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ASSENG/2015/64205
Vol. II
PAGE 7
Issue 20
ATTRACTIONS IN GUJARAT, THE JEWEL OF THE WEST
Dibrugarh, Friday, July 8, 2016
Price -
5.00
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Page - 6
President Mukherjee strongly condemns Kishoreganj terror attack in Bangladesh
ET CAPSULES
Flood affects normal life
Doomdooma, July 7 : A youth namely Tarun Das was apprehended by Dhola Police and seized 5 kg cannabis sativa (bhang ) from Miripathar locality of Dhola. Further investigation is on. Dhola is 20 km north from D o o m d o o m a . (Correspondent)
CM's effigy burnt Golaghat, July 7: The BJP led state government came into power with the slogan Parivartan or the Change. But within two months of taking charge the new government had suddenly increased tax percentage for which prices of essential commodities got increased. Now the state government has been vehemently criticised for this by various organisations. Today protesting against this price hike Catra Mukti Sangram Samiti (CMSS), Furkating Regional Unit burned the effigy of Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal. Several activists of the organisation took part in the protest criticizing the government and raised anti slogans. (Correspondent)
Youth arrested with bhang Doomdooma, July 7 : A youth namely Tarun Das was apprehended by Dhola Police and seized 5 kg cannabis sativa (bhang ) from Miripathar locality of Dhola. Further investigation is on. Dhola is 20 km north from Doomdooma. (Correspondent)
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The NSCN (R) camp busted by Assam Rifles and (right) Assam Rifles personnel display the arms and ammunition recovered during the operation. Pic - ET Photo
Assam Rifles gun downs 4 cadres of NSCN (R) involved in extortion, camp busted Two AK assualt rifles, pistol and live rounds recovered Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, July 7
In a major achievement columns of 16 Assam Rifles on Thursday morning inflicted severe casualty on NSCN - R by killing four hardcore cadres and busting their hideout in the viciinity of Kheti village under Khonsa police station in Arunachal Padesh. The cadres gunned down in the encounter, first such major operation against NSCN-R, have been identified as SS Capt Jano Tekwa and SS Sergeant Major Lombho Pangsa, SS Corporal Mankhu Wangsa and SS Sergeant Tongbai. The cadres, indulged in illegal activities of extortion, arms dealing and drug peddling in Khonsa and nearby villages had become a bane for the locals. Security forces recovered two AK assault rifles, one pistol, three magazines of AK 47 and one magazine of pistol, huge quantity of live rounds, mobile phone, sim cards, wallet, combat jackets from the action zone.
Talking exclusively to The Eastern Today, Commander of 25 sector Assam Riffles Brigadier D.K. Singh said, in the backdrop of regular inputs of involvement of NSCN-R in extortion activities, arms dealings and drugs peddling, Assam Rifles was closely monitoring the situation and had pressed intelligence sources to gather specific inputs on the cadres and their movements since past few weeks. Brigadier Singh said, based on specific intelligence inputs Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles under DAO Division of Indian army launched a meticulous operation in the jungles on the vicinity of Kheti village, around 7 kms from Khonsa on Wednesday night. Three coloumns of Assam rifles rushed to the jungle area and laid a cordon. On Thursday morning, the first contact was established with the militants hiding inside a temporary camp. Due to dense forest cover and undergrowth, the movement was deliberate and slow added Brigadier Singh and said, as one of the
columns closed in towards the camp, they came under heavy automatic fire. The troops retaliated and in the ensuing gun fight, two hardcore cadres namely SS Capt Jano Tekwa and SS Sergeant Major Lombho Pangsa were killed and one AK 47 Rifle and a Pistol was recovered. He added that during the search of the area, the troops were fired upon again and in the retaliatory fire SS Sergeant Tongbai and SS Corporal Mankhu Wangsa were killed, and another AK 47 Rifle was recovered from them and a temporary camp was of the outfit was destroyed. It may he mentioned here that this operation is a major relief to the residents of Tirap district and will provide relief and succor to the residents from extortion and oppressive activities of terrorist cadres. The Assam Rifles troops of DAO Division have once again lived upto the motto of “Sentinels of the North East” and “Friends of the North East People”.
The Capital Complex Land Affected People’s Forum (CCLAPF) today submitted a memorandum to the state chief minister, demanding immediate transfer of Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh on grounds that he has been adopting ‘antiindigenous’ policies. The organization claimed that the DC has instructed notices on ‘pick and choose’ basis without verifying the ground reality. It alleged that
Singh conducted eviction drives even after the state government had directed to halt evictions on individual cases till the government could bring out a tangible solution on the encroachment issue. Also claiming that the Department of Housing is submitting biased report in the form of suppressing and hiding cases of some encroachers that have demolished or removed government quarters, the CCLAPF said that the DC has been taking action based on one-sided report of the department.
“The DC may be unaware of the fact that some file records in the department have been distorted or are missing because of a conspiracy with some vested encroachers”, the forum stated, before adding that “The DC has failed to verify why officials of the Department of Housing are not submitting reports of their near and dear ones.” The CCLAPF further said that DC Singh is misusing and misunderstanding Section 133 Cr PC and is arbitrarily imposing Section 133 and 138 Cr PC to carry out eviction
April 6, 2015 was the date when Wanting Naga and P. Tikhah alongwith few cadres of NSCN-K deflected from the outfit and raised another militant organization in the name of NSCN-R with the moral high ground of 'reformation' and a promise to work for a peaceful
ET Exclusive solution for the greater cause of Naga. The date, also recorded as the day when NSCN-K broke ceasefire with the government of India and subsequently became a reason for the birth of a third militant outfit for the cause of Naga after NSCN - K and NSCN - IM
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There is a saying "Where there is a Will there is a Way" where a upcoming youth of Margherita name Tridip Chetia through his own effort have open a Rehabilitation Centre named Seva Rehabilitation Centre, a Non Governmental Organisation at Jaya Nagar, Margherita for those youths who are Drugs Addicted, Alcoholic and Dependency. Tridip Chetia said that in the year 2015 at September month I thought of a new idea to start a rehabilitation centre at Margherita for those who are drugs addicted and
alcoholic. Tridip Chetia said that Seva Rehabilitation Centre for drugs addicted and alcoholic is the one and first rehabilitation centre of Upper Assam after
Guwahati. At Seva Rehabilitation Centre Margherita many youths have been cured and today these youths are turning to be a
Contd. on Page 4
Silent Procession against terrorism
Contd. on Page 4
People during the procession against ISIS. Pic - Amit Nagori ET Correspondent do not follow Islam and kill the Golaghat, July 7 innocent people which is against their religious practice. On the day of Eid Ul Fitar They mourned the death of today a group of people from Morangi Mouza of Golaghat innocent people and told that District took out a silent pro- the culture of unity will always cession in protest of terrorist prevail and they are always attack in Dhaka and Jeddah by ready to support what is just ISIS. The protestors were an- and right. The people said that guished as some anti social el- the government should be ements are doing wrong in strict against such anti social name of religion. The protest- element and demanded strong ers called ISIS as Devils who punishment against terrorists.
EID MUBARAK!
drives without any advance notice to other parties. The memorandum also demanded early solution to the protracted land occupation and allotment imbroglio of Capital Complex, along with the constitution of a high level enquiry committee against the Director of Housing for the department’s biased reporting. It further demanded early notification and implementation of the Cabinet decision No. CAB/M-15/1128 on land issue taken on 4 March, 2015, within a period of one month.
Margherita youth brings ray of hope for several drug addicts through establishment of rehab centre punctual and responsible citizen of our society said Tridip Chetia, President of Seva Rehabilitation Centre. Many drugs addicted and alcoholic youths come from Itanagar, Changlang, Miao, Deomali, Dergaon, Duliajan, Digboi and from Margherita Region said Tridip Chetia. The youths who comes at Sewa Rehabilitation Centre firstly detoxification is done under the supervision of doctors for 15 to 45 Days and after that Group Counselling, 1 to 1 Counselling, Meditation, Yoga, Input Classes, Evening Inventry and Sports are done for 90 to 145 Days duration said Tridip Chetia President of Seva
"The people and Government are engaged in a brave struggle against the evil forces of extremism and violence. The Government of India will strongly stand by our brothers and sisters of Bangladesh in this fight.
Rishu Kalantri Tinsukia, July 7
"Where there is a Will there is a Way" Mithun Baruah Margherita, July 7
In a statement, President Mukherjee said, "I am shocked and distressed to hear about the terrorist attack in Kishoreganj, Bangladesh, today on the day of Eid. I condemn the perpetrators of this attack in the
This is the second terrorist attack in Bangladesh in the span of a week.
NSCN (R) its' genesis
Capital Complex Land Affected People’s Forum demand DC's transfer A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July 7
President Pranab Mukherjee has strongly condemned the terrorist attack during an Eid prayer at Kishoreganj in Bangladesh on Thursday, which claimed four lives.
strongest of terms."
Rehabilitation Centre. Desmond Thomas, Diku Singh, Anirban Dutta and Dul Hazarika who were once drugs addicted said to this Correspondent that after coming to Seva Rehabilitation Centre our life has changed and now we look after those drugs addicted youths who comes to seva rehabilitation centre to get cured. Tridip Chetia President of Seva Rehabilitation Centre, Margherita have requested to Honourable Chief Minister of Assam and Honourable Constituency Margherita MLA to Provide funds at Seva Rehabilitation Centre so as to run the Rehabilitation Centre smoothly.
People offer namaz in Sivasagar during EID today. Pic - Firuz Ahmed
2 killed in massive landslide in Kamrup A Staff Reporter Guwahati, July 7
Two persons, including a minor, were killed and two others injured on Thursday due to a landslide in Assam's Kamrup district. Police said the incident took place at 11 Mile Area under Sonapur police station in the district. "A guard wall caved in on the house of the Bishal Sharma
due to landslide triggered by incessant rains since last night," police said adding that while Bishal Sharma and his daughter Nanu Sharma (13) were killed on the spot, his wife Radha Sharma and another daughter Puja Sharma were injured during the incident. The Assam government has in the meantime sprang into
action, and has directed the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), and the Assam disaster management department to look into the issue, and also to be ready for any relief and excavation work which might be required. “We have got orders to be on alert and for any required emergency,” said an official of the ASDMA.
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Youth arrested with bhang
PAGE 12
DRIVER ARRESTED FOR RAPE OF TEEN TRIBAL WOMAN IN MOVING BUS IN TRIPURA
PRAKASH JAVADEKAR ASSUMES CHARGE AS HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT MINISTER
Page - 11
Golaghat, July 7: Many parts of Golaghat are under severe grip of flood. The heavy and continuous rains for the last couple of days raised the water level of Dhansiri river which caused severe flood in several areas under Ward No 1 of Golaghat town. Hundreds of families in the areas had to suffer a lot due to floods and they moved out of their homes and had to take shelter in schools of nearby areas. The district administration have taken steps to rescue and provide relief to the flood hit people. (Correspondent)
Pages- 12
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JULY 8
PAGE 2
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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
Assam CM directs senior officers AAMYP criticizes centre over to ensure rescue and relief opera- decision of auctioning 12 oil tions of Urban flood in Guwahati fields to private company A Staff Reporter Guwahati, July 7: In the wake of the urban flood in Guwahati, Chief Minister directed the Chief Secretary and all senior officers to go the affected areas and ensure rescue and relief operations and provide all necessary assistance to the people. Chief Secretary, immedi-
ET Correspondent Margherita, July 7: The 12- hour bandh at Tinsukia district on 8 July by All Assam Sonowal Kachari Student Union (AASKSU) have been lifted after a discussion held with Tinsukia administration and AASKSU members. The 12 hours strike was against the appointment system of Assam Education Department where
PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz)
5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi 9-05 A.M-Antara 12-30 P.M-Gharjeuti 2-30 P.M-Dopahar Samachar 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 Anushthan 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani 7-45 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Ei Poth Hoise Bikashor" 8-00 P.M-Gyanmalini (Sponsored Programme of D.D.E.,Dibrugarh University) 8-30 P.M-Aapuni Sajag Ne? 9-16 P.M-Barerahaniya 10-00 P.M- Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P
Forest officials of Silonijan Forest Range of Karbi Anglong along with Assam Police and CRPF planted 2500 saplings of indigenous trees as part of “Reforestation program to secure Kalapahar-Daigurung Elephant Corridor” area on the occasion of Vanmahotsav Celebration 2016 with support of Wildlife Trust of India and Elephant Family on Wednesday,6th July 2016.
not a single ST (Plain) TET qualified teachers where appointed. A total of 192 qualified candidates were given appointment letter at Tinsukia District, out of which SC received 78, ST (Hills) received 15 and 99 appointments where received by other but not a single ST (Plains) have been given appointments, said
Bidyut Saikia and Surjakanta Sonowal both President and Secretary of AASKSU Tinsukia District Committee.
ET Correspondent Margherita, July 7: All Assam Muslim Yuba Parishad (S) Margherita Town Regional Committee have slammed and criticized over centre’s decision to auction 12 oil fields of Assam to private investors. Munna Ansari and Bhai Ali both President and Vice-President of All Assam Muslim Yuba
ET Bureau Guwahati, July 7: Governor of Assam and Nagaland Hon'ble P.B. Acharya was felicitated by Assam Bhawan Mumbai ,Indian National Fellowship Centre (INFC), Assam Association Mumbai, Naga Students Union Mumbai and Shreemoyee Asomiya Mahila Samiti Mumbai at a solemn function held at the Swatantryaveer Savarkar Rashtriya Smarak auditorium at Shivaji Park, Dadar (W) Mumbai on the 6th of ET Correspondent July 2016. Rangia, July 7: Muslim community The programme of Rangia Sub-division here at the lo- was Chaired by Dr. cality celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr along with Sanjay Deshmukh, Vice rest of the country with all pomp and Chancellor of Mumbai show as per their religious custom. University and was attended by a host of digAfter offering their holy prayer nitaries from across Namaaz at Idd Gah and Masque at NT Mumbai. each one greeted other wellbeing for The artistes from North peace in their life, commemorating the East Zonal Cultural Censignificance of the festival. The cus- tre (NEZCC) showcased tomary donation as per Islamism were the cultural richness of also offered to the concerned of the the North Eastern Region community. After Namaaz they prayed of India by their specto the almighty for world peace and tacular performances brotherhood. They also firmly con- alongside local artistes demn the mass killing by some terror- from the Assam Associaist, outside India. They demanded to tion Mumbai. stop inhuman activities immediately. The Hon'ble Governor of Tinsukia administration during the discussion with students’ body assured that the matter shall be discussed with honourable Chief Minister of Assam very soon, informed Bidyut Saikia and Surjakanta Sonowal.
Assam government plans to take major initiative regarding transfer of LPG subsidies A Staff Reporter Guwahati, July 7: The Assam government is planning to take a major initiative regarding transfer of subsidies, which according to it is an attempt to stop leakages. This is being planned for consumer subsides linked to LPG, electricity. State government has announced that the state budget 2016-17 which will be tabled shortly will see lowering of taxes in several commodities.
ent organization. Political parties including Congress and Left parties have alleged that this will trigger price rise and inflation.
Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday said, "We are contemplating if the subsidies which state government is giving per cylinder to Indian oil corporation Limited can be directly transferred to consumer. Similar mechanism can be folAssam has withdrawn lowed in case of power partial exemption consumers." granted to oil companies on sale of liquefied Sarma said that Assam petroleum gas for do- is under severe finanmestic use within cial situation with the Assam. Withdrawal of liability figure of the the subsidy has resulted state government in"In in increase in prices of creasing. LPG cylinders by Rs 14 whitepaper presented each. The price of recently, we estimated petrol increased by 76 that immediate liability paise and diesel by Rs of state government 1.67 per liter besides was around Rs 10,000 VAT on 127 items were crore. However, the increased by one per same is all set to cross Rs 12,000 crore as we cent. This move has trig- are being flooded with gered protests by differ- unpaid bills of previous
Congress government. We will present a revised and updated whitepaper in the state assembly." Union finance minister, Arun Jaitley will hold a meeting with the officials of the state finance department in New Delhi on Friday. Sarma argued that in those items where VAT has been increased are all MRP administered. "We have taken to dynamic taxation where tax structure can be tweaked and to adapt to different situations. State government is expecting to garner Rs 700 crore from increase in VAT from 5 to 6 per cent." Hinting that tax on tobacco and liquor may go up in the budget, Sarma added, "Government has constituted a task force with Deputy Commissioners to ensure that that there is no price rise following the increase in the VAT of 127 commodities."
Parishad (S) said that central government step motherly eyes towards Assam with arrogant policies shall ruined and if it continues than in the coming days all our resources will be nowhere. “We will continue our protest till central government withdrew its decision to auction 12 Oil fields of Assam,” said Munna Ansari and Bhai Ali.
Governor felicitated at Mumbai
Rangia celebrates Eid with fervor
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!
8-7-16 (FRIDAY)
team of senior officers moved to the affected areas of Guwahati to take stock of the situation. He also directed all Deputy Commissioners to be on alert and take vigil on the situation. This is stated in a communication from the office of the Assam Chief Minister to the media.
12 hour bandh of AASKSU lifted
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.
Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights
ately reviewed the situation and directed all senior officers to act promptly and provide immediate assistance and carry out rescue and relief operation. He also directed senior officers to ensure that adequate relief materials are provided to the people. The Chief Secretary and a
The finance minister said that during Congress regime in 2013, the VAT was increased thrice in a year on 2000 items. VAT on these commodities was increased from 12 to 15 per cent. Assuring that state government will have a relook on VAT increase after March 31, Sarma said, "This year is critical for us. We are expecting that payment of underpayment oil royalty from 2014 which amounts to Rs 1450 crore will come to state in next 60 days. The matter of underpayment of royalty is pending in the Supreme Court. Both Assam and Centre will file joint petition in the Supreme Court." Sarma allayed the fear that increase in price of diesel and petrol and other commodities will led to diversion of trade to neighbouring Meghalaya and Nagaland. "We will ensure that there in no diversion of trade."
Assam urged upon the people of the North Eastern States living in Mumbai to participate hand in hand with different agencies and come up with initiatives for the Development of the North Eastern Region. He referred to them as a storehouse of immense potentialities who can bring about a positive change in the development of the country. He also urged upon the august gathering with was attended by different business houses, journalists, people from the world of art, culture and sports to make a serious effort for the development of the North Eastern States of India without which we cannot consider ourselves to be doing justice to the country at large. The Hon'ble Governor participated in an interactive session with the audience and answered questions relating to valid subjects relating to the North East with special emphasis on the states of Assam and Nagaland.
Eid ul fitar observed ET Correspondent Golaghat, July 7: Along with the entire nation Eid Ul Fitar was observed in Golaghat too. It is to be known that the very festival was earlier marked at Eidgah Maidan at Samanway Pathar but for the last many years the festival is marked at various mosque of the town separately. The charm of Eidgah Maidan is beyond imagination but all are bound to admit the nature's role. As due to rainy weather the Muslim people are unable to offer Namaz with the entire people at Eidgah Maidan. Yet there was enthusiasm and people offered their Namaz and bade Eid Mubarak to each other.
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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JULY 8
PAGE 3 Condolence A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July : The Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and his wife Nang Sati Mein former MLA Namsai has expressed deep sense of sorrow and grief over the death of the mother of Shri Gojen Gadi, MLA, 29-Basar (ST) Assembly Constituency, Smti Yabi Gadi, who expired on Wednesday due to age related ailments. Expressing deep condolences to the bereaved family members, Mein and his wife, in a letter to Gojen Gadi said, we are deeply sorry to hear of the passing away of your mother on July 6. We know how close she was to you and we can feel your pain and sense of loss at this sad happening. The Deputy Chief Minister and his wife prayed that may almighty rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage and strength to the members of the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude. She is survived by two sons, including Gojen Gadi being the 2nd of her children, and one daughter.
Mrinal Kanti Das Foundation comes up with a week-long Film Appreciation Course A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July 7: Mrinal Kanti Das Foundation is coming up with a weeklong Film Appreciation Course from 22nd July 2016 for all cine-enthusiasts to help developing ‘film sense’ for appreciating good cinema. Mrinal Kanti Das Foundation is a trust, established in 2006 in fond memory of ace film maker Mrinal Kanti Das. The trust has been conducting various activities to promote good cinema, culture, craft and other creative endeavors throughout. The course aims at helping cinephiles derive a broad understanding of cinema by learning to read the medium in terms of its texts ad sub texts. The week-long course will be held from 22nd July to 28th July 2016. The course is available for all cine-lovers above 21 years of age. Keeping in mind the convenience of working professionals, the class timings are set from evening 5-8 PM. The application form is available at https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / MKDFoundation/
Education sector need Coffee contributes significantly to sustain Rs. 7000 Cr. : Lowangdong the unique bio-diversity of the region: Mein DCM Mein visits Namsangmukh Coffee Estate at Deomali A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July 7: Coffee contributes significantly to sustain the unique biodiversity of the region and is also responsible for the socio-economic development of the area where coffee are grown in large scale said Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Wednesday during his short visit to Namsangmukh Coffee Estate at Deomali.
ET Bureau Khonsa, July 7: In order to arrest the infrastructural gaps in the education sector, the state department of education requires a whopping 7000 crore rupees; the figure is based on its internal assessment of the inventories of existing resources and needs, which included hostels and school libraries, said Education Minister, Wanglin Lawangdong. The minister was speaking as a chief guest on the sideline of an inaugural function of the newly constructed Tirap Zilla Parishad Chairperson office building at Khonsa on Thursday. "I must admit there are also shortfall of teachers everywhere in the state barring a few districts and the results of CBSE have been dismal this time, but I will make a concerted effort to bring education scenario of the state back on track," Lowangdong added while suggesting that all sections of the society, including the
parents, must put forth a collective effort towards the improvement of the education sector. Reacting to publics' negative comments about the poor state of the Khonsa to Naharkatia (Assam) road in the social media, the Minister appealed for patience and gave his assurance that the maintenance works of the road would be completed by March next year. Wanglam Sawin, MLAcum-chairman APEDA, while speaking on the occasion stressed that there was a need to take some "concrete steps to streamline" the education sector, particularly of Tirap district, which has fared poorly in class-X CBSE exams this year. He added that "Government is stable and it is the right time to work for the development of the district" by putting forth a united front where the public, the PRI members and the district
administration work in tandem in a congenial atmosphere. Tirap District Deputy Commissioner, Ravi Jha appealed to the PRI members to take greater responsibilities towards the planning for grass-root development in the light of the 14th Finance Commission emphasizing on greater devolution of power to Panchayati Raj through the 'My Village My Development Plan' idea. Sangtung Bangsia, who newly took the charge of Zilla Parishad Chairperson, submitted a memorandum to the Education Minister highlighting the nagging problems of Tirap's education sector and of those being confronted by the PRI members. She opined that a shortage of 215 teachers in the district was the 'potent cause of dismal results' of the CBSE results of the district while hoping the Education Minister to bring about a positive change.
Tirap ZPC office building inaugurated ET Bureau Khonsa, July 7: The state Minister of Education, Parliamentary Affairs-cumchairman, DoTCL, Wanglin Lowangdong, on Thursday inaugurated the Tirap district Zilla Parishad Chairperson office building in presence of a huge gathering of PRI members, HoDs,
public leaders and the MLA of 55-Khonsa (East) A/C, Wanglam Sawin. The one-floor RCC office building, which was constructed for Rs 90 lakhs under SPA fund was sanctioned in the year 2013-14 by the DRDA Tirap, houses the offices the ZPC and Member Secretary-cum-
DPDO. It also has a conference room under its roof. The Khonsa Forest Division, led by its DFO, also organised a plantation programme to coincide with the Van Mahotsav in the ZPC office complex in which Lowangdong, Sawin, DC Tirap and others planted ornamental trees.
DCM Mein inspects ongoing development works at Mohanbari cuit House are important assets for the state and their renovation are needed to be taken up soon as this place serves the people from eight districts of eastern Arunachal Pradesh and provides comforts to the travelers, both officials and common public.
ET Bureau Itanagar, July 7: The Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein on Wednesday reviewed the progress of sanctioned as well as ongoing developmental works at Additional Deputy Residents Commissioner (ARC) Complex, Mohanbari of Dibrugarh. The Deputy Chief Minster’s inspection visit was accompanied by SE PWD Jairampur Tayu Gara, EE PWD Changlang Khoda Gyati, DDST Mohanbari SK Singh and SDFCO Mohanbari R.P Borkotoki. The DCM was informed that the work on the building is apace and will be completed by March 2017. He also visited and inspected the old Inspection Bungalow, Circuit House, RWD & PHED Guest House, PWD Godown, staff quarter of ACR & JDST, Office of ACR at Additional Deputy Residents Commissioner Complex. Changlang PWD Executive Engineer Khoda Gyati presenting an overview of Arunachal Bhawan to DCM informed that the work at Bhawan is being carried out in three phases where work in Phase I and II are in progress and expected to be completed by March next and work in Phase III will begin on receiving the required fund from the State government. He informed that at Phase I, construction work of the building is completed except for water supply, sanitary and for the electrification and work in Phase II of Arunachal Bhawan, column and slab casting was completed upto the 2nd floor and work on walling of 1st and 2nd floor is in
progress. The scope of work carried out in Arunachal Bhawan are development of site, compound wall measuring of 84 mtr and floor wise work of Arunachal Bhawan where the ground floor measuring an area of 787.97 Sqm will have ARC office, DRC office, Lounge, Dining hall with parking on it whereas the first floor measuring area of 669.82 Sqm will have 10 common category rooms and second floor measuring area of 444.03 Sqm will have 4 VIP rooms and third floor measuring an area of 269.81 Sqm will have 1 VVIP room. Considering the importance of Arunachal Bhawan at Dibrugarh, Mein directed the executing agencies and the officials concerned to complete the developmental works within the stipulated time duration. He also personally visited and inspected the Circuit House, Old Inspection Bungalow,
ARC Office Building, PWD godowns, vehicle shed, MT workshop, staff quarters and approach road. Earlier, the DCM was briefed by engineers that most quarters of the staffs of ARC and daily labour are of late 60’s and most needed renovation at earliest. The renovation work of old Inspection Bungalow (IB) at Mohanbari which is lying defunct will be also taken up very soon. Recently the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh J.P Rajkhowa who visited the Inspection Bungalow and noted that structure had outlived and needs to be reconstructed on this the DCM informed that old inspection bungalow on frontman with less expenditure will be repaired and renovated and will have a new look for this the estimated cost of repairing and maintenance have been already earmarked and submitted to the Chief Engineer. He suggested for carrying out the renovation work from the plinth area and above it and for utilizing the old materials in construction work. Mein said that old IB and Cir-
The estimate submitted for the renovation and maintenance works to be carried out in old IB, Circuit House and other places in ARC Complex which is under the PWD Changlang division will be taken up by the Deputy Chief Minister and discussed during the SDC meeting scheduled to be held sometime in third week of this month. Furthermore, the DCM is expected to hold threadbare discussion regarding all the four PWD zones and the issues pertaining to release of funds with the Chief Minister to ensure developmental works in the four zones of the State are carried out timely. Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister has urged the state government for releasing of one time fund under SIDF for carrying out major repairing work as most quarters and buildings are in dilapidated condition in the ARC complex. He said that Arunachal Bhawan in Dibrugarh is an important asset of the State which has most proper utilization and is under occupation of all staff of ARC and Supply and Transport Office. Looking at its importance on strategic location, the State government must ensure speedy development of the ARC complex and timely release of the matching fund.
Interacting with the officials of Arunachal Pradesh Forest Corporation Limited (APFCL) and officers of district administration Tirap, the DCM said that we need to promote the cultivation of coffee in large scale in Arunachal Pradesh, as wherever state, the coffee is grown they are deriving substantial benefit out of it. He asked the APFCL to encourage people to adopt coffee plantation and called upon the Coffee Board of India to provide support in this regard.
Namsangmukh has virtually become organic coffee but due to non certification of Organic Coffee the APFCL is losing huge revenues. To obtain organic certification, the coffee needs to undergo various laboratory tests which would require cost involvement of Rs 8 to 10 lakhs. At present the coffee plantation is under consolidation process with 100% financial support from He also told them that the the Coffee Board of India and farmers in the state should does not have its own fund, not confined themselves to he informed. only mono cropping but practice multi-cropping for Furthermore, plantations are long run. Citing example of required to be maintained for Orange Orchard in Wakro in 8 subsequent years but due to Lohit district, Mein said that non availability of fund, the due to practice of mono- APFCL is finding hard to cropping the orange orchard manage the plantation. The is facing problem due to low coffee plants have a life span productivity of orange this of 80-90 years and year and had it practiced consolidation works multi cropping than the comprises of vacancy filling, owner would have other pruning, colour pruning etc. ways to support himself. As per the directives of the Coffee Board of India, the While interacting with the Forest corporation have APFCL officials, the DCM already started a coffee was highlighted of the issues nursery for raising 1,00,000 confronting the seedlings in the area and fund Namsangmukh Coffee Estate for which will be provided by by Divisional Manager G Coffee Board of India, Rime Rime. shared. Rime informed Deputy Chief Rime told that due to lack of Minister that though the modern drying yard, quality Coffee plantation of of coffee is deteriorating, and
if provided with modern drying yard than the corporation would be able to produce better quality and quantity of coffee. Due to also non-availability of Hauling unit in Arunachal, no buyer come forward for purchase of coffee beans and accordingly the payment against the coffee beans delivered to Coffee Board of India often get delays and the reason why the small coffee growers in the state does not want to take up coffee growing. He suggested the DCM for having State’s own Hauling cum drying unit which would reduce the expenditure of hauling which in turn would benefit the small coffee growers in large scale. Range Manager T.Songthing presented the overview of Namsangmukh Coffee Estate run under APFCL and spoke that the plantation was started in 1973 with creation of 3.80 Ha of Robusta Coffee but subsequently it raised to 163.70 Ha. During the year 2015-16, Coffee Board of India sanctioned amount only for raising Coffee nursery of 70,000 seedlings at Namsangmukh Coffee Estate. Out of which 30000 seedlings were supplied to Coffee Board for supply to
the local small Coffee grower and rest were planted in 30 Ha vacant area of the Namsangmukh Coffee Estate. The Range Manager APFCL T.Songthing also provided a sample of coffee seeds and beans to Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein. Others who were present during the visit of Deputy Chief Minister included DC Tirap Ravi Jha, SP Longding C.K Mein, ADC Deomali Bopai Puroik, DSP Khonsa K. Riba, DFO C.Simai, WRD EE B.Karki, EE Electrical T. Jerang, EE PWD Badiala, Divisional Manager of Arunachal Pradesh Forest Corporation Limited (APFCL) Deomali G.Rima and Range Manager APFCL T.Songthing. Later on the day, the DCM and his entourage visited and offered prayer at the Mahabodhi Maitri Mandala Buddha Vihara at Deomali where the public leaders of the area and the Head monk of the Buddha Vihara also submitted memorandum to the Deputy Chief Minister to which Mein gave assurance to look at their grievances and place it at proper level.
Campus recruitment drive conducted in RGU A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July 7: In a rare venture of bringing recruiters to the campus, a campus recruitment drive was conducted on Thursday at the Department of Geography, Rajiv Gandhi University to recruit Geographical Information System (GIS) Executives (Trainee level) for Tajuk Technologies Pvt Ltd (TTPL), Itanagar. TTPL is a leading IT and GIS Solution Provider of Arunachal Pradesh and the first company from the state with ISO certifications in the field of IT Solutions. Accordingly, three candi-
dates with masters in Geography and PG Diploma in Geo-informatics from the university were selected after an extensive interview and were given the offer letters on the spot. Attending the formal giving away of ‘Offer letter’ ceremony, the Dean of the faculty of Environmental Sciences, RGU Professor Nishamani Kar said that RGU could be a genuine supplier to the demands of the companies in particular and the society in general considering its large pool of talented graduates. Deputy Registrar Dr David
Pertin opined that it was a rare venture, while also informing that the last campus recruitment was conducted by WIPRO in 2006. He was optimistic that many more companies would come forward, especially in the fields of human resource management, computer science & IT, information technology & media, banking and corporate sectors and researchoriented ones, for which RGU is committed to give its best of the platforms. Expressing his satisfaction over the in-depth knowledge base of the newly re-
cruited executives, vice president of TTPL, Timothy Nima informed that they will be placed in the ongoing GIS projects in the state under TTPL, Itanagar and shall be initially appointed as trainees for the first three to six months. Based on their performances, they will be absorbed in the company payroll, and during the training period, stipend will also be provided to them. Head of the Department of Geography, RGU Professor S K Patnaik and Project Manager (GIS), TTP Ltd, Itanagar Sanjeev Khanikar also spoke on the occasion.
Phe khonsa launches signature campaign at namsang GP ET Bureau Khonsa, Jul 7 : The signature campaign reached Namsang Gram Panchayat under the supervision of EE Er T Nipa, PHE & WS Division, Khonsa for implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission(G). After a series of week long event of visiting each and every households and interacting with them for construction of improvised sanitary toilets, a mass awareness campaign was held at the Community Hall, Namsang on 7th July 2016 under the chairmanship of Namsang ASM Mongdey Hondique. Doi Tarak, Consultant, PHE & WS Division, Khonsa highlighted the model of improvised sanitary toilets as the Brick walled superstructure with CGI sheet roofing is connected to twin pit disposal system. He informed that the same
model has been successfully taken up in Borduria GP, Khonsa CD Block which will also be implemented in the Namsang. Consultant Lampang Wangsa administered "Swachhata Pledge" to orient people's behavior towards hygienic practices on water and sanitation followed by obtaining of
signature from every head of the family to inculcate their agreement for toilet construction. Wangrey Lowang, JE, PHE & WS Division, Khonsa disclosed the details of materials required for construction of an improvised brick walled sanitary toilets. He urged the gathering to involve
all the family members for construction of the toilets. Block Coordinators Noksi Ketok and Napong Kangnong, ASM Mongdey Hondique, GPC Tepheak Tangjang also spoke on the occasion. Altogether 200 persons took part in the program.
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AASU of Rangia to organize free coaching classes for IX and X ET Correspondent Rangia, July 7: Under the aegis of Dakshin Panduri, unit of Rangia AASU, a free coaching classes to be held during the summer vacation from July 12 next. All intending students of IX and X would be imparted with different subjects by different experienced teachers including experts till July 30 next with free of cost. Meanwhile, similar initiative was also taken by Madhukuchi unit of the said student’s body at Kacharimahal HSS at Madhukuchi under Rangia, informed President Dhruba Jyoti Kalita and Secretary Newton Kalita of Rangia Anchalik AASU unit.
Lumding - Silchar Hills section opened for goods traffic ET Correspondent Haflong, July 7 : In spite of frequent rainfall in the area the N F Railway started the operation of goods trains in between Lumding - Silchar as targeted on July 7 at about 13.00 hrs confirmed the Chief Engineer , N F Railway R P Jingar on Wednesday. The train services on the Lumding - Silchar was disrupted for several days due to heavy landslip and damage to the foundation of track near Migrendisa causing immense difficulties to the people of Barak Valley and Dima Hasao. It is learnt that after the incessant rain on 16th of May 2016 there was uplift and lateral movement of track at KM 92/2 which caused dis-
location of the section. The track was dismantled and formation cut to the proper line and level and relayed. After repeating this operation on the 17th, 22nd 30 th May and 13th June the section was finally opened to goods traffic on the 7th of June 2016. However, due to continuous uplift and lateral shift of the track making it difficult to maintain the track parameter, the section was finally closed on June 12th 2016.
ter cutting about 1.0 lac cum of earth and constructing one 2X1.2 m dia hume pipe culvert. This work was done by M/s SC Construction employing 17 nos of heavy earth cutting machines 30 nos of Dumpers, 2 JCBs on rock breaker and on ROC for grouting the formation with 500 men working in the supervision of Railway Expenses and supervisors round the clock. It may be mentioned here that Geo Consultant RITE(JV) assisted Railways in geotechnical investigation required for taking critical decision in the matter and planned the execution of work suitably. Use of geosynthetic material was used to cover the locations indicating pressure of argillaceous soil.
After due deliberation it was decided to lay a 300 m long diversion by passing the location which was showing upheaval and lateral movement. The work of diversion was taken in hand on 17th of June and finally completed on 6th July 2016 af-
AIIMS must be set up at Raha in Chief Minister calls upon central Assam, says Rajen Gohain the department to stick to
ET Correspondent Morigaon, July 7: Union Minister of state for Railway, Rajen Gohain today again clarified his stand and said that All India Institute Medical Science (AIIMS) should be setup at Raha in central Assam, viewing all aspects of North -Eastern states. Talking to correspondent
here at Morigaon today after attending series of felicitation meetings, Rajen Gohain said that central government will expedite the works of all Railway projects of NE region in time bound manner. He said that recruitment of 3rd and 4th grade employees in NE region from the local candidates will be his
priority. Gohain said that all central projects including establishment of AIIMS must serve the people of North East in equal manner. The BJP, Morigaon district committee accorded several felicitation programmes in Guwahati, Morigaon, Nagaon where, Rajen Gohain assured better railway connectivity in the state.
vironment which is getting affected due to rapid deforestation. “We ABKWW has also deep concern for clean and balanced environment besides our usual crusade
against drugs and other illicit substance menace”, added Ering. While, Dana Moyong, Secretary, Siying, Donyi-Polo Gangging, GTC expressed great happiness to the ABWW for planting trees at their religious centre and opined hope that, the women wing will continue their good work, as once mothers takes up any work seriously, there bound to come some changes. On the part
of Range Officer, Pasighat Range, J. Geyi, he said that, more and more organizations are coming forward to plant trees which is a welcome move.
While T. Jamoh, DFO, Pasighat Forest Division said that, more plantation of trees are required and hence, more organizations or individuals are appealed to come forward to do the plantation programme so as for greener environment. “We are ready to provide any required numbers of tree saplings for the plantation programme everyone need to lend their hand to save trees”, quoted Jamoh.
For justice doing to the country at large; one needs to work for the development of North East: Governor ET Bureau Guwahati, July 7: Governor of Assam and Nagaland, Hon’ble P.B. Acharya urged upon the people of the North Eastern States living in Mumbai to lend their hands and actively participate with different agencies to come up with initiatives for the Development of the North Eastern Region. Terming them as a ‘storehouse of immense potentials’ he called upon them to do the needful to bring about tangible and positive changes conducive for the development of the country. Speaking at a function organized to felicitate him in Mumbai on Wednesday (July 6th, 2016), Hon’ble P.B. Acharya requested the august gathering attended by different business houses, journalists, people from the world of art, culture and sports to
make serious efforts for the development of the North Eastern States of India without which “we cannot consider ourselves to be doing justice to the country at large”. He also urged them to come and pay their visit to North East and experience its pristine and untapped beauty which is also full of potentials and possibilities. It may be mentioned that the hon’ble Governor of Assam and Nagaland Shri. P.B. Acharya was felicitated by Assam Bhawan Mumbai (Govt. of Assam), Indian National Fellowship Centre(INFC), Assam Association Mumbai, Naga Students Union Mumbai and Shreemoyee Asomiya Mahila Samiti Mumbai at a function held at the Swatantryaveer Savarkar Rashtriya Smarak Auditorium at Shivaji Park,
Dadar(W) Mumbai on Saturday evening. The programme was chaired by Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh, Vice Chancellor of Mumbai University and was largely attended by a host of dignitaries across Mumbai. Synchronizing with the occasion, the artistes from North East Zonal Cultural Centre (NEZCC) along with local artistes from Assam Association Mumbai put up a colourful cultural performances showcasing rich cultural heritage of the North East. The Hon’ble Governor also took part in an interactive session with the audience and answered queries on a wide spectrum of issues relating to the North East with special emphasis on the states of Assam and Nagaland.
rescue and relief operation. He also directed senior officers to ensure that adequate relief materials are provided to the people. The Chief Secretary and a team of senior officers moved to the affected areas of Guwahati to take stock of the situation. He also directed all Deputy Commissioners to be on alert and take vigil on the situation. This is stated in a communication from the office of the Assam Chief Minister to the media.
CPM holds street rally against VAT rise at Rangia
ET Correspondent Rangia, July 7: CPM party workers and its supporters under the leadership of former MLA, Ananta Deka, here evening took a protest rally amidst the town against the decision of the govt. for rise in VAT rate in case of various commodities including the essential ones. CPM leader Deka and
party supporters raising concern over the issue displayed placards and shouted slogan over the decision. Basudev Kalita, Biren Sarma and other party leader also spoke on the issue. They urged the govt. to rethink about implementation of VAT for the sake of common and poor people of Assam.
NSCN (R) - its' genesis ET Bureau Itanagar, July 7: Chief Minister Kalikho Pul called for maintenance of quality and timely executions of all the govt schemes while attending the Review Meeting of the Urban Development & Housing Department at Chief Minister’s Office today.
Siang Unit planted more than 30 saplings of ornamental trees like Gulmohar and Ezar at Siying, DonyiPolo Gangging,GTC today with the presence of forest officials. Speaking about the plantation drive under Vanamahotsava week, Opak Takuk Ering, General Secretary, ABKWW East Siang said that, more and more trees need to be planted to balance the en-
A Staff Reporter Guwahati, July 7: In the wake of the urban flood in Guwahati, Chief Minister directed the Chief Secretary and all senior officers to go the affected areas and ensure rescue and relief operations and provide all necessary assistance to the people. Chief Secretary, immediately reviewed the situation and directed all senior officers to act promptly and provide immediate assistance and carry out
the quality and deadline
ABKWW E/Siang observes Vanamahotsava Week Spl Correspondent Pasighat, July 7: While observing Vanamahotsava Week along with rest of the country, the Adi Baane Kebang WomenWing East
CM directs Chief Secy to provide all assistance to flood victims
Chief Minister said, “There will be no compromise on quality of works and timeframe/deadline for every works should be clearly given” and asked the departmental officers to ensure constant monitoring and timely reporting on quality and progress of works. He also instructed the executing agencies to conduct regular revision on monthly, quarterly and on annual basis. He firmly asserted that if any departments are found nonperforming, the work shall be allotted to the other departments. He also said to mark and identify the good contractors that works honestly, maintains the quality and time as per the departmental guidelines/ norms and opined to reward such contractors. Chief Minister while emphasizing on cleanliness of the urban areas said, “I am very much concern with the cleanliness and beautification of the urban areas in the state” and directed the Department of Urban Development & Housing to increase the man power and sanitary workers for ensuring cleanliness of the towns in the state. He asked the department to made it mandatory to collect garbage and wastages during night hours that gets accumulated during day time in the town areas, so as to gives a fresh and hygienic looks in the morning. For this, he advised
the department to divide the man power in to two shifts, for night and day separately. While heeding to the shortage of man power in the department that requires 383 unskilled (sanitary assistants) and skilled labours (drivers) all over the state, CM assured to provide required man power, machineries and logistic support for the purpose and asked the department to put up the proposals for requirement of man power and machineries immediately. He however said that for the post of sanitary assistants, only the willing persons to work in sanitary duties must be appointed purely on contract basis. He also advised the departments to divide the man powers equally, without any disparity to all the districts with extra man power to highly populated district headquarters like Itanagar, Pasighat, Aalo, Ziro and Tezu. Chief Minister also asked the department to take up need based schemes on priority. He suggested them to propose for constructions of CC roads and drainage in those district headquarters on priority where it has not been constructed/ started yet namely in Namsai, Hawaii, Longding, Tawang, etc. He further said that all the remaining roads in the notified urban areas in district, ADC and administrative headquarters must be converted in to CC roads in phase wise manner. He also said to propose for constructions of Multilayer Parking Lots at Naharlagun, Ganga and Chandan Nagar to ease the traffic congestions. He said that revenue generated through the assets created by the department that was given
out on lease or rent to private parties or NGOs must be deposited to the revenue head of the state govt and the govt would provide fund for the annual maintenance in return. With a view to give an aesthetic look to the towns, he asked the department to make avenue plantations and provide sufficient space to do so. Lauding the initiatives at Aalo and Ziro with regards to cleanliness, he urged the department to emulate such good examples of keeping the township clean and plastic free in other districts too. He also asked the department to submit the details of Centrally Sponsored Schemes received and sanctioned, completed and half completed since the year 2007 till date so that the required funds for completion of the remaining works may be asked from the central govt as one time assistance. Secretary (UD) Madhu K Garg assured that the department while acting on public interest said to give no acceptance for compromise in quality as per the directives of the Chief Minister. She urged the departmental officers to do the role and responsibilities of the department with honesty. Chief Engineer cum Director (UD & Housing) Taba Tedir highlighted the physical & financial achievements of various schemes, man power, machinery and fund requirements of the department through power point presentation. Joint Directors, Deputy Directors and UPOs from the districts attended the review meeting.
Contd. from Page 1 However, a year later the cadres of this new outfit raised for the cause and peaceful solution of Naga problem has been seen largely indulging in massive extortion activities to arms dealings, particularly, in the neighouring state of Arunachal Pradesh. Not just that the high-held morality of the chairman Wanting Naga, Kilonser P. Tikhah and cadres of the outfit has stooped so low that they did not even refrain themselves from the business of drug peddling just for the sake of earning more and more money. Information gathered by ET reflects the outfit having presence in Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh apart from Nagaland has a strength of almost 500 cadres, most of
them drawn from NSCN-K and NSCN-IM. The outfit has a base of around 100 to 150 cadres spread across district of Tirap Changlang and Longding. The inside fact that stands at the end of the day when four cadres of this militant organization were killed by Indian army is that the leaders and cadres of this outfit has fooled people and are busy making money by all means, terrorising thousands of Indian people and spoiling future generations through drug peddling. It may be mentioned here that NSCN-R, with its designated camp at Mon district of Nagaland is enjoying ceasefire with government of India in Nagaland.
President Mukherjee strongly condemns Kishoreganj terror attack in Bangladesh Contd. from Page 1
We will extend every support possible to enable the Bangladesh Government defeat these forces whose goal is to spread hatred, chaos and instability," said the President, while promising India's unflinching support. An explosion took place during an Eid prayer at the Sholakia field of Kishoreganj town around 9:45 a.m. local time, where
people gather each year for Eid congregation. It is said to be the country's largest Eid congregation. The attack came days after the terror attack on Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka's upscale Gulshan area, claimed 22 lives, including 17 foreigners. The attack drew worldwide condemnation. The ISIS has claimed responsibility for the incident and even warned of more attacks in Bangladesh.
Assam Minister’s car smash mini-bus, leaving 15 seriously hurt ET Correspondent Jorhat, July 7 : The personal Scorpio vehicle belonging to Assam Agricultural Minister Atul Bora bearing registration numberAS01 MB 6600 hit a Titabor bound passenger carrying TATA Magic mini bus bearing registration number AS03AC 0062 at Na-Ali, Kuripukhuri under Jorhat Police Station at
1.15 pm here today. Both the vehicles were on move when the collision took place, there were a total 16 passengers four were minors, out of four minors two were seriously injured travelling in the mini bus. While only two persons were travelling in the ministers Scorpio vehicle
including the driver. Both the vehicles driver were seriously injured and admitted at the Jorhat Medical College Hospital among other passengers. The injured were Gopal Chutia (Borhulla)(50),Ritu Saikia(40), Smrityrani Saikia(5), Nobinita Saikia (31), Produt Protim Saikia (10 month), Madhobi
Das(29) Jalukonibari, Jushmi Das (6years) Rongdoi, Jayshree Das (34), Bijita Chutia(35) H o r i c h a r a n Mothadang,Golaghat, Babul Gogoi (32) drivercum- owner of the minibus, Chandradhar Saikia (34) driver of the scorpio car, Pinky Gogoi (24) and Laxmi pryia (22). Jayshree Das who was
coming from her parents house from Rongdoi to her husband’s house at Jalukonibari, received serious leg injuries on both her legs, said that they were travelling in a gentle speed in the magic mini bus, coming from the opposite side a big car hit their bus and she did not see anything but heard a big sound and I was senseless alter all.
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Driver arrested for rape of teen tribal woman in moving bus in Tripura Belonia (South Tripura), July 7 : Police has confirmed the arrest of a driver for allegedly raping a teen tribal woman in his bus while she was returning home. The 19-year-old woman boarded the local private bus at Nidoya in Belonia at about 4 p.m. on Monday. She was traveling to Dhuptoli, but the bus stopped midway at Ekinpur and the driver informed it would not go any further. After all the passengers alighted, the woman requested the driver to help her reach Dhuptoli.
The driver agreed and apparently handed the wheels to the cleaner and approached the woman. As the bus passed through villages at a breakneck speed, the lady was raped by the driver in the moving bus. At night, the driver kept the victim in a house at Radhanagar, from where police rescued her after locals informed them about the incident. The arrested driver has been identified as Parimal Debnath, said P R Bari police in South Tripura district after the woman lodged a com-
Good samaritan taxi driver sets example
Over 3,000 state students await admission in Class XI
Shillong, July 7: In a refreshing reversal, the driver of a local taxi deposited a purse containing mobile phone, ATM and cash which was found in the taxi after dropping tourists on Wednesday, to the nearest police station. At a time when whatever is lost is never returned to the owner, the taxi driver has set an example for others to emulate. A police official said that the a tourist from Guwahati, identified as Madhurjya Phukon and his family booked the local taxi ( ML 05 L 6206) for local sightseeing on Wednesday and in the evening after completing their trip they were dropped at Raj Bhavan point where they kept their private vehicle. After getting down from the local taxi, they found that they forgot to take one lady's purse containing mobile phone,ATM and cash from the taxi. They later came to Sadar Police Station for filing an FIR. The officers at Sadar Police Station immediately swung into action and tried to ring up the lost mobile phone, but since the phone was in busy mode, the location was not traceable. However, later the contact was made and the driver of the local taxi identified himself as Sanjeev Sen, a resident of Pynthorbah Block- II informed that he had deposited the purse containing cash, mobile phone and some important documents at Pasteur Beat House. The officers of Sadar PS contacted Pasteur Beat House and after confirmation, police personnel were deputed to escort the tourist to the Beat House to receive his belongings.. On his return to Sadar PS, the complainant, an Advocate by profession based in Guwhati appreciated the efforts of the police personnel for their promptness and stated that the help from the police was exceptional compared to his home state. The officer in charge at Sadar PS said that he would urge all local and tourist taxi drivers to learn from the example set by the local taxi driver who without showing any greed handed over the belongings to the police for safe custody so that the tourists visiting the state will go back with positive memories. (Agencies)
Shillong, July 7: Over 3,000 students, who cleared Class X exam from different institutions, are left out this academic year though they had applied for admissions for Class XI in various government higher secondary institutions in the state for Arts, Science and Commerce streams. However, the State Education department has already stepped in to ensure that the students are in the class rooms soon. As many as 2832 students did not get admissions in Arts stream in the Government run higher secondary educational institutions. The number of students who did not get admission in Science, commerce is 353 and 143 respectively. The total number of students who are yet to get admissions in Arts, Science and Commerce
Driver arrested for rape of teen tribal woman in moving bus in Tripura plaint on Tuesday. The accused has since been produced before a
streams are 3328. Deputy Chief Minister in charge education RC Laloo said that construction of additional classrooms and appointment of contractual teachers will be initiated by the government to accommodate the left out students. "We want to ensure that the students get admission at the earliest", he said. For the appointment of 82 teachers (73 assistant lecturers and 9 contractual laboratory assistants) and to construct additional class rooms and labs, the financial implication would be Rs. 2.5 crore (Rs 2,05,20,000) . In Tura Government Boys Higher Secondary School and Government Girls Higher Secondary School, the students who applied for admissions were 1533 (Arts),319(Science) and
local court. The woman, a mother of two, has sought justice.
144 (Commerce ). Out of this, 933 are left out without getting admission in Arts, 41 in Science and 74 in Commerce. In Mendipathar Government Higher Secondary School, as many as 237 students did not get admission in Arts and in Williamnagar Higher Secondary School, the number is 413. In United Kharkutta Government Higher Secondary School, there are 69 students who are left out though they had applied in Arts subject, while the government is yet to get the records from Resubelpara Government Higher Secondary School. In Jowai Kiang Nangbah Government Higher Secondary section which delinked from the College, there were 1675 applicants in Arts, 420 in Science and 168 in commerce, out of this, 1048 students did
In her complaint, she said,"I wanted to go to Dhuptali, and they told that they would take me to Dhuptali, but instead, took me to Radhanagar or some other place which I did not know. It was a bus and I took it around 4 p.m. and probably reached Radhanagar around 5 p.m. At that time, there were other passengers in the vehicle. Later the driver did the bad act with me. I do not know him and at that time there were no other passenger. It was dark, and sometime between 7 p.m. and
not get admission in Arts, 253 in Science and 69 in Commerce. In Government Girls Higher Secondary School Jowai, the number of applicants were 212 (Arts), and 94 in Science. However the left out students are 132 (Arts) and 59 (Science) Last month, a high level meeting to discuss the shortage of admissions was chaired by Chief Minister Mukul Sangma along with Deputy Chief Minister, in charge Education. During the meeting, the State government decided to earmark additional allocation of Rs. 3.5 crore besides appointing 102 assistant lecturers and 11 laboratory assistants soon on contractual basis to bridge the gap at the +2 level. Another decision was to carry out repair works in all educational institutions which have been
8p.m., I asked them to take me to my maternal aunt's house at Radhanagar, but the driver said that his elder sister's house is just off the road and left me there. In the morning, at 10 a.m., people saw me, informed the police who rescued me at around 12 p.m." She added, "There were two more people in the bus when the driver did the bad act. I have informed everything to the police and am seeking justice against the person who did this bad thing with me." (ANI)
impacted by calamity through disaster relief fund to ensure continuity in teaching and learning. The overall pass percentage of SSLC this year is 54.10 and there is a marginal increase in the pass percentage compared to 2015 (53.11). An official with the education department said that it was due to the increase, though slight, in the pass percentage of SSLC that there is rush for admissions to Class XI. Moreover, with the ban on coal mining, youths who were earlier engaged in mining activities are now taking steps to concentrate on higher education, the official added. The official also said that within three months, the government will ensure that the left out students get admissions and sit for classes.(Agencies)
Ardent firm on 'no pre-poll alliance' stand Shillong, July 7: HSPDP chief Ardent M Basaiawmoit is visibly unfazed by United Democratic Party (UDP) working president Bindo M Lanong's statement that a pre-poll alliance was crucial to ousting Congress from the State. Lanong had on Monday appealed to all the regional parties to go for a pre-poll alliance to form a consolidated front to oust the Congress. The UDP working president had also, without taking any names, blamed parties like the HSPDP, which are not interested in alliances, for the Congress' dominance in the State. Reacting to the statement,
Basaiawmoit claimed that uniting with regional parties had in fact weakened the HSPDP in the past. "If not for the defection of members to other parties, the HSPDP would have been a much stronger force," he said. On Lanong's statement that Basaiawmoit was acting like his late predecessor HS Lyngdoh who decided to retain the party in violation of a political agreement, the HSPDP chief said, "Looking back at the political history there was no move to dissolve the party." "I respect him (Lanong) as a senior party leader but election records reveal that there was no pre-poll alliance in 1983 and that the All Party
Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC) did not get 17 seats as claimed by him, but 15 seats like the HSPDP," Basaiawmoit added. It may be mentioned that sharing the history of coalition politics in the state, Lanong had informed that the APHLC and HSPDP had contested the 1983 Assembly election jointly (pre-poll alliance) and they formed the government with 32 MLAs (APHLC =17 and HSPDP =15). Responding to Lanong's claim that the HSPDP did not attend a meeting of all regional parties held just before the Tura by-poll, Basaiawmoit said that his party was not aware of any such meet. "We were not informed of
any such meeting so it is misleading to say that we did not attend the meet," the HSPDP chief said. Meanwhile, coming to the political scheme of things Basaiawmoit observed that the trend that followed after unification of regional parties was one of betrayal. He then made reference to the 1999 'betrayal' of the UDP. "Following the 1998 elections, the HSPDP and UDP had formed the government but after HS Lyngdoh left for Delhi to approach the Supreme Court due to the rampant felling of trees, he was back-stabbed by the leaders of UDP and Lyngdoh was removed from the ministerial portfolio of Minister of Forests. The
UDP then entered into coalition with Congress to form a new government," he pointed out. Talking about the KHADC, which is presently ruled by the Congress, he said, "It is UDP which gave its support to the Congress even in the District Council, so the issue of unification of regional parties does not arise in such cases of betrayals." He reiterated his stand that unification of regional parties is a futile effort and if the UDP is looking forward to an alliance with the BJP, it would be meaningless to approach the HSPDP for a pre-poll alliance.(Agencies)
Muslims condemn Dhaka attack, pray for peace and brotherhood on Eid-Ul-Fitr in Agartala Agartala, July 7 : Thousands of Muslims all across Tripura gathered at the Gedu Mia mosque in Agartala to offer morning prayers on the occasion of Eid-Ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the community's month-long fasting period. They used the occasion to condemn the recent terrorist attack on a restaurant-cum-cafe in Dhaka that claimed the lives of 22 persons and expressed the view that Islam has no room for terror and teaches universal brotherhood. On Wednesday, the Eid prayers started around 9 a.m.when the Imam of the mosque, Maulana
Abdul Rehaman, read out a special prayer for global peace. Prayers were also held in 20 other mosques in and around Agartala and at 350 spots in the state. Imam Rehaman said: "To maintain peace of this nation, Muslims and non-Muslims should live unitedly. If someone from outside, any enemy, attacks our cities, the Muslims, Christians and all, should stand against that." He further said, "I pray that on this happy occation of Eid, every house is filled up with happiness. I also condemn those who want to spread the message of hatred in the name of re-
Thousands of Muslims all across Tripura gathered at the Gedu Mia mosque in Agartala to offer morning prayers on the occasion of Eid-Ul-Fitr ligion, be it Bangladesh, India or any other place, and stand against those who want to disturb our peace."
He said Islam teaches love and brotherhood, but it is very unfortunate that today, due to unethical activities of a very
microscopic section of Muslims, the entire religion is defamed when it should not be. The festival symbolizes feasts and festivities and Muslims in Agartala poured in large numbers to pray for peace and prosperity of their people as well as the nation. Abdul Rahim, a participant in the Eid congregation, said, "Eid is the culmination of month long fasting and now we celebrate Eid. Hindus and Muslims together take part in Eid celebration here." Meanwhile, as is customary, Muslims embraced each other and exchanged Eid greetings after prayers. (ANI)
Tripura observes Jagannath Rath Yatra with full devotion
Tripura observes Jagannath Rath Yatra with full devotion Agartala, July 7: The Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra was celebrated with traditional gaiety and fervour in Tripura on Wednesday. In state capital Agartala, the main function took place in the Jagannath Temple, where hundreds of thousands of devotees pulled Lord Jagatnath's chariot. In 1905, Maharaj Radha Kishore Manika had built this Jagatnath temple which is east facing like the famous Jagatnath temple of Puri. Deities in this temple were also brought from Puri and the festival here started more than 110 years back. A s h o g a n g o Mukhopadhay, a Sanskrit pandit, said. "The occasion of Jagatnath Rath Yatra is enjoyed by everyone and this is being celebrated from long back. In our Puranas and Mantras, he is the core deity who controls our path and mind. Hence, Jagathnath is their within us since eternity." In Tripura, after Durga Puja, the biggest gathering of people is at the Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. It takes place during the Hindu month of Ashar or Sraban and people from various religions participate here. It has been taking place here right from the time
the royals were in power. Now, inspite of the size of the chariot getting smaller, the participation of the public has increased. People enjoy the festivities associated with the rath yatra. Jagatnath, which means the keeper of the universe, and he is said to be the incarnation of Lord Krishna. The annual procession is a symbolizing celebration of Jagannath's weeklong journey from Kurukshetra to Bindraban to visit his maternal aunt's house along with his elder brother Balabhadra and younger sister Subhadra some 5,000 years ago. In Tripura, set their religious preferences aside and participate in the rath yatra, which they see as a symbol of secularism. Sumita Banerjee, a devotee, said,"Here we worship Jagatnath, Balaram and their sister Subodhra. This is a beautiful festival and a gathering of all religion as there is no division. Everyone participates here right from old to young and from all religions." According to Hindu belief, anyone who gets a 'darshan' (or view) of the god and goddess during the rath yatra, is freed from his or her worldly sins and is not born again on earth. (ANI)
Bangla goons free missionary's father Tura, July 7: The 70year-old father of a Catholic priest, who was taken away at gunpoint from his residence at Imbloka village of Rongara in south Garo Hills into neighbouring Bangladesh was released unharmed on Tuesday after being in captivity on foreign soil for 20 days. Aidinon R Marak, elderly parent of Catholic missionary Rev. Fr. Francis N Marak was released by his captors near Sibbbari border from where he walked alone and entered India. He was found exhausted and severely dehydrated after having spent almost three weeks in captivity. The release was done only after the criminals received the ransom money which they reportedly handed over somewhere in the Dalu border area. Police sources reveal that a sum of Rs 2 lakh was handed over to the criminals for the safe return of Aidinon Marak. Earlier, the kidnappers' gang had demanded a huge sum of approximately Rs 35 lakh from the family of the retired government employee and teacher.
He was abducted on the night of June 15 from the remote Rongara region. Preliminary reports indicate that the kidnappers gang had kept him confined inside a house of a Bangladeshi national across the border with a round the clock guard outside to ensure he did not escape. He was provided with just one meal a day which was served to him in the evening and the aged victim had to make do with it for the rest of the next day. Police sources reveal that the gang behind the abduction comprised of Bangladeshi Garos and Muslims who were assisted by Indian nationals as well. Following the release of Aidinon Marak, the Catholic Church in Garo Hills has expressed its gratitude to all the people who worked tireless for his safe return. "We are extremely grateful to the citizens of Garo Hills, all the Christian denominations and others for their prayers and support during these trying times," said Rev. Fr. Theodore Sangma, Parish priest of Sacred Heart Church, Tura.(Agencies)
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JULY 8
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Prakash Javadekar assumes charge as Human Resource Development Minister New Delhi, July 7: Union MinisterPrakash Javadekar on Thursday took charge of office of Minister of Human Resource and Development here today. Interacting with the media persons, he stressed that his ministry's mission will be to provide quality education for all, thereby transforming life, especially that of poor. Javadekar had yesterday taken oath as the Cabinet Minister. Javadekar reiterated that
he and his colleagues in the Ministry will work as 'Team HRD' to fulfill the aspirations of the nation. Reminding his stint in the state planning board, he assured collaboration with all the states to ensure the success of education system in India. "Team HRD will address all the issues and great opportunities will be unlocked for education sector in India," he added. After the interaction with the media, he took introductory meeting with the officials of the ministry.
pendent Charge. Prior to this, he was serving as the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting as independent charge as well as Parliamentary Affairs.
Union MinisterPrakash Javadekar Before assuming the office of Ministry of HRD, he was serving as the
Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change as inde-
He comes with immense experience as a parliamentarian who has been elected to Rajya Sabha from 2008 onwards and served in numerous Parliamentary Committees. He also excelled in his role as National Spokeperson for BJP from 2005 onwards.
He had proved himself in his state also as Member of Maharshtra Legislative Council between 1990-2002 and was executive president of State Planning Board during 1997-99. Hailing from Pune, his political life started as a student activist in the struggle against Emergency during which he was imprisoned for 16 months. He had been working with Bank of Maharashtra before he entered fulltime. (ANI)
People of Punjab generous enough to forgive: Dilip Pandey
AAP leaderDilip Pandey
New Delhi, July 7 : AAP leaderDilip Pandey on Thursday said that the people of Punjab are whole hearted enough to forgive a mistake committed by AAP leader Ashish Khetan in Punjab. Pandey said, "Ashish Khetan has clearly apologized with his hands folded, for the mistake he committed unknowingly and had no intentions to hurt the religious sentiments of anyone and we expect the people of Punjab are generous enough to forgive the mistake." He added, "People who are in habit of taking po'Under fire' Digvijaya says all provocative litical advantage will speeches should be banned never leave a chance and they are welcomed to happy that he is spread- of the Mumbai Police. ing the message of Zakir Naik is reportedly continue their politics." peace," he said. "We in Saudi Arabia for a re- Earlier on Wednesday, need your message to ligious pilgrimage and reach the country," would return to India on Singh had told Zakir July 11. Naik back then. He will be addressing a press conference the The office bearers of his next day to respond to organization ' Islamic the allegations against Research Foundation' in him for which he has Mumbai's Dongri are be- hired a Mumbai based ing questioned by a team PR agency. (ANI)
AMU's prime position should 'Under fire' Digvijaya says all provocative not be spoiled by communal speeches should be banned New Delhi, July 7: In in his speech at the conhatred: Congress wake of him attending an ference organised by
AMU's prime position should not be spoiled by communal hatred New Delhi, July 07 : The Congress Party on Thursday said the Aligarh National University's (AMU) prime position should not be spoiled by communal hatred and its minority character should be maintained. "In India, we respect the rights of minorities and the minority character of the university should be continued. It is the constitutional provision and the decision was taken after due consultation by the stalwarts in the field of education," Senior Congress leader P.C. Chacko told. "The prime position the Aligarh National University should not be spoiled by communal hatred to the minorities by this percent ruling dispensation," he added. The Centre earlier on July 6 withdrew an appeal filed in the Supreme Court by the previousCongress-led government that had sought to retain the minority tag for the AMU. The Narendra Modi Government also withdrew all the letters issued by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) under the UPA regime allowing the AMU to reserve 50 percent of its seats for the
Muslims in the faculty of medicine. Chacko further said "If they are spoiling the minority character of Aligarh national university, it will be a big blow to the secular credentials of the country and the secular India. So, across the world Aligarh national university is known for its special status and also the special position that it is enjoying in this country." The university's identity is a contentious political issue in Uttar Pradesh, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking to project it as an example of Muslim appeasement at the cost of the rights of scheduled castes, tribes and backward classes. A formal abrogation of the minority status for the university by the courts could help the BJP in its outreach to SC/STs and OBCs in the state which goes to polls early next year. The BJP-led government argues that granting AMU minority status is in violation of the constitution which does not permit a secular India to set up and fund institutions on religious lines. (ANI)
Satna DM says waterlogging crisis under control Satna (Madhya Pradesh), July 7: Satna District Magistrate Naresh Pal on Thursday said that thewaterlogging situation is under control and there are no more casualties. Prasing the district commandant and his team Pal said "They rescued around 1300 people and provided them with a safe stay in relief camps." Responding to a question on seeking military help, he said, "300 to 400 people were stuck in Amiliya village, we were finding it difficult to rescue them and called in the army for help." He said that the municipal corporation is actively
working to take out water from the areas and added that life in the city is back on track. "We are analysing the areas for any type of help required and the situation is under complete control," he added. From June 1 to July 6, 23 districts of Madhya Pradesh have recorded above normal rains causing flooding and water logging. In Satna district, flood waters inundated houses in some localities of Amar Patan area and Pahadi Kheda village trapping five farmers in flood waters. Local police and officials eventually rescued them. (ANI)
event of Islamic preacher Zakir Naik in 2012, Congressleader Digvijaya Singh on Thursday said all provocative speeches by Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians should be banned. "If the speeches are to be banned...all provocative speeches on religion by Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians should be banned," Singh told media here. He said if the Government of India or the Government of Bangladesh has any evidence against Naik's involvement in the ISIS, they should take action against him. Issuing a clarification, Singh said he spoke against religious fundamentalism and terrorism
Zakir Naik, adding that he had also appealed for communal harmony. "The conference was for communal harmony and against terrorism. It was also to explain that Islam is against innocents being killed," he added. Naik is in the midst of a controversy after his 'hate speech' was reported to have inspired one of the five Bangladeshi militants involved to indulge in the July 1 terror attack on an upscale cafe in Dhaka's Gulshan suburb. The video shows Digvijay Singh saying that people like Zakir Naik can bridge the gap between Hindus and Muslims. "Zakir should travel all over India.I am very
Aam Aadmi Party leader Ashish Khetan was booked in the case, registered under Section 295-A for hurting religious sentiments. Khetan reportedly compared the manifesto for upcoming Punjab elections with the Guru Granth Sahib and other religious books while launching it in Amritsar. AAP tendered an apology for equating the party's 'Youth Manifesto' for Punjab polls with religious books. AAP manifesto too has been under controversy for using the image of the Golden Temple on the cover page with the party's election symbol of broom superimposed on it.(ANI)
Islamic preacher Zakir Naik's ideology extremely dangerous says Expert
Bangladesh Eid blast: Congress asks nation to stand united against terrorism New Delhi, July 7: Strongly condemning the bomb explosion that took place during an Eid prayer congregation in Bangladesh's Kishoreganj town, the Congress on Thursday asked the nation to stand united against terrorism. "It is very unfortunate. Nearly, 20 people were killed by the terrorists in Bangladesh earlier during Ramzan. It is very unfortunate that the terrorists indulge in these kinds of activities in the month of Ramzan, when people pray and think of God. It is a very shameful thing and also a matter of concern," Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad told. "We strongly condemn this. The whole nation should stand united against terrorism," he added. The incident took place around 9:45 a.m. local
Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad time in the Sholakia field of Kishoreganj, where people gather each year for Eid congregation. It is said to be the country's largest Eid congregation. Superintendent of Police Mohmmad Anwar Hossain Khan confirmed that one person had been killed. However, reports suggest that another person has also been killed.
Miscreants of unknown origin had taken shelter at a nearby Azimuddin School and the police have launched a counteroffensive to nab them, reports the Daily Star. According to reports, the witnesses said about 300,000 to 400,000 Muslims, who had gathered at Sholakia to offer Eid prayers and were trapped
because of the ongoing gun battle between the cops and the miscreants. It is said that a group of six to seven people had led the attack on the policemen when a frisking operation at the Eidgah ground was on. Policemen were also attacked with sharp weapons and bombs. Kishoreganj Sadar Police Station Officer-inCharge Mizanul Haque confirmed that police constable Jahirul was killed in the attack. The explosion comes days after a terror attack on the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka's upscale Gulshan area, claimed 22 lives, including some foreigners. The attack drew worldwide condemnation. The ISIS has claimed responsibility for the incident and even warned of more attacks inBangladesh. (ANI)
Another 1,767 pilgrims leave for Amarnath Yatra from Jammu Jammu, July 7: 1,767 pilgrims today left the Jammu base camp forAmarnath Yatra to pay obeisance at the cave shrine in South Kashmir. According to reports, the latest batch, comprising 1,266 men, 346 women, 150 sages and others left in a cavalcade of 57 vehicles from Bhagwati Nagar base
camp early in the morning. More than 71,000 people have paid obeisance at the cave shrine in Kashmir Himalayas till last night. With today's batch, 11,772 pilgrims have left from the Jammu base camp for the pilgrimage. The fifth batch of Amarnath pilgrims left
for the holy cave shrine situated in the south of Himalayas from Jammu earlier on July 5. The pilgrimage from Jammu base camp is going 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 Jammuand 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)
Islamic preacher Zakir Naik's ideology extremely dangerous says Expert New Delhi, July 7 : Security expert Alok Bansal on Thursday said that Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has been propounding Wahabi ideology which is becoming a breeding ground for terrorism and addied that his narrative is similar to that of the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. Wahabism is a religious part of Sunni Islam named after Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, a 18th century scholar, which has been described by many as a 'fundamentalist' ideology. Bansal told ANI that extremism can only by countered by creating an alternate narrative and not by bombs and bullets. "We must understand that this is an ideological battle and it cannot be won by bombs or bullets; it has to be won by creating an alternative narrative and people like Zakir Naik have created narrative that actually helps organizations like AlQaeda or Islamic State to thrive because their narrative is very close to his narrative, though he keeps saying that he talks of peace but his narrative convinces people to go and follow Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State." He stated that global community must ensure
that his channel must be banned to prevent him from accessing the influential minds of the youth. "Zakir Naik has been propounding an extremist worldview his ideology, his channel, propagates a Wahabi ideology. This is dangerous because this is what actually drives terrorists. I think global community should take steps to prevent from propagating his views and ensure that people like Zakir Naik don't have unbridled access to impressionable minds," he said. According to a Bangladesh newspaper, militant Rohan Imtiaz, son of an Awami League leader and one of the perpetrators of last week Dhaka's diplomatic zone terror attack quoted the controversial Indian Islamic preacher Zakir Naik. Naik, during his lecture on Peace TV, reportedly urged all Muslims to become terrorists. Naik, a popular but controversial Islamic orator and founder of the Mumbai-based Islamic Research Foundation, is banned in UK and Canada for his hate speeches. He is among 16 banned Islamic scholars in Malaysia.(ANI)
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JULY 8
Shan group demands release of detained civilians in letter to Myanmar President
President Htin Kyaw Naypyidaw, July 7 : The Shan State Progress Party (SSPP), an ethnic armed group, has sent a letter to Myanmar President Htin Kyaw and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi demanding the immediate release of eight civilians and 23 troop members detained by the Tatmadaw. The eight arrested villagers from Theinni township in northern Shan State were accused of aiding the SSPP and a case was filed against them under the Unlawful Association Act on June 2. Tatmadaw soldiers had alleged that the villagers were seen carrying out an order given by the SSPP to collect data about the number of households, villagers and businesses in Pan Son village. A police officer from Theinni township, report the Myanmar Times. The villagers had been sent to Lashio Prison. In their letter, the SSPP also stated that they are disappointed that arrests continue to take place, hampering attempts to move the country toward peace.
"We are working together for peace and national reconciliation, but this kind of behaviour (by the Tatmadaw) destroys trust. We ask the president and Daw Aung San Su Kyi to release them in the name of the peace process and national reconciliation," said Colonel Sai Phone Han, a spokesperson for the SSPP. According to SSPP spokesperson, the letter, dated June 26 was also sent to Commander-inChief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, head of the Northeastern Command Major General Phone Myat, Senior General Yar Pyae and Shan Nationalities League for Democracy chair U Khun Htun Oo. However, President's Office Director U Zaw Htay denied receiving any such letter. The SSPP spokesperson also added that they had released Tatmadaw soldiers who had been detained during clashes, including one colonel, two warrant officers, one sergeant, two corporals, one lance corporal and two privates.(ANI)
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NEIGHBOURS
India, Mozambique sign agreements on drug trafficking, sports and pulse trading Maputo (Mozamb ique), July 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mozambican President Filipe Nyusiwitnessed the signing of agreements in areas of drug trafficking, pulse trading and sports between India and Mozambique here on Thursday. The three Memoranda o f Understanding(MoU) on reduction of drug trafficking and psychotropic substances and related materials, cooperation in the field of youth affairs and
sports, and long term agreement for purchase of pulses - were signed between Secretary of Economic Relations in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Amar Sinha and Mozambique's Finance Minister. The Union Cabinet had on Tuesday given its approval for the signing of an MoU between Indiaand Mozambique on drug demand reduction and prevention of illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs. The MoU is aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation between the two
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi witnessed the signing of agreements in areas of drug trafficking countries in combating illicit trafficking in narcotics, psychotropic
substances and their precursors through an exchange of information,
expertise and capacity building. MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup described the signing of agreements as 'Renewing a traditional friendship' between the two countries. "The leaders witnessed signing of 3 agreements in Maputo," he tweeted. Prime Minister Modi and the Mozambican President earlier in the day held restricted talks at thePresidential Office in Maputo after which both sides held bilateral talks to bolster ties. Prime Minister Modi was
Mozambique leadership honours PM Modi with ceremonial welcome Maputo (Moza mbique), July 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday was accorded a warm and colourful ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Office in Mozambique capital Maputo as he started his first engagement of the day here to deepen ties with the African nation. Ministry of External Affairs Official Spokesperson, Vikas swarup tweeted, "Mozambique honours. PM @narendramodi receives a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Office in Maputo." He reached Maputo as a part of his four nation tour of the African continent this morning. During his five-day four-nation tour to Mozambique, South
Africa, Tanzania and Kenya, energy, food security, trade, maritime cooperation and diaspora interactions will high on the Prime Minister's agenda. Prime Minister Modi is now holding a "restricted meeting" with Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi. This will be followed by delegation-level talks, a signing of agreements and an issue of a joint statement. The Union Cabinet had earlier on Tuesday gave its approval for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Mozambique on drug demand reduction and prevention of illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals and related matters. The MoU is aimed at enhancing mutual coopera-
tion between the two countries in combating illicit trafficking in narcotics, psychotropic substances and their precursors through an exchange of information, expertise and capacity building. The cabinet had also approved a long-term contract by signing an MoU with Mozambique for the import of pulses either through the private channels, or, via Governmentto-Government (G2G) sales through state agencies nominated by both nations. Prime Minister Modi will attend a state banquet hosted by President Nyusi in the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Office. Later in the day, the Prime Minister will visit the National Assembly, where he will receive aceremonial welcome
Mozambique leadership honours PM Modi with ceremonial welcome and will be introduced to the members, followed by a meeting with President of the National Assembly Veronica Macamo and signing of visitor's book. Prime Minister Modi will also visit the Maluana Science and Technology Park and the
Centre for Innovation and Technological Development (CITD), where he will interacts with students. Before departing for South African capital city of Pretoria at 6.20 p.m., the Prime Minister will interact with Indian Diaspora. (ANI)
Nepal proposes August PM Modi, Mozambican President hold restricted Joint Commission talks to bolster bilateral ties Maputo (Mozamb approval for the signing of nations. meeting in India ique), July 7: Prime a Memorandum of Under- Prime Minister Modi's
Nepal proposes August Joint Commission meeting in India Kathmandu, July 7: Kathmandu has proposed a fourth meeting of Nepal-India Joint Commission at the foreign ministers' level for August 22 and 23 to be held in New Delhi. The Indian side is yet to confirm the dates on the proposal, said the NepalForeign Ministry. "Once we agree on the date for the meeting, we will start consultations with line ministries to follow up on the progress being made since the previous joint commission meeting," the Kathmandu Post quoted an official, as saying. The meeting besides reviewing the existing status of the bilateral ties and resolving outstanding issues, is expected
to pave the way for future cooperation. The two countries are set to conclude meetings of all bilateral mechanisms before the joint commission meeting. According to officials, the first meeting of the Eminent Persons Group that concluded in Kathmandu on Tuesday also set a right tone for the meeting. Officials also said that all the meetings on the bilateral front except for a meeting at Home Secretary-level, proposed for September are expected to take place before the proposed date. Commerce, trade, transit and energy are likely to top the agenda in the joint commission meeting. (ANI)
Minister Narendra Modi andMozambican President Filipe Nyusi on Thursday held restricted talks at the Presidential Office in Maputo in a bid to bolster bilateral ties between both countries. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Official Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted, "Reaching out across the Indian Ocean. PM Narendra Modiand President Filipe Nyusi begin withrestricted talks." Prime Minister Modi was earlier accorded a warm and colourful ceremonial welcome, kickstarting his first engagement of the day here to deepen ties with the African nation. "A ceremonial welcome and discussions with President Nyusi...the Prime Minister's
PM Modi, Mozambican President hold restricted talks to bolster bilateral ties programmes in Mozambique begin," tweeted the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Prime Minister Modi reached Maputo as a part of his four nation tour of the African continent this morning. During his five-day fournation tour to Mozambique, South Af-
rica, Tanzania and Kenya, energy, food security, trade, maritime cooperation and diaspora interactions will high on the Prime Minister's agenda. He will later hold delegation-level talks, a signing of agreements and an issue of a joint statement. The Union Cabinet had earlier on Tuesday gave its
standing (MoU) between India and Mozambique on drug demand reduction and prevention of illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals and related matters. The MoU is aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation between the two countries in combating illicit trafficking in narcotics, psychotropic substances and their precursors through an exchange of information, expertise and capacity building. The cabinet had also approved a long-term contract by signing an MoU with Mozambique for the import of pulses either through the private channels, or, via Governmentto-Government (G2G) sales through state agencies nominated by both
other engagement include attending a state banquet hosted by President Nyusi in the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Office. Later in the day, the Prime Minister will visit the National Assembly, where he will receive a ceremonial welcome and will be introduced to the members, followed by a meeting with President of the National Assembly Veronica Macamo and signing of visitor's book. He will also visit the Maluana Science and Technology Park and the Centre for Innovation and Technological Development (CITD), where he will interacts with students. He will then interact with Indian Diaspora before departing for South African capital city of Pretoria.(ANI)
Myanmar-Lao friendship bridge remains shut over border dispute Naypyidaw, July 7 : The newly built MyanmarLaoFriendship Bridge remains closed as authorities on both sides struggle to agree on the issue of border demarcation. Once opened, the bridge will boost commerce between the two nations and will also allow direct trade with Thailand, Vietnam and China, the Myanmar Times reported
on Thursday. The Presidents of Myanmar and Laos inaugurated the bridge in May last year, which connects Eastern Shan State's Tachileik district to Long district in the Lao province of Luang Namtha. But, following delays in surveying and agreeing on the border line, the bridge is still not open to commerce. "The bridge is symbolic be-
cause it will be the first time in recent years that the two countries have been connected by an official border trading point," said U Myint Oo, chair of Tachileik Border Trade Chamber of Commerce. "Shan State Chief Minister U Linn Htut has been presented with the case for allowing trade flows across the bridge to begin
as soon as possible, but the authority to agree on the border line lies with the Union government," he added. While the immediate benefit of an open bridge would be greater trade with Laos, the bridge would also help join Myanmar with Vietnam, by creating a road link connecting the Kyaukphyu deep sea port and special
economic zone in Myanmar's Rakhine State with the Haiphong Seaport in Vietnam. Trade with China would also be simplified as at present, Chinese imports to Myanmar come through the Mong La border point, which is a largely lawless region controlled by the United Wa State Army and an affiliated group.(ANI)
earlier accorded a warm and colourful ceremonial welcome, kickstarting his first engagement of the day here to deepen ties with the African nation. Prime Minister Modi reached Maputo as a part of his four nation tour of the African continent this morning. During his five-day fournation tour to Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya, energy, food security, trade, maritime cooperation and diaspora interactions will high on the Prime Minister's agenda. (ANI)
Tensions escalate between Japan, China following near dogfight Tokyo, July 7 : Tensions have reportedly escalated between Japan and China following the former's decision to scramble its air force jets a record 199 times between the months of April and June this year to defend against Chinese aircraft coming close to its airspace. According to a UPI news agency report, Japan's Air SelfDefense Force (ASDF) jets were ordered into action when Chinese military planes appeared over the East China Sea. The ASDF Joint Staff was quoted, as saying in a statement, "The area where Chinese planes are active is continuing to expand, particularly southward." The Financial Times quoted the Chinese side, as saying that the near dogfight with Japan, involved the rare use of fire control radar to target Chinese aircraft. Japanese officials say China has increased its military activity in the sea and air, obliging it to almost double the scrambling of its aircraft to engage Chinese jets over the past three months. According to daily, China and Japan have been increasingly embroiled in a heated dispute over territorial claims in the East China Sea, with both sides launching manoeuvres to counter each other. A statement issued by China's defence ministry said that the latest clash between the air force planes of the two countries took place on June 17, and threatened to turn dangerous, when Japanese warplanes used fire-control radar to "light up" their Chinese counterparts and released infrared flares during evasive manoeuvres. Japan's deputy chief of cabinet, however, has denied Beijing's claims. Later, both sides agreed that a pair of Chinese SU-30 fighterbombers and two Japanese F15 fighters faced each other over the East China Sea, where China and Japan have a longrunning dispute over ownership of a group of islands known in Japan as the Senkaku and China as the Diaoyu. Experts on either side have warned that such threatening manoeuvres can degenerate into a 'he said, she said' situation, and added that it would be very hard to verify what actually happened should an air battle take place, as the time span for such an event is tabulated in seconds. According to the Financial Times, the last time a fire-control radar was allegedly engaged in the East China Sea was in January 2013, when Japan's defence ministry said a Chinese frigate had locked a weapons radar on to a Japanese destroyer, calling the incident "a unilateral, provocative act and extremely regrettable". China had then denied the claim following an internal investigation. Maritime tensions in the western Pacific are edging higher a week ahead of an international ruling on a dispute between China and the Philippines over sovereignty claims in the South China Sea. An arbitration court in The Hague is expected to rule in favour of the Philippines and invalidate many if not all of Chinese claims in the South China Sea. China has already rejected the arbitration proceedings. (ANI)
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Understanding Karachi's Complex Militant Landscape Instability will continue to haunt Karachi unless the city's militant landscape is understood in its entirety.
Corruption Hurdle to development There is tremendous corruption in the Northeast. They say a road has been built, but there is no road. The money just disappears. Recent report of the National Crimes (Photo: Record Bureau says that pre11.deviantart) Assam has the highest number of corruption cases among the North Eastern States with 77 corruption cases without any conviction and recovery. Manipur follows it with 25 registered cases during the last nine years with zero conviction and zero recovery of properties. Nagaland has 23 registered corruption cases followed by Tripura and Meghalaya. North East has become a corruption plank. There is lack of transparency in public procurement and allocation of public resources. In such a scenario, the vision of the Vision 2020 is dim. Visions and dreams are always nice in principle. They speak of so many people-friendly schemes for development and poverty alleviation. However, there have been instances of people's welfare programmes leaking in the pipelines. Real beneficiaries do not receive their dues from the government, only due to favoritism, nepotism and corruption. The selfish leaders are allegedly reaping the electoral benefits of poverty alleviation programmes like old age pensions, widow benefit schemes, housing schemes etc. Gross and open irregularities in selection of beneficiaries manipulated by political leaders have been reported time and again. Recently, there has even been a public interest litigation on it. The quality of all constructions of roads, bridges, buildings and retaining walls have been compromised in the state for favouring contractors and election supporters of leaders. In such a situation, plans and visions will surely end in futility. At a time when the nation, led by Narendra Modi, has risen up as one against the scourge of corruption, it is important to point out that viewing corruption in isolation from the prevailing system that gives rise to this menace would be missing the wood for the trees. Stringent, effective and implementable laws applicable to all aspects of the socio-political machinery are required to check rampant corruption in everyday life. This is a realization that has dawned on the nation, which is why people from all walks of life are rallying behind Modi Ji. Corruption has several dimensions to it and it needs to be rooted out in its totality, pointed out one such civil society member. The greed of a few, who pretend to uphold the rights of the indigenous people, has led to a situation where the bulk of the poor people in the region continue to live in abject poverty while the political leadership, most importantly elected representatives, continue to amass wealth at the cost of the society. It is high time the people of the Northeast too rose in protest in unison against the cult of corruption in the region, like their fellow citizens are doing elsewhere in the country. Development is a long process of adjustment and adaptation. The roots of development have to be nourished and strengthened in order to be durable and sustainable. The region has more issues to be addressed and challenges to face than any other parts of the country. Of which, the three most important areas which require immediate attention are insurgency, infrastructure and governance. All the other issues are derivatives which would dry up once these three are addressed.
School drop-out Gap remains in checking of dropout rates India has the second largest educational system in the world after China wherein more than 1 million primary and secondary school cater to the educational needs of the Indian children. Within the total educational system, Primary and Secondary form the main bulk of institution/schools of India. Since Education is a critical issue in human resource development, early Indian planners paid great attention for improvement in this sector. It is common knowledge that financial constraints or domestic chores are the main reasons cited by people for dropping out of education. But data from the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) shows that 13 out of every 100 Indians between 5-29 years did not attend school or dropped out because they did not consider education "necessary." This proportion is significantly higher for school going kids between 10-14 years. In this category, one out of every three person who is not attending school said they considered education unnecessary. In a similar survey conducted almost a decade ago, only one in every four person cited the same reason for non-attendance. This trend is more marked among rural students with 34.8% of drop outs (including those who have never attended school) indifferent to studies. A far lower proportion of urban students-about 22.8%-showed a lack of interest in education. While some believe the demand for education has clearly increased as more people are now going to schools. But the increase in supply has not been commensurate. The quality of school infrastructure and teachers is still poor in India causing people to drop out, yet others believe it is the most common answer for people who do not have easy access to educational institutions. This is especially true of migrants. With the need for transfer certificates, residence certificates and other such formalities, people find the entire educational system burdensome. India's education system expanded exponentially over the past five decades. However, its current achievements are grossly inadequate for the nation to realize its potential greatness. India's enrolment rate - cutting across gender, region, class, caste, states, rural-urban divides - has witnessed remarkable improvement in the last decades of 20th century. However, gap remains in retention rate/checking of dropout rates.
For a long time, further aggravated the groups by using their Karachi, Pakistan's eco- city's militant landscape, political representation nomic hub, has seen with each group operat- in the city. To pursue ruthless and extraordi- ing its own militias. these ends, the military nary levels of violence. These ethnic divisions and different ethnic Terrorism, corruption, have virtually divided groups based in the city ethnic conflicts, gang the city into different - particularly the wars, and bitter disputes ethnic sectors, with each Muhajirs - have, on diffor the control of re- having de facto control ferent occasions, atsources continue to de- of its areas. tempted to appease fine the city's life. Further complicating the each other by volunteerOver the last problem is ing to support each three dethe federal other's agendas and inUmair Jamal cades, a congovernment's terests. tinuous wave of migra- and the military's rela- Moreover, the military's tions from different part tionship with these "on" and "off" approach of the country and Af- groups. Over the de- to containing the rising ghanistan have led to a cades, the country's violence in the city by gathering of all sorts of main political parties eradicating groups of militant groups in the and the military have their militant wings city. Besides local ter- used these groups to have further inflamed rorist organizations, dif- pursue their larger po- local tensions. For inferent foreign militant litical and security agen- stance, the Muhajir networks such as the Islamic Movement of Ethno-political violence has resulted Uzbekistan and al-Qaida in the deaths of thousands. The have established their violent competition between the presence in the city. Muhajirs (people who migrated Karachi has also remained trapped in the from India during the partition of carnage stemming from the Indian subcontinent) and ethnic conflicts. Uncontrolled migration has Pashtuns (mostly from Khyber further complicated the Pakhtunkhwa) to enhance and safeethnic mix of the city. guard their political and economic According to some reports, between 2000 and interests has further aggravated the 2010, Karachi's populacity's militant landscape, with each tion increased about 80 group operating its own militias. percent, the largest increase for any city in the These ethnic divisions have virtually world at that time. Ethno-political violence divided the city into different ethnic sectors, with each having de facto has resulted in the deaths of thousands. The control of its areas. violent competition beMovement tween the Muhajirs das. As a consequence, Qaumi (people who migrated this has given more ma- (MQM), a political representing from India during the neuvering space to these party partition of the Indian groups against each Muhajir interests that is subcontinent) and other, putting the city currently facing the heat of the military's counter Pashtuns (mostly from under siege. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) At times, the country's terrorism operation in to enhance and safe- security agencies have Karachi, has in the past guard their political and attempted to control remained allied with the economic interests has Karachi through these Army directly and indi-
Image for representational purpose (Photo: i1.tribune) rectly. While the military, on different occasions, has labeled the MQM as an anti-state party to reduce its support base in the city, the party, whenever it found itself embattled with the state, has reached out to its electorate for support by describing its treatment as the segregation and persecution of the entire Muhajir community. The military's counter terrorism operations to purge the city of violence have resulted in the deaths and arrests of hundreds and thousands of party workers. In the early 1990s, the Army's military operation to cleanse the city of militant gangs, code named "Operation Cleanup," didn't result in lasting peace. The operation, however, further reinforced different ethnic
allegiances to their groups, particularly the MQM. In a similar vein, the current military operation in Karachi is not likely to break the city's terror networks as it has again provoked a reaction of victimization by several ethic groups. Moreover, kidnappings and targeted killings in the city have surged again, just a few weeks after the military's claims that Karachi's security situation had improved significantly due to the recent counterterrorism operations in the city. About two weeks ago, thousands of mourners flooded Karachi's streets to pay tribute toAmjad Sabri, a famous Sufi singer who was murdered by the Pakistani Taliban. On June 21, the son of theprovincial high court's chief justice was abducted from the city
while a doctor belonging to the Ahmadiyya Muslim community was killed also a few days ago. Sabri's death in Karachi was claimed by the Taliban while the killing of an Ahmadi doctor was seen as an act of sectarian violence. Moreover, according to a recently released report, about 75 percent of militants on a terror watchlist for their alleged affiliations with more than a dozen militant organizations remain untraceable in Karachi. These incidents point towards the city's complex militant landscape, where terrorists belonging to different backgrounds continue to retain the capacity to cripple Karachi's life even after the military's use of brute force for more than two years. Courtesy: The diplomat
Myanmar will import timber to save its own forests The resource-rich country has lost 10 million hectares of forest cover since 1990 The Myanmar government has decided to start importing timber, in spite of its rich local reserves, in an attempt to protect its forests. It has temporarily banned logging of trees and the imports will allow the country's timber-dependent companies to stay functional. Myanmar recently also banned export of timber to other countries. Importing timber may be a good idea for the country, according to timber traders quoted in media reports. Imported wood is cheaper than the timber produced locally, hence furniture and other products could be sold inexpensively so as to compete in the international market. However, it is uncertain how the country's
economy will be affected by the ban. Forestry sector has played an important role in the economy of Myanmar for decades. It contributed US $254.4 million to the economy in 2011, which was approximately 0.5 per cent of the country's GDP. UN's Food and Agriculture Organization data also states that around 36,000 people were directly employed by the forestry sector in 2011. State of Myanmar's forests A United Nations report of 2015 said that Myanmar's forest cover in Myanmar shrank from 65 per cent in 2000 to 45 percent in 2015. The country lost more than 546,000 hectares (over 1.3 million acres) of forest on average each year since 2010. The report also showed that over 10 million hect-
ares of Myanmar's forest area has been lost since 1990. Of the total forest cover in Myanmar, only 11 per cent is primary, while the majority (86 per
cent) is regenerated. Remaining three per cent forest area is planted. As per FAO assessment, primary forest area in the country has stayed constant since 1990, while
naturally regenerated forest area has reduced drastically. Planted forest area has more than doubled since 1990. The Global Forest Resources Assessment re-
Myanmar has 1,551 million metric tons of carbon stocks in living forest biomass (Photo: Sean Beesley/Flickr)
To-day's parliamentarians
M.P Rajen Gohain's induction in the union cabinet as a minister of state (Railways) (Photo: cms.thestatesman)
Sir, Nowgaon's M.P Rajen Gohain's induction in the union cabinet as a minister of state (Railways) was almost a foregone conclusion. It is a fact that today parliamentarians do not possess that sheen like their predecessors. Do they know about Hem Baruah, who rocked Parliament by his fiery speeches? Do they know about Dinesh Goswami whose gift of the gab once dominated the proceedings of parliament? P.A Sangma also did well as a parliamentarian. Jawahar Lal Nehru, the then Prime Minister had a tough time in replying the questions of Hem Baruah, one of the greatest Parliamentarians of India. During Nehru's time, three Parliamentarians of the opposition were called three musketeers because of their vast knowledge and eloquence. They were - pai, kamath and barua that is Hari Vishnu Kamath, Nath Pai and Hem Baruah. Hem Baruah was an erudite Parliamentarian. He could mesmer-
port of 2015 also said that Myanmar had the world's third-highest annual deforestation rate, after Brazil and Indonesia. Myanmar has 1,551 million metric tons of carbon stocks in living forest biomass. According to FAO data, 46.4 per cent of the country's greenhouse gas emissions came from landuse change and forestry in 2011. Myanmar is a climatedisaster-prone nation. In a UN Risk Model, it tops the charts as the most vulnerable to climate change. Deforestation only increases the country's vulnerability as it degrades watershed, escalating soil erosion and interfering with the natural carbon cycle. 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.
ize the people in general and parliamentarians in particular by his superb eloquence, wits and humour. We are happy that M.J. Akbar, a man of letters is accommodated in the union ministry and was quite judiciously allotted the portfolio of External Affairs. Our present parliamentarians should devote much time in studies so that they can participate in the interaction and can Letters to the show their aptitude but for being so they must possess the gift of the gab. editor and articles But till now, they have let down the should be sent to : people of Assam by their poor perforThe Eastern Tomance. Can ever an M.P. from Assam day inducted in the union cabinet be a cabiChowkidingee, net minister, we doubt.
Yours etc. Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh
Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786001 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Email :
editor.easterntoday@gmail.com
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Waft of pithas during Bihu and Eid Biryani still allure me Many of my colleagues (along with people from and friends are observing many other religious the holy month of backgrounds) I find it Ramadan. Being brought hard to sympathize with up in a Hindu household recent anti-religious senand never having even timents, especially the skipped a meal, let alone ones arising post Syrian fast for a whole day, I refugee intake. Perhaps have utthe antimost re- Poonam Dohutia M u s l i m spect for sentiment fellow friends who fast is not entirely recent. At long days (especially the very least in North longer in the summer in America, it has much to Northern hemisphere do with 911. What is unwhen sun rises at 5:00 like us is scary. So, a.m. and sets around 9:00 people fleeing ISIS and pm) for a whole Asad's regime and seekmonth.They do this with ing shelter in other counsuch grace; always with tries are unlike us therea smile and not complain- fore scary. I get that. ing. I am in awe of such However why blame all resolve, such Muslims? Isn't it ironic disciplineand self-control that we cannot sympabehind a religious obser- thize or empathize with vance in an attempt to people from a religious empathize with the less background that work so fortunate who go without hard at empathizing with meals regularly. the less fortunate? Having grown up with I feel incredibly lucky to Muslims around me have grown up in India. I
grew up in the beautiful state of Assam. Oneof my fondest memories of childhood is that of taking part in Iftar and celebrating Eid with friends. Much like I miss the sound of dheki emanating from my grandparents dheki ghor, the smell of my aunts and my mom makingpitha during Bihu, I miss the mouth-watering waft of Biriyani and korma wafting out of neighbour's kitchen during Eid. As much as I miss the sounds of naam during the holy Bhadomah, I miss the sounds of azaan from a local mosque. So it's only too natural that I pine for Eid goodies just as I pine for Bihu goodies. And I have felt down the odd years that I didn't get to celebrate Eid with friends. I feel very honoured that this year one of my African Muslim friends has in-
vited me to the region's biggest community Iftar meal this week. I feel excited that I will get to taste dishes cooked by Muslims around the globe. My mom's best friend is a Muslim and one of my best friends is a Muslim. Growing up we had many Muslim family friends. I remember many a Ramzan when I would feel so lucky when I got to take part in an Iftar meal at a family friend's house. All my Muslim friends would attend school while fasting and all I would be doing is counting my days down to Eid while not even skipping a meal. Having had a sweet tooth I would look forward to the golden creamy "sewaiyan" one of my Mom's friends late Ahmed aunty made for Eid. No Hindu can cook
Biriyanis like the Muslims. Same goes for their kababs, kormas and golden moist buttery parathas. I would look forward to Eid when we would be invited for sumptuous Eid feasts. I still haven't figured out how our friends always managed very carefully to not serve us Hindus any beef even though sometimes we, as children, would show up at a friend's house during Iftar by surprise. I admire their respect for other religions. I wonder if I was half as respectful of their religion. When I moved to Canada for my post graduate studies I was incredibly lucky to come across a very dear friend of mine from Bangladesh who lived in the same residence as me. I will call her Jasmine for anonymity. Jasmine cooked the most
Image for representational purpose. (Photo: islamtimes) incredible Biryanis and could whip up kababs in matter of minutes. I thought I hit the jackpot when I started getting invited to the most delicious Bangladeshi feasts and above all Eid feasts and Iftar meals. As a child, I liked Eid and Iftar because I always related them to mouthwatering food, food that an expert cook of like my Mom couldn't produce even after following Ahmed Aunty's recipes to
the T. As an adult now I appreciate the ideas behind Ramzan and Iftar. I have deep respect for a religion that has so many ardent followers that put themselves in the shoes of the poor by not even drinking water during the day for a whole month. Ramzan Mubarak and Eid Mubarak in advance my friends. Poonam Dohutia is a civil servant with the Canadian Federal Government. She was born and brought up
in Assam and lived all over Assam. Poonam did her Ph.D. in Philosophy from University of Waterloo. In her spare time she can be found gardening (Canadian weather permitting) in the summer months and planning about gardening during the harsh winter months. Poonam is passionate about Canadian Aboriginal issues and has been very privileged to travel to the Arctic. Courtesy: thethum bprintmag
Beyond Discounts, How Companies Can Survive After The Dhaka Attacks, This Is What Terrifies Me More The E-Commerce Boom (And Fierce Rivalry) The Indian e-commerce are implementing differindustry is likely to be ent strategies to attract worth USD 38 billion by more customers. These the end of 2016. By include offering huge dis2020, this industry is counts, tightening the relikely to touch a whop- fund period, faster delivping figure of USD 119 ery of products etc. billion. In terms of users, In 2015, Flipkart was the it is already the second- market leader with 43% largest internet market market share. Snapdeal globally with had 19% market share three internet Ishan Arora users are added every whereas Amazon had second. Internet pen- only 14%. By March etration is likely to in- 2016, these figures comcrease from 35% in pletely changed. 2016 to 59% by 2020, Flipkart's share fell to which means around 37%, for Snapdeal it was 320 million online shop- 14% and Amazon was pers. M-commerce, i.e., able to gain 23% of marshopping using mobile ket share. devices is likely to con- So, what led to a change tribute up to 70% of the in these figures? It was total revenue generated the customer experience by various e-commerce these companies were websites. And given the providing to their users aggressive online dis- and the discounts they
these users get a better deal on other sites. So, is it the right thing to do and does it guarantee a longterm growth? How Does It Benefit A Consumer? With increasing rivalry among these players, the bargaining power of customers is increasing as now they have a lot of options to choose from. Also, companies are offering huge discounts and, as a result, customers are getting the same quality products online but at a much cheaper price. Recommendations Strategies For Sellers 1. Account Reputation: Every seller has an account on an e-commerce website and the reputa-
Image for representational purpose (Photo: skubana) counts, rising fuel prices and a wider and abundant choice,significant growth is expected. Why Is There A War? What Is The Fuss All About? It is evident that the Indian e-commerce industry offers tremendous growth. With such a promising growth and so much at stake Flipkart, Snapdeal and Amazon are fighting for their survival in the e-commerce industry. All three big shots want to maximise their market share and
were offering. If you see the image below you will notice that the revenue generated is directly proportional to the loss incurred by the company. Which means that companies are generating revenues but at the cost of their profits, i.e., they are trying to attract customers by offering more discounts which is not a good way of doing business. And by doing so companies will attract only the price-sensitive customers who are likely to leave them in case
tion of the seller depends on factors like shipping speed, returns and cancellation, positive and negative feedback etc. It is important for a seller to maintain a good account reputation because it not only increases its sales but also enhances the brand of the seller and minimises the product returns (due to quality issues). E-commerce websites should keep a track of the all the sellers. They should incentivise the good sellers (so as to
motivate them to do well) and bar all the bad sellers from doing business on their platform. 2. Study The Competition: It is very important for sellers to study and analyse the competitors selling on other marketplaces and accordingly they should formulate their own strategies. A seller has to decide whether he wants to sell more at a lesser price or sell less at a higher price. Say, for example, seller A is selling a camera for Rs. 3,000 on Flipkart and competitor B is selling the same product for Rs. 3,200 on Amazon. Now, seller B sells 10 units of cameras in a month and, due to lesser price seller, A is able to sell 15 units. The cost of the product is same for both, i.e., Rs. 2,500. Therefore, seller A makes a profit of 500*15= Rs. 7,500 whereas B earns 700*10=Rs 7,000. Hence, it is up to sellers whether they want to sell more at a lesser price or sell less but at a higher price. 3. Follow A LossLeader Pricing Strategy: A loss-leader is a pricing strategy where a product is sold at a price below its market cost to stimulate other sales of more profitable goods or services. It allows the sellers to build a database of customers and increases the opportunities for positive feedback. Promotion Strategies 1. Right Merchandise Mix: E-commerce websites should regularly analyse their business using Google Analytics and forecast the future trend. Categorising the products into categories of 'High Sellers', 'Regular Sellers' and 'Slow Sellers' would help them design the right merchandising mix. 2. Split Catalogue Into Four Categories: a) High Traffic: High
Conversion (Star products. Always keep them in stock. Less advertising. Increase inventory.) b) High Traffic: Low Conversion (Adjust price. Improve product description.) c) Low Traffic: High Conversion (Advertise and increase visibility.) b) Low Traffic: Low Conversion (Discontinue.) 3. E-Commerce Discounts: Discounts play a vital role when a customer is in a mood to make a purchase. Today, customers want to shop from a website offering more discounts rather than a website offering no/less discounts (even if it offers a lesser selling price). So, companies should follow a highlow model of discounting, i.e., initially (when the product is introduced or is in the growth stage) they should keep the prices high and offer heavy discounts (to get the attention of its customers). As the product enters the maturity stage, they should eventually decrease the price. Conclusion The e-commerce industry is a very lucrative industry and is expected to grow manifold in the near future. It is evident from the fact that despite heavy competition a lot of investors are willing to invest money in this booming sector. But to succeed, companies will have to think beyond discounts because discounts will give them only pricesensitive customers and not brand loyal customers. So, if a company is able to provide a better customer experience, good quality products at affordable prices, value for money etc. it will definitely capture more market share. Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz
Than The Violence
The Dhaka terror attack when the people were was one like many oth- stripped and checked ers. Arguably, humanity for circumcision by both in the 21st-century Hindu and Muslim comalone has endured munities. Of course, one enough vicious and bru- checked for the foreskin tal assaults. The recent while other had the opmassacres in Paris and posite criteria. Brussels are still fresh in My question is, what if memory. Given the a person who follows standing that Islam doesn't remember Bangladesh commands verses from the Quran? globally, unfortunately, it I am a proud Hindu but is safe to presume that I don't remember a the world single w o u l d Anurag Chaudhary quatrain soon forf r o m get and forgive the inci- Ramcharitmanas or any dent and move ahead verse from Bhagavad with more 'important Gita. So, if such incident matters' like the US is ever orchestrated by presidential elections. a Hindu outfit, will I be The fact that butchered? Or will I be Bangladesh is a Muslim- marked as an 'anti-reli-
ideally every 'good' Muslim is required to memorise his/her holy scripture, word by word. But, that is, in an ideal world. In an ideal world, though, terrorism should not exist, Donald Trump should still be contesting Wrestlemania matches (and not US Presidential elections), religious bigotry should be non-existent and well, Salman Khan should not be the superstar that he is. Let me remind you that this is not 1947 anymore. In 2016, if some 20-year-old educated gentlemen are beheading and shooting people because they are not in agreement with their
Dhaka cafe cleared of gunmen, commandos search area (Photo: christiannewstoday) majority nation, much like Pakistan, any pain withstood by its people would rather be seen as redemption for those who died in the West at the hands of terrorism. The fact that the debate has now shifted to whether it was ISIS or locals, indicates that by the time India and Pakistan celebrate their 70th Independence Day, the Dhaka attacks would be a bygone event in our memories. What pains me more, though, is something I read on the internet recently. An article in The Independentinformed me about how those who could recite verses from the Quran were let go while others were killed. It reminded me about various documented incidents from the time of Partition
gion' agnostic despite being a firm believer in a higher power? Even if I were an atheist, should I be killed? Of course, there isn't and can't be a justification for any terrorist attack. But the fact that few religious or political leaders of importance have said anything against this is a matter of great worry and sorrow. I feel a similar kind of grief when our evervocal PM stays silent after an incident like Dadri. Millions of innocent Muslims are suffering judgement from around the world and it is high time that something was said and done in the right direction by the people who matter. The arguments might be that Muslims are a lot more stringent with their religious practices and
religious sentiments, then ISIS is the only reality that looms in future. Recently, in his interview with George R.R. Martin, Stephen King said about the Orlando mass killing and I quote, "As long as anybody who's got only two wheels on the road can walk into a store and buy a fucking killing machine like an AR-15 or something, this is just going to go on. It's really up to us." The words of King hold true for the Dhaka attacks as well. It is really up to us. Are we going to stay silent and pass on this lunacy to the generations to come? Apocalypse, in that case, will happen in the name of God, and the day might not be far enough. Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz
BUSINESS
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JULY 8
Samsung launches new TV which costs Rs 24 lakhs Mumbai, Jul 7: Samsung Electronics launched 44 new models of smart TVs in India priced up to Rs 24 lakh, in one of its single largest launches as it looks to consolidate market share in the category. Samsung, the TV market leader with a 31% share of the pie at around 48.2 million units in 2015, is eyeing 35% market share this year. "We are targeting absolute dominant leadership position in the premium TV segment. We are targeting to outgrow the market and are looking at 35% market share in the overall TV segment by the end of this calendar year," Samsung India Vice President, Consumer Electronics,
Short-term loan at 7% interest rate to be received by farmers in FY17 New Delhi, Jul 7: Farmers will get short-term crop loans of up to Rs 3 lakh at a lower interest rate of 7 per cent this fiscal with the government approving a 2 per cent interest subvention scheme. Also, farmers who would repay the loan on time will get the credit at more cheaper rate of 4 per cent. Under the interest subvention scheme approved by the Cabinet, farmers will get loans of up to Rs 3 lakh for a period of one year at an interest rate of 7 per cent. The Cabinet also approved an additional subvention of 3 per cent for those farmers who pay loans on time. The interest subvention scheme is applicable for all farmers availing short-term crop loans up to Rs 3 lakh for one year, telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said after the Cabinet meeting. Government has set an agricultural credit target for banks at Rs 9 lakh crore for the current fiscal, up from Rs 8.5 lakh crore 2015-16. o reduce the burden of loan repayment on farmers, government has made a provision of Rs 15,000 crore in the budgetary estimate of 2016-17 towards interest subvention. The interest subvention scheme was earlier implemented by the finance ministry. It was transferred to the agriculture ministry this year. (Agencies)
Scheme for apprenticeship training given green signal by Centre New Delhi, Jul 7: The Centre approved an outlay of Rs.10,000 crore towards a scheme to provide apprenticeship training to 50 lakh youth by 2020. The approved National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme will provide financial incentives to employers to engage apprentices. Under the scheme, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will share 25 per cent of the total stipend payable to an apprentice with employers. The government will also fund 50 per cent of the total expenditure incurred by the employer in providing basis training to apprentices. "The scheme will catalyse the entire apprenticeship ecosystem in the country and it will offer a win-win situation for all stakeholders. It is expected to become one of the most powerful skill-delivery vehicles in the country," according to a statement from the Ministry. Some analysts felt financial incentives were only a miniscule component of the entire scheme of things that needed to be addressed to encourage apprenticeship training. "While some of the drawbacks related to conceptualisation of scheme were addressed through amendments in the Apprentices Act it still hasn't translated into volumes," said Rituparna Chakraborty, CoFounder and Executive Vice President, Teamlease Services Limited. (Agencies)
MARKET STRATEGY Samsung Electronics launched 44 new models of smart TVs in India priced up to Rs 24 lakh, in one of its single largest launches as it looks to consolidate market share in the category.
Samsung, the TV market leader with a 31% share of the pie at around 48.2 million units in 2015, is eyeing 35% market share this year.
Samsung targets to outgrow the market and are looking at 35% market share in the overall TV segment by the end of this calendar year.
In the premium category, the company has 46% market share and with today's launch, it is looking to take it up to 60%.
The company launched nine products under SUHD range with screen sizes ranging from 49 to 88 inches and priced between Rs 1.79 lakh and Rs 23.99 lakh.
Seven TVs were launched in Joy beat range with screen sizes ranging from 32 to 49 inches and priced between Rs 27,500 and Rs 69,500.
Rajeev Bhutani told reporters here. In the premium category, the company has 46% market share and with today's launch, it is looking to take it up to 60%. The
company today launched nine products under SUHD range with screen sizes ranging from 49 to 88 inches and priced between Rs 1.79 lakh and Rs 23.99 lakh. Seven
TVs were launched in Joy beat range with screen sizes ranging from 32 to 49 inches and priced between Rs 27,500 and Rs 69,500. Rest of the products were added in
the Smart TVs range with screen sizes ranging from 32 to 88 inches and priced between Rs 34,500 and Rs 7.04 lakh. "Samsung aims to revolutionize the concept of home entertainment with beautifully designed TVs to meet the changing needs of our consumers, depending on their budget and lifestyle. With these offerings, we aim to further consolidate our position as the market leader across segments," he said. The company is looking at selling one million Smart TVs, which includes its premium range SUHD TVs, Smart TVs in the mid segment and Joy Beat range in the affordable segment, in the current calendar year.
Price of 44 products launched today ranges from Rs 28,000 to Rs 24 lakh. Commenting on the growth in TV industry, Bhutani said it has grown in the range of 12-15% in the first half of 2016. "As far as we are concerned, we are looking to grow more than the industry on the back of these new launches," he said. At present, the urban market accounts for 60-65% of the total sales with the rest coming from the rural areas, he said, adding "however, the rate of growth is much faster in the rural market and the company is trying to tap the potential by coming up with innovative marketing schemes and network expansion". (Agencies)
BlackBerry bids adieu to its Classic smartphone Toronto, Jul 7: It is time to say goodbye to tactile keys. Canadian mobile maker BlackBerry has parted ways with its most successful device of its times -- BlackBerry Classic. According to Ralph Pini, chief operating officer and general manager for devices at BlackBerry, the company will no longer manufacture BlackBerry Classic. "For many years, Classic (and its BBOS predecessors) has been in our portfolio. It has been an incredible workhorse device for customers, exceeding all expectations. But, the Classic has long surpassed the average lifespan for a
smartphone in today`s market," Pini wrote in a blog post. "We are ready for this change so we can give our customers something better -- entrenched in our legacy in security and pedigree in making the most productive smartphones," he added. The BlackBerry Classic was launched in late 2014 as a replacement of sorts to the BBOS-powered Q20, sporting the classic BlackBerry design with built-in QWERTY keyboard and a touchscreen. "We are committed to the success of both BlackBerry 10 and Android devices. To keep innovating and advancing our portfolio, we are updat-
Ralph Pini, chief operating officer and general manager for devices at BlackBerry. (Photo: us.blackberry)
ing our smartphone lineup with state of the art devices," Pini wrote. "For now, if the Classic is still
your device of choice, please check with your carriers for device availability or purchase Classic unlocked online," he suggested. BlackBerry sold just 5 lakh phones globally in the first fiscal quarter this year -- down from six lakh in the previous quarter - reporting a $670 million loss which is its biggest loss in over two years. Although much of the loss was down to restructuring charges, sales also fell to USD 400 million, down 39 percent on a year earlier. "We continue to actively support BlackBerry 10 with software updates and are on track to deliver version 10.3.3 next
month with a second update to follow next year," Pini said. Last year, BlackBerry tried to revive its handset business by launching Priv smartphone running Google`s Android operating system (OS). However, early sales figures have been disappointing. It is not just WhatsApp that decided to end support for BlackBerry OS 10 services by the end of 2016, Facebook too is leaving the BlackBerry platform after announcing recently to discontinue support of its application programming interfaces (APIs) for BlackBerry. (Agencies)
Mahindra co aims 'sachet' plans to grow insurance biz Mumbai, Jul 7: Payas- you-go insurance, where insurers charge customers only for the period when they are at risk, has failed to catch on in Indian markets as rates are already low. Now a brokerage firm is looking to come up with a pay-as- you-can model to open new markets for general insurance products. "We see this as the insurance equivalent of sachets in the FMCG sector. Just as sachets expanded the FMCG market, we expect this more affordable form of insurance to grow the market," said Jaideep Devare, MD, Mahindra Insurance Brokers (MIBL). For starters, the firm is tying up with digi-
Jaideep Devare, MD, Mahindra Insurance Brokers (MIBL). (Photo: thehindubusinessline) tal wallet companies for providing small amounts of insurance. "We have tied up with Citrus Pay where customers can get personal accident cover for Rs 1 lakh for one month against loyalty points for shopping. We
ShopClues cements its leadership, adds 60 k sellers in fashion segment ANI New Delhi, Jul 7: Creating a mammoth in consumer offerings, ShopClues has established itself as the ultimate online destination for fashion. India's first and largest managed marketplace is going the extra mile to grow its existence pan-India. The online aggregator has added 60,000 new sellers on its platform in this segment and will take this number to 1,50,000 by the end of the year. In order to meet the expectations of its shoppers, the marketplace is constantly infusing fresh flavor into the category with new and popular brands such as Wrangler, Puma, American Tourister, Lotto, and Maxima along with 250
others. "At ShopClues, we strive to provide the best products from all corners of the country at the most reasonable prices. We are increasingly looking at bolstering our market position as the fashion destination of choice for everyone who is looking for a perfect mix of eloquence in style and affordability," said Director Lifestyle ShopClues, Dharmender Khanna. "We're ramping up our offerings in unprecedented ways, be it in terms of the kind of products, the brands or the number of merchants onboard. ShopClues is on its way to be the online platform when consumers think of fashion," added Dharmender Khanna.
plan to have similar tieups with other wallet companies," said Devare. Besides this, the company is looking at providing shortterm cover for transit insurance by tying up with other aggregators. Other plans on the anvil are a
cover for small and medium enterprises and hospital cash cover for individuals. Rather than annual contracts, the company is looking at earnand- pay mode. MIBL can design and distribute policies but it needs an insurance company to underwrite them through a master policy. The personal accident sold through Citrus is underwritten by Religare Health Insurance. For insurance companies, coming up with lowvalue products on their own is not feasible as the cost of distribution turns out to be much higher. Companies like Reliance General Insurance and Future Generali offer their cus-
tomers the option of paying health insurance through the equated monthly instalment option, but they need to commit to annual contracts. According to Devare, those without the resources do not want to commit to regular payments and this is where financial technology and the pay-as- youcan option kicks in. In the West, pay-as- yougo plans are based on actual usage. For instance, there are car insurers who debit premium based on how many kilometres the car actually travels. In India, where the cost of the cover is less than 2% of the vehicle, such covers are not feasible. (Agencies)
HCC bags contract for Mumbai Metro III
HCC CFO, Praveen Sood. (Photo: cfo-india) ANI New Delhi, Jul 7: Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) on Tuesday announced receiving Rs. 2,523 crore worth contract for Mumbai Metro III after which the shares witnessed a rally of nearly nine percent intraday. HCC, a lead partner in the joint venture with MMS of Russia, has received Rs. 2,523 crore contract from the
Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRCL). The Mumbai-based infrastructure company in a statement said that the project will be jointly executed by HCC and its Russian partner MMS where the former will have 74 percent share and MMS will have 36 percent share. "HCC's total share will amount to Rs. 1,900 crore. Most of the working capital will be cov-
ered by contract terms," said HCC CFO Praveen Sood in an interview to CNBC-TV18. He also adhered that the project would benefit the order-book of HCC and will help it cross Rs. 20,000 crore. "HCC also has orders worth Rs. 3,000 crore in pipeline. The contract, which is to be completed in 55 months, is for construction of 4,072 meter corridor of the underground metro line," he added. This is part of the Line III of the Mumbai Metro from Colaba to SEEPZ. HCC has been associated with six packages of Delhi Metro totaling 18.14 km of tunnels and 13 underground stations. In Mumbai Metro, the company has built eight elevated stations. The company scrip of Hindustan Construction Company quoted Rs. 22.60, up Rs. 1.70, or 8.13 percent on the BSE after news disclosure.
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OTJ247.com launches mobile app for wider consumer base
Founder and CEO OTJ247.com, Major Prashant Rai. (Photo: media.licdn) ANI New Delhi, Jul 7: Online aggregator OTJ247.com announced the launch of its exclusive app, OTJ247 to maximize its reach among a wider consumer base. Previously known as OneTimeJobs.com, Bengaluru-based on-demand services marketplace renamed itself in hope to facilitate its customers with better services via this app. OTJ247 has been created bearing in mind the aspects of comfort and style for its customers. With this app, customers can book any kind of services at the touch/tap of a button, following which they will be provided with a trained and verified professional who will be made available for the customers as per their convenience. With over 1000 downloads since its launch and counting, the OTJ247 app receives
around 15-20 requests per day. "With our exclusive OTJ247 mobile app, we aim to establish ourselves as one of the leading market players in the country who facilitate comprehensive on-demand services for all. We are confident that our mobile app will be widely accepted by people from all walks of life, enabling them to lead a relaxing lifestyle without any hassle," said Founder and CEO OTJ247.com, Major Prashant Rai. The app uses emergency services feature for electrical and plumbing requests, which can be accessed 24x7. Customers can download the app from the play store and register themselves via their social media accounts or email ID. Currently available in Android, the app will soon be made available in other Mobile OS like BB,iOS, and Windows.
9% hike for 1.88 lakh BSNL pensioners approved by Cabinet New Delhi, Jul 7: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved 9 percent increase in pension of 1.88 lakh BSNL employees who retired between 2007-13. The revision entails an estimated recurring annual expenditure of Rs 129.63 crore for pensioners and Rs 24.93 crore for family pensioners and arrears from 2013-14 would be Rs 239.92 crore for pensioners and Rs 44.62 crore for family pensioners, an official statement said. "Today we have taken a big decision with respect to pensioners of BSNL. When BSNL was formed as a new entity, salary of employees was given by BSNL but obligation of pension was on the government," Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters after the Cabinet meeting. The decision will impact higher pension for 1,88,500 BSNL employees who retired between 2007-13. BSNL employees were earlier given salary and 68.8 per cent driving allowance. Later
the government decided to merge 50 percent of DA in their salary and 18.8 percent was calculated on resultant salary. This leads to 9.4 percent higher pay-out for employees but pensioners who retired between 2007-2013 were left out. "Cabinet also approved it (higher pay) for them (retired pensioners) also. This will affect 1,18,500 pensioners," Prasad. Prasad said BSNL, which has been in heavy loss reported operating profit of Rs 672 crore during first year of his regime and this year the state-run telecom firm is expected to post operating profit of about Rs 2,000 crore. "Audits are going on. When results will be finalised in August, we expect BSNL to report operating profit of Rs 2,000 crore," Prasad said. He said the telecom firm used to earlier add 6-7 lakh mobile customers in a month and this year it has shown improvement by adding around 20-22 lakh new customers from January this year. (Agencies)
HIKE IN SALARY The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved 9 percent increase in pension of 1.88 lakh BSNL employees who retired between 2007-13. The revision entails an estimated recurring annual expenditure of Rs 129.63 crore for pensioners and Rs 24.93 crore for family pensioners and arrears from 2013-14 would be Rs 239.92 crore for pensioners and Rs 44.62 crore for family pensioners. The decision will impact higher pension for 1,88,500 BSNL employees who retired between 2007-13. BSNL employees were earlier given salary and 68.8 per cent driving allowance.
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JULY 8
Features
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TRAVEL & TOURISM Attractions in Gujarat, the Jewel of the West If your vacation is going to be a short one, it would be better not to consider visiting Gujarat. Your visit to Gujarat cannot be justified if you miss the important places to visit in Gujarat. To understand the essence of the culture and heritage of Gujarat, the lives of the people and the present state of Gujarat, you need to be on a long vacation. Exploring Gujarat will be a great experience and rewarding as well. The state, rightly called the 'Jewel of the West' has a lot to offer for everyone. Constructions that represent diversified faiths, palaces that depict the heroic past, beaches that let you unwind and relax and last but not the least, the beautiful nature's generosity in various parts of the state await visitors to be explored and enjoyed. A state that currently sets a rich example in progressive industrialization needs to be visited when you have time at your disposal. It is a difficult task to shortlist 8 attractions
amongst the innumerable tourist spots. However, here is an earnest and humble effort to provide you with a list. However, the suggestion would be to make your visits based on the purpose of your travel. If it is a heritage tour, you could go all out to visit the heritage sites in Gujarat. If you seek to visit temples, mosques, or both, you will find that you are short of time as the state has various temples and mosques. If wildlife is your passion, you have a lot to keep you moving. If you want somewhere quiet to spend your holiday in a relaxed place and rejuvenate your tired soul after a hectic schedule, you will find in Gujarat various tourist spots to suit your needs. Kankaria Lake Kankaria Lake was constructed by Sultan Qutbud-Din in the year 1451. Situated in Ahmedabad, this is one of the biggest lakes in the city. Nagina Wadi, a summer palace is seen in the island garden, which is at the center of Kankaria Lake. The lake
would be a natural choice of tourists as it has something to offer for all age groups. Parks, children's gardens, recreational center, boat club, zoo and a museum are the top attractions here. Kankaria Zoo is spread over a massive 21-acre land and it houses various animals like tigers, elephants, anaconda, python and a lot more. The children's park has various entertainments for children such as boathouse, mirror house, planetarium and toy house. Toy trains are available to take you round the lake. Balloon safari near Kankaria Lake attracts tourists in great numbers. Gir National Park And Wildlife Sanctuary Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is in a massive 1412 sq km of forests with a wide range of plants and animals. Asiatic lions are in great numbers here. The place is abundant in water bodies and hence it is home for crocodiles
and a variety of birds. Some of the animals found here include hyenas, wild boar, antelopes, sambhar, jackals, hare, Indian porcupine, fox and many more. Lion shows organized by the park are very famous. Laxmi Vilas Palace Built between the years 1878 and 1890 by Maharaja Sayaji Rao, the Third,Laxmi Vilas Palace is a glorious example of architectural brilliance of the past. The palace is situated in a massive 700 acre of land. The stunning interiors of the palace and the opulent furnishings are awe-inspiring. The museum in the palace has a rare collection of sculptures, artworks, armory and many more. Some of Raja Ravi Varma's famous paintings are seen here. The zoo in the palace houses peacocks and crocodiles. Great Rann Of Kutch Great Rann of Kutch is one among the 'not to miss' places in Gujarat. For your information, there is a Little Rann of Kutch as well. Great
Rann of Kutch measures over 16000 sq. kms and this is the largest salt desert in the world. The massive area is packed with white salt except during monsoon times in India when the desert is filled with waters. The right time to visit the place would be on a full moon day when the place looks glorious in moonlight. The sunrise and sunset on Great Rann of Kutch is a feast to your eyes and they elevate your spirits as well. It would be great if you visit this place by the end of December to experience the cultural extravaganza organized by the government. The luxury tents set up by the government will make your stay comfortable. Marine National Park Marine National Park in Gujarat is the first of its kind in the country. The 458 sq. km. park has a rich variety of wildlife species including jackal, jungle cat, green sea turtle, imperial eagle, flamingo, clamorous reed warbler, laggar falcon and many more.
Situated in Ahmedabad, this is one of the biggest lakes in the city (Photo: indianholiday) Bird watchers would love the park has they could view over 30 types of migratory birds here. Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary Located 10 kms from Jamnagar, Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary enjoys visits from over 300 types of migratory birds. The massive 605-hectare sanctuary attracts birds owing to the presence of fresh water and sea. It is home to over 300 species of birds. Freshwater lakes, salty
beds, mangroves and all that migratory birds need are abundant here and it was declared a safe haven for all kinds of birds in the year 1982. The three watch towers are the perfect locations to watch birds. Paddleboats are available for use to explore the area. Porbandar Beach Popularly known as Chowpati, Porbandar beach is one of the most frequented beaches in India which is located in
Porbandar. Children would enjoy the skating rink here. Near the beautiful beach, Huzur Palace is situated, which is yet another tourist attraction. Gujarat's most important port is situated here and the beach aids in the commercial development of the state. Commercial purposes apart, it is a great place to relax and rejuvenate the tired spirits. Courtesy: trans indiatravels
Exploring the Hill Station of Uttaranchal: Musoorie Travel Hygiene Tips: Staying Mussoorie, popularly known as the Queen of Hills, this charming hill station, 34 kms from Dehradun is situated at an altitude of 2003 mts in the Garhwal hills. above sea-level. Mussoorie is one the beautiful hill stations in India and the most frequently visited. It provides excellent respite to people who want relief from the hot sultry conditions of the plains, especially since it is close enough to the capital to make just weekend trip. Also, major Hindu pilgrimage sites like Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Haridwar, Rishikesh are not far from this place. In 1820, Captain Young of the British army was influenced by the beauty of this place and made it his residence. The name, Mussoorie is derived from plants of 'Mussoorie' which were found in abundance here. After its discovery, this
Gangotri group etc. and a bird's eye view of Mussoorie town and Doon Valley. During pre-independence days a gun mounted on this top used to be fired heralding mid-day to enable people to adjust their watches and hence this name. Childer's Lodge Highest Peak of Mussoorie near Lal Tibba. It is about 5 kms from the Tourist Office and one can go on horseback or on foot. Snow view from this spot is exhilarating. Camel's Back Road It starts from Kulri Bazar near Rink Hall and ends at Library Bazar covering a total distance of about 3 kms. The main charm of this froad is horse riding and wlking. Sunset view of the Himalayas is superb. Camel's Rock with a life like resemblace can be seen from the spot near Mussoorie Public school. Jharipani Fall 8.5 kms from Mussoorie on Mussoorie- Jharipani Road. Visitors can go by bus or by
falls is refresshing and enjoyabled for children and adults alike. Nag Devta Temple An ancient temple situated on Cart Mackenjie Road and is about 6 kms from Mussoorie. Vehicles can go right upto the spot. It Provies a charming view of Doon Valley as well as of Mussoorie. Mussoorie Lake A newly developed picnic spot, situated on Mussoorie- Dehradun road and is about 6 kms from Mussoorie. It is a delightful spot. Pedal boats are available. It commands an enchanting view of Doon Valley and nearby villages. Van Chetna Kendra At a distance of about 2 kms on Tehri bye pass road, this place is developed as a picnic spot and has a park surrounded with pine forest and flowering shrubs, and is approachable by foot or taxi/car. The main attraction is the wildlife of the
Ropeway ride to the second highest peak of Mussoorie(Photo: theperfecthideout) hill station gradually developed as a centre of education, business, tourism and beauty. Gun Hill Enjoy a Ropeway ride to the second highest peak of Mussoorie. It can also be negotiated by bridles path which forks-off from Mall Road near Kutchery and to reach takes about twenty minutes. The Ropeway distance is only 400 mtrs. And the sheer thrill of the ride is memorable. Gun Hill offers a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges namely Bunderpunch, Srikantha, Pithwara and
car upto 7 kms to Jharipani from where the fall is 1.5 kms, on foot. Bhatta Fall 7 kms from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Dehradun road. Access by car or bus upto Balta village from where the fall is 3kms by car or foot. An ideal spot for bathing anf picnics. Kempty Fall 15 kms from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road having an altitude of 4500 ft. It has the distinction of being the biggest and prettiest waterfall located in a beautiful valley and is surrounded by high mountains. Bath at the foot of the
park like Ghurar, Kanankar, Himalayan Peacock, Monal etc. Sir George Everest House 6 kms The Park Estate of sir George Everest, First Surveyor General of India, Who had his offce and residence here, is approachable by road. The highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, is named after him. Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill) 9 kms 6to the west of Mussoorie and at an altitude of 2104 mtrs. Is the Jwalaji Temple. It is situated on the top of the Benog Hill and has an idol of Mata Durga in it. The
temple is surrounded by thick forests and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, Doon valley and Yamuna valley. Clous End The bungalow built in 1838 by a British Major was one of the First Four buildings of Mussoorie. The bungalow has since then been converted into a hotel called Clouds End, and is situated at the extreme west of Mussoorie Hill, 8 kms from Library. The resort is surrounded by thick forest, offers a wide variety of flora and fauna besides a panoramic view of snow clad Himalayas, and Yamuna River. The most ideally suited resort for foreigners and honeymoon couples. Mussoorie (Institution) Rich in history and beauty, Mussoorie has given birth to many institutions that are known virtually all over the country. Since 1959, the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration has been training and molding batch after batch of raw probationers into the country's finest bureaucrats, foreign service officers, and police officers. the Academy, situated at Charleville, continues to train officers for the Indian Administrative Service and the Indian Police Service. A fire broke out in the Academy some years ago and destroyed, among other buildings and papers, its precious library rated amongst the best in the country. While many of the books destroyed in the fire are difficult to replace, a new beginning has already been made by acquiring a fine collection of books. While the Academy belongs to the post-Independence period, most of Mussoorie's institutions date back more than a century. The Waverley Convent, a school for girls, was established in 1845 and has commemorated 150 years of distinguished existence. While some of its buildings were destroyed in an earthquake in the early years of this century, then by a fire, and then again in the recent earthquake, Waverley still retains much of the oldworld architectural charm. The cable cars swing between the Hall and Gun Hill more than 100 times a day. Where to go for excursion in Mussoorie? Naga Tibba About 55km, an ideal spot for trekking. Naga Tibba is the highest peak around
Mussoorie at 10,000 feet and is covered by thick forests. Dhanolti On Mussoorie-Tehri Road 25km away, it has deodhar forests and mountainscapes. Surkhanda Devi Surkhanda Devi Temple at 10,000 feet, 35 km down the Mussoorie - Tehri road. Perched on a peak, the temple demands a stiff two-km climb form devotees. The temple, goes the legend, was built on the site where the head of Shiva's consort (Shiva is the destroyer in the Hindu trinity) fell after it was chopped off to stop Shiva's terrifying dance of death that was shaking the universe to its very core. Lakha Mandal 80 km away on the M u s s o o r i e - Ya m u n o t r i Road. It has been linked with the Mahabharata with idols of archaeological importance. When to visit? Mussoorie is a hill station which has pleasant climate around the year. It is a very cool place with greenery at its full bloom during September to November. The best seasons to visit Mussoorie are between April to June and again during September to November. When the plains of North India experience heat waves, Mussoorie provides a welcome break. September - November is spring time here. During this season Himalayas are clearly visible. It is better to avoid monsoons as the roads to Mussoorie are in bad shape. Same thing applies for the winter when roads are blocked due to snowfall Travel Information There are regular flights from Delhi to Doon Valley (Jolly Grant). From the Jolly Grant airport, taxis and buses ply to Dehradun, from where they go up to Mussoorie (2Âź hours, 60 km). The overnight Mussoorie Express links Delhi to Dehradun, the railhead for Mussoorie. Delhi to Mussoorie is 290 km by road. Dehradun to Mussoorie is 35 km. There are direct buses from Delhi to Mussoorie, along with private taxis. Buses ply every half hour from Dehradun to Mussoorie. Private taxis and shared taxis are favored by a majority of visitors. Courtesy: uttaran chaltourism
Fresh on the Road
If you've ever stepped off a plane with stained and rumpled clothes, a pore-clogged face, a lag-induced headache, and a mouth that still tastes like hours-old airplane food, you know how tricky it can be to stay clean and rested while traveling. And that's just the first leg of your trip. Where do you turn when access to basic facilities -- like a
bet is an alcohol-based sanitizer (in cloth or liquid form) such as Purell. Squirt and rub before a restaurant meal, when leaving a bathroom or after fondling a stone bust of Nefertiti at a souvenir shop. Other top times for a squirt while traveling? After using an ATM, riding an escalator or handling llamas in South America.
sunblock/moisturizer or sunblock/foundation (or a combo of all three). Mouth So what to do to avoid that foul, sticky taste in the mouth and that look of revulsion from your neighbor on the plane or metro? Beyond the obvious mints or gum, and avoidance of garlic and kimchi (spicy pickled cabbage being the most popular variety), there
Representational image(Photo: whstatic.)
shower and sink -- becomes a distant memory? If you're properly prepared, you'll be ready for whatever travel trial comes your way: to use an apple or lemon to improve your breath, to take a shower without water, or to fall asleep in even the most cramped, cacophonous of airline seats. Hands While doctors mostly agree that washing hands with hot, soapy water is best for preventing the spread of germs, there are times when this simply isn't an option for travelers. In these cases, your best
Face A clean face can do a lot to offset dirty hands and foul breath. When considering your face on the road, there are two things to keep in mind: the climate of your destination and your skin type. Leaving for Egypt's desert sands? Pack plenty of lip balm and moisturizer. Hiking the rain forests in Cost Rica? Nature will help you out a little. But no matter where you're traveling, sunblock is absolutely essential if you'll be spending any time outdoors. Save room in your suitcase by packing a combination
are a number of products that promote oral hygiene on the road. Colgate Wisps are disposable mini-toothbrushes that provide a quick and easy mouthfreshening option when you can't brush your teeth for real. The brush head has a freshening bead that releases a mouth cleaning liquid when you scrub, and a pick on the opposite end provides a floss option. It requires no water to use, and the ingredients are safe to swallow (except for the brush itself, of course!). Courtesy: indepe ndenttravele
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`Return of the Singh` to also feature two Dibrugarh FCC defeat Romai international Indo-Thai bouts ANI New Delhi, July 7 : Indian boxing sensation Vijender Singh's WBO Asia title bout night will also feature two international undercard fights at Thyagaraj Sports Complex here on July 16. Indian boxer Kuldeep Dhanda, who made his debut in April this year winning against Vijay Gaikwad, will be facing an experienced boxer from Thailand Vachayan Khamon in a six-round contest. 27-year old Dhanda, who is all set for his second professional fight, said "I am fully prepared for my second fight, I know he is an experienced boxer but I am working hard physically and mentally to win
this fight. Fighting as undercard of Vijender Singh will be an exciting moment for me". Khamon has already played a total of 23 fights, winning 10 of them with 4 knockouts. Khamon comes with a lot more experience of having played 129 rounds since his first bout. He has lost a few fights but that didn't stop him emerging as a champion in his last professional bout against Taiwo Ali on 10th June 2016. Commenting on his fight against the Indian boxer, Khamon said, "I have way more experience than Kuldeep so I am confident about my win. I am going to give him some strong punches and knock him out in the first round".
Kuldeep Dhanda Boxing fans will also get to witness another IndoThai fight on the night of the mega boxing championship. Sunil Siwach, who is from
Haryana, will make his debut against Thailand's Natdanai Pegthong. Seeking for a winning debut, Sunil said "I am really excited for my pro-
fessional debut that too against an international boxer. I am preparing hard from last 4 months and targeting for my first win against Thailand boxer. I am ready to give him a tough time in the ring". The 22-year old boxer, from Thailand, is two bouts old and has played three rounds, he unfortunately hasn't won any of his fights ever since he turned professional, but is now all set to begin his career with a hopeful win. Pengthong said, "I have lost my previous two bouts, but that does not stop me from winning this time around. I will give in my 100% to win this fight as a professional boxer."
Lauda backtracks on Shuttlers Praneeth, Prannoy `Hamilton destroyed roar into US Open pre-quarters hotel room` claims
Niki Lauda ANI Johannesburg, July 7 : Hours after claiming that Lewis Hamilton smashed up his dressing room following a crash in Baku qualifying, Mercedes chairman Niki Lauda went back on his own words, saying that the reigning world champion did not in any way damaged the luxurious hotel room. Speaking to an Austrian television, the Formula One legend revealed that he was there when Hamilton took his frustration out in his private room in the team's motor-home. He said that three-time F1 champion Hamilton eventually paid for the damages caused to the hotel room, Sport24 reported. Lauda also dismissed Hamilton's claims that he had buried the hatchet with team-
mate Nico Rosberg, saying that "it was just for show". Hamilton finished fifth in Baku while Rosberg went on to win the race last month. However, Mercedes issued a statement on behalf of Niki Lauda, insisting that the chairman's comments were taken out of the proportion and that he regrets any misunderstandings caused by his statements, Sport24 reported. Lauda further said that Hamilton did not lie about his relationship with Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg. Earlier, Mercedes chief executive Toto Wolff severely censured his both drivers after they crashed into one another again in Spielberg and warned that team orders could be imposed in order to prevent more self-inflicted setbacks in the championship.
Lahiri aims to shine in blockbuster summer run of Major events PTI Sentosa (Singapore), Jul 7 : Indian star golfer Anirban Lahiri will be aiming for a summer to remember as he prepares to tackle three of the biggest tournaments of the season starting with The Open at Royal Troon next week. The reigning Asian Tour number one is keen to hit top form ahead of the year's third Major at the famous Scottish links from July 14 to 17, followed by the PGA Championship in Baltusrol two weeks later and the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in mid-August which concludes a frenetic month of golf. Lahiri, 29, will make his fourth appearance at The Open where he enjoyed a tied 31st outing in his debut in 2012 which included a magical hole-in-one during the third round and equal 30th last year. "The Open is truly a special tournament," said Lahiri. "I've had a couple of decent outings but feel like I missed out both times on a top-10 finish. Hopefully Troon suits my eye and I can play consistently throughout the week. A top-10 or better would be my goal this year," added the Indian. From the time he holed out his tee shot for the ace in 2012 and celebrated exuberantly with
caddie and father who was watching from the galleries, Lahiri has cherished the challenge of links golf, which he hopes will spark his return to top form. Competing in his rookie season on the PGA Tour in the United States, Lahiri has missed only four cuts from 17 starts, but has only registered one top-10 to his name. Competing on a new golf course every week has been his biggest challenge. "I like playing links courses. You have to be creative and strategically efficient to play well on them. Also I am comfortable flighting down my ball-flight which is a must in windy conditions," said Lahiri. "It's been a very slow and sluggish season. I have been inconsistent and have got off to good starts on a few occasions only to have a disappointing weekend. It's frustrating when your 'A' game feels right around the corner but does not show up as frequently as you would like. "In any case the first season on a new tour is always the toughest and I'm satisfied that I am in a good position to keep my playing privileges for next year. Still, I would like to finish the season with a win and contend a few more times in the coming weeks.
ANI California, July 7 : Ace Indian shuttler B. Sai Praneeth produced yet another dominating performance as he romped into the third round of the men's singles event after sweeping aside Canada's B R Sankeerth here at the US Open Grand Prix Gold tournament on Thursday. The sixth-seed Indian claimed a comfortable 21-15, 21-7 win over his Canadian compatriot in the second-round contest that lasted 31 minutes. With the win, Praneeth has now set up a clash against Japan's Kazumasa Sakai for a place in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, fourth-seed Ajay Jayaram and fifth-seed H.S Prannoy also stormed into the pre-quarters after clinching straight-game wins in their respective matches.
B. Sai Praneeth Jayaram, who had hurt his s houlde r during C a na da Open at Calgary, outclassed Estonia's Raul Must 21-14, 21-9 in 28 minutes. Prannoy, on the other hand, brushed aside Joshua Magee of Ireland 21-9, 21-8 in a
one-sided contest to book his place in the pre-quarters. Jayaram will next face Portugal's Pedro Martins while Prannoy will take on Canada Open finalist Korea's Lee Hyun Il for a place in the quarter-finals.
Messi to appeal against 21-month prison term for tax fraud
Lionel Messi ANI Madrid, July 7 : Barcelona star striker Lionel Messi and his father Jorge Messi will appeal against a Spanish court verdict to sentence each of them to 21 months in jail for tax fraud. Confirming the news, the lawyers of Messi and his father said
that their clients would continue to fight for their innocence. The appeal against the judgment would be filed with the Portuguese Supreme Court, goal.com reported. On Wednesday, the court in Barcelona ruled that the 29year-old footballer and his fa-
ther were charged with three counts of tax fraud, which amounted to 4.1 million euros. Besides the prison sentence, the court had also ordered the Barcelona talisman and his father to pay a fine of around 2 million euros and 1.5 million euros respectively. However, the pair are unlikely to serve any time behind bars as, according to Spanish law, a sentence under two years can be served on probation and also since this was Messi's first offence. The Argentina footballer was found guilty of using tax havens in Belize and Uruguay as well as shell companies in the U.K. and Switzerland to avoid paying 4.1 million euros on earnings from image rights from 2007 to 2009.
Sports Reporter the account through Dibrugarh, Jul 7: In the Striker Orin Tode in the one-sided affair 34th minute. Orin reDibrugarh Football ceived a pass of Belea Coaching Centre de- Kujur from the right flank feated Romai Tea estate and found the back of the Footn e t . b a l l Senior division football O r i n To d e Club 3-0 in a league encoun- strike the second goal for ter of the first Monuj his team in the 36th Patra and Boga Das se- minute converting a free nior division football kick into a header. In the tournament organized by first half, Romai TE tried Dibrugarh District hard to open their account Sports Association at the but could not succeed due DDSA stadium here to- to miss timing. At the day. Altogether, 11 teams lemon break Dibrugarh are taking part in the FCC led with 2-0. Belea Kujur of Dibrugarh tournament. Dibrugarh FCC opened FCC scored the final goal
in the 81st minute. Belea got a pass of Dipom Sonowal from the left flank and found the back of the net. Dibrugarh FCC dominated both the proceedings from the kick off and neither gave any chances to the opponent to score against them. In the second half, Romai TE missed some opportunities and the players were bit lazy on the field. Orin was adjudged best player. Tomorrow, Milan Jyoti Sangha will take on Arunuday Unnayan Sangha Football Club.
Pro Kabaddi League: Jaipur Pink Panthers thrash Dabang Delhi 51-26 to retain top spot ANI Hyderabad, July 7 : Rajesh Narwal scored 16 points as Jaipur Pink Panthers crushed Dabang Delhi KC 51-26 in the fourth season of Pro Kabaddi League here at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium last evening. With the win, Jaipur Pink Panthers also became the first team to reach the 50-point mark in the ongoing edition. It was the third victory of the season for Jaipur Pink Panthers as they retained their top spot with 20 points after six matches. Dabang Delhi KC defence had a bad night as they remained seventh in table with nine points after five games. Selvamani opened Dabang Delhi KC account in the third minute while Ajay Thakur followed it in the next minute for Jaipur Pink Panthers. After first six minutes, Kashiling Adake got his first raid point as the teams were tied at 2-2. Jasvir Singh scored two raid points as Jaipur Pink Panthers led 5-2 after eight minutes. Delhi was in disarray as Jaipur Pink Panthers inflicted an allout to lead 12-4 after 11 minutes. Jaipur Pink Panthers surged ahead by 11 points with 15 minutes gone and led 17-6.
Pro Kabaddi League Selvamani got two raid points for Dabang Delhi as they reduced the deficit to nine points and trailed 8-19 in the 17th minute. But Jaipur immediately inflicted an all out as they led 23-8. Dabang Delhi KC defense let them down and they failed to score a single tackle point in the first half. At half time, Jaipur Pink Panthers had a commanding 15-point lead as they led 26-11with Jasvir Singh leading the scoring chart with seven raid points. Dabang Delhi KC started brightly as they sent Jasvir Singh to the bench in the first minute of the second half. Jaipur Pink Panthers forced
two super tackles in in the 30th minute to lead 33-19. After 30 minutes, Dabang Delhi defence had scored only three tackle points whereas Jaipur Pink Panthers defence had 10 points at the same time. Jaipur Pink Panthers inflicted third all-out as they led 40-21 with less than five minutes left on the clock. Rajesh Narwal scored a super raid in 36th minute as led 43-21. Jaipur Pink Panthers' fourth all out came in the 37th minute as they took an unassailable 49-22 lead. Jaipur were relentless and inflicted the heaviest defeat of the season on any team as they won 51-26.
Ronaldo believes Portugal can win Euro final with `hard work and humility` ANI London, July 7 : After guiding Portugal to the Euro 2016 final with a 2-0 win over Wales, star striker Cristiano Ronaldo believes his side's dream of clinching their maiden international title can be fulfilled by hard work and humility. Following a goalless first half, Ronaldo finally broke the deadlock in the 50th minute of the match to put Portugal ahead before providing a brilliant assist to Luis Nani just three minutes later to knock Wales out of the tournament in Lyon. Ronaldo's powerful header
also saw him equal Michel Platini's record of nine European Championship goals. Downplaying the record, the Real Madrid star insisted that the priority was to reach the finals rather than breaking the record. Ronaldo said that he has always dreamed of winning the title for Portugal while adding that he now remains only one step away from achieving his European dream, the Guardian reported. The 31-year-old, who was on the losing side in the Euro 2004 final against Greece, expressed confidence that his side will not miss their crucial
chance this time. He insisted that the players had put in a lot of hard work as a team and, therefore, they truly deserve the glory. Meanwhile, coach Santos described his team's recent progress as the 'greatest achievement' in his 28-year managerial career. Santos said that his side have turned into a much stronger side, insisting that they must now focus entirely on winning. Portugal will face either hosts France or world champions Germany in the summit clash at the Stade de France in Paris.
Tallawahs' Steyn geared up for top-ofthe-table CPL clash against Guyana ANI Port of Spain, July 7 : Ahead of his side's Caribbean Premier League (CPL) match against hosts Guyana Amazon Warriors, Jamaica Tallawahs fast bowler Dale Steyn insisted they are in a good place at the moment and are fully geared up for the top-ofthe-table clash. Looking ahead to the upcoming match, the 33year-old Proteas star said that he is relishing the opportunity to feature in his first CPL match. "I've never played in the CPL before, so me coming up against them (Amazon Warriors) is not like a Manchester United versus Chelsea kind of derby.so
I'm walking into this fresh. I know the wicket is kind of slow and was difficult to score on in the Tri-Series, but that keeps the bowlers interested and we have a lot of wicket-takers in our side. After the game that we played the other night, our batters have a little bit more momentum on their side too. (It's) two from two for us and hopefully if we play well, and box smartly with bat and ball, we can make it three,"Steyn said. Steyn also expressed his views on Chris Gayle's scintillating century that propelled Tallawahs to a sevenwicket win over Trinbago Knight Riders in their previous CPL encounter in Queen's Park Oval.
Dale Steyn "For a change I'm in his team! Normally I'm playing against him or sitting back at home watching the tally when he's playing for other
sides, smashing everyone all over the place. It's great to be in his side. He's such a chilled kind of guy and doesn't say a lot on the field,
but when he does talk people listen. He has such a proud record and so much experience.He just commanded that space and it was brilliant. We all know what he's capable of, but under a pressure situation like he was, as captain, to go out there and play that innings was brilliant," Steyn said. Meanwhile, Guyana Amazon Warriors Coach Roger Harper spoke about individuals, such as Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa, and expressed hope that his side can make home advantage count as they also aim to make it three wins on the bounce. "I think that the team has performed pretty well so far. We've played two games
away from home, and won two games, and I think each member of the team has contributed in one way or another. We want to build on our performances. We're at home, so we should be a little bit more familiar with these conditions and we want to show that when we go out there and play we can try and build on what we've done abroad," he said. "(Zampa) is a young player, but he has an old head on him for a spin bowler and I expect him to handle the situation well and bowl well in these conditions also." Jamaica Tallawahs will lock horns with Guyana at Providence Stadium on Thursday.
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