutiny after factory output dipped for the second consecutive month in December.

The ministry of statistics reported that the index of industrial production shrank by 1.3% in December compared to the previous year. Cumulative factory output for the nine months to December 31, 2015, grew just 3.1% over the previous corresponding period. The data stood at odds with the GDP numbers of the same period that showed manufacturing growing at 12.6% during October-December 2015. Also the government wants to focus on domestic companies to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.

It will converge multiple initiatives such as Start-Up India, Skill India and Digital India to boost manufacturing. The longest wait, however, has been for tax reforms which can improve the country's competitiveness. But first, the government has to break political logjams to get crucial enabling legislation through Parliament.

Humans now drive evolution on Earth, both creating and destroying species When scientists examine species extinction some the impact of humans on 100 to 1,000 times higher the planet, the focus is than would have been exmainly on the extinction pected without human inof species. But increas- tervention. This probably ingly researchers are constitutes the beginning looking at the idea that of the sixth mass extinchumans, tion in Earth's through ani- Mark Maslin history - an mal domestienormous cation, relocation and impact on the planet and hunting, have become an one reason why many evolutionary driving scientists have declared force that has led to new that we have entered the species, new traits and Anthopocene Epoch. novel ecosystems.

Species removal isn't a A new paper, recently random process: a dispublished in the Proceed- proportionate number of ings of the Royal Society those driven to extinction B, argues that if we are are the larger animals, to preserve the both on land and at sea. biodiversity of life that This "megafauna extincwe value, we need to un- tion" began 50,000 years derstand both the nature ago: unbelievably, half of of this human-driven cre- all large-bodied mamation - a process known mals worldwide, equivaas speciation - as well as lent to 4% of all mammal the effects of human- species, have been lost in driven extinctions. that time. And extinctions are not just conA drive to extinction Look at humans' effects fined to mammals: since on Earth's plant life. Over 1500 ACE there have recent decades, the been 784 documented amount of new plant extinctions, including 79 growth each year across mammals, 129 birds, 21 the world appears to have reptiles, 34 amphibians, been relatively constant. 81 fish, 359 invertebrates However, between 25% and 86 plants. and 38% of this fresh Domestication and replant growth is appropri- location ated by humans - for food Humans have also doand other purposes - re- mesticated around 474 ducing the amount avail- animals and 269 plants to able for millions of other meet their needs, and this has led to the emergence species.

Thomas Crowther and of new species. Of the colleagues at Yale Uni- world's 40 most common versity estimated that be- agricultural crops, eight fore the industrial revo- can be considered enlution there were six bil- tirely new species, just as lion trees on Earth. There animal domestication has are now only three bil- created new species of lion. This deforestation animals such as the dog and the conversion of and domestic pig. land to produce food, Animal domestication fuel, fibre and fodder, has also led to a major combined with targeted shift in animal distribuhunting and harvesting, tion. According to Vaclav has resulted in a rate of Smil of the University of

Manitoba, of the weight of all the planet's land mammals, humans make up 30%, domesticated animals make up 67%, and wild mammals just 3%. Organisms have also been transported around the world - including crops, domesticated animals, and pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. This movement has led to a small number of extraordinarily common species such as the brown rat, new hybrid species such as mules, and a general homogenisation of the animal and plant life found on Earth.

This biological relocation started in the 16th century when species from the Old World of Europe and Asia were exchanged with those in the New World (the Americas). This is known as the Colombian Exchange, which led to the globalisation of human food, with New World crops such as maize/corn, potatoes and manioc/cassava swapping places with Old World crops such as sugarcane and wheat.

Domesticated animals swapped continents, too.

Many of these plants and animals have since undergone rapid evolution in their new environments, leading to the emergence of new species. Accidental transfers from Europe occurred, too: smallpox, measles and typhus killed over 50m people in South and Central America during the colonisation of the New World. These exchanges continue today, and invasive spe-

Deforestation and conversion of land to produce food, fuel, fibre and fodder, combined with targeted hunting and harvesting, has resulted in a rate of species extinction some 100 to 1,000 times higher than would have been expected without human intervention (Photo: Credit: Laura Gilchrist/Flickr) cies have become a major concern on all continents. Mark van Kleunen and colleagues at the University of Konstanz suggest that 4% of plant species have been relocated around the globe, equivalent to all the native plant species in Europe.

These changes are the first of their kind since the supercontinent Pangaea separated about 200m years ago, but in fact the extent of the current epoch's trans-oceanic exchanges are unprecedented.

Something borrowed, something new Most ecosystems have been altered by humans, to the extent that the concept of a "natural" biome, completely free from human influence, is obsolete. This has led Erle Ellis at the University of Maryland to sug-

gest that we consider them Anthromes - those ecosystems where most of characteristics have been reshaped by human activity. While many have undergone significant loss of biodiversity, through change they also create environments that allow opportunities for the emergence of new species.

An interesting example is that of the common house mosquito (Culex pipiens) which has become adapted to London's underground railway and established a subterranean population of mosquitoes distinct from any other on Earth.

Now called the London Underground mosquito, it has diverged sufficiently from its cousins above ground that it can no longer interbreed with them and exhibits significantly different behaviour.

So through breeding, harvesting and transport of crops and animals, and the impact of higher air and surface temperatures that result from greenhouse gas emissions, humans have, and continue to, alter the evolutionary process of the other species sharing this planet with us.

If we consider also the scientific development of diverse new biological products such as antibiotics, pesticides and novel genetically engineered organisms, humans have indeed become the world's greatest evolutionary force capable of shaping our world by creating new species and destroying others.

If we are to help preserve the millions of species on Earth, we must consider the impact of humans in terms of these creative and destructive forces. Courtesy: The Conversation.

Wtch-hunting 10 things to know about NASA's Juno mission to Jupiter Plagued Assam for generations The practice of witch-hunting has plagued Assam for generations. For as long as the belief has existed, the superstition has been exploited to settle personal scores. Vulnerable women, men and children, the elderly and the mentally ill have been branded witches and condemned to death. Particular targets have been single women who inherit property or gain political influence. Between 2010 and February 2015, as many as 77 people died in so-called witch-hunts, 35 of them women, and around 60 were injured. Where victims weren't killed, they were chased away from the area and, yet, nobody was ever punished for doing so. And more than 2,000 people accused of being witches have been killed in India over the last 15 years in poor, remote areas of the Northeast. The victims, nearly all of them women, have been swept up in modern-day witch hunts, often accused by a neighbor or family member who might blame devious sorcery for a bad harvest or an unexplained illness. But the allegations sometimes stem from personal disputes over property and the land rights of women.

In a welcome step The Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Bill, introduced in the state assembly which mandates a jail term of between three and seven years for branding any person a witch, which may be extended to life imprisonment if the person is driven to commit suicide as a result of being labeled a witch. Also most of these incidents are far from rare, but simply the latest occurrences in the ever-present practice of witch-hunting across the South Asian nation. In the state of Jharkhand, data from India's National Crime Records Bureau shows that 220 people have been murdered for witchcraft between 2008 and 2013 - the most of any Indian state. The problem is far more widespread, though, with the Indian government reporting nearly 2,300 deaths of alleged "witches" nationwide since the year 2000. In Assam for three decades, Birubala Rabha, an activist, has fought to end this violent, retrograde practice of punishing women accused of witchcraft. She works with state legislators and residents of rural villages to investigate accusers and protect victims and their families. But the Assam government too has an opportunity to end the inhumane practice of witch-hunting that has victimised women for ages. It must make sure that it gets things right.

1.

NASA's Juno will be the first spacecraft to see below the dense cover of clouds over Jupiter and reveal mysteries about how the planet was formed. The spacecraft is named after the Roman goddess and wife of Jupiter who could see below the clouds. Juno is even carrying three 1.5inch LEGO figurines of the Roman gods and a telescope-armed Galileo Galilei, the Italian astronomer who made important discoveries about the planet.

2.

Juno was launched on August 5, 2011, and has been in flight for five years. It will attempt to jump into Jupiter's polar orbit on

July 4 between 8 and 9 pm PDT (Pacific Daylight Time) or between 8:30 and 9:30 am IST on July 5.

3.

Since its launch from Earth till orbit insertion, Juno will have travelled 2,800 million kilometres which is more than 18 times the average distance from the Earth to the Sun. 4.

The spacecraft's main body is less than 12 feet (4 metres) in height as well as diameter. It weighs 1,593 kg and carries 1,280 kg of fuel.

Nearly 450 kg of this fuel reserve will have burnt in 35 minutes of Juno entering Jupiter's orbit.

5.

It is the first space mission to operate

a solar-powered aircraft farthest from Earth. It consists of 18,698 indi-

vidual solar cells.

6.

The NASA mission had only one shot at

NASA's Juno mission to Jupiter (Photo: nasa.gov)

entering Jupiter's orbit.

When Juno approached Jupiter, the planet's gravity pulled the spacecraft in faster, causing it to reach a speed of more than 250,000 kilometres per hour with respect to Earth. This would make it the fastest humanmade object ever. Juno hit the brakes, firing its main engine in reverse.

When the spacecraft slowed, it entered the planet's orbit.

7.

The Juno spacecraft carries a payload of 29 sensors, which feed data to nine onboard instruments.

8.

The mission aims to understand how the planet was formed, the planet's interior structure,

Municipality And Cleanliness Sir, Apart from what is received from the state government by way of Grant-InAid, the municipality boards should find out more ways and means to maximize their respective coffers. Taxes collected from the citizens are not enough to cope with the ever increasing expenses. It is often observed that public places like Parks, the surrounding of Bibhah Bhawan, the precincts of schools, colleges are often seen being littered with garbages. After a party, it is often seen the revelers stew the place with discarded plastic, thermocol plates, glasses and other waste materials. Our people, we know it for certain, will not do anything to change their habits unless a penalty is imposed on them. STATE Police force may play a vital role in checking such nuisances.

The amount of fine imposed will be a potential source of income for the muPic Source: dps.edu.pk nicipality. Almost each and every municipality is confronted with the prob-

its atmosphere and magnetosphere. This information is expected to enhance our understanding of the solar system.

9.

The total mission cost NASA US $1.13 billion. This cost includes spacecraft development, science instruments, launch services, mission operations, science data processing and relay support for 78 months.

10.

The mission will end in less than two years, with Juno leaving the orbit of Jupiter on February 20, 2018. By then, Juno will have travelled 560 million kilometres in orbit around Jupiter. Courtesy: Down to earth

Best Letter The best letter of the month in the Letter to the Editor section will be awarded an amount of Rs 200. So please keep writing.

lem that some people urinate by the side of the footh path and a very nauseating smell emanates therefrom. We suggest our municipalities would do well to construct good number of toilets across the city-town so that many people can avail themselves of the chance. Construction of more such toilets, needless to add, would enrich the coffers of the municipality. It seems, Letters to the even Narendra Modi's 'Swachch Bharat Abhiyan' fails to impact the Dibrugarh editor and articles Municipality dominated by BJP. Our should be sent to : local body should learn the maxim, The Eastern To'Cleanliness is next to godliness'. day

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786001 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Email : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

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"India Is Emerging, Growing And Shining. But For Whom?"

"Those who dream about maximum height of 9 perIndia becoming an eco- cent during the period of nomic superpower, even 2003-2007. After the rewith its huge proportion of forms brought by P. V, undernourished children, Narasimha Rao in 1991lack of systematic health 92, India never looked care, extremely deficient back. With the rapid school education and half growth in the post-reform of the homes without toi- era, we're moving fast tolets, have to reconsider not wards a free-market only the e c o n o m y. reach of their Anwarul Hoda G o l d m a n understandSachs, an ing of the mutual relation- American multinational ship between growth and banking firm predicted development, but also that India will overtake their appreciation of the France and Italy by 2020 demands of social justice, in terms of GDP at curwhich is integrally linked rent prices, and later Gerwith the expansion of hu- many, UK and Russia by man freedoms." This is 2025. However, for the how two of India's lead- first time after reform, ing development econo- India beat China in terms mists Amartya Sen and of GDP growth and is Jean Drèze define and ar- playing an influential role gue about the prospects in shaping the global for growth in India. India economy. The Internais booming, but for tional Monetary Fund whom? This is the ques- ranks India as the seventh tion put forward by the largest economy in the duo in their book, "An world in terms of nominal Uncertain Glory: India and GDP. Its Contradictions".

However, this would be No doubt since Indepen- only the partial truth if we dence the growth of In- ignore the social condidian democracy has been tions and living standards incredible. And in seven of Indians within the decades, it has set its foun- boundaries of the same dations so strong that it is booming nation. The in a position to challenge United Nations in its Milthe superpowers espe- lennium Development cially in terms of economic Goals report of 2014 growth. In the last two states, "Still, nearly 300 decades, the pace of million people live in exgrowth rate has been re- treme poverty in India and markable and reached its face deprivation in terms

of access to basic services, including education, health, water, sanitation and electricity." Another UN study claimed that India is home to one-third of the total 'extremely poor' people of the world.

"Over the past few decades, for a stark reminder of the global gulf between the rich and the poor a visit to any country in the third world has sufficed. India is one of the most striking examples. Here we have our least fortunate living with resources less than those available to dwellers in sub-Saharan Africa, and our wealthiest in the list of the world's top 100 billionaires," concluded Oxfam India, an independent organisation working on global inequality, about income inequality in India.

Increasing income inequality is another matter of concern which is already affecting the aim of sustainable development.

In the pre-liberalisation era, there were hardly any billionaires on the boat. But in a matter of decades, India ranks third among all countries in producing the highest number of billionaires and is expected to grow incredibly with the time. This itself reveals the pace of growing income inequality in the country. And if we were to continue like this then the outcome will be

very odd as Peter Singer, a moral philosopher from Australia,warns that growing "economic inequality can give wealthier people an unacceptable degree of control over the lives of others" and it can "undermine the fairness of political institutions and economic system itself".

Now, after the distribution of wealth, let's analyse the share of the general population in the cake of development. During the 2014 Indian Economic Summit, Mint came up with top seven challenges the Indian economy is facing which was the key agenda under the theme 'Redefining Public-Private Cooperation for a New Beginning' that included issues like education, urbanisation, health, sanitation, gender, transparency and water scarcity.

The status of the education system in India can be judged by recent Bihar and Gujarat 'topper scams'. In fact, these scams are not unique. Many such reports on various education scams from all the states are available. Once you google, you can find many results. The 'Vyapam Scam' also falls in the same category.

According to Akshay Saxena, co-founder of Avanti Learning Centre, millions of children are unable to go to high school and 50 million students have ter-

Do You Want To Live In A City Where 'Fresh Air' Is For Sale?

I came across an interesting major causal factor behind piece of news recently. A this pathetic condition of the Canadian firm named Vital- cities. The urbanisation of the ity Air is all set to sell fresh country is on a rapid pace. airin India. Each breath from The UN DESA 2014 report this fresh air can costs INR estimates that by 2050, India 12.50 only. This price is in- is projected to add 404 mildeed really cheap when it is lion urban dwellers. People compared to drinking water tend to move to the cities in which costs 20 rupees per search of better prospects in bottle. They claim all spheres includthat this will really Arun Ag ing job, education, help the capital's housing, health facitizens, although, it must be cilities and other amenities. noted that New Delhi is no They're basically in search of longer the world's most pol- better living conditions. But luted city. As per the 2016 are our cities really livable?

WHO report, Delhi is now The most pivotal point which the 11th most polluted city has to be discussed about globally. Thanks for the ef- livability is the use of private fort by the Delhi Government. motor vehicles. Indian cities Besides, Delhi soon also are famous for vehicle usage claim to be the first Indian and fuel emissions. We can city to breathe fresh air from see that many of the urban cans! households have several veThe sad news is that four of hicles of their own. In some our cities have made into the families, each and every memtop 10 list. Gwalior and ber possesses their own ve-

in society. They are unaware or knowingly avoid the fact that they are themselves killing the very environment we live in. This makes them diseased and forces them to spend more on medication to restore or sustain their health.

Thus, in a way, they themselves build their graveyard.

Usually, we see people protesting for better quality roads for smoother and safe vehicle movement, but how often do we see protests for better footpaths and walking facilities? This is a matter of concern given the increased usage of motor vehicles. Citizens have forgotten to walk nowadays. Private motor vehicles completely dominate the roads which make pedestrian movement a fearsome adventure. And it seems the authorities do not pay much attention to pedestrian infrastructure.

Image for representational purpose (Photo: blog.9rules) Allahabad decorate the second and third positions while Patna and Raipur own the sixth and seventh respectively. 17 of the 100 proposed Smart Cities figure on the list.

The residents of these cities breathe poison day and night. This has comparatively increased the health and related expenditure of the population along with the concern for life expectancy and infant health.

According to the report, enormous and continuous increase of motor vehicles is the

hicle. These vehicles fill up our roads thus creating various issues including severe traffic jams. But usually, we don't care about the quantity of emissions from those vehicles. The toxic emissions from them contaminate our air which leads to the rest of us being affected with various respiratory and other diseases.

But mostly people tend to ignore that fact and purchase new models of cars and twowheelers so that they can maintain or raise their 'status'

School children, pregnant mothers, disabled and senior citizens constitute the community which usually suffers from this pedestrian-excluded development. It is really hard to walk in the Indian cities for any of these people.

When foreign nations create more and more pedestrianfriendly infrastructure, we are still jiggling at infancy. A good chunk of pedestrian accidents is possibly caused due to the lack of proper pedestrian infrastructure and crossing facilities.

The next major concern about the livability of our cities are shrinking parks and open public spaces. Most of us would not like to walk on a busy road where vehicles rush to and fro with nasty horn sounds and polluted surroundings. This marks the importance of parks and open spaces. Public parks are the most affordable entertainment and leisure option for the masses. They provide a space to play, walk, jog, relax and rejuvenate.

Parks are the one stop point for spending quality time with our family. Open spaces are also the oxygen factories of urban areas.

In the present and ongoing scenario of the development of India, parks and open spaces are heavily encroached upon to build skyscrapers, convention centers and shopping malls. It reduces the space for the unprivileged citizens of the city to enjoy and spend their leisure time along with the provision of clean air after their daily exposure to the polluted atmosphere. There is also a much wider impact when the trees are cut off, which diminishes the release of oxygen. How can we sustain ourselves without oxygen? We appear to be moving into an era when everybody would have to wear an oxygen mask to live. Just think about it. Does Vitality Air need us, or vice versa?

Car-free days are events which can promote awareness about building a livable environment for humanity. It tries to spread the message that livability is not only the rush of motor vehicles, building of skyscrapers but also having cycle paths, good and well-maintained footpaths, wide and equipped public parks and open spaces. Car-free days have been conducted in various parts of our country.

More and more such events should be initiated all around the nation, not only for us but for our future ones too.

Once we had plenty of drinking water in our ponds, now we have canned water. Now, do we have fresh air? We have fresh air cans! Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

rible high schools among all those fortunate children who finally make it. In his words, "Education is a problem of teachers, students and curriculum, public schools facing tremendous shortage of teachers in millions." He termed the entire scene as 'scary' in the programme, mutually organised by UNICEF and Youth Ki Awaaz at Delhi.

India has the pride of having once been a great 'centre of learning' with wellknown universities like Nalanda and Taxila. But in the 21st-century, only a couple of institutions from India occupy the space among the top 200 institutes of the world. This doesn't mean India does not produce extraordinary minds.

But the fact is that after graduating from IITs and IIMs, Indian minds look towards Europe and United States for research programmes.

In 1964-66, the Kothari commission had recommended that India should spend six percent of the GDP on education while according to 2010 data, India spends merely 3.3 percent of GDP when the global average is 4.9 percent. While comparing with countries like China and Sri Lanka, we can see that they have much better education facilities and literacy rate. Besides, their

Image for representational purpose (Photo: cdn.youthkiawaaz) education primarily managed by the public sector.

It is either because of corruption or lack of funds or may be because of the prevailing education policies.

From primary to higher, the crisis is going deeper and deeper in Indian education system.

Another thing, healthcare, is facing the same kind of negligence by the government. Expenditure on health is continuously shrinking. Data says that every year, one million people die due to inadequate healthcare facilities. Besides, around 700 million people have no access to specialist care. So, in such circumstances, the obvious question one needs to ask the government is: who is getting all pieces of cake?

Population is often used as an excuse for the poor social indicators in India.

But, when I posed a question regarding population growth and development to Zulfiqar Sheth, a scholar of economics from Aligarh Muslim University, this is what his reply was: "Well when a baby comes in the world, it comes not only with a mouth but with a pair of hands too. Like China focussed on 'hands' and massively invested in training people and building infrastructure, we can follow the Chinese model of human development.

But for that, we need a big push and a very stable government with a clear vision. If we don't invest in infrastructure, especially training institutes,

our potential demographic dividend will become a demographic disaster."

Migration, urbanisation pollution and the depletion of natural resources are also issues that demand equal attention as these issues greatly affect the economy in the long term and the population, mostly the poor.

Currently India finds itself at the 13oth position in the Human Development Index among 188 countries which probably isn't a great improvement from 1991. So, what is changing? Yes, India is emerging, growing and shining.

But for whom? It seems like there is another India within India and ignoring it cannot help for short or long term growth. Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

This Village In Meghalaya Is Asia's Cleanest, But We Could Be Ruining That Mawlynnong is a village our grandparents and our wrote an article about its losing its original beauty. located in the East Khasi ancestors have taught us wonderful and rare clean- If this continues, the vilHills district in how to clean the village liness. While this may lage of Mawlynnong has Meghalaya. It is a minute and the surrounding area, seem like an admirable the possibility of turning village, with only about 500 because it's good for our initiative, its effect was into another polluted and residents. However, de- health." This regard placed counterproductive - it in- overpopulated cities. Afspite its geographical ob- on hygiene emerged after duced hundreds of tourists ter all, Bengaluru was iniscurity and minuscule a deadly cholera outbreak to visit, degrading the pic- tially called the 'Garden population, 130 years ago. turesque vistas and simple City of India'. And look this unassum- Richa Gupta Due to the lifestyles. In the words of at what it is today! It is ing village has paucity of ad- Rishot Khongthohrem, a undoubtedly a hub of sucstill managed to make na- equate medical facilities guesthouse owner, "Now cess, development, and tional headlines. The ham- and medicines, cleanliness there is noise pollution. technology; but what let of Mawlynnong has became absolutely neces- I've talked to the village about its environment? been considered the sary to the survival of the council which has written But Mawlynnong is cleanest village in India villagers and to the devel- to the government to build unique for the exact opand in Asia. In this quaint opment of the region. In a new parking lot further posite reason and its esvillage, plastic is banned in the words of away." There have also sence should, hence, be order to preserve the eco- Khongthohrem, a village been complaints about a preserved. logical cleanliness, the streets are swept regularly by passionate volunteers and bamboo dustbins are strategically placed to avoid littering. While littering is the norm in most metropolitan cities, it is strictly looked down upon in this village. It is perhaps this mentality that keeps the hamlet so delightfully pure and verdant. Moreover, the paths and roadways are lined with delightful flowers, that impart aesthetic qualities to the town.

F u r t h e r m o r e , Mawlynnong is home to the Khasi tribal people, who follow the matrilineal system of society - a system wherein property is The hamlet of Mawlynnong has been considered the cleanest village in handed down from India and in Asia (Photo: blog.thomascook) mother to the youngest daughter; moreover, the resident, "Christian mis- lack of privacy and that Conclusion village of children take their sionaries told our ances- their daily activities are The mother's surname. The tors: you can protect your- being photographed and Mawlynnong is undoubtchief occupation of the self from the plague (chol- made a spectacle out of. edly a precious jewel of denizens of Mawlynnong era) only if you maintain Now, in the peak travel India, which must be is agriculture, and there is good hygiene, be it at home, season, Mawlynnong re- saved and respected by a 100% literary rate! So, with food, on your land, in ceives up to 250 tourists fellow Indians. So, we not only is this village en- the village, or for your body." per day; indeed, its popu- should strive to ensure vironmentally conscious, Indeed, the way in which lation has distended by a that its beauty is prebut it is socially progres- these locals have respected whopping 50 percent. And served. As reported by sive as well and it is per- and protected their environ- this increasing population The Hindu, "While the haps these characteristics ment from harm is com- poses the serious risk of pristine village is proud of that make it such an in- mendable; however, their doing away with the its achievements, some pristine surroundings may be charming, exceedingly believe it must limit visitriguing village.

Lifestyle Of The Khasi threatened by external influ- eco-friendly ways of liv- tor numbers to protect the well-being of its inhabiting of the Khasi tribes. ences.

Tribes To Moreover, probably the ants." And this can be The Khasi tribes have Threats greatest charm of this vil- achieved by raising tried exceptionally hard to Mawlynnong's Beauty maintain the beauty of this After the first road to this lage is its isolation which awareness about the village; as said by Baniar remote village was con- subsequently bestows it negative impacts tourists Mawroh, a teenage resi- structed twelve years ago, with almost mystical can have on this modest Courtesy: dent of Mawlynnong, "We a journalist from Discover qualities. But now that village. clean every day because India travel magazine people are coming in, it's Youthkiawaaz

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

BUSINESS

Rs.5,000 crore investments expected by apparel sector: AEPC Lucknow, Jul 5: Apparel industry body AEPC Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is expecting around Rs.5,000 crore fresh investments into the sector during the current fiscal which may create as many as two million jobs. Describing the Rs 6,000-crore textile booster package announced by the government late last month as a "game-changer," said Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) chairman Ashok G Rajani that based on the initial feedback he has received, around Rs.5,000 crore may flow into the industry in fresh capex

Bajaj Auto dragged to HC

by TVS over 'disparaging' ads Chennai, Jul 5: A series of advertisements has led to a court faceoff between twowheeler rivals TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto.

The Madras high court has issued a two-week interim injunction on the ad campaign run by dealers of Bajaj Auto for "disparaging" the products of TVS Motor. The ads in contention were run in Tamil Nadu and compared the fuel efficiency of the TVS XL100 and the Bajaj CT100. According to the court order, the ads compared the fuel efficiency of the two products "on the basis of false figures". In the interim injunction order -a copy of which is -the court restrains "the respondents from continuing the advertisement which disparages the applicant's product TVS XL100 by comparing the fuel efficiency of the applicant's product with the respondent's product for a period of two weeks". Around nine dealer ads were circulated in Tamil Nadu, and TVS filed a case in the high court around nine days ago. The court said that the decision is based on the fact that the respondents Bajaj Auto "specifically pointed out the specific demerit in the applicant's product.

Though the statement by the respondents puffing up their own product is not questionable, disparaging statement of the applicant would be certainly actionable.

However, the same can be dealt with in detail after the respondent filed their detailed counter," said the court order. The bone of contention is the fuel efficiency claims. "The point of difference in the two products, according to the advertisements issued by the respondents," said the court order, "is that fuel efficiency of the applicant product is less than 50% of the respondent product". The order went on to add that while "puffing" is "permissible" with a company's own products, "it cannot denigrate the rival manufacturers.

It is also permissible to have comparative advertisement as long as it does not attain negative overtones". The order added that ads should be within "reasonable restrictions".

(Agencies)

GREAT EXPECTATIONS Apparel industry body AEPC Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is expecting around Rs.5,000 crore fresh investments into the sector during the current fiscal which may create as many as two million jobs.

The Rs 6,000-crore textile booster package announced by the government late last month is termed as a "game-changer,". this fiscal year itself. This additional investment into the apparel sector, which has not seen any invest-

This additional investment into the apparel sector, which has not seen any investments for years, alone can create as many as two million jobs this year, he said, adding that the impetus will be on the near-doubling of the capital subsidy to 25 per cent of one's investment.

The industry will be able to meet the government's target of creating 10 million jobs and $30 billion in export earnings by 2020.

ments for years, alone can create as many as two million jobs this year, he said, adding that the

impetus will be on the near-doubling of the capital subsidy to 25 per cent of one's investment.

When asked whether the industry will be able to meet the government's target of creating 10 million jobs and $30 billion in export earnings by 2020, Rajani said, "Without any doubt, it is very much doable. In fact, I am optimistic that we should be easily crossing these targets as the entire industry is very happy with the package and bullish on investments. After all, we aren't capital-intensive industry but highly labourintensive." Rajani, who runs a company called Flair Exports, said his

company will be setting up a new factory this year itself and is scouting for the right location.

The factory will be in Navi Mumbai and he needs Rs.6-7 crore to open the new factory with 250 machines. "We will hire 300 more people for this factory to add to our 750 hands now," he said. When asked how the scheme will help raise exports, he said the six percentage points margins that will come from the package will help him grow by at least 25 per cent to Rs.75 crore from the present Rs.60 crore.

He, however, said the 9.5 per cent duty on exports is still a worry, which

competitors from Vietnam, Bangladesh and Cambodia don't pay. He said the enhanced duty drawback of 12.25 per cent, up from 7.25 per cent, is the biggest take away from the package which leaves the ball in the court of the industry as the government has given it the best deal possible. The Cabinet, on June 22, cleared a Rs.6,000-crore incentive package for the textiles and apparel sector to create one crore new jobs over the next three years, and attract investments worth $11 billion and generating $30 billion in exports.

(Agencies)

Innova Crysta production speed up by Toyota to cut waiting period Mumbai, Jul 5: With an aim to reduce waiting period, Japanese auto major Toyota is ramping up production of its newly launched multi-purpose vehicle Innova Crysta in India to about 7,800 units a month to meet strong demand. With half of the total bookings of around 30,000 units coming for automatic transmission variant, the company, which operates in India as a joint venture Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) with the Kirloskar group, has asked its supplier to enhance supply of the transmission. "Since the launch of the Innova Crysta we have done up to 30,000 bookings, out of which 50 percent are for the automatic transmission variant. Currently, we have a waiting period of over three months,"

said TKM Director and Senior Vice President (Sales & Marketing) N Raja. When asked how is the company working to reduce the waiting period, he said: "We are increasing production. In May when we started we were producing around 6,000 units. In June, it went up to around 7,800 units. Going forward, depending on demand we expect to maintain that level." Raja said considering demand for automatic transmission, TKM has asked its vendor to enhance supplies. "We had planned for around 3040 per cent of total demand of Innova Crysta to come for the automatic transmission but it is around 50-60 per cent at present, so we are working with our supplier to enhance its production," he

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: gaadiwaadi) added. TKM had announced the launch of an all-new version of its popular multi-purpose vehicle Innova priced up to Rs 20.78 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai) in May but it hasn't been able to sell the vehicle in Delhi-NCR due

to ban on registration of diesel car and SUVs with engine capacity of 2,000 cc and above imposed by the Supreme Court. "Demand for the Innova Crysta has come from other parts of the market.

Yes, sales could have

been higher with DelhiNCR," he added. In June, the company sold 8,171 units of Innova Crysta, while in May it stood at around 6,600 units. TKM's overall sales in June stood at 13,502 units in the domestic market, up 29 per cent from the corresponding month last year. On the outlook for the year, Raja said: "While the industry is poised for 7-9 per cent growth, we will be looking to maintain the same level as last year as we had a difficult time in the first six months of the current year." TKM had sold a total of 1,39,819 units last year. "Hopefully, the uncertainty over diesel will be resolved and with our other models like Etios also contributing, we expect our sales to pick up in the second half of the year," he added. (Agencies)

Value from infra spend planned to be captured by Govt New Delhi, Jul 5: Living in a smart city or near a newly planned national highway or airport? You may have to pay more taxes. Based on directives from the Prime Minister's Office, the Centre is preparing a policy on value capture financing (VCF) aimed at helping the government recover some of the premium that public infrastructure investments generate for private landowners, top officials said.

The PMO has formed a high-level committee to examine various aspects of the policy and conduct stakeholder consultations.

The committee headed by Urban Development Additional Secretary Sameer Sharma includes joint secretaries from infrastructure ministries such as road transport, ports, civil aviation and economic af-

Urban Development Additional Secretary, Sameer Sharma. (Photo: bsmedia.business-standard)

fairs. According to sources, the consultations will be held in August and the policy finalised by October. The public financing tool, which is popular the world over, is based on the logic that the government makes large investments in developing public infrastructure leading to rapid economic de-

velopment in those areas, including higher land prices. A policy on value capture financing would mean tapping into this increment through additional taxes, government as-realtor and other tools and then using finances to fund future infrastructure projects in the same area.

The policy will propose

VCF tools that can be used by the Centre and states. Initial discussions within the government reveal that in the case of major projects like a new port, airport or national highway, the public-private partnership agreement would include a VCF tool best suited to this. "Since the government does not recover this unearned increment from its own investments, it is constrained to initiate these big-ticket projects," said a senior official who didn't want to be identified. "So it is really in the larger public interest to have such a policy." Some of the models likely to be incorporated in the policy include tax increment financing. This means that if a port project or an airport is planned in an area, a tax increment on properties in the surrounding

areas is imposed. This new levy will be for a specific period of about five years until property prices plateau. Some countries have identified special assessment districts that fall in the best-effected zone of an infrastructure project like a metro line.

These have to pay an additional tax to recover the cost. Other options include the government initiating land pooling and developing only a part of this. When property prices rise, the government sells the rest of the land at a premium. Sources said the need for a policy has been felt since the government has initiated massive urban and rural development projects such as smart cities and urban renewal missions and this would be a way of recouping part of the investment.

(Agencies)

400 branches, 1,000 ATMs to be added by by ICICI this fiscal Bengaluru, Jul 5: Country's second-largest lender ICICI Bank will add 400 more branches and expand its ATM network by another 1,000 in the current fiscal to boost business from retail operations. "We believe that a wide branch network is a cornerstone in retail banking. Keeping this in mind, we plan to add around 400 branches this fiscal. We also plan to expand our ATM network by adding over 1,000 ATMs," Chanda Kochhar Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

of ICICI Bank said in an interaction. Kochhar said research done by the bank has shown customers value a wide branch network, and the proximity to one's home or office plays an important role when customers evaluate a bank with which they want to start a relationship. "It also helps deepen the relationship with the customer as it forms a focal point for a range of products and services like mortgages, other loans and investments," she said. ICICI Bank is of the view that branch expan-

sion will continue, although their nature of branches are yet to evolve. "The branches will become digital and more advisory in nature.

In fact, our branches, in their advisory role, source over half of our home loan and new cards customers. Our ATMs are like mini-branches today wherein we provide many banking services in addition to dispensing cash," said bank's head. Besides, automated teller machines (ATMs) also involve services such as Aadhar card updation to utility bill pay-

ments, pre-approved loan eligibility and even fund transfers to any bank.

"Today, over a third of all financial transactions are done through ATMs," Kochhar said. ICICI Bank had said in the previous fiscal it added 400 branches to its network, which is equivalent to the branch network of a small bank. As of March 31, 2016, the ICICI Bank said it had the largest retail network among private sector banks in the country with 18,216 branches and ATMs. Of this 4,450 are branches

and 13,766 are ATMs. Advancing with new age requirements, the bank has also successfully weaved digital strategy alongside its brick and mortar model. ICICI Bank has 110 fully digital and automated 'Touch Banking' branches across 33 cities available round-theclock on all days. As part of branch automation strategy, the bank said it has deployed more than 1,800 self-service kiosks, which include cash deposit machines and insta banking kiosks, across its branches. (Agencies)

PAGE 10

IFC to invest Rs. 134 cr in Future Consumer Enterprise

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: thumbs.dreamstime) ANI Mumbai, Jul 5: Future Consumer Enterprise Limited (FCEL) announced bagging an investment of Rs. 134 crore from the World Bank's investment arm International Finance Corporation (IFC). A part of Kishore-Biyani's Future group, FCEL entered into an agreement with IFC and as part of that it would issue equity shares to the World Bank arm at a price of Rs. 22.73. In a regulatory filing, the company announced that it was entering into an investment agreement with IFC dated July 1, 2016, for the proposed issue of CCDs and

equity shares to IFC as per the terms and conditions agreed under the said investments agreement.

Moreover, as per the terms and condition of the agreement, IFC would have a right to nominate one director on the FCEL's board. IFC is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector in developing countries. Being a member of the World Bank Group, it offers investment, advisory and assets management services to encourage private sector development in the developing countries.

TECHNOLOGY Portable gaming machine unveiled by Lenovo in India

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: img.etimg) Bangalore, Jul 5: Taking the burgeoning gaming market to a new height, Global PC, tablet and smartphone maker Lenovo launched a new gaming portfolio for the millennial gamers in India.

The thin and portable Rs 99,990 Lenovo Y700 Windows 10 is packed with an in-built 1 TB + 128 GB SSD and runs on standard volt Intel Core i7 Skylake CPU with Turbo Boost abilities. "The new Y700 is testimony to Lenovo`s constant innovation and pursuit to create new categories that enhance the consumer experience. The sleek Lenovo Y700 offers the experience, performance and versatility that gamers look for," said Bhaskar Choudhuri, Director, Marketing Lenovo India, in a statement. For gamers on the go, this machine has plenty of horsepower to swap between graphics-intensive game time and rich-media software like Photoshop and CorelDraw. The machine comes with latest 4GB

NVIDIA graphics, powerful Dolby audio JBL speakers, a subwoofer and an optional 10-point multitouch display or Intel`s RealSense Camera (on the 15-inch laptop) that further enhances the gaming and multimedia experience.

The "Optimised Thermal Cooling" technology keeps the Y700 stay cool even in intense on-screen actions.

Along with the Y700, customers will also get a free Lenovo Y Gaming Backpack that fits up to a 17.3inch laptop, includes padded pockets, a protective hard shell compartment and a chest strap for extra carrying support. As a special launch offer, the some cool gaming accessories worth Rs 12999 are available to customers at the price of Rs 2499 that include Lenovo Y Gaming Surround Sound Headset, Lenovo Y Gaming Precision Mouse and Lenovo Y Gaming Mechanical Switch Keyboard. The gaming portfolio is available on Lenovo`s thedostore.com.

(Agencies)

THE GAME BEGINS Taking the burgeoning gaming market to a new height, Global PC, tablet and smartphone maker Lenovo launched a new gaming portfolio for the millennial gamers in India.

The thin and portable Rs 99,990 Lenovo Y700 Windows 10 is packed with an in-built 1 TB + 128 GB SSD and runs on standard volt Intel Core i7 Skylake CPU with Turbo Boost abilities.

The new Y700 is testimony to Lenovo`s constant innovation and pursuit to create new categories that enhance the consumer experience. The sleek Lenovo Y700 offers the experience, performance and versatility that gamers look for.

For gamers on the go, this machine has plenty of horsepower to swap between graphics-intensive game time and rich-media software like Photoshop and CorelDraw.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

Features

PAGE 11

HORTICULTURE How to Use Vinegar to Kill Weeds Vinegar Weed Killer Vinegar can be used as a relatively safe household weed killer without causing significant harm to people, animals, and the environment when used correctly. Vinegar is effective due to its ability to draw moisture out of foliage.

Household vinegar may have to be used in combination with other household items, like salt and dish detergent, to kill mature weeds. Horticultural grade vinegar has a much higher acetic acid content, but should be used only if household vinegar fails to kill targeted weeds.

How Vinegar Kills Weeds Vinegar is created via a fermentation process and the result is acetic acid.

Acetic acid is a desiccant which means it draws moisture out of plant fo-

liage. Vinegar is non-selective and will kill weeds along with any other plant it contacts. Spot treating weeds is the most useful scenario for vinegar herbicide. Some plants may be resistant due to waxy or hairy leaves, so vinegar applications are not always going to be successful.

Household & Horticultural Vinegar Household Vinegar Vinegar contains acetic acid that is toxic to plants, but the concentration of acetic acid is key to provide and effective kill.

Household vinegar only contains around 5% acetic acid, which will kill seedlings, young weeds, and even mature weeds depending on how susceptible the weeds are to household vinegar. Always start with household vinegar and spray a few weeds to see how suscep-

tible they are. Apply horticultural vinegar when there is no threat of rain in the near future. If household vinegar does not kill the weeds, then horticultural grade vinegar or a vinegar and salt/ detergent combination will be necessary.

Horticultural Grade Vinegar Horticultural vinegar is many times stronger and more effective against stubborn, mature weeds due to having an acetic acid concentration of 20%. Apply horticultural vinegar when there is no threat of rain in the near future so the vinegar is allowed to be taken up by the plant without rain washing it off. Spray directly onto plants and do not dilute with water. Be careful when spraying to avoid non-target plants.

Vinegar is indiscriminate and will kill non-target

plants along with weeds.

Avoid over-spraying as much as possible.

Repeated Applications Reapplying vinegar is usually necessary, especially against weeds like crabgrass. Vinegar does not linger in the soil and prevent new weeds from sprouting. Spray new weeds immediately for maximum effectiveness.

Reapplication is a slight downside to using vinegar as a chemical herbicide alternative.

Vinegar Weed Killer Mixtures Salt & Vinegar - Mix 1 & 1/2 cups of table salt into 1 gallon of household vinegar. Mix thoroughly so all the salt dissolves. Undissolved salt will settle on the bottom of the sprayer and may even plug the sprayer nozzle. Apply by spraying onto target weeds.

Salt is very effective in

tandem with vinegar, but salt solutions can cause damage by soaking into the soil and spreading into non-target areas and plants. Be very cautious and use sparingly when applying salt solutions since non-target plants and lawns in the direct vicinity can easily be killed. Salt remains in the soil for a while and may cause lingering problems in other plants. Salt is best used against weeds in sidewalks, patios, and other hard surfaces.

Dish Detergent & Vinegar - Mix vinegar with a few squirts of liquid dish detergent into a sprayer or small spray bottle.Apply the mixture by spraying during the sunniest and warmest part of the day. Hot summer days provide the best results because the soap will dry into a film on foliage while helping

Representational image (Photo: ghk.h) lock in the vinegar.

Reapplication Reapplying of mixtures is usually necessary, especially against resilient weeds. Such mixtures do not remain active for very long which allows new weeds to emerge.

Spray new weeds as soon as possible.

Caution

Treat Vinegar Weed Killer as a Chemical Herbicide Use vinegar and vinegar mixtures like every other herbicide and pesticide.

Just because it is a common household item does not mean it can be used carelessly. Injury can occur to people, pets, and the environment if used reck-

lessly. Every weed problem has its own unique scenario and blindly spraying vinegar and vinegar mixtures is highly discouraged. Also, household vinegar should be tried before resorting to stronger horticultural vinegar. Stronger is not necessarily better.

Courtesy: dengarden

Vegetable Gardening for Beginners

Northeast horticultural product with GI tag

Growing your own vegetables is both fun and rewarding. All you really need to get started is some decent soil and a few plants. But to be a really successful vegetable gardener - and to do it organically - you'll need to understand what it takes to keep your plants healthy and vigorous. Here are the basics.

"Feed the soil" is like a mantra for organic gardeners, and with good reason. In conventional chemical agriculture, crop plants are indeed "fed" directly using synthetic fertilizers.

When taken to extremes, this kind of chemical force-feeding can gradually impoverish the soil.

And turn it from a rich entity teeming with micro organisms insects and other life forms, into an inert growing medium

The list includes Naga tree tomato, Tezpur litchi, Assam Karbi Anglong ginger, Khasi mandarin, Kachai lemon, Memang narang, Arunachal orange, Mizo chilli, Sikkim large cardamom and Tripura Queen pineapple.

As many as ten horticultural products from across the eight states of the Northeastern region have got the coveted GI tag, thus giving them the much-needed recognition that these belong exclusively to the region and are legally protected from being produced elsewhere.

The list includes Naga

matter provides a continuous source of nitrogen and other nutrients that plants need to grow. It also provides a rich food source for soil microbes. As organisms in the soil carry out the processes of decay and decomposition, they make these nutrients available to plants. For more on this subject, read Building Healthy Soil.

Make Efficient Use of Space The location of your garden (the amount of sunlight it receives, proximity to a source of water, and protection from frost and wind) is important.

Yet, just as crucial for growing vegetables is making the most of your garden space.

Lots of people dream of having a huge vegetable garden, a sprawling site that will be big enough to grow everything they

convert from traditional row planting to 3- or 4foot-wide raised beds.

Single rows of crops, while they might be efficient on farms that use large machines for planting, cultivating, and harvesting, are often not the best way to go in the backyard vegetable garden. In a home-sized garden, the fewer rows you have, the fewer paths between rows you will need, and the more square footage you will have available for growing crops.

SHOP RAISED BEDS If you are already producing the amount of food you want in your existing row garden, then by switching to raised beds or open beds you will actually be able to downsize the garden. By freeing up this existing garden space, you can plant green-manure crops on the part of

Representational image (Photo: housely)

that exists mainly to anchor the plants' roots, and that provides little or no nutrition in its own right.

Although various fertilizers and mineral nutrients (agricultural lime, rock phosphate, greensand, etc.) should be added periodically to the organic garden, by far the most useful substance for building and maintaining a healthy, well-balanced soil is organic matter. You can add organic matter to your soil many different ways, such as compost, shredded leaves, animal manures or cover crops.

Organic matter improves the fertility, the structure and the tilt of all kinds of soils. In particular, organic

want, including space-hungry crops, such as corn, dried beans, pumpkins and winter squash, melons, cucumbers and watermelons.

If you have the room and, even more importantly, the time and energy needed to grow a huge garden well, go for it. But vegetable gardens that make efficient use of growing space are much easier to care for, whether you're talking about a few containers on the patio or a 50-by-100foot plot in the backyard.

Raised beds are a good choice for beginners because they make the garden more manageable.

Get Rid of Your Rows The first way to maximize space in the garden is to

the garden that is not currently raising vegetables and/or rotate growing areas more easily from year to year. Or you might find that you now have room for planting new crops rhubarb,asparagus, berries, or flowers for cutting - in the newly available space.

Other good reasons to convert from rows to an intensive garden system: Less effort. When vegetables are planted intensively they shade and cool the ground below and require less watering, less weeding, less mulching - in other words, less drudgery for the gardener.

Less soil compaction.

The more access you have between rows or beds, the more you and others will be compacting the soil by walking in them. By increasing the width of the growing beds and reducing the number of paths, you will have more growing area that you won't be walking on, and this untrammeled soil will be fluffier and better for plants' roots.

Grow Up, Not Out Next to intensive planting, trellising represents the most efficient way to use space in the garden.

People who have tiny gardens will want to grow as many crops as possible on vertical supports, and gardeners who have a lot of space will still need to lend physical support to some of their vegetables, such as climbing varieties of peas and pole beans. Other vegetables that are commonly trellised include vining crops, such as cucumbers and tomatoes.

SHOP VEGETABLE SUPPORTS The fence surrounding your garden may well do double-duty as a trellis, so long as the crops grown on the fence can be rotated in different years. Other kinds of vegetable supports are generally constructed from either wood or metal.

However, no matter which design or materials you use, be sure to have your trellis up and in place well before the plants require its support - preferably even before you plant the crop. With some vegetables, such as tomatoes or melons, you may also have to tie the plants gently to the support, or carefully weave them through the trellis as they grow.

Keep Crops Moving Crop rotation within the vegetable garden means planting the same crop in the same place only once every three years. This policy ensures that the same garden vegetables will not deplete the same nutrients year after year.

It can also help foil any insect pests or disease pathogens that might be lurking in the soil after the crop is harvested.

To use a three-year crop rotation system, make a plan of the garden on paper during each growing season, showing the lo-

cation of all crops. If, like most people, you grow a lot of different vegetables, these garden plans are invaluable, because it can be difficult to remember exactly what you were growing where even last season, much less two years ago.

Saving garden plans for the past two or three years means that you don't have to rely on memory alone.

A Continuous Harvest Planting crops in succession is yet another way to maximize growing area in the garden. All too often, though, gardeners will prepare their seedbeds and plant or transplant all their crops on only one or two days in the spring, usually after the last frost date for their location.

While there is nothing wrong with planting a garden this way, wouldn't it be easier to plant a few seeds or transplants at a time, throughout the course of the whole growing season, rather than facing the herculean task of "getting in the garden" all at one time?

After all, a job almost always becomes easier the more you divide it up.

Plan to plant something new in the garden almost every week of the season, from the first coldhardy greens and peas in late winter or early spring, to heat-loving transplants such as tomatoes, peppers and eggplant once the weather becomes warm and settled.

Then start all over again, sowing frost-hardy crops from midsummer through mid-fall, depending on your climate.

Keep cleaning out beds as you harvest crops to make room for new vegetables that will take their place. You can even interplant crops that grow quickly (radishes) alongside other vegetables that require a long season (carrots or parsnips), sowing their seeds together. This makes thinning out the bed easier later on, since you will have already harvested the quick-growing crop and given the longseason vegetables that remain some much-needed elbow room.

Another benefit of suc-

cession planting, of course, is that your harvest season lasts longer for every crop. This means that, instead of getting buried in snap beans or summer squash as your plants mature all at once, you can stagger plantings to ensure a steady, but more manageable supply of fresh vegetables.

Keep Good Records Finally, we end up where we started - with the realization that, although vegetable gardening can be rewarding even for beginners, there is an art to doing it well. There is also a mountain of good information and advice from other gardeners available to you. Yet one of the most important ways of improving your garden from year to year is to pay close attention to how plants grow, and note your successes and failures in a garden notebook or journal.

Just as drawing a garden plan each year helps you remember where things were growing, taking notes can help you avoid making the same mistakes again, or ensure that your good results can be reproduced in future years. For instance, write down all the names of different vegetable varieties, and compare them from year to year, so you will know which ones have done well in your garden.

Many people keep a book in their car to record when they change their oil and perform other routine maintenance. In the same way, get in the habit of jotting it down whenever you apply organic matter or fertilizer to the garden, or the dates on which you plant or begin to harvest a crop.

Over time this kind of careful observation and record-keeping will probably teach you more about growing vegetables than any single book or authority. That's because the notes you make will be based on your own personal experience and observations, and will reflect what works best for you in the unique conditions of your own garden.

As in so many other pursuits, so it is in the art of vegetable gardening: practice does make perfect.

Courtesy: gardeners

in the national capital region. "A few years ago then Karbi Anglong deputy commissioner M Angamuthu had set up a cooperative for the ginger growers and ensured that they got better price and were not cheated by middlemen. We were working on it since then until we got the GI tag for it recently," Bhattacharjee said.

The most interesting fruit to have got the GI registration is Memang narang, a small citruslike orange fruit belonging to the Garo Hills in Meghalaya but is on the verge of extinction.

"Once grown in many homestead gardens by

Tezpur's Litchi bagan (Photo: .twimg)

tree tomato, Tezpur litchi, Assam Karbi Anglong ginger, Khasi mandarin, Kachai lemon, Memang narang, Arunachal orange, Mizo chilli, Sikkim large cardamom and Tripura Queen pineapple, all of which are now expected to bring better fortune for hundreds of tribal families across the region. All these items were accorded GI registration. NERAMAC, an organization under the minister for Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER) also earned the distinction of being the only government PSU to have got GI registration for as many as 10 items, Bhattacharjee said.

Assam Karbi Anglong ginger, as it has been registered now, on the other hand is a very fleshy yet fibrous ginger grown exclusively in the Karbi Anglong hill district in Assam, with the bulk of it going out to the mandis

the Garo tribal community, very few plants of this fruit are now available, and that too in the wild. Once promoted, this fruit will provide a source of livelihood to many families," the NERAMAC executive director said. What is however lacking is a long-term plan to encourage and support more farmers to grow these crops and then link them to the market both within the country and outside. "There are numerous such horticultural and agricultural crops all over the Northeast. But while we have failed to promote commercial cultivation of these of crops, there is hardly any market linkage, which has often frustrated farmers, especially when a good harvest goes waste," said BK Sarma, an emeritus scientist with ICAR. Courtesy: india nexpress.

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

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Pro Kabaddi League: Bengaluru Bulls Amofa FC in Semis hold nerve to beat Puneri Paltan ANI Hyderabad, July.5 : Bengaluru Bulls recorded a fine victory over Puneri Paltan in a closely contested affair as they won 29-27 in the fourth edition of the Pro Kabaddi League here at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium last evening.

Mohit Chhillar was in great form in defence as he scored six points whereas Rohit Kumar turned the game in the last minute with a super raid and ended up with eight points.

Bengaluru Bulls gained a spot in the league table and jumped to fifth position with 13 points from four games.

Puneri Paltan suffered their second defeat of the season but remain top of the table with 20 points after six games.

Deepak Niwas Hooda scored a super raid in the third minute as Puneri Paltan led 3-1 and reduced Bengaluru Bulls to four men.

Ajay Rathi scored two points in the sixth minute for the Bulls to tie the game at 3-3. Puneri Paltan raiders were kept quiet by the Bulls defence as they could register only one successful raid in the first 10 minutes. Surprisingly Manjeet Chhillar attempted his first raid in the 11th minute as Puneri Paltan trailed 6-4. Deepak Niwas Hooda and Amit Rathi scored a point apiece in the 14th minute, as the teams were tied 7-7. Bulls' defence did a fine job on Puneri Paltan raiders - Manjeet Chhillar didn't score a single point -- as they led 10-8 at the end of first half.

Pro Kabaddi League Sonu Narwal scored two points with his first raid in the 22nd minute as Puneri Paltan led 11-10. Mohit Chhillar was in commanding form for the Bengaluru Bulls as they continued to dry up

points for Puneri Paltan.

Their defence, however, forced two super tackle as they tied the game at 15-15 in the 30th minute. Ajay Tomar scored a super raid in the following minute to give

Puneri Paltan a three-point lead.

Manjeet Chhillar finally scored his first raid point in the 32nd minute as Puneri Paltan led 20-16. Bengaluru Bulls defence continued to shine as they forced a super tackle to tie the game at 2020. With less than five minutes to go, Bengaluru forced another super tackle to lead 22-21.

Puneri Paltan inflicted an all in the 39th minute to lead 2623 but Rohit Kumar scored a raid point in the last minute to make it 26-25. Kumar then followed it with an excellent super raid with 28 seconds to go as the Bulls led 28-26. He continued his hot streak and scored another raid point to turn the match in Bengaluru Bulls' favour to record an excellent victory.

`Universe Boss` Gayle Euro 2016: Gomes backs Portugal to feast on Wales' weaknesses fires Tallawahs to thrilling CPL win

Chris Gayle ANI Basseterre, July 5 : Chris Gayle once again proved his status as the greatest T20 batsman of all time as he helped the Jamaica Tallawahs to victory against the Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Having been set a massive 192 run target it took Gayle a while to get himself set, but once he launched he was unstoppable on his way to 108 not out.

It seemed that the Knight Riders had the upper hand in this game, especially with Sunil Narine bowling superbly as he conceded just nine runs from his four overs. That was until the 13th over of the Tallawahs chase when Sulieman Benn was brought into the attack and conceded 30 runs from one over, including four Maximums from Gayle. From there it was a simple chase for the Tallawahs.

This was Gayle's 18th Twenty20 hundred, a world record, the next man on the list has just seven. It was a lone hand from Gayle as the next highest run scorer in the

innings was Andre Russell with 24. Gayle took a game that was all but lost and won it on his own as he made a second hundred in as many matches at Queen's Park Oval.

The only time Gayle had a moment of concern was when he was dismissed off a no ball on 94. He hit the subsequent free hit for six to bring up his ton. It all seemed so easy for him, but to put this into context, this was the second highest successful run chase in the history of T20 cricket in the Caribbean.

A sublime innings of 74 from Hashim Amla had taken him to the very top of the CPL 2016 run-scoring charts and also helped the Trinbago Knight Riders to what seemed a very competitive total.

This match is the last that will be played at the Queen's Park Oval this season and having made the ground a virtual fortress in their title winning campaign last year a win was vital for the Knight Riders going forward, but for Gayle they would have had that victory.

Dhanraj Pillay expresses gratitude to PM Modi PTI New Delhi, Jul 5 : Former Indian Hockey captain Dhanraj Pillay has expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Sports Ministry and Indian Railways for providing financial assistance to ailing hockey legend Mohammad Shahid.

"I thank the honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, Sports Minister Shri Jitendra Singh ji, Indian Railways and Railways minister Shri Suresh Prabhu ji and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Akhilesh Yadav ji for their prompt support and assistance to Shahid bhai's treatment," Pillay said.

Pillay had earlier appealed to the Prime Minster along with other ministries and associations, asking for help for the treatment of the Arjuna award winner who

Dhanraj Pillay was suffering from chronic liver and kidney problems.

Immediately responding to Pillay's plea the Railway Ministry, that currently employs Shahid, took care of all expenses incurred on his treatment and the Sports Ministry announced Rs 10 lakh for overhead expenses.

Uttar Pradesh CM Akhilesh Yadav also sanctioned Rs 5 lakh for the ailing Olympic Gold medallist.

ANI London, July 5 : Ahead of the pulsating semifinal clash of the Euro 2016, Portugal midfielder Andre Gomes has claimed that his side will not concentrate on Wales' star forward Gareth Bale and instead focus on exposing the frailties of Chris Coleman's side.

The 22-year-old, who plays for Spanish club Valencia, admitted that Wales are a strong team but stated that Portugal will use their 'best weapons' to beat the Welsh Dragons, the Daily Express reported.

Wales produced a sensational performance throughout the European Championship, beating world number two Belgium 3-1 in the quarterfinals to reach their first semifinal in a major tournament.

And Real Madrid star forward Bale has played a key role in Wales' sensational run in the tournament, scoring three goals and providing one assist.

Despite acknowledging the

Andre Gomes looming threat of Bale, Gomes said his side wouldn't need to take 'special care' about the Welsh and rather focus on the entire team.

Meanwhile, Portugal progressed to the last four without winning a match in 90 minutes with their star striker Cristiano Ronaldo having an average tournament.

The Real Madrid striker's best performance came against Hungary as he broke a European Championship record by scoring in his fourth finals to rescue a 3-3 draw and avoid an early exit from France.

Portugal and Wales will lock horns against each other in the last four match at Stade de Lyon, France on Thursday.

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, July 5: Amofa Football Club, Manipur defeated Assam Rifles, Shillong by 4-2 via tiebreaker in the quarterfinal match of the 8th Bodousa Cup Football tournament organised by Bodousa Sports Club at TDSA stadium in Tinsukia today. The regulation time was locked 1-1 draw.

Assam Rifles, Shillong opened the account through M. Chetri in the 58th minute. M. Chetri converted a pass of Somson from the left flank. M. Sonpau of Amofa FC equalized the goal in the 90th minute.

In the penalty shootout for Amofa FC, Somson, Herajit, Ashif and Gunel

found the back of the net.

For Assam Rifles, M. Chetri and T.P. Bhutia scored the goals while Akum AO and Ajit Kumar Singh missed scoring opportunities.

Sonpau of Amofa FC was adjudged man of the match.

On Thursday, Oil India Football Club, Duliajan will play Shillong Lajong Football Academy in the first semifinal at TDSA stadium.

Ponting calls for regulation of oversized bats in Test cricket ANI Melbourne, July 5 : Taking a strong objection towards modern-day cricket bats, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has expressed that the size and weight of bats should be regulated in order to restore balance in an increasingly batsman-dominated game.

"I don't know how they are doing it to make the size of bats they are making now," Ponting was quoted as saying

by ESPNcricinfo. "The modern day bats and weight in particular -- it's just a completely different game. Full credit to them. If they are there use them, if there's a better golf club or tennis racquet everyone will use it. It's nothing against the players.

"If you are strong enough to use them that's fine, but you should not get a bat that's bigger in size than [MS] Dhoni's but a whole lot lighter. Chris Gayle's the same. Everyone talks about Chris Gayle's bat size, but it's 3½ lbs. He's big enough and strong enough to use it.

Ricky Ponting I only get worried when they are really big and really light."

According to present cricket rules, only length and width of bats are limited and not the depth or weight. This has paved way for the development of bats made from lighter materials but with thick edges such as one being used by big-hitting batsman David Warner.

Ponting, who accumulated

13,378 runs at a staggering average of 51.85 in his 168 Tests, was speaking at a recent Australian Cricket Society function. He said that he didn't have any issues with such bats in the shorter forms of the game as it "survives on boundaries - fours and sixes".

He also said he would take up the matter in next week's meeting of the MCC's World Cricket Committee at Lord's.

Wimbledon 2016: Paes-Hingis cruise Marlon Samuels takes Lawson to ANI into mixed doubles third round

court over `insulting` comments

ANI Johannesburg, July 5 : Hitting back at Geoff Lawson, West Indies batting mainstay Marlon Samuels has filed a defamation lawsuit against the former Australia fast bowler for making "insulting" and "false allegations" on him after the ICC World T20 final in India.

Commenting on Samuels' confrontation with Ben Stokes in the World T20 final, Lawson had alleged that the maverick West Indies batsman was involved with gangs in Jamaica.

The Australian had also re-

Marlon Samuels marked that Samuels was "a guy you don't muck around with on or off the field" as "he's tied up with the gangs there and it goes well be-

yond cricket", Sport24 reported.

Samuels also filed a defamation suit against an Australian journalist who published Lawson's quotes.

Clarifying his position, Samuels said that he intends not only to defend his integrity and image as a cricketer but also the values he had defended throughout his career.

He also revealed that he would donate the compensation to the Marlon Samuels Society for the Blind in Jamaica if he wins the case.

London, July 5 : Indian tennis ace Leander Paes and his Swiss partner Martina Hingis continued their rich vein of form as they advanced to the third round of the mixed doubles event here at Wimbledon with a comfortable victory.

The defending champions recorded a 6-4, 6-4 win over New Zealand-German pair of Artem Sitak and Laura Siegemund in the second round contest that lasted for one hour and 16 minutes at the All England Club.

The 16th-seeded Indo-Swiss pair could face a tricky encounter next as they are likely to meet second seeds Bruno Soares and Elena Vesnina in the third round.

Paes and Hingis won the French Open mixed doubles title last

Leander Paes and Martina Hingis month and are also the defending champions at the US Open.

In anothe r m a t c h , R o h a n Bopanna and his Australian partner Anastasia

Rodionova overcame Philippines' Treat Huey and Alicja Rosolska of Poland 6-3, 7-5 to reach the third round.

Buoyant Indian hockey team returns home, eyes Rio glory ANI New Delhi, July 5 : The Indian hockey team arrived back in the country on Tuesday after a strong showing at the 6 Nations Invitational tournament in Valencia and a Silver medal from the Champions Trophy in London.

The team has recently risen to number five in the official FIH World Rankings.

India's show at the SixNations Invitational Hockey Tournament ended with a 1-1 draw against Spain in Valencia placing them on 5th spot in the tournament. The team played in Olympic format with a 16 membersquad at the 6 Nations tournament. The 16 member team, presents its own new set of chal-

lenges, as reduced bench meant longer time spent on the pitch, with lesser time for recovery off the pitch. The decision was made to acclimatize players to the format so that they can tactically manage the effects of a reduced bench strength.

The Champions Trophy performance was the team's best ever, early India had won the Bronze medal in the 1982 Champions Trophy.

Fielding an experimental team, which featured a lot of young faces making their debut at the tournament, they scored 10 goals in the tournament. The defence was the key factor though in their march to the Final, as they conceded the second least goals in the tournament

Indian hockey team (11) behind the eventual champions Australia.

Harmanpreet Singh, was named the Best Upcoming Player of the Tournament player of the tournament. The young members at the recent tournaments have exhilarated

audiences with their performances. The current team has also been termed as the best team so far in terms of fitness, talent and unity, strengthening the hopes for Rio Olympics among fans in the country.

"This was a great oppor-

tunity for me to play with the senior members and to learn so much from them.

Playing on the 16 member Olympic format was challenging but also helped us gauge what we learnt at the training. Ensuring we are permanently, physically prepared for all scenarios, and that we are in peak shape as a unit when head to Rio," Harmanpreet Singh said.

Speaking after arriving back in the country, PR Sreejesh who had captained the team at the Champions Trophy said, "As proud as we are at our achievement, we are also very grateful and overwhelmed by the reactions from the support we have received from home. After a long tour, now we are focussed on the Rio Games

and ensuring a strong showing there so that we can make our supporters proud. We will have a few days break to rejuvenate ourselves before we resume the camp at SAI Bengaluru and get ready for Rio." Chief Coach Roelant Oltmans added, "Our aim was always to win a medal at the Champions Trophy. We have achieved that. It is on the backburner now though. We have to look ahead and focus on the Olympics. The team deserves a muchneeded break after all the hard work, and then, very soon, it will be back to the grind as we sharpen up for the all-important Olympic Games."

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