09 August, 2016, Tuesday

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PAGE 5

Vol. II

Issue 52

JAWJAGAM SINGPHO WINS 2ND KAMLESH JOSHI MEMORIAL BADMINTON TROPHY

Dibrugarh, Tuesday, August 9, 2016

Price -

5.00

Pages- 12

NATIONAL HANDLOOMS DAY:JD INSTITUTE CELEBRATES IN ASSAM

ONE MORE DEAD, CURFEW CONTINUES IN MANY PARTS OF KASHMIR

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CM approves Arunachal Pradesh Assam assembly witnesses noisy scenes over Disaster Management Policy-2016 illegal migration and Kokrajhar incident during SDMA meeting held at Itanagar A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 8

The apex body meeting of Disaster Management, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) of the state was held today after a gap of four years in the Chief Minister’s Office today.

The SDMA meeting presided over by Chief Minister Pema Khandu took vital decisions concerning Disaster Management in the state. The meeting has approved State Disaster Management Plan (SDMP) and District Disaster Management Plan (DDMP) w.e.f 2011 and annual updation till 2016. It has also approved the much needed Arunachal Pradesh Disaster Management Policy – 2016 and granted expost facto approval of

ET CAPSULES 1 detained in Tinsukia Tinsukia, Aug 8: Tinsukia police on Monday detained one person for interrogation in national flag insult case. The person has been identified as Arun Agarwal. According to sources he owns a shop at Chamber road in Tinsukia.

According to sources, police action comes few days after one person lodged an FIR with Tinsukia police alleging that national flag was insulted by one Arun Agarwal. However, few businessman has alleged that Arun Agarwal has been implicated in a false case and the complaint is doing it out of personal grudge.

(Correspondent.)

Appointed

The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee President Padi Richo has appointed Jyae Wangsu, ZPM, Longding as the President, Block Congress Committee, 58-Kanubari assembly constituency, Longding district. Wangsu, who had held the same position from 2009 to 2013 has been asked to take charge with immediate effect.

CM Pema Khandu (3rd from left) during the SDMA meeting. expenditure made under SDRF & NDRF as per items and norms of expenditure.

The SDMA also approved for the continuation of the contractual employees in Multi-Tasking and Computer Assistant in the department.

The SDMA resolved to

bring changes in the SDRF & NDRF norms and decided to pursue the central govt to bring the necessary amendments as the state is situated in a geographically fragile location.

State Disaster Management apex body also resolved to increase the human resource and to facilitate the department with additional equipments and vehicles after consultation with the finance department.

Considering the man power shortage in the department,

Contd. on Page 3

CM Pema Khandu launches free Wi-Fi Hot-Spot at Dera Natung Govt. College, Itanagar ET Bureau Itanagar, Aug 8

Making a step towards digitalization, Chief Minister Pema Khandu launched Free Wi-Fi Hot-Spot at Dera Natung Govt. College at Itanagar today, informed in a press release issued by the administration.

“This is a small but a significant initiative towards democratization of knowledge”, said the Chief Minister in his inaugural speech of the Free Wi-Fi Hot Spot (network). “This pilot project has been launched in the Centre of Learning so as to bring internet closer to the students studying and faculties engaged in the institute at par with other premier technical institute across the country in the field of education & research”.

officials and students. Also students and faculties can access the net on a click for their education and research within the college campus, he added.

It besides giving them easy access of requisite information through internet will also improve data communications leading to faster transfer of information within college

He also said that the wireless networks created within the college campus which would give them access to the internet free of cost for education & research purpose

CM Pema Khandu without worrying about bucks spent on mobile data would be a big boon for them. This will also open a new opportunities for DNGC to offer new environment to its student and faculties to explore for better education and research options over the internet, he added.

Contd. on Page 3

CM’S POLICIES Single Window System

Aiming to address youth unemployment in the state, Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday announced to bring out an investment policy for the state that will create new opportunities and open new avenues for investment in the state.

cmyk

Declaring the policy here during the launch of ‘Restructured Chief Minister’s Paryatan Vikas Yojana’, the Chief Minister informed that a committee under Chief Secretary has been entrusted to

Restructured Paryatan Vikas Yojana ‘Adopt Bhutan Model Of High-End Tourism’ Connectivity – Hurdle To Overcome

draft the new policy, which will be soon vetted through the cabinet. This will be followed by series of meetings to be organised involving various

policy, he hoped to address the unemployment issue by restructuring the economy of the state, which will boost overall growth and development.

“For government today, employment generation is a challenging issue. Since government jobs are limited, not all youths can fit into it,” the Chief Minister pointed out and urged on the need to open new avenues for those youths who are unable to get into government jobs.

stakeholders for critical and careful examination of the new investment policy, he added.

With this new investment

Contd. on Page 3

Replying to Mahanta, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary said that the AGP leader was trying to ask a question without understanding the issue.

"There is no question of granting citizenship to the minorities from Bangladesh.

So far the Centre has not issued

any instruction to us in this regard. So there is no question of discussing the matter now.

If there is any such move by the Centre, we will discuss it," Patowary said.

Mahanta, however, pointed out that if the Centre goes for amending the Citizenship Act to grant citizenship status to these migrant minorities from Bangladesh, states like Assam and West Bengal have to bear the burden. "This is on record that there are still 1.72 crore Hindus in Bangladesh now and if they were to migrate, Assam and West Bengal will be their choices," Mahanta said adding that the state government must tell the Centre to implement the Assam Accord which will be a constitutional safeguard for the people of Assam.

CM Sonowal discusses prevailing security scenario in the state with Governor ET Bureau Guwahati, Aug 8

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday evening called on Assam Governor P.B Acharya at Raj Bhawan as the duo discussed prevailing security scenario in the State especially the situation surfaced with aftermath of the Kokrajhar incident where arms wielding militants gunned down 15 people and injuring 19 others, informed in a press release issued by the administration.

Chief Minister Sonowal apprised the Governor, series of steps that the Government has taken to prevent recurrence

CM Khandu announces to bring out investment policy for creation of new opportunities ET Bureau Itanagar, Aug 8

The Congress legislators

The Congress legislators also requested the state government to allow the National Investigation Agency

to take over the case.

Meanwhile, former Assam Chief Minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta also raised the issue of illegal foreigners, particularly the issue of Hindu Bengalis from Bangladesh.

Mahanta wanted to know the stand of the state government in view of the Centre's reported move to grant citizenship to religious minorities in Bangladesh who enter Assam and other parts of India.

of such incidents in future.

Governor P.B Acharya asked the Chief Minister to put in place full proof security measure in the state especially in view of the ensuing 70th Independence Day celebrations. He moreover said that the miscreants were hell bent to make their presence felt and as such they may try to carry out subversive activities and terrorise the people.

The Governor therefore, advised that the security machinery must be on its toes to foil any ulterior motive of any militant organisation and adopt “zero tolerance” towards any element trying to disturb

peace and tranquillity of the State.

Acharya also said that the Government machinery must work to inculcate a sense of security among the people and the security forces must develop a rapport with the people in general to work in coordination with them.

Governor Acharya also discussed flood issues with the Chief Minster and said that the state government with all its manpower and materials should expedite the relief and rehabilitation works for the flood affected people.

They also discussed on the proper implementation of

various Government’s schemes and direct its agencies to work on the ground to meet the expectation of the people.

They also discussed several other programmes of the Centre like Prime Minister’s “Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao” scheme “Jan Dhan Yojana” and other flagship programmes to extend and materialize government’s motto of “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas”.

Discussion was also held on the suggestions that all the Ministers and MLAs can sponsor for the education of some girl children. They also decided to meet every 15 days to discuss on the various issues and find solutions for them.

Several goats kills in Govt. cannot stop rhino mysterious disease poaching alone : Forest in Dibrugarh Minister Pramila Rani A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 8

At least 80 goats have perished in Sessa Nagaon area in Dibrugarh west revenue circle in the past one week causing panic among the goat breeders. According to locals, the animals started dying from some mysterious disease once the water level in the flood-hit area began drying. For over a week the area had remained submerged under water in the recent flood.

“We have been forced to watch our means of livelihood die in front of our eyes. The goats after returning from grazing suddenly starts watering from mouth and nose followed by heavy and laboured breathing. Then they just collapse.

Many households in the area have lost their animals to the disease,” said a local Robin Das, a local of the area.

Around three to five goats have died in almost every household in the area due to the undiagnosed disease immediately after the floodwaters have receded. He said that this year flood had ravaged their properties and they are dependendent on

relief materials.

District Veterinary Officer Budhin Kumar Bora said that a team of the North Eastern Regional Diagnostic Laboratory, Khanapara has collected samples of the carcasses for testing. “We cannot ascertain the real cause of the goats’ death but after the coming of the autopsy report it will be clear,’’ Bora said.

Bora added, “Primarily it seems like a case of lung infection caused by pneumonia. Poisoning is unlikely since the heart and liver have not been affected.

However, we are still waiting for the final report,” Bora said.

Following the outbreak of the disease, the livestock in the area have been administered with antibiotics.

According to veterinarians, wide swing in climatic conditions such as wet weather condition, high daytime temperatures, high humidity and lower evening temperatures set the stage for pneumonia among goats. The young ones who find it difficult to control body temperature under such conditions are mostly susceptible to the disease.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 8

The Assam government today said that it cannot stop rhino poaching alone and is considering to hand over the probe to National Investigation Agency in order to break the international cartel.

Replying to a Zero Hour notice by AGP MLA Pabindra Deka, Forest Minister Pramila Rani Brahma said the state government is currently evaluating options to hand over the investigation to NIA. "Our department or government cannot alone stop rhino poaching. I have taken poaching of rhinos very seriously and discussed it with my officials. I have informed this to the Chief Minister also," she said.

Brahma said five rhinos have been killed by poachers since the BJP-led government came to power in Assam despite its best effort to prevent it.

"We have decided to hand over the probe of rhino poaching to NIA. We are discussing this with Home and Political Department. We are evaluating now whether NIA will accept our proposal and

Forest Minister Pramila Rani Brahma how they will proceed," she added.

If NIA accepts the state government's request to probe the poaching cases of the world famous one-horned rhinos, then it will lead to breaking of the international cartel, the Minister said.

The main reason of continuing rhino poaching is its horn. The price of a horn goes up to crores of rupees in international market for its medicinal value in cancer treatment.

BJP MLA Padma Hazarika pointed out that Nepal has been successful in stopping rhino poaching in recent years and suggested the state government to send representatives to the Himalayan nation to study their preventive measures.

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ET Bureau Itanagar, Aug 8

The Assam assembly witnessed noisy scenes on Monday on the issue of illegal Bangladeshi migrants and the recent terror attack in Kokrajhar district that left 14 civilians dead and 20 injured.

Soon after question hour, opposition members demanded a discussion on the Kokrajhar violence. Congress legislators pointed out that the last Assembly election was held peacefully in the Bodoland Territorial Area District region as the previous Congress government had taken up adequate security measures.

said that a visit by the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) and Assam Congress Legislature Party (ACLP) to Kokrajhar after the terror attack has exposed various faults of the present BJP-led government in Assam. "There used to be a security post in the Balajan Tiniali area where the violence took place on Friday.

Unfortunately, the security was withdrawn after the BJP government took over. The security in the area was reduced due to counterinsurgency operations in the Indo-Bhutan international border area," Abdul Khaleque, Congress MLA said.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

ASTRO FOR YOU Aries You spend happy times with your loved ones today. Learn to play some musical instrument as it is a good way to express emotions. Besides, it gives you a novel method to attract new people. Do it promptly before the mood changes.

Taurus This day you are likely be prone to daydreaming and fantasizing. You losing touch with reality and making errors in judgment, in your assessment of facts. You will, by sheer force of your tenacity and determination ensures that things work out in the end.

In spite of an initial lack of focus, you will be able to sort out your affairs and find that everything turns out in your favor.

Gemini You will meet someone special who is here to stay for good your kind and considerate nature will benefit others. You need to understand that it's okay to spend a little on comforts and entertainment. Be ready for a busy, yet cheerful, day ahead.

Cancer You will help others and be cheerful you will inspire and encourage others. Closeness with beloved will gladden you. You will be attracted to special person, and it could benefit you.

Leo One way to assure success is by believing in oneself and one's abilities. Let this confidence and your high spirits take you to newer heights today. Remain cheerful all day long, and you will see your hardships disappear as you tackle them with consummate skill.

Virgo A medley of good and bad awaits you today. Emotional people will find you immature and inconsistent. But your bag o' jokes is never empty, and you remain the jester as always. Meditate and engage in spiritually rich activities to channel and focus all your talents.

Libra There is no end to work, so buckle up, as it is highly probable that work pressure will take up most of your time today. This leaves precious little for your family, but as always, they fully understand. Be both hard-working and conscientious today. You may also launch a new business scheme, especially if you are self-employed.

Scorpio The specter of financial instability will keep haunting you. But there can be a brighter side to life too long overdue payments might get encased today. And those blind bluffs you call sometimes in business might pay handsome rewards Sagittarius A tiring day is in store for you today. Find yourself laboring worse than Hercules. The positive outcome would be that you would lose a few extra calories. But late in the day, a nice quiet time with family and friends would relieve you of all the stress.

Capricorn Everything you do today will be driven by the desire to meet the expectations of your family members. For those of you pursuing studies, pending projects will finally get completed, and you will look forward to taking up new assignments. Giving free reign to your imagination will help you excel in areas of your interest, but don't go overboard or else you may lose touch with reality.

Aquarius Good news may hit home today. Promotion, profit, scholarship, anything you've been working for will probably materialize. You are ingenuous, and will crack the toughest of problems with consummate ease.

Pisces In spite of the hardships that you will encounter on your way, your high spirits, enthusiasm and innate confidence will overcome all obstacles. And no matter how troubled the day starts, it ought to end on a cheerful note.

PAGE 2

NDFB (S) cadre held at Nalbari ET Correspondent Nalbari, Aug 8: Acting on a secret tips of, the Army and Nalbari police launched a joint operation at Ganesh Mandir Chawk on NH-31 in Nalbari district and apprehended a hardcore NDFB (S) militant today.

The militant has been iden-

tified as Bodoland Boro of Dhurmopur village in Kokrajhar district. The security personnel recovered a 7.65 pistol and its four round ammunition along with some incriminating documents.

Police sources here claimed that the militant was com-

ing from Kokrajhar towards Guwahati in a public bus.

The security forces arrested him after conducting a raid in the bus.

According to the sources the arrested militant was associated with the militants group involved at the Balajan market attacked in Kokrajhar district.

Pan vendors protest against O C of Diphu PS Sushanta Roy Diphu August 8: Hundreds of beatlenut and pan vendors of Diphu town protested against inhuman attitude of Pradip Nath, officer in charge of Diphu police station before Deputy Commissioner’s office and later submitted a memorandum to the D C demanding action against the OC. “The police officer regularly visits our shops and extorts huge amount, he even drag us to police station and torture us physically, he forcefully make us confess that we are selling tobacco products, we are really confused if one can sell cigarette, and bidi which is also tobacco produce why not zarda? Again Rajanigandha is a zero tobacco product the of-

ficer has forced to pay us thousands of rupees each for selling that” said Bappi Saha one of the shop owner.

“We are not at all informed about the whole gamut, in one hand the wholesale shops of these products sells to the retail vendors but when they sells they are punished, localities like Donbosco, Panbari etc where sell is continuing unrestricted the same officer never visits, at list we should be given time to refund our stocks to the company he even demands huge sum for allowing the legal disposal of our earlier stocks” Biren Rongpi Diphu Bazar Committee President said.

“There should be an awareness campaigning regarding the actual con-

tents of the government rule and regulation against tobacco product in Assam and all stakeholders like the sellers, consumers will have to be addressed; and the paramount important matter of the whole extent of the crisis is providing alternative source of earnings for hundreds of family dependent on this trade legalized by various government and local authority until yesterday; so before let loosing the government offensive against the poor community government is ought to address their employment issue” Ankit Paul, President of All Assam Bengali Youth and Students Federation, Karbi Anglong district said.

Maximum retail beatlenut and pan shops remained closed today as a mark of protest against police atrocity.

General awareness programme conducted at Kanoi College

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

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Aug 8: Devotees from different religion throng to participate in the all religious mass prayer at Balajan Tinali bazar today in protest against terror attacked on Friday last which claimed 14 and 18 others received serious injured by suspected NDFBS militant outfit in Kokrajhar district.

It was organized by Balajan Tinali Bazar Committee to offer a mass prayer for praying peace and unity and for early recovery of injured persons to almighty god.

Different religions, which included Bathow, Namkirtan, Meru Bathow, Christian, Brahma Bathow took part and offered their worship in the prayer session.

“We offered our worship aiming to bring peace and tranquility and prayed for

eternal peace that lost their lives on Friday terror strike,” said a member of organizer.

“The strike was condemnable and involved culprits be nabbed and punished”, devotees demanded.

The assailants came wearing rain coat at a tempo from Western part to bazar fired indiscriminately targeting innocent people where 14 killed and 18 received serious injury, said an eye witness on the spot.

The injured are undergoing treatment at Kokrajhar RNB civil hospital, Barpeta Medical College and Guwahati Medical College.

The terror strike created feared in the bazar as armed militant cadres fired indiscriminate moving one place to another place in the entire bazar, told a trader who witnessed attacked.

World photography day at Tezpur ET Correspondent Tezpur, August 8 : Like in the past few years this year too the Tezpur Photography club is going to hold the World Photography Day on August 19 at Hembaruah Hall here with a two day long programme.

Outlining the programme, Secretary of the Club Barlin saikia said that buoyed with the good feed back of the successful conduct of the programme during the last three years besides the members of the club the upcoming youths having talents in photography are being encour-

aged to get involved with the proposed two day long event.

The programme which is going to be powered this time by Konika Mintola Business Solutions, India Pvt. Ltd will display photography on any subject with the size of 18 x 12.

“Apart from the members of the club other interested candidates are requested to contact the organizers through the email IDphotographytezpur@gmail.com or through the contact Number-9435080550 within August 10.” Secretary of the Tezpur Photography club said.

Free Eye Camp Held

Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 9-8-16 (TUESDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Vidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Lokageet 12-30 P.M-Geetimanjari (Assamese Songs Programme) 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Mizu Mishimi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikor Asor (Tea Garden Programme) 8-00 P.M-Bijnan Jeuti (Science Programme) 9-30 P.M-Sahitya Kanan (Literary Magazine Programme) 10-00 P.M-Question Hour in Parliament

Mass prayer held at Balajan Tinali bazar in Kokrajhar

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 8: As a part of "Know your Army" initiative & spreading general awareness of Indian Armed Forces, a weapon display and career counseling programme was conducted at Kanoi College,

Dibrugarh on 08th Aug 2016. The programme was conducted to motivate and inspire students to take up career in elite Armed Forces and it was witnessed by a large number of students of the college. The students were very enthusiastic and

showed keen interest in profession of arms. They also appreciated the role played

by Armed forces in maintaining peace in disturbed areas and difficulties faced while guarding our borders. Such events help in generating interest and participation by all.

ET Correspondent Golaghat, Aug 8: Yesterday Agarwal Yuwa Sabha and Akhil Bharatia Marwari Mahela Sanmelan, Golaghat in association with Lions eye hospital,Jorhat has organized a free eye check up camp at Atkhelia region of Golaghat. Total there were 186 patients, 87 patients were given specks and 30 patients were taken for cataract operation to Jorhat.The cataract patients who need to be operated

will be taken to jorhat for free eye operation.

Doctors and crew member included Dr. Vikash saha ,Bhanu pratap borthakur Amar jyoti borthakur, Bornali tamuli, Bhanu bora, Riju hazarika. The program was supported by Sankar Dev Sidhu Niketan, Athkhiliya. President Naveen Agarwal of Yuva Sabha and Anurekha Bakliwal of Marwari Mahila Samellan gave vote of thanks .

Posted somewhere, Mass prayer held at Balajan practicing somewhere but working nowhere Tinali bazar in Kokrajhar

ET Correspondent Haflong, August 8 : When the present Government of Assam came down heavily against the corrupt practices of Govt officials, some are still remain unnoticed.

It is alleged that one Dr Apurba Nath, Professor of TB and chest of Tezpur Sd-/H.O.P Medical college rarely visits his own medical college at Tezpur and stays in government quarter at Silchar Medical college.

He practices in South City Hospital at Silchar giving his advertisement in local daily reference Dainik Jugashankha dated 11.2.15 with visiting time as 11 am to 1 pm every day. Though he is a highly qualified person having the degree of MD still he uses some degrees which are very much doubtful. In the advertisement he has given the degree as MBBS,MD, PG&CD (Delhi) but in his letterhead he has written MD (Medicine)PG ( Dist), Kawarias (disciples of Lord Shiva) prepare to fetch water as an annual ritual from river Brahmaputra in Dholla to Shivdham in Tinsukia under tight security. Security has been TB & CD (Delhi). Which heightened across the state after Friday's violent incident in Kokrajhar. Pic - Sidharth Singh one is correct? Is there any

such degree at all? What does the word 'dist' stand for? Is it not a mischievous way to lure the ignorant patients? See the copy of prescription dt 14.05.2015 to some patients where he has mentioned himself in his letter as professor of Silchar Medical College and Hospital though still he is professor of Tezpur Medical college by giving this sort of incorrect qualifications and incorrect designation and posting he is trying to mislead the innocent people of Barak Valley to come to him for treatment. Govt of Assam is hereby requested to take stern action against this dishonest doctor so that people are not exploited by such activities of such educated person.

Conscious people maintain that the corruption happens in various ways but corruption by a responsible citizen using incorrect qualifications and incorrect designation is the first ever instance of such corruption in the history.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Aug 8: Devotees from different religion throng to participate in the all religious mass prayer at Balajan Tinali bazar today in protest against terror attacked on Friday last which claimed 14 and 18 others received serious injured by suspected NDFBS militant outfit in Kokrajhar district.

It was organized by Balajan Tinali Bazar Committee to offer a mass prayer for praying peace and unity and for early recovery of injured persons to almighty god.

Different religions, which included Bathow, Namkirtan, Meru Bathow, Christian, Brahma Bathow took part and offered their worship in the prayer session.

“We offered our worship aiming to bring peace and tranquility and prayed for eternal peace that lost their lives on Friday terror strike,” said a member of

organizer.

“The strike was condemnable and involved culprits be nabbed and punished”, devotees demanded.

an eye witness on the spot.

The injured are undergoing treatment at Kokrajhar RNB civil hospital, Barpeta Medical College and Guwahati Medical College.

The assailants came wearing rain coat at a tempo from Western part to bazar fired indiscriminately targeting innocent people where 14 killed and 18 received serious injury, said

The terror strike created feared in the bazar as armed militant cadres fired indiscriminate moving one place to another place in the entire bazar, told a trader who witnessed attacked.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

PAGE 3

Coordination meeting of Tirap Zilla Parishad and HoDs held

Tirap ZPC Sontung Bangsia in her key-note address said that the PRI members and HoDs should work as a team by

extending a willing cooperation to each other's endeavour and effort. She said that Panchayat members should not be unduly influenced by politics adding that members should maintain complete transparency while executing government schemes.

persons. She thanked all the HoDs and PRI members for attending the all important meeting. The ADC and DPDO N. Wangsu in his speech exhorted the Panchayat members to work in close synchronization with the line departments to achieve better and tangible results.

The ZPC urged the ZPMs, ASMs and GPMs to physically check the functioning of the Schools, CMCs, SubCentres and ensure that the Old Age pension and benefits to the disabled persons were distributed properly to the deserving

The PD, DRDA Dahey Sangno, while elaborating the significance of the coordination meeting, described how the Panchayat bodies should function and threw light on fund distribution pattern. He lamented that

while other districts of the state got funds in the tune of crore under Zilla Parishad, Tirap district was awfully underfunded and urged the PRI members to strive harder to pool in more development funds. Earlier, in his welcome address EAC and Member Secretary T. Riba underscored the importance of the coordination meeting to create a conductive working ambience for the PRI members and the HoDs. The DDSE, DFCSO, DSO (Stats), DHO, DD (ICDS), DAO, AE, PHED and DFDO also spoke in the meeting.

(DIPRO)

SPORTS 2nd edition of Thingdong Premiere Soccer League Independence Day Cup started ET Bureau Khonsa, Aug 8: The 2nd edition of Thingdong Premiere Soccer League Independence Day Cup started, amidst presence of huge enthusiastic crowd at Khonsa on Sunday.

56-Khonsa West MLA Tirong Aboh who was the chief guest on the occasion gave away the cash awards to the winners of different categories. While address-

is prone to earthquake since it is situated in the High Seismic Zone – V. The SDMA further decided to conduct its meeting twice every year from this year onwards.

The meeting was attended by Minister of PHED and Disaster Management Takam Pario, Minister of Transport, Supply and Transport, Legal Metrology & Consumer

Affairs, Jomde Kena, Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin, Principal Secretary Satya Gopal, Commissioners, Hage Kojeen (Disaster Management) and Ashish Kundra (Finance) and Director (Disaster Management), Y W Ringu who make a power point presentation of overall view of the State Disaster Management Set up, Activities, Challenges and Limitations.

Contd. from Page 1

Khandu while disclosing that the govt. is planning to make Capital Twin City a free Wi-Fi Zone steadily stated that it is also a step towards Digitalization of India a vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Govt would also make efforts in the long run to connect the villages with such internet facilities to make them associated with the programmes and policies of the govt as a part of Digital India Programme.

He exhorted the student community to concentrate on studies, work hard and to remain focus on their vision and advised them not to derail from the mainstream. He further exuded hope that the student community would use the Wi-Fi Hot Spot in constructive and right way.

Fi Hot Spot is a boon for the student and student friends will have no boundaries for learning”.

He stated that as internet connection is a costly affair, free net connectivity would be a blessing for the faculty members as well as the student as teaching learning process is incomplete without technological assistance these days. He further said, “Unlike our days in schools and colleges, technology has spread its wings to much extent as projects are researched and prepared on laptops these days”.

Mein said Dera Natung Govt College is not only privileged but achieved a distinction to have the first Institute of the state to have free Wi-Fi Hot Spot.

He urged the student to leverage the benefits of this technology and advised them not to misuse the facility.

Chief

Secretary

Shakuntala D Gamlin while speaking on the occasion said, “It is a milestone in the educational and academicals field of the state”. She further said that in the administrative hum-drum, the state of Information Technology needs great strides and with the launching of the Wi-Fi Hotspot, the state govt has re-affirmed its assurance of the IT Vision in the state.”

Sonam Chombay, Secretary (Information Technology) in his introductory speech said that Wi-Fi Hot Spot at DNGC Itanagar was conceptualized by the Department of Information Technology & Communication keeping in mind the vision of Digital India Programme. The Project is funded by the state govt at a total cost of Rs 10 Lakhs during the financial year 2015-16.

He informed that the network is a foolproof

secured network with 15 numbers of Access Points (AP) installed in the DNGC Wi-Fi Hot Spot system. Each AP provides internet to around 50-70 m radius of area to the college and all the AP are protected with adequate security like firewall and denied access to unwanted phishing, spamming and malware sites.

He further informed that it has 2 sets of User ID, one will provide free access to the faculties for 24 hours and the other will provide free access to the students but denying access to some unwanted sites from the period 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. On the occasion, Chief Minister inaugurated the Free Wi-Fi Hot Spot while Deputy Chief Minister made the first log-in to the Wi-Fi Hot Spot.

Among others MLAs Bamang Felix, P D Sona and Nyamar Karbak and senior govt officers, faculty members and students were present.

CM Khandu announces to bring out investment policy for creation of new opportunities Contd. from Page 1

“I extend my special thanks to Jowang Hosai, the main sponsor of the Thingdong Premiere Soccer League.

Without his efforts, noble vision and determination to do something good for Thingdong, this event

couldn't have been as successful as it is. May God bestow him with good health &wealth, strength and wisdom to continue his noble work for Thingdong,” said the organizer of the event.

EAC Khonsa T. Aran attended the event as Chief Guest. Others include senior citizens, prominent public figure T. Tongluk, CO. CRPF Camp Kaimai and G.B Kaimai along with other dignitaries. (DIPRO)

Jawjagam Singpho wins 2nd Kamlesh Joshi Memorial Badminton Trophy

ET Bureau Khonsa, Aug 8: The finals of the 2nd Kamlesh Joshi Memorial Badminton Tournament for disaster awareness organised by the district administration in collaboration with the Tirap District Badminton Association (TDBA) were played on 7th August in the Khonsa Officers’ Club in front of huge sports lovers.

The SDMA also resolved to seek onetime Special Package from the centre to strengthened the State Emergency Operation Centre and the District Emergency Operation Centre which lacks infrastructure, equipments and facing acute shortage of manpower to tackle the different hazhards due to landslides, floods, flash floods, cloud burst, forest fire and others as the state

CM Pema Khandu launches free Wi-Fi Hot-Spot at Dera Natung Govt. College, Itanagar

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein said, “Wi-

Altogether, 4 teams will be competing for the coveted Independence Cup Trophy viz: Royal FC, Thingdong Rangers FC, Giant Killers FC & Thingdong United FC respectivelywhose final would be played on August 15.

In the 1st match played between Royal FC and Thingdong Rangers FC, FC Royal defeated Thingdong Rangers FC by 2 goals to 1.

Giant killers faced off against Thingdong United FCin match played today.

Contd. from Page 1

As the houses are haphazardly built in the state without following any byelaws and in vulnerable areas, it was also decided to implement building bye-laws throughout the state and to make it mandatory to adopt Disaster Resilient approach in administrative and developmental activities.

ET Bureau Khonsa, Aug 8: A coordination meeting of the Tirap Zilla Parishad and HoDs was held at NBF hall, Khonsa on 8th July under the aegis of TZP in which Administrative Officers, ZPMs, HoDS and PRI members attended.

While addressing the huge gathering Tirap district Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha asked the PRI members to play a pro-active role in carrying out their assigned responsibilities adding that the Panchayat members and HoDs of government departments should work like a well-oiled machine in order to ensure cent percent achievements in the ventures they embark on. He urged the Tirap Zilla Parishad to hold the Gram Sabhas and Social Audit in every village and Gram Panchayat in true spirit and in accordance with the strictures and guidelines enshrined in Panchayat body rule book.

CM approves Arunachal Pradesh Disaster Management Policy-2016 during SDMA meeting held at Itanagar

ing the gathering on the occasion Aboh appreciated the effort of the district administration for conducting the tournament and congratulated the winners.

While recalling the immense contributions of Late Kamlesh Joshi former Tirap DC towards development of the district, assured to extend all possible help from his side whenever any event was being organised in memory of Late Joshi.

It may be recalled that MLA Aboh donated Rs. 1 lakh during renovation of the officers’ club.

The CM, however, stressed that the policy should be acceptable to the people and urged the MLAs and the panchayat leaders to generate awareness to the masses. “If we don’t think for our own state, then we can’t go ahead,” he stressed.

SINGLE WINDOW SYSTEM To ease bureaucratic hurdles for the investors, CM Khandu divulged that the investment policy will be aided with a ‘singlewindow’ system that will simplify the processes and expedite project approvals through a single designated authority.

“Presently, when an investor wants to invest in sectors such as hydropower, tourism, agriculture or horticulture – we refer them to the concerned departments.

Since departments have no clearcut policies and guidelines, the application is entangled in bureaucratic process,” the Chief Minister pointed.

The Men’s Singles trophy was won by Jawjagam Singpho who defeated Er. Awang Lowang in three sets.

The other winners in different categories were:OFFICERS DOUBLE Dr. K. Socia and Dr. Foren Aran defeated Ravi Jha and Nali Medo in three sets.

MIXED DOUBLE OPEN Dr. K. Socia and Dr. Jayanti Thingnok beat Mr. Paham Aboh and Mrs. Chhonyok Ngongnya

MEN’S DOUBLE OPEN Dr. K. Socia and Dahey Sangno, PD beats Jawjagam Singpho and Nali Medo WOMEN’S DOUBLE OPEN Mrs. Anyah Gangsa and Mrs. Milly Lowang defeated Chhonyok Ngongnya and Mrs. Chathian Hondique.

WOMEN SINGLE OPEN Mrs. Anyah Gangsa defeated Mrs. Chhonyok Ngongnya

RESTRUCTURED PARYATAN VIKAS YOJANA Speaking on the theme of ‘restructured’ tourism development scheme, the Chief Minister said the new concept was devised after the earlier policy through which the beneficiaries were provided with vehicles on subsidy didn’t achieve the intended objective. These vehicles were supposed to be used for running tourist taxis; but with lack of motivation it ended up

being used for personal means, he pointed.

The ‘restructured’ concept expands the scope for venturing into newer trade in the tourism industry, through which the beneficiaries can avail loan for opening a restaurant, running a tour operator, hotels, home stays, purchasing adventure equipment etc.

Accordingly, 52 beneficiaries were handed over bank loan cheques for setting up of patisserie, food court, home stay and purchase of adventure equipment where Rs 5 lakhs is provided as state subsidy.

“In this restructuring, through the government of India scheme - ‘Hunar Se Rozgar Tak’, every year 500 youths are trained for self-employment,” the Chief Minister informed.

‘ADOPT BHUTAN MODEL OF HIGH-END TOURISM’ To exploit full potential of tourism in the state, CM Khandu instructed the tourism department to plan tourism development of the state along the lines of Bhutan. “For that to happen, the state has to brand itself as a niche destination. It has to focus on providing full amenities for the tourists,” he stressed and urged on the need to adopt a more professional approach towards tourism promotion and management.

The Chief Minister appealed the Ministers, MLAs and the state government officials to visit

Bhutan to see how a small country is able to manage good infrastructure facilities that has made it as one of the favoured destination for tourists.

Comparing Arunachal to Bhutan of offering similar cultural and geographical landscape, he emphasized on how the small country has been able to cash on its rich cultural heritage.

“Tourists come to Arunachal, not to see highrise buildings, but the traditional way of lifestyle.

No matter the modernisation, we must never forget out cultural roots,” Khandu emphasized.

He also stressed that success of tourism in the state cannot be left only to department and the tour operators. “To promote tourism, community participation is must,” he urged and added that the government of India promoted concept of “Athiti Devo Bhawa” has to be inculcated by every citizens.

“Unless we make our guests feel safe and respected, tourism in Arunachal is difficult to be promoted. I have always appealed and today also I appeal, whoever comes from outside, we must receive them with warmth and facilitate their safe stay,” the Chief Minister emphasized.

CONNECTIVITY – HURDLE TO OVERCOME Khandu further pointed out that for promotion of

tourism in the state, connectivity is proving to be the biggest hurdle. He, however, expressed optimism that it will be overcome in days to come with completion of TransArunachal highway. Also he informed that dual use of Advance Landing Ground (ALG) for civilian and defence use will be granted soon by the centre, which will boost tourist inflow in the state. Further for development of tourism, the Chief Minister assured all support of the state government and informed that fund allocation to the tourism department will be increased.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein stressed on ‘Paryavaran’ and ‘Acharan’- as the two mantras for tourism promotion in the state, emphasizing on ‘tourism friendly environment’ and encouraging ‘good behaviour ’ among the citizens.

Also for tourism promotion, he emphasized on rural tourism, developing ways and amenities and bringing innovative ideas.

Secretary Dr Joram Beda, earlier delivered the welcome address and spoke on the theme of the occasion. Also present were Tanga Byaling, Minister for RD, Rajesh Tacho, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Tapang Taloh, Minister for Industries, Kumari Waii, Minister for RWD, Takam Pario, PHED Minister, Pasang D Sona, MLA, Mechuka, Shakuntala Gamlin, Chief Secretary along with other dignitaries.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

PAGE 4 Sonowal condoles death of artist Nikunjalata Mahanta A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 8: Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal condoled the death of eminent artiste, lyricist and educationist Nikunjalata Mahanta.

In a condolence message here today, Chief Minister Sonowal said the contributions made by Nikunjalata Mahanta in the realms of music and education will be remembered for all time to come. “Her bihu songs, borgeet and biyanaam compositions have enriched the cultural firmament of our State and touched the inner chord of one’s heart. Her death is an irreparable loss to our society,” he added.

Conveying his sincerest condolences to the members of the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

CSJMC to organise photography exhibition A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 8: To commemorate World Photography Day, Centre for studies in Journalism & Mass Communication will going to organise the ‘PHOTOFEST’, photography exhibition cum competition, on 19th August, 2016 at student activity centre, Dibrugarh University.

A photography seminar will be held at the centre. Interested candidates can participate by submitting their photograph in online and offline mode before August 15, 2016. Offline participant have to submit their photograph at the Centre for Studies in Journalism & Mass Communication, Dibrugarh University and online participants have to sent their photographs to our email (i.e.. duphotofest2016@gmail.com).

Certificates and attractive prizes will be awarded to the winners and also to the participating candidates.

AATSU demand to rehabilitate ABSU, AASU demanded impartial flood affected people inquiry during visit to Kokrajhar A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 8: All Assam Tribal Students’ Union (AATSU) today submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal through Deputy Commissioner of Dibrugarh M.S. Manivannan seeking rehabilitation for the people who lost their land in flood and erosion. On yesterday, the organisation held a meeting in Dibrugarh and discuss about plight faced by the tribal peoples.

The organisation said, “Every year flood and erosion causes devastation and many people have to

lose their agriculture land and livestock. Therefore, we demand the central government to declare flood and erosion as a National Problem’’. Rajani Mili, General Secretary of AATSU said, “The people rendered homeless and living in an unhygienic condition and deprived from governments’ aids.

We urged the government to provide land pattas for those people’’ he added.

Rajani Mili, General Secretary of AATSU said that Dibrugarh University has stopped the fund of the tribal students’ from 2010 which they get in every year

for their studies. “We urged the authority of Dibrugarh university to release the fund as soon as possible,’’ he said.

According to the press release through developmental fund for tribal students’ a hostel for tribal students’ with modern facilities should be open immediately at Dibrugarh University and a tribal complex market should be open at Dibrugarh town.

“Government jobs should be reserved for the tribal people,’’.

The organisation said under Dibrugarh district those

schools which falls in tribal dominated areas their infrastructure should be developed.

“The works of Bogibeel Bridge which is running in a slow pace for last several years and it’s missed many deadline. The people have to face lots of difficulties to travel in boats and ferries, sometimes ferries which operates under Indian Water Transport(IWT) fetches higher amount for vehicle,’’ alleged Rajani Mili. He added that they urged the government to take step against the IWT department to stop taking heavy amount of money from public.

Sonowal inaugurates five-day festival of music, dance and drama A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Aug 8:“As cadences breathe harmonic shapes into melodies; chords in unison brings us closer to the infinite. Curling solitude and innocence with utmost sincerity between notes and rhythm, music has always been an epitome of divinity and purity,” said Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal while inaugurating the five-day festival of music, dance and drama organised by Sangeet Natak Akademi at Pragjyoti, ITA Centre for Performing Arts at Machkhowa in Guwahati today.

Chief Minister Sonowal

said that artistes are the angels of God who bring God’s messages and help in making life beautiful. Music, dance and theatres help to fight against anxiety, frustration and help to make life an ideal one.

Music exists as a conduit for exceptional grace and elegance. At a time when the world at large is plagued by violence, mankind often seeks solace in music amidst all the bedlam. Sonowal said since music transcends all barriers, performing artistes and singers as ‘bearers of the heavenly gift’ can send out the messages of love, brotherhood, tolerance, peace, unity and amity loud

and clear. “It is the positive forces of creativity and cultural continuity that help us keep the human spirit alive’, he added.

The Chief Minister, while extending his heartiest congratulations to all the recipients of the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2015, hoped they would continue upholding the cultural traditions of our great nation in the days to come. Sonowal also urged each of the young awardees of the Yuva Puraskar to live magnanimously and to think of the world as their family.

Sonowal further com-

mended the efforts of the Sangeet Natak Akademi in identifying and encouraging young artistes from across the country, through the medium of the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar.

Chairman, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Shekhar Sen hoped that the recipients of the prestigious award would share their knowledge with other young people so that the vibrant cultural heritage of India continues to grow and flourish in the days ahead. Vice Chairman, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Aruna Sairam, theatre personality Dulal Roy were also present on the occasion.

Housewife torched to death at Tinsukia, husband detained Spl Correspondent.

Tinsukia, Aug 8: In a horrifying act, a housewife was torched to death at her residence at Borguri on Sunday late night. The deceased woman has been identified as Sewali Hazarika.

According to sources, the deceased family has lodged a murder case with the police alleging their son-in-law to be behind the murder. A case has been registered and the husband of the deceased, namely,

Pranjit Khatriyio has been detained for interrogation, added sources.

Sources said that the couple's 5 - year old child has told police that his father had

poured kerosene on her mother and put her on fire.

The victim was taken to civil hospital from where she was referred to Assam medical college and hospital at Dibrugarh where she died.

Terrorism has become an industry in North East, says forum

ET Correspondent Jorhat, Aug 8: Terrorism has become an industry in the North Eastern Region, first we need to kill innocent people here and there and later go and sorry and pardon me and become a public leader like Arovindo Rajkhowa, Anup Chetia, under whose leadership the banned outfit of Assam had killed over several thousands of innocent people, children. Who they are, said a member from the Forum for terrorist victim family, Assam during its 7th annual meeting held at the Radhakanta Handique Bhawan here today.

Can they Arovindo or Anup Chetia bring my husband alive after they killed on October 27th 1991 when he

was returning back from a meeting at Nalbari, why this terrorist did not break his hand or leg instead of killing. My husband was a social worker and was always working for the public and was a party man, after missing him from this world I along with my mother –inlaw and two kids had to face immense hardship to keep our kitchen oil burning as we are yet to get any type of justice, said Daisy Choudhury who hails from Nalbari, who broke down during her speech as the 7th annual Meet held here at Jorhat today.

The meeting was presided

by Anjumoni Konwr Gogoi, president of the Forum among other president were Dhononjoy Saikia, adviser

to the Forum, Social activist Samiran Bordoloi, senior journalist Deepjyoti Goswami and Diganta Burahgohain and other members from the terrorist victim family (Assam).

Most of the members gave a heart breaking speech during their annual meet and demanded for justice and decided to move to the President and Prime Minister of India and the Chief Minister of Assam after the Independence day is over.

Horendra Rajbhonshi, the general secretary of the Forum who broke down remembering his elder brother who was shot dead brutally when he was in Class VII, how he has to pass his days without his brother who was only the bread earner as

Horendra lost his father before his birth, I will keep on fighting till we get justice, so he requested all the members of the victim families to be one and fight for justice because there is one above all of us.

Dipen Saikia, who hails from Dhemaji lost two of his daughter out of three in the year 2004 on August 15th during Independence Day parade, today he is passing his day with his third girl child who is handicap, as she cannot even take her food by herself or can do her usual work herself, and I am waiting for justice from the President and Prime Minister of India as earlier government could not show us the way .

During the 7th Annual

Meeting for the Forum for Terrorist Victim Family it was also discussed regarding threat to few members from the Forum from ULFA designated camp that the section of the forum’s member were made frequent phone calls, calling them to their designated camp somewhere in Assam. The Forum also discussed about illegally carrying arms by surrendered ULFA militants a s they were making movement freely .Lastly it was also discussed about the lifestyle of the surrendered ULFA leaders who is leading with a VVIP care that the Forum heavily flayed that under their leadership over thousands of family members like us became victims in their cruel hands.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Aug 8: A joint delegation team of All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) and All Assam Students Union (AASU) led by Promod Boro, president of ABSU visited Balajan Tinali bazar on Monday in Kokrajhar district to take stock about indiscriminate firing.

Students’ union delegation visited all firing sites along the bazar and interacted with victim’s family member and bazar residents which claimed 14 civilian and 18 others received serious injured.

Students’ delegation condemned the incident and termed unfortunate for the state. The situation should be investigated impartial and punished involved culprits, students union demanded.

Boro, president of ABSU alleged that government has totally failed to check life and property of citizens.

“Government has failed to provide safe and security for the citizens in the region of by which innocent peoples facing severe hardships. Inquiry should be impartial while making authentic investigation into indiscriminate firing in the bazar”, said Boro.

Dipangko Kumar Nath, president of AASU expressed serious concern over inhuman penetrated by militant outfit said the government should take stern step against involved militant organization. He demanded that investigation should be conducted impartial while stepping to check terror attack on bazar.

“Government should ensure proper rehabilitation of affected peoples who lost their lives in the attack besides making suitable situation in the state so that such inhuman activities could not be repeated in the state”, Nath demanded.

A seven member delegation team of Assam Sahitya Sabha led by Dhirendra Nath Adhikari, assistant secretary of Sahitya Sabha visited Balajan Tinali bazar in Kokrajhar.

Sahitya Sabha delegation met victim’s family members and affected citizens in the bazar.

Sabha expressed concern on firing attacked and demanded proper action against incident.

Teachers’ Orientation Camp for the teachers’ of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalayas of Assam & Nagaland A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 8: Vivekananda Kendra Shiksha Prasar Vibhag, the administrative body for Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalayas under Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari located in Assam & Nagaland organised three day Teacher ’s Orientation Camp in Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (NEEPCO), Umrangso, from 1st to 3rd August 2016. Altogether 135 participants participated in the camp. The objective of the camp was to sensitize the serving teachers with the Organizational aspect, Capacity Building and Continuous & Comprehensive Evaluation Modules , Technological dimensions in classroom situations.

The inaugural day started with a Band Display by the 38 Assam Rifles, Arjun Company, Umrangso. Dr. Dhananjay Parashuram Ghanawat, IPS., Superintendent of Police, Dima Hasao, was the Chief Guest. The significance of Attitude, Values in day-to-day life which equips a student for lifetime, while knowledge and skills keep on coming with the passage of time,

he opined. He underlined the role of Teachers in addition to the Parents in preparing a child in ushering a better Society. He also urged the teachers not to keep their roles confined to classrooms only but also be a role model and play as guide to members of public. Sri Pravin Dabholkar, Joint General Secretary, Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, & Secretary, Vivekananda Kendra Shiksha Prasar Vibhag, Guwahati spoke on the importance of holding Teachers’ Orientation Camp every year.

Sri Sibnath Barman, Social Worker, distinguished guest in the Inaugural programme laid emphasis on Spirituality which once formed the core of Society.

Sri Giridhar Patowary, Executive Director, NEEPCO, Shillong, expressed dilemma of a parent in teaching his or her child.

Mohan Dihinga, DGM (Civil) , KHEP, NEEPCO, Umrangso was the other dignitary present.

The Resource Persons for the TOC were Sri Vivek Ponkshe, Deputy Secretary, Education Wing,

Jnana Probodhini, Pune; Sri S.P. Verma, Director, Vidya Institute of Training and Development, Meerut, Sri D. Bhanudas, All India General Secretary, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari, Dr. Arzuman Ara, Asst Professor, English & Foreign Language University, Shillong.

The sessions on Swami Vivekananda’s vision of Education, Man Making Classrooms, Use of technology in Classroom situations specially in learning languages was appreciated by the participants.

The concept of Virtual Classrooms in schools also was discussed in details.

Kendra Vargas (Study Circle), Krida Yoga, Prayers, Geet Abhyas (Song Practice), Sanskritik Sandhya ( Cultural Evening), Prerana Se Punarutthan, were the other features of the Camp.

Sri Amarendra Barua, ACS., Deputy Commissioner, Dima Hasao, was the chief guest for the Valedictory Programme.

He hoped that the concepts given in the TOC., will benefit the participants.

A view of a free eye check up camp organised at Atkhelia in Golaghat district today.

Pic - Amit Nagori

REGION

PAGE 5

Drafting new Bill nearly finalised : Dy CM

Agri projects inaugurated in Nagaland

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

Imphal, Aug 8 : Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam on Monday said that the State Government has almost completed drafting the new Bill for the protection of indigenous people of the State and is preparing to upload the new draft Bill on social networking sites like Facebook so as to elicit comments and opinions from all sections of the society.

He was speaking at the 12th foundation day celebration of Kabui Mother's Association (KAMA) which was held at GM Hall today.

Social, procedural (legal) and Constitutional factors are being examined while drafting the Bill, the Deputy CM said while appealing to all the people to avoid controversies which surrounded the Bill last time.

He said CSOs of all the communities will be asked to express their opinions before the new Bill is finalised.

The former Bills that were passed in the Assembly last

tween the hills and the valley", he said adding that certain people are trying to sever the bond between the Hills and the valley people with fabricated history and theories.

Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam year were withheld by the President of India. Despite this, the bodies of the nine people who were killed during protests in Churachandpur district against the three ILP Bills passed by the Manipur Assembly on August 31 have not been buried till date.

The State Government is ready to provide ex-gratia and Government jobs as compensation to the next of

kin of the nine deceased but, the victims' side are not ready to negotiate, Gaikhangam said adding that the they have rejected the Government's appeal to bury the bodies.

The Deputy CM expressed disappointment that the JAC Against the Anti-Tribal Bills is continuing their protest even after the rejection of the three Bills.

Former DG launches poll campaing

Former DG launches poll campaing Imphal, Aug 8: Former DGP Y Joykumar who would be contesting the 11th Manipur Legislative Assembly election in Uripok AC has constituted an election campaign committee and launched his poll campaign today.

A function which marked the launching of the poll campaign was held at his Naoremthong residence today. Speaking at the gath-

ering, Y Joykumar said that the meeting held today was about booth management committees.

Informing that Uripok AC has 33 polling stations, the former DGP said that booth management committees would be formed for each polling station.

Saying that an election executive committee would also be constituted, the former DGP main-

tained that the committee would have 100 members with four/five members drawn from each polling station.

An advisory committee would also be formed to chalk out poll strategies.

He claimed that many self help groups for women have been set up with the primary objective of alleviating their financial conditions.(Agencies)

"The Bill has been drafted for the protection of both the hills and the valley people. The Bill does not target a particular community. Its main purpose is to safeguard the identities of all the indigenous communities", Gaikhangam said.

"The State is going through a very difficult time. We must pull ourselves together and reinstate the unity be-

Instead of complaining that the State Government has done nothing for the development of the hill areas, the people should ask the Government to take up more development works. Numerous developmental works have been taken up and are being taken up in the hill districts, said the Deputy CM. "People should give up the culture of unleashing violence in Tamenglong after a proposal is made in Ukhrul and a decision is taken in Senapati", the Deputy Chief Minister stated.

MLA Janghemlung Panmei, KAMA president Kakomlunglu Kamei, founder advisor R Lanbon Kabui and Manipur State Commission for Women chairperson Dr K Subita also attended the celebration.(Agencies)

City office in the dark about UCIL's tender Shillong, Aug 8: The office of Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) in Shillong is in the dark about the Expression of Interest (EoI) floated by its Jharkhand-based office last month as there was no consultation to assess the ground reality.

An official at the UCIL office here said the Shillong unit was not consulted before the Expression of Interest was floated. "After we came to know about it, the matter was taken up with the headquarters," the official told.

It was on July 2 that the EoI was floated by the UCIL office in Jharkhand giving a 30-day deadline to those who wanted to participate in the tender process. It made several attempts to contact the Jharkhand office of UCIL for the status of the EoI and also to know whether the office had received the correspondences of the State government and the KHADC objecting to the tender notice.

However, no one picked up the landline of the Jharkhand office and after some time, the reply from the receiver was that officials had gone for lunch. An email sent to the Jharkhand office to know UCIL's response remains unanswered. According to the tender notice published in local newspapers on July 2, the Chairman and Managing Director of UCIL, a Government

of India enterprise under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy, is planning to set up an openpit mine and a processing plant of uranium ore in South West Khasi Hills district.

As per the tender notice issued

by P.N. Sarkar, General Manager (open-pit) Jharkhand, the UCIL invites applications for 'Expression of Interest' from resourceful and competent Indian companies/ joint ventures/ consortium "for undertaking activities such as providing consultancy services for obtaining the remaining statutory clearances and pending activities such as consent for establishment, permission for construction water storage with-drawl and use, sanction for power supply, land acquisition, mining lease, forest land diversion, public consultation and others leading to successful opening of the project and its subsequent uninterrupted operation" .

The Expression of Interest also mentions about excavation in ore body (3,75,000 tonnes of uranium ore annually) and supply to processing plant, site development like jungle cleaning, land grading and drainage system of process plant area, construction of tailings dam and check dam and laying of tailings disposal and effluent transfer pipelines, among others.(Agencies)

2nd Handloom Day observed, Panthoibi Arcade inaugurated Imphal, Aug 8: Like in the rest of the country, the 2nd National Handloom Day was observed today at the Manipur Film Development Society (MFDS) Auditorium, Palace Gate, Imphal. The function to mark the day was organized by the Department of Commerce and Industries, Govt of Manipur and the Office of Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Weavers' Service Centre (WSC), Imphal, Ministry of Textiles, Govt of India.

Earlier Panthoibi Arcade, a marketing complex for handloom and handicraft products located at Wangkhei was also inaugurated today by the Commerce and Industries Minister Govindas Konthoujam.

Chief Minister O Ibobi graced the 2nd Handloom Day celebration as the chief guest while Commerce and Industries minister Govindas Konthoujam was the functional president. MLA, Yaiskul Assembly Constituency E Chand, Principal Secretary (Commerce and Industries/ Seri/ Vety) Lungmuana Lakher, Director of Commerce and Industries, B John Tlanginkhuma and officer in charge WSC C Rajasekaran attended as guests of honour.

As part of the celebration, monetary assistance was given to seven National awardees and 15 handloom entrepre-

neurs as a sign of encouragement to continue working in the field of handloom and handicrafts.

Addressing the function, O Ibobi said even though there is a high demand of handloom and handicraft products from different parts of the country, artisans and weavers have not been able to meet the demand.

There could be many reasons for this, he said and added that lack of enthusiasm and professionalism among artisans and weavers is one of them. He further said that more emphasis should be given on how to increase production of those select products which have high demands. There is lack of modern equipment and so the State's artisans and weavers cannot compete with their counterparts from other States, said the Chief Minister. To meet the shortfall, the Department of Commerce and Industries has been working very hard to provide all necessary support to entrepreneurs and artisans.

The Chief Minister added that without sincere participation from the public, the Department and the Govt cannot work alone to bring development in handloom and handicrafts.

As handloom and handicraft is the second largest employment provider after agriculture, the

public should acknowledge this and give it due importance, he added.

Commerce and Industries Minister Govindas Konthoujam stressed on the developmental works taken up by the State Govt particularly in promoting the Department of Commerce and Industries.

Right now there are 61 clusters across the State which is functioning well. Fifty one clusters are from the North East Textile Promotion Scheme and 10 clusters are from Block level, said Govindas.

The Department of Commerce and Industries has been working tirelessly to provide all the necessary support to artisans and weavers so as to reach out to the unemployed youth. Annually the department receives about Rs 50 crore from the Govt of India, he said.

The money invested should have certain returns and it should be on creating employment opportunities and promoting the economy of the State. The State Govt has introduced e-monitoring and evaluation system across the 61 clusters. He further appealed to all the artisans and weavers including the entrepreneurs to be responsible and more professional in their work so as to bring economic development through handloom and handicraft.

The State Govt is planning to introduce 'textile and procurement policy' for the benefit of the people. Further the State Govt is working to come up with certain sets of rules to provide school uniform made entirely from handloom and handicraft.

The Apparel and Garment making center set up at Lamboikhongnangkong will be inaugurated within August as 98 percent of the construction works is complete, he added.

The centre will provide employment opportunities and act as a training center for upcoming entrepreneurs.

The 2nd National Handloom Day was also observed at 61 different parts of the State.

The celebration was observed at Keirao-Bitra Block Level Handloom Cluster and Bishnupur Block Level Handloom Cluster, informed a source.

Bishnupur district Handloom and Textiles office also celebrated the day.

Panthoibi Arcade inaugurate : As part of the 2nd National Handloom Day, Panthoibi Arcade, a market complex for handloom and handicraft products located at Wangkhei was inaugurated by the Commerce and Industries Minister Govindas Konthoujam.

The inauguration function was attended by MLA, Yaiskul A/ C E Chand, Principal Secre-

tary (Commerce and Industries/ Seri/ Vety) Lungmuana Lakher, Director of Commerce and Industries, B John Tlanginkhuma, Consultant, Govt of Manipur Dr RK Nimai and Dy Director Commerce and Industries Lamlee Kamei.

Designers' Exhibition along with Silk and Cotton Weaving Training housed in the arcade were inaugurated by the dignitaries. As part of the inauguration, yarns were distributed to 87 male weavers on credit basis. Demand drafts were also distributed to seven National and merit awardees.

Addressing the function, Govindas said, the arcade will provide a marketing platform to 61 clusters to showcase their different products. Developing the handloom and handicrafts will provide enormous opportunities for employment and economic independence.

There should be work-culture among the people and consistency should be there from the artisans and weavers, he added.

MLA E Chand expressed that the public should also play an important role in developing handloom and handicrafts.

When citizens of the State start to use handloom and handicrafts products at a large scale, economic development will come about.

He urged the people to start using handloom and handicrafts products.(Agencies)

Kohima, Aug 8: Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Radha Mohan Singh said agricultural education plays an important role in ensuring food security and human resource development in any society.

He was speaking during the inaugural function of two major project for Nagaland at Jalukie in Peren district on Saturday. The projects are College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK).

The Veterinary Council of India has agreed to commence the college by September 15 this academic year, Singh said adding the Central government would set up another KVK, the 11th in the state, in Kiphire district within this year.

Two books on distant edu-

Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh cation programme and on policy on pig breeding by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services was also released by the union Minister on the occasion.

Chief Minister T R Zeliang who was also present on the occasion, said the state government had submitted a proposal with Detail Project Report for an exotic pig

breeding farm at Jalukie and a slaughter house cum meat processing unit at Khopanala in Dimapur district.

However, he regretted that though the Planning Commission had agreed in principle, the project was turned down at a later stage.

Zeliang requested the Union Minister to revive the project proposal.(Agencies)

Amit Shah sets date with State in Sept Imphal, Aug 8: BJP president Amit Shah would visit the State in the first week of September in order to chalk out a strategy so that there is a BJP Government in Manipur after the forthcoming State Assembly election.

This was stated by BJP Manipur Pradesh election management committee convenor Th Chaoba during a press meet at their Nityaipat Chuthek office here today. Policies and programmes initiated by the party with regard to the Manipur State Assembly election were discussed in detail during a core committee meeting of the party which was chaired by Amit Shah at Delhi on August 2.

Informing that he also took part in the core committee meeting, Chaoba said that

the prevailing political situation of Manipur was deliberated at length during the meeting.

The meeting discussed about initiating due measures so as to defeat the ruling Congress party and set up a BJP Government in Manipur.

To chalk out strategies towards this end, BJP president Amit Shah would visit Imphal in the first week of September. Many other Central leaders of the party would also visit the State one after another ahead of the president's visit, Chaoba said.

All the people who want to join BJP are most welcome but tainted people would not be allowed. However, allotment of party tickets for the State Assembly elec-

BJP president Amit Shah tion was never discussed during the core committee meeting.

The issue of implementing NFSA was also discussed during the meeting. A mass agitation would be launched against the forfeiture of huge quantities of rice and the issue of NFSA would be taken up as an election agenda, Chaoba continued.(Agencies)

BJP alleges misuse of Funds Imphal, Aug 8: BJP Lamsang Mandal has accused Lamsang AC MLA W Brajabidhu of misusing his MLA Local Area Development Fund (MLADF).

Speaking to media persons at the Nityaipat Chuthek office of BJP Manipur Pradesh today, former MLA and BJP State executive member S Rajen said that many discrepancies were committed in the name of executing development works at Maharabi. A sum of Rs five lakh was released

by DRDA, Imphal West for construction of the office building of Maharabi Youth Club. Another Rs 10 lakh were also drawn in the name of constructing a gymnasium at Maharabi in two phases (Rs five lakh each).

Although local people con-

structed a gymnasium at the cost of Rs nine lakh, not a single rupee was spent on the gymnasium from the MLADF, Rajen said.

Again Rs 5.33 lakh was drawn in the name of augmentation of a community hall at Maharabi followed by another Rs seven lakh.

On the other hand, drilling of hand pump and black topping of roads inside RDO complex, an NGO allegedly set up by the incumbent MLA, were done from MLADF. A community hall was also constructed at Lamdeng, near the MLA's residence.

Then it was falsely reported that construction of fence around Ibudhou Pureiromba complex at

Lamsang Awang Leikai was done with MLADF. Citing all these wrongdoings, BJP Lamsang Mandal submitted a complaint to the Vigilance Commission to take up necessary action, Rajen said. A written application seeking details of rice distributed within Lamsang AC under NFSA has also been submitted to the relevant department through RTI Act. Another complaint was also submitted to the relevant department through the RTI Act seeking details of the water supply schemes being implemented at Lamdeng and Tharoijam, Rajen added.(Agencies)

Lanong makes fresh move for anti-defection law in ADCs Shillong, aug 8: UDP working president Bindo M. Lanong on Sunday reiterated bringing the three autonomous district councils in the State under the purview of the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution and urged Lok Sabha member from Shillong, Vincent H. Pala, to move a resolution in this regard in the parliament.

Underlying the need to table the resolution, Lanong recalled that the United Democratic Party (UDP) had adopted a resolution in 1998 to bring the autonomous district councils under the ambit of the Tenth Schedule to quell the growing tendency of political instability in the district councils through the Anti-Defection Law.

"The district council is an elected body and the AntiDefection Law should apply to it also. There are panchayats in other parts of the country where the Law is adhered to," the former deputy chief minister argued.

He further recalled that during his stint as the State's Law minister in 2011, he had tabled the resolution with the objective of thwarting defections in the district councils. "The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly passed the official resolution and we had sent it to

the Union government but the Mukul Sangma-led Congress government did not follow up on the resolution," he lamented.

Lanong observed that the Congress government did not intend to pursue the matter for self-interest as both the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council were under the Congress rule. On Friday, Pala had moved a private member's bill in the Lok Sabha seeking amendment to the Sixth Schedule to include the district and regional councils under the anti-defection law.(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

Cong seeks PM's assurance on spl status to AP; Speaker rejects New Delhi, Aug 8 : Against the backdrop of daily protests by YSR Congress members in Lok Sabha over special status for Andhra Pradesh, Congress today sought an assurance by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue, which was rejected by the Speaker.

On the sixth consecutive day, members of YSR Congress trooped into the Well raising slogans demanding special category status for Andhra Pradesh following the carving out of Telangana state.

Holding placards, they defied the Speaker who continuously urged them to return to their seats and not display the banners.

As the House was taking up Question Hour, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said the YSR Congress members are routinely raising the issue, thus disrupting the proceedings.

Speaker Sumitra Mahajan agreed and said she too has been urging them to return

to their seats as they are blocking the view of other members.

When Kharge said the Prime Minister should come to the House and assure the agitating members as his predecessor Manmohan Singh had assured special category status for Andhra Pradesh. But the Speaker rejected the demand saying "every now and then" calling the Prime Minister was "not necessary" as Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has already made a statement on the issue.

Since last Monday, YSR Congress members have been entering the Well daily with placards and raising slogans demanding special status for their state.

In the first two days, members of TDP, an ally of the ruling NDA too, were participating in the protest by holding placards and raising slogans from the aisles.

But thereafter, they stopped participating in the protest.(PTI)

Act against Raj govt for death of 1,000 cows: Cong MP asks PM New Delhi, Aug 8 : A Congress MP today raised the issue of alleged death of about 1,000 cows at a Rajasthan government-run cattle shelter near Jaipur and sought action against the "killer" state government by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Pramod Tiwari (Cong) said about 1,000 cows have died at the Jaipur Municipal Corporation's Hingonia cow rehabilitation centre, located 36 km from the state capital. Maintaining that Modi wants action to be taken against fraud 'gau rakshaks' (cow vigilantes), he said "I want to help him by providing names and addresses of the killers...

Rajasthan government is responsible for the killings.

Please take action against Rajasthan government."

When it comes to votes, Modi talks of protecting dalits but no concern is expressed over minorities being killed in the name of cow protection, Tiwari said.

He charged the Rajasthan government with "killing cows in a well planned conspiracy" and sought action against it. All 266 contractual workers at the establishment are reportedly on strike since July 21 over unpaid dues of past two months.

The bovines died due to

starvation and many of them getting caught neck-deep in cow dung and fodder that had turned slushy due to rainwater seepage, Tiwari said, adding that there was five-feet deep 'daldal' (muddy puddle) at the cow shelter.(PTI) Heavy rain alert in Uttarakhand Dehradun, Aug 8 : A heavy rain alert has been issued by the weather department for seven districts of Uttarakhand during the next 48 hours beginning this evening. Districts likely to be hit by heavy to very heavy rainfall during the period are Almora, Champawat, Nainital, Udham Singh Nagar, Pauri, Haridwar and Dehradun, the alert by the MeT department said.

Light to moderate rains are also likely at many places across the state during the period, it said. Most of the places across Uttarakhand have been receiving rainfall for the past several days with only brief let-ups in between causing landslides in the hills areas where roads continue to be blocked by muck and debris falling from hillsides.

New Delhi, Aug 8 (PTI) Government plans to hold programmes on the birth and death anniversary of poet Sant Kabir Das and is mulling the release of a coin in his memory, Lok Sabha was informed today. Responding to supplementaries, Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma said Allahabad-based North Central Zone Cultural Centre will be including the dates of his birth and death in its calendar of important events.

He also said a commemorative coin is being planned in his memory and added that the government will give a thought to the suggestion of a BJP member to open a museum on the life and works

One more dead, curfew continues in many parts of Kashmir Srinagar, Aug 8 :A youth injured during clashes on Friday succumbed at a hospital here today, taking the death toll 55 in Kashmir where curfew continued in many areas in the wake of violent protests since the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani in an encounter a month ago.

Amir Bashir Lone, a resident of south Kashmir's Shopian district, succumbed to injuries at SKIMS hospital this morning, a police official said.

He said Lone had received pellet injuries on his head during security forces' action against protesters on Friday.

With Lone's death, the number of people killed in the unrest in the Valley, which entered the second month today, reached 55, including two police personnel. Many

parts of Kashmir, including several areas of summer capital Srinagar, continued to remain under curfew for the 31st day today.

Curfew remains in force in six police station areas of Srinagar -- Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, Safakadal, Maharajgunj and Batamaloo -- today as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order, the official said. He said curfew was also in force in two towns of Budgam district -Chadoora and Khansahib - and Anantnag town.

The official said restrictions were in force in other areas of the Valley. "Restrictions on assembly of four or more people continue to remain in effect in rest of the Valley," he said.

There were reports of army being called to maintain law

of the 15th century poet.

In his written response, he said there was no proposal to provide funds to the Uttar Pradesh government to organise programmes to commemorate the memory of the acclaimed poet.

He said the Centre has set up seven Zonal Cultural Centres in the country to protect, preserve and promote various forms of folk art and culture. The ministry does not release funds to state governments and Union Territories, but the funds are released in the form of annual grant-in-aid to the seven centres for organising various cultural activities and programmes.(PTI)

One more dead, curfew continues in many parts of Kashmir and order in Sopore township of north Kashmir's Baramulla district. However, a police spokesman denied it. "The army has not

been called in but it is patrolling the peripheries of the town," the spokesman said.

Meanwhile, normal life in

the Valley remained affected for the 31st consecutive day due to the curbs imposed by the authorities and the separatist sponsored

strike. Schools, colleges, business establishments, petrol pumps and private offices remained closed while public transport remained off the roads.

The attendance in government offices and banks was also thin, the official said.

Mobile internet services continued to remain snapped in the entire Valley where the outgoing facility on prepaid connections is also barred.

The separatist camp has extended the shutdown call in Kashmir till August 12 and has asked the people today to block all roads around Civil Secretariat Srinagar, deputy commissioners' and Tehsil offices and ensure that no employee is able to join duty. Kashmir has been rocked by violent protests after Wani was killed in an encounter with security forces in south Kashmir's Anantnag district on July 8.(PTI)

Kashmir issue isn't a simple No proposal for Two BSF perlaw and order problem: Cong common curricu- sonnel, ultra egation needs to be sent to J-K, PM needs to respond on the atrocities civilians are facing," Yechury said.

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad New Delhi, Aug 8: As curfew and restrictions paralysed life across Kashmir Valley for the 31st consecutive day on Monday, Opposition party members raised the issue in Rajya Sabha and asked the government to not think of the situation as a "simple law and order" problem.

"This is a political, developmental and regional issue. The government should not think that this is simply a law and order situation," Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said.

Azad noted that people are eager to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's views on the Kashmir unrest issue. He also urged the government to start a political process to defuse the crisis.

"Hindustan ka Taj jal raha hai, par uski garmi Delhi tak nahi pahuchti (India's crown is burning but the heat hasn't yet reached Delhi)," Azad said. Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader Sitaram Yechury also echoed similar views. "An all party del-

On behalf of the government, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said that the government is ready for a discussion on the issue, adding that the matter has already been discussed in the House before. In the ongoing unrest in Kashmir, that started on July 9, a day after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani was killed, a total of 55 people have died and over 3,000 others injured.(Agencies)

water resources portfolio should answer why he did not object to the Kelo project in 2008-09 and why is his government lying today, said the BJP. Reaffirming that the BJP will fight for every drop of water entitled to Odisha, the party said the ruling BJD had sacrificed the interest of farmers of Odisha by remaining silent on the Kelo project.

Bhubaneswar, Aug 8: Virtually letter bombing the BJD government over its claim of being "kept in the dark" over irrigation projects up stream of river Mahanadi by the Chhattisgarh government, the state unit of the BJP on Sunday released another set of letter correspondence dating back to 2008 relating to the Kelo project in Chhattisgarh.

"We had released six letters earlier, but the Naveen Patnaik government tried to question its authenticity, today we dare the BJD government to disown these letters written in 2008 by its own engineers," said the BJP leaders at a press

conference.

It is clear that the Chhattisgarh government had kept the Odisha government informed about the Kelo project in 2008-09.

"By saying that everything was done behind its back and Odisha was kept in the dark etc, the Naveen Patnaik government is trying to befool everybody". The Naveen Patnaik government had resorted to blatant falsehood to cover up its incompetence and failure.

It had "gifted away" Mahanadi waters to Chhattisgarh projects without even raising a whimper of protests, charged the BJP. The CM who holds the

lum: Javadekar

"It is inhuman. It is criminal. Why are we using pellet guns? Even Israel does not use pellet guns against Palestinians," the CPI-M leader added. A RS member also demanded withdrawal of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Acts (AFPSA) from the Valley and withdrawal of the dominating presence of army from civilian areas.

Odisha govt knew about the Kelo project: BJP

According to latest reports from the state emergency operation centre here, the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway is blocked by debris near Helgugad, Laldhang and Gangnani in Uttarkashi district.(PTI)

Govt to organise functions to remember Sant Kabir

PAGE 6

The BJD is shedding crocodile tears today by raising protests and adopting a confrontationist attitude with the centre and the Chhattisgarh government for political reasons. It did nothing in 2008-09, its engineers were well aware of Kelo project and its impact etc.

The BJP released letters exchanged between the engineers of Chhattisgarh and Odisha government 14 July and 4 October ,2008. The then chief engineer of the Irrigation department SC Behera, while referring to the letter sent by the Chhattisgarh government, had responded 4 October, 2008.(Agencies)

killed in encounter

Srinagar, Aug 8 : Two BSF personnel and a militant were killed today in an operation in Macchil sector near the Line of Control in Kashmir. Security forces launched an operation in Macchil sector in north Kashmir's Kupwara district following information about presence of militants in the area, an Army official said.

HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar

New Delhi, Aug 8: The government does not propose to introduce a common curriculum in CBSE and state boards as a uniform syllabus does not take into account the local contexts, culture and language, Lok Sabha was informed on Monday.

Responding to a supplementary during Question Hour, Minister of State for HRD Upendra Kushwaha said at the same time, the national policy on education has proposed a national framework of curriculum with common core values that include the history of the freedom movement, constitutional movements and other content essential to nurture a national identity.

He said some of the states have agreed to the national

framework.

In his written reply HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar said multiplicity of curricula and educational resources are desirable as the uniform syllabus across the nation does not take into account the local contexts, culture and language.

He was asked whether the government proposed to introduce a common curriculum CBSE, state boards, the National Institute of Open Schooling and the Indian School Certificate Examination Board. Responding to another supplementary on the weight of the school bag, Kushwaha said efforts are on reduce the weight claiming that the government has been successful in its endeavour.(Agencies)

Kalraj Mishra hits out at CM Kejriwal New Delhi, Aug 8: Union Minister Kalraj Mishra on Sunday hit out at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, claiming that it was a "misfortune" of Delhi that it was handed over to a person who "has nothing to do with the Constitution and law".

Without naming the Aam Aadmi Party or Kejriwal, Mishra said, "It's a misfortune of Delhi, that we handed over it to a person who has nothing to do with the Constitution and law, who does not know what process should be adoped in a Union Territory."

"All the time, even in his dreams, he sees (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi and keeps on repeating his name," the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister told a youth convention organised by Purvanchal Morcha of Delhi BJP. The governance system in Delhi has been "deteriorating"

and what is needed is that "such a person" who is "defaming" Delhi is challenged democratically with the united strength of the youth, he said.

The Minister also highlighted various achievements of the Modi government, saying that it was taking a lot of steps for the youth through skill development and other schemes.

BJP national general secretary Arun Singh asked the youth to join BJP as it was the party where even ordinary persons can rise in ranks and reach the top positions.

North East Delhi MP Manoj Tiwari said that the Modi government was also planning a "Student City" in the national capital for providing accommodation to large a number of students.

"I met the PMO officials recently and offered 55 acre land at Gopalpur village in Timarpur for the student city for 5000 students which will come in the rule of this government," he said.(Agencies)

He said one militant was killed in the operation that was going on till reports last came in. Two BSF personnel were also killed in the operation, he said, adding further details of the incident are awaited.(PTI)

Tea production saw 3 pc growth: Govt New Delhi, Aug 8 : India's tea production registered a growth of 3 per cent last year with small tea growers contributing about 34 per cent to the output, the government told the Lok Sabha . Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said tea production during 2015-16 was 1233.14 million kgs and it registered a growth of 3 per cent as compared to last year, which is the highest ever tea production in India.

"Tea production in India is in the increasing trend over the period due to increase in number of small tea growers and their increased contribution to tea production which is about 34 per cent of the total production," she said during Question Hour.

Sitharaman said the sale of tea through auctions is one of the modes of disposal for better price realisation.

The quantity of tea sold at auctions during 2015-16 was 536.08 million kgs and the average price at auction per kg was Rs 127.62. The Minister said during 2015-16, the production in South India suffered due to unfavourable weather conditions. The production in South India had declared by 16.76 million kgs while the production in Assam has increased to the tune of 46.15 million kgs during 2015-16 as compared to 201415.(PTI)

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

NEIGHBOURS

53, mostly lawyers, die in Quetta hospital blast Islamabad, Aug 8: At least 53 people were killed on Monday when a powerful blast hit a hospital in Quetta in Pakistan when dozens of lawyers were entering it with the body of lawyer killed earlier, officials said.

Around 30 people were also injured in the deafening explosion in the Civil Hospital. Balochistan Chief Minister Sanaullah Zehri blamed the Indian intelligence agency RAW for incidents of terrorism in Quetta. The explosion occurred when lawyers and some journalists had gathered at the hospital with the body of Bilal Anwar Kasi, president of the Balochistan Bar Association who was shot dead earlier in the day, media reports said.

Zehri said it appeared to be a suicide attack but police said they were still investigating. His comments about the RAW link came even before the police could say who was responsible for the horrific attack.

Police officer Zahoor Ahmed Afridi said most of

times in recent months in Balochistan. A lawyer, Jahanzeb Alvi, was shot dead on August 3. Bilal Kasi, who himself was shot dead on Monday, had condemned Alvi's murder and announced a two-day boycott of courts.

53, mostly lawyers, die in Quetta hospital blast the dead were lawyers. Several lawyers, including Baz Mohammad Kakar, the former president of the Balochistan Bar Association, were injured, Dawn reported. A stampede broke out after the bombing, causing chaos at the hospital, officials and witnesses said.

No one claimed responsibility for the blast.

Gunfire was heard shortly after the explosion. Shahzad Khan, a cameraman with Aaj TV, was killed in the ex-

plosion while the cameraman for Dawn News was severely injured, said. Police surrounded the hospital and cordoned off the area.

An emergency was declared in Quetta hospitals as many of the injured were shifted to them.

"This was a security lapse and I am having this personally investigated," Balochistan Home Minister Sarfaraz Bugti said. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif strongly condemned the

blast and expressed his "deep grief and anguish over the loss of precious human lives". "No one will be allowed to disturb the peace in the province that has been restored thanks to the countless sacrifices by the security forces, police and the people of Balochistan," he said in a statement.

Former Chief Minister Abdul Malik called it the "blackest day" in the history of Balochistan. Lawyers have been targeted several

The principal of University of Balochistan's law college, Barrister Amanullah Achakzai, was also shot dead by unknown assailants here in June. Balochistan has experienced violence and targeted killings for more than a decade.

More than 1,400 incidents targeting Shia and Hazara community members have also taken place in the province during the past 15 years. Pakistan's largest province by area, Balochistan is home to a low-level insurgency by Baloch separatists. Al Qaeda-linked and sectarian militants also operate in the region.

Balochistan shares borders with Afghanistan and Iran.

Pakistani officials routinely accuse RAW of fomenting trouble in the province.(Agencies)

Thousands protest Thailand's military-written draft constitution seems 'approved' possible ChinaFrance nuclear project Bangkok, Aug 8: Millions of Thais on Sunday appeared to have voted in favour of a new constitution that will give extra powers to the country's military, which seized control of the government in a 2014 coup.

According to the country's Election Commission, with 91 per cent of the votes counted so far, 61 per cent have voted in favou.

Thousands protest possible China-France nuclear project

Beijing, Aug 8: Thousands of people took to the streets of a city in eastern China to protest against a possible SinoFrench nuclear project, residents said on Monday, as local police denied beating demonstrators.

Residents in Lianyungang, 480 kilometres north of Shanghai, shouted slogans and waved banners outside government offices at the weekend to complain about the health impacts of a suggested nuclear waste processing plant.

"There were several thousand people," a hotel worker who declined to be named told AFP by telephone. Another local surnamed Xu described "clashes between police and protesters". French nuclear fuel group Areva in 2012 agreed to cooperate with state-run China National Nuclear Corp (CNNC) to build a reprocessing facility in China, without stating the location.

Locals say that Lianyungang, a port city in Jiangsu province, is a prime candidate, because a large new nuclear power station is being built by CNNC nearby.

"Building a nuclear waste processing plant in Lianyungang is a recipe for disaster for future

generations, local people have a right to express anger," a male hotel worker who declined to be named said.

Pictures posted online showed locals massing in a public square surrounded by hundreds of police. The city's police on a verified social media account on Monday denied a "rumour" that they had beaten protesters resulting in the death of one person.

The protests highlight local opposition to nuclear projects in China, which is increasing its nuclear power capacity on a huge scale and encouraging state-run firms to build plants abroad.

Mainland China has 34 nuclear power reactors in operation, 20 under construction, and work about to start on more, according to the World Nuclear Association.

Safety fears grew following a series of meltdowns at Japan's Fukushima nuclear power plant in March 2011 that were intensely covered by China's state-run media.

China's environmental ministry said in a report the same year that the country's nuclear safety situation was "not optimistic", and that the use of differing types of reactors in Chinese plants made the sector "difficult to manage".(Agencies)

PAGE 7

Voting across 94,000 polling stations opened at 8 a.m., and closed at 4 p.m.

The official results were expected by 9 p.m.

This is the second referendum after 2007. Around 50.5 million Thais of the total population of 65 million were eligible to vote this time, compared to 45 million eligible in the last

referendum.

The 50 million eligible voters were asked to answer "yes" or "no" to the question: "Do you accept the draft constitution?"

They were also asked a supplementary question, whether or not the appointed senate should be allowed to join the lower house in selecting a prime minister, the reported.

If a majority of voters say yes, the draft becomes the 20th constitution of Thailand, enhancing the military government's legitimacy in the run-up to an election which Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, who led the 2014 coup, has promised will happen next year.

If the constitution does not pass, what will happen is uncertain, but the military government will remain in control.

Prayut and former Prime Ministers Yingluck Shinawatra and Abhisit Vejjajiva cast their votes earlier on Sunday, BBC added.

"Come out (to vote) because today is important for the future of the country," Prayut said after casting his ballot.

"This is your duty and this is part of democracy, of an internationally-recognised process," BBC quoted the premier as saying. About 200,000 police officers were deployed to maintain order and there were no reports of protests.(Agencies)

Officials surrender following Philippine President's list Manila, Aug 8: Almost 50 Filipino officials, including mayors and police officers, have surrendered in response to being called out by President Rodrigo Duterte as being connected to illegal drug trade.

Following the name-andshame speech by President Duterte on Sunday, in which over 150 officials were called out by name for alleged links, 18 mayors and 31 police officials have turned themselves in, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman

Dionard Carlos told on Monday. Duterte had given those named 24 hours to surrender, a deadline which has now expired.

Carlos said more are expected to report in to the police later on Monday, reported. Duterte, who took office at the end of June, has been aggressively pursuing an anti-crime agenda -- with a special focus on ridding the country of illegal drugs. Philippines named Lorna Mupas, a judge, and former mayor Rasmyiah Macabago as among those who have sur-

rendered.

While some are retired, many on his list were active officers, police said.

Duterte insisted those accused on Sunday have access to a fair trial. The Philippine Daily Inquirer's "Kill List", regarded as one of the most accurate records of the killings of suspected drug dealers by police and vigilantes, recorded the deaths of 524 people suspected of drug crimes between June 30, the day Duterte assumed office, and August 4,.(Agencies)

American, Australian kidnapped at gunpoint in Kabul Kabul, Aug 8: An American and an Australian were kidnapped at gunpoint in the heart of Kabul, officials said Monday, the latest in a series of abductions of foreigners in the conflict-torn country.

The two professors at the American University of Afghanistan were seized on Sunday and no group has so far claimed responsibility for their abduction.

"Two foreign professors, one American and the other Australian, were abducted at gunpoint by a kidnapping gang from Darul-Aman road in the centre of Kabul city," a security official said.

"We refrain from further comment in order to not damage police rescue efforts."

The kidnapping comes just two weeks after the rescue of an Indian charity worker, who was also taken at gunpoint near her residence in the heart of the city.

The US State Department said it was aware of reports of the

kidnapping of an American citizen, but declined to comment further.

The Australian government confirmed the "apparent kidnapping" of one its citizens, citing its embassy in Kabul, but also refused to elaborate due to security considerations. "We continue to advise Australians not to travel to Afghanistan because of the extremely dangerous security situation, including the serious threat of kidnapping," the government said in a statement.

The abductions underscore the growing dangers faced by foreigners in Afghanistan.

A group of tourists, including British, American and German nationals, came under Taliban fire on Thursday in the western province of Herat, leaving some of them wounded. Aid workers in particular have increasingly been casualties of a surge in militant violence in recent years.

The Indian charity worker, 40-

year-old Judith D'Souza who was a staff member of prominent NGO Aga Khan Foundation, had been abducted on the night of June 9.

D'Souza's abduction came after Katherine Jane Wilson, a wellknown Australian NGO worker, was kidnapped onApril 28 in the city of Jalalabad, close to the border with Pakistan.

Wilson, said to be aged 60, ran an organisation known as Zardozi, which promotes the work of Afghan artisans, particularly women. The United States in May warned its citizens in Afghanistan of a "very high" kidnapping risk after an American narrowly escaped abduction in the heart of Kabul.

In April last year the bulletriddled bodies of five Afghan workers for Save the Children were found after they were abducted by gunmen in the strifetorn southern province of Uruzgan.(Agencies)

Passports of 68 Malaysians revoked over links to IS activities Kuala Lumpur, Aug 8: Malaysian authorities have revoked the passports of 68 citizens over their involvement in Islamic State's activities abroad, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said, warning the threat from the dreaded terror outfit is real.

Ahmad, who is also the Home Minister, said the passports were revoked two weeks ago after a directive was issued by Prime Minister Najib Razak.

"They no longer have travelling documents as Malaysian citizens. In fact, when they come back to this country, action will be taken against them under the Immigration Act," he said on Sunday. The 68 Malaysians included two families which had travelled to Syria with the intention to fight for ISIS and achieve martyrdom, he said, adding the families comprised couples with children aged between 3 and 11.

"They went to Syria to sup-

Passports of 68 Malaysians revoked over links to IS activities

posedly fight for IS (Islamic State), but are working as cleaners and sweepers there," Ahmad said.

He added the ISIS threat was real, and that the government was not trying to divert the public's attention away from other issues as claimed by certain quarters.

"There are 10 hand grenades in the possession of the terrorists we are tracking. Two were used in the night Club bombing here last month. We do not know when or where the next (attack) is going to take place," he said.

The minister added that se-

Japan's emperor says may be 'difficult' to fulfil duties Tokyo, Aug 8: Japanese Emperor Akihito said on Monday he is concerned his weakening health may make it hard to fulfil his duties, in a speech seen as flagging a possible future abdication.

"I am worried that it may become difficult for me to carry out my duties as the symbol of the state with my whole being as I have done until now," he said in an address to the nation.

"There are times when I feel various constraints such as in my physical fitness," the 82-year-old said.

Akihito spoke obliquely, but the government is expected to interpret his comments as meaning his wish is to eventually step down.

It can then begin creating the necessary legal mechanism which currently does not exist.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in a swift response to the emperor's speech said the government would take the emperor's remarks "seriously". "Considering the emperor's duties, as well as his age and the burden (of the job), we have to firmly look at what we can do."

Speculation about the emperor's future emerged last month with reports he had told confidantes that advancing age was making it harder to perform his ceremonial duties and that he would like to step down in a few years.

The address marked only the second time for Akihito to speak directly to the nation, the first having been in the days after the March 2011 triple earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster as he sought to calm a nation undergoing its worst crisis since the war.(Agencies)

curity is being tightened in Malaysia, a Muslim-majority multi-racial country.

Meanwhile, Defence minister Hishammudin Hussein on Monday urged political parties across the divide to stand united in the fight against the ISIS. "I am worried. The threat is real, and I will hold certain parties responsible for their words if they deny such threat. I do not think Malaysia is excluded (from being a potential target of IS attacks). "IS is the new phenomenon. No country in the world is spared," he warned.(Agencies)

9 foreigners held in Bangladesh with fake currency Dhaka, Aug 8: Banladesh authorities have arrested nine foreigners in Dhaka for possessing counterfeit currency notes, police said on Monday. The elite anticrime and anti-terrorism unit of the Bangladesh police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) said the arrests were made from a house at the capital's Bashundhara residential area during a raid on Sunday night, reported.

"Huge amount of fake currencies and equipment used to produce them have been seized," a senior RAB official said. He said those held include two females.

All the arrested foreigners were citizens of African nations Cameroon, Congo and Lesotho, the RAB officials said.(Agencies)

Thousands attend anti-coup rally in Turkey Ankara, Aug 8: Thousands gathered in Turkish city of Istanbul to protest the July 15 failed military coup, a media report said on Sunday. Nearly 300 died in events surrounding the July 15 coup attempt, which triggered a massive government crackdown.

Thousands of alleged supporters of a US based Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen - who denied any role in fomenting the coup -- were detained or dismissed from government jobs. "It is the Turkish parliament that will decide the death penalty... I declare it in advance, I will approve the decision made by the parliament," Recep Tayyip Erdogan told the rally, reports.

Western nations have been critical of the government's response to the coup. The European Union, which Turkey has applied to join, refuses to accept capital punishment in member states. Speaking at the Democracy and Martyrs' Rally in Istanbul's Yenikapi district, Erdogan said: "Our presence today upsets our enemies just like it did on the morning of July 16.

"On that night there were people who risked their lives to stop the coup and they filled the streets. History will remember names of our martyrs... in golden letters," Anadolu quoted

Thousands attend anti-coup rally in Turkey Erdogan as saying.

The "Democracy and Martyrs' Rally" is the climax of three weeks of nightly demonstrations by Erdogan's supporters around the country. Speaking ahead of Erdogan, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim told the rally that Fethullah Gulen would be brought to Turkey and made to pay the price for the coup attempt.

"Let all of you know, the leader of this terrorist group will come to Turkey and pay for what he did," Yildirim said. Yildirim said that July 16 coup attempt was Turkey's second War of Independence, adding, "Every coup which does not kill us, makes us stronger. Just like here and now."

The leader of the main secularist opposition party, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, told the rally that the coup had

opened a "new door of compromise" in the country's politics, "there is a new Turkey after July 15", the Republican People's Party leader said.

In a rare address to a public rally, the head of Turkey's armed forces, Hulusi Akar, said "traitors" behind the attempted coup would be punished in the harshest way, and thanked civilians for their role in defeating the uprising.

The crackdown in Turkey has seen tens of thousands of public sector workers suspended or dismissed, with many having their passports cancelled. There has also been a massive reshuffle of the military.

Gulen had been a close ally of Erdogan until a bitter split between his movement and the party of the President three years ago.

Turkey has listed Gulen's movement as a terrorist organisation.(Agencies)

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

Milk adulteration Supreme Court favours life imprisonment Since in India traditionally infants/children are fed milk, adulteration of milk and its products is a concern and stringent measures need to be taken to combat it. The consumption of adulterated milk and adulterated milk products is hazardous to human health. The Supreme Court Friday favoured life imprisonment for the offence of milk adulteration and urged the central government to amend the Indian Penal Code to make the punishment deterrent for offenders.

A bench of Chief Justice of India T S Thakur and Justice R Banumathi maintained that it was high time that the Centre revisit the IPC as well as the Food Safety and Standards Act to make sure stringent penalties are provided under the law. It preferred the amendments made to Section 272 (adulteration of food and drinks) in the IPC by states such as Uttar Pradesh, Odisha and West Benagl, providing life term as the maximum punishment for adulteration.The bench also recalled its order in December 2013 and again in December 2014 whereby the central government was nudged by it to bring suitable amendments in the IPC to provide

for maximum punishment on par with states like UP, Odisha and West Bengal.

The bench added "it is also desirable that Union of India revisits the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 to revise the punishment for adulteration making it more deterrent in cases where the adulterant can have an adverse impact on health".

In a PIL hearing filed by Swamy Achyutanand Tirth and others, highlighting the sale of adulterated and synthetic milk in different parts of the country. The court issued a slew of directives, asking the Centre and state governments to prosecute the offenders apart from putting in place a strong regime for checking adulteration of food and milk.

Also for curbing milk adulteration, an appropriate state level committee headed by the Chief Secretary or the Secretary of Dairy Department and District level Committee headed by the concerned District Collector shall be constituted as is done in the state of Maharashtra to take the review of the work done to curb the milk adulteration in the district and in the state by the authorities.

Drug peril Silence will lead to a dangerous future What image we can draw of a society where a 10-year old child has started injecting drugs.

This line is more than enough to substantiate the adage that children are like wet cement and whatever falls on them casts an impression.

The problem in the North East appears to be deep-rooted and the damage that has been done over the years appears irreparable. It is certainly high time that people came out in the open to say "Enough is Enough". Use of Alcohol and drug abuse is increasing by the day as more youths are getting attracted towards it. Its intake dehumanizes individuals and erodes the very foundation of social values and societal norms. Alcohol and drug abuse is prevalent across India in one form or the other but in the North East the situation is more or less pathetic and requires immediate attention. As per sample survey available, every third person in the North East region has been a drug addict at any point of time in his life. The most affected states are Manipur, Nagaland, Meghalaya and some areas of Assam.

In Mizoram alone, according to an estimate available with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), the number of child addicts could lie in between 10,000 to 30,000. Another very peculiar form of drug abuse in the form of intake of cough syrup by youth and adults is on increase.

Common brands like Phensedyl and Corex are used as a substitute for Alcohol because they are cheap and easily available and the risk factors in their use are

at bare minimum. Its widespread use can be gauged from the fact that many brands of cough syrup are also available at beetle shops, PCOs, parlours and stationary shops.

Apart from substances like cough syrup, chemicals like Dendrite and Erase X are also widely used as a substitute for Alcohol.

Two states like Manipur and Nagaland bordering Burma are mostly affected and have the highest number of injecting drug users in India and it is multiplying every day. In 1990 Manipur had become the AIDS capital of India. Nagaland too has reported high incidence of HIV among injecting drug users. Over the years the North East region has witnessed a dramatic change in its drug use pattern from smoking opium and heroin to injecting heroin and pharmaceuticals drugs. The North East region which has states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Tripura have over the years become the hub of alcohol and drug abuse.

A huge cache of high quality heroin and cannabis worth over Rs 1 crore was seized in Meghalaya which clearly proves that drug menace continues to reign in Northeast India.

This is the second such haul in the state in recent past. Shillong is becoming the main transit point of heroin.

Today's youth are attracted to drug addiction at such a high pace that it has become very difficult for the parents and well wishers to keep them away from this threat which might destroy their whole future.

Cabinet clears Road Safety Bill, proposes heavy penalties Anupam Chakravartty Terming it as the single biggest reform in the transport sector of the country, the ruling NDA government cleared the Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Bill 2016 by suggesting hefty penalties against traffic offenders, including those indulging in drunken driving. On the other hand, the Union Cabinet also paved way for monetisation of 75 national highways through public funding by increasing the number of toll roads in the country.

In a cabinet meeting held on August 3, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved amendments in 68 out of 223 sections of the present Motor Vehicles Act. The amendments also proposed deletion of Chapter 10 which is being replaced with new provisions to simplify third party insurance claims and settlement process.

Commitment to reduce road accidents According to Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), every year 0.5 million road accidents are reported in the country in which 500,000 people lose their lives. The Ministry, in its statement, said that government is committed to reduce accidents by 50 per cent in next five years.

States taken into confidence In order to address the issue of road safety and to improve the facilitation of the citizens while dealing with transport departments, MoRTH constituted a Group of Transport Ministers (GoM) of the States after states expressed reservations about various amendments proposed in the Bill

in 2014. The GoM, headed

by Transport Minister of Rajasthan, Yoonus Khan, held extensive meeting with ministers from different states and prepared three interim reports. The GoM recommended that to address the pressing issue of road safety and improve transport scenario, Government should immediately bring amendments to the present Motor Vehicle Act. Compensation for hitand-run cases The important provisions include increase in compensation for hit-and-run cases from Rs 25,000 to Rs 200,000 with a provision for payment of compensation up to Rs 1 million in road accidents fatalities.

The Bill also proposes insertion of 28 new sections.

The amendments mainly focus on issues related to improving road safety and citizens' facilitation while dealing with the Transport Department. The Bill proposes to improve the transport scenario in the country by permitting the states to grant exemptions in stage carriage and contract carriage permits for promoting rural transport, public transport, last-mile connectivity and for passenger convenience and road safety.

These amendments will also include recognition of appbased services such as Ola, Uber and car and bus pooling services such as Shuttl.

The bill proposes that the state governments can regulate activities of pedestrians, bicycles and other ecofriendly services such as erickshaws. The new bill focuses on improving delivery of services to the stakeholders using e-Governance, in-

Image for representational purpose (Photo: livelaw) cluding enabling of online learning licenses, increasing validity period for driving licenses and doing away with the requirements of educational qualifications for transport licenses.

Quantum of punishment for traffic violations increased Keeping in mind the recent spate of fatalities caused by juveniles across several cities, the Bill proposes that the guardian or the owner of the vehicle will be held guilty in cases of offences by the juveniles. In such cases, the bill proposed that juveniles to be tried under Juvenile Justice Act followed by cancellation of the registration of such motor vehicles. The bill also proposes to increase penalties to act as deterrent against traffic violations.

Stricter provisions are being proposed in respect of offences like juvenile driving, drunken driving, driving without licence, dangerous driving, over-speeding and overloading. Stricter provi-

sions for helmets have been introduced along with provisions for electronic detection of violations.

1.

To help the road accident victims, 'Good Samaritan' guidelines have been incorporated in the Bill.

2.

To improve the registration process for new vehicles, registration at the end of the dealer is being enabled and restrictions have been imposed on temporary registration.

3.

To bring harmony in the registration and licensing process, the bill has proposed to create National Register for Driving Licence and National Register for Vehicle registration throughVahan and Sarathi This will facilitate uniformity of the process across the country.

The Bill also proposes to mandate the automated fitness testing for the transport vehicles with effect from October 1, 2018. The testing agencies issuing automobile approvals have been

brought under the ambit of the Act. MoRTH maintains that this would reduce corruption in the Transport Department while improving road worthiness of vehicles. The penalties have also been proposed for deliberate violation of safety and environmental regulations as well as body builders and spare part suppliers.

The driving training process has been strengthened, enabling faster issuance of transport licenses. This will help in reducing the shortage of commercial drivers in the country.

According to the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, the bill will be introduced in the ongoing monsoon session of the parliament next week.

Increasing Toll Roads In yet another decision, the government has decided to increase the funding of road construction through toll collections from at least 75 new projects. The Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved monetisation of existing 75 tollable projects in the state sector on lease through the toll-operatetransfer (ToT) model to private players from across the globe which can help raise Rs 1 lakh crore.

"The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has authorised National Highways Authority of India to monetise the public funded highway projects which could result in funds in the range of Rs 80,000 to Rs 1 lakh crore initially," Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari said. Gadkari further added that the corpus generated from proceeds of such

project monetisation could be utilised by the government to meet its fund requirements regarding future development and operation and maintenance of highways in the country and could address development and strengthening of highways in unviable geographies.

On the other hand, CCEA also decided that the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has been given approval for monetising public funded National Highway (NH) projects which are operational and are generating toll revenues for at least two years after the Commercial Operations Date (COD) through the ToT Model. The monetisation will be subject to approval of the Competent Authority in Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) / NHAI on a case to case basis, the statement said.

According to a statement issued by MoRTH, ToT model provides "an efficient Operation and Maintenance (O&M) framework requiring reduced involvement of NHAI in projects post construction completion". The Model would facilitate efficient toll realisation through private sector, the statement further added that "it would also create new business opportunities a new vertical of developers who specialise in O&M of highways, besides institutional investors, including pension and insurance funds and sovereign funds which are averse to taking construction risks but are adequately equipped for making long-term investments in road infrastructure".

Courtesy: Down to earth

India to Acquire 3 Guided Missile Frigates From Russia The three guided missile frigates were originally destined for the Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet Franz-Stefan Gady India and Russia allegedly have reached an agreement over the sale of three Admiral Grigorovich-class (Project 11356) guidedmissile frigates, according to IHS Jane's Defense Weekly.

"The relevant concealed agreement has been achieved, and India will receive the second three of Project 11356 frigates being built for the Russian Navy.

The Indian side has obtained 12 spare tool and accessory kits for the ships," a source within Russia's defense industry told IHS Jane's. The ships were originally intended for Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

Image for representational purpose (Photo: thediplomat)

This appears to confirm that the Russian Navy has decided to abandon plans to add six to nine Admiral Grigorovich-class vessels to its surface fleet over the

next decade-as was initially laid out in the ambitious 2030 shipbuilding programand will merely induct three vessels of the class. The Russian Navy intends to

commission three Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates this year The primary reason for Russia's decision to export the three ships-two of which are already under construction-is the lack of a propulsion system due to Ukraine's decision to ban military exports to Russia in 2014. The ships of the Admiral Grigorovich-class are powered by M90FR gas turbines designed and built by Zorya-Mashproekt in Ukraine, Russia's principal surface ship-builder since Soviet days.

Russia acquired three M90FR gas turbines before the export ban came into effect, which have been installed on the first three Admiral Grigorovich-class

ships to be commissioned by the end of the year. The Russian defense industry is in the process of designing an indigenous replacement for the Ukraine-made turbine engine.

Moscow awarded a contract to NPO Saturn, a Russian aircraft engine manufacturer, to produce and test a domestically-produced M90FR turbine engine by 2017. However, analysts believe that a new propulsion system will not be ready for the navy before 2019-2020.

As a result, Russia's defense ministry reallocated funding to the construction of other ships, according to a source.

However, India is not subject to the export ban and can directly purchase the engines from Ukraine. According to

Hit The Nail On The Head

(Photo: listcrux)

Sir, A report published in a section of the press suggests that the government of Assam is all set to pass a legislation in the winter session of the assembly with a view to curbing growth of population in the state which is increasing alarmingly. As per provision of the proposed legislation if the employees of the state government should restrict the number of their children to two, they will be entitled to incentives and many other benefits. This is, undoubtedly, a laudable step. But we feel that by so doing the state government is not hitting the nail on the head. On a casual survey itself, we will find that a sizeable number of educated families, prefer either one or two children, as they know it very well that going for more than two would financially put them in troubles. Our greatest concerns are the migrants from Bangladesh, most of whom are not only illiterate but also ignorant about the ills of begetting more children.

In the last census it comes to light that the lower and central Assam which harbor most of these people, increase in population is alarming, same can be attributed to Lakhimpur Dist. of upper Assam, where

good number of people with Bangladesh origin reside. For completion of NRC too these elements pose a stumbling block. Only the other day, it transpired that a single person is shown to be the father of 300. Illias Ali, who has been undertaking the cumbersome job for male and female sterilization programme in Assam, should be empowered with certain special powers to go to the interior areas including 'Char' areas to drive home the benefits of small family, taking the necessary steps to sterilize them.

Then and then only, it will be presumed that government of Assam really takes up the right step with right man to curb population growth. One should hit the nail on the head to get the desired result.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

IHS Jane's Defense Weekly, Moscow and New Delhi are now thinking of transporting the hulls of the ships from the Kaliningrad-based Yantar Baltic Shipyard to India for final assembly. India had previously already expressed its interest to license-build the ships at an Indian dockyard.

Neither India nor Russia have officially confirmed the defense deal as of now.

The 3,620-ton Admiral Grigorovich-class is a derivative of the six Talwarclass frigates that Russia built for the Indian Navy between 2003 and 2013.

The ships could be fitted with the BrahMos cruise missile system. Courtesy: The Diplomat

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.

Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786001 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Email : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

p O

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

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Political Controversy over Intellectual Activism Dr. Pallavi Deka Recent times in Assam have seen a trend of anti intellectualism; a trend that has been termed as a hostility towards and mistrust of intellect and intellectuals. In doing so, the anti intellects perceive themselves as the champions of common folks- i.e. populism against political and academic elitism. However, in most cases intellectuals are well known, well received and above all they are respected. They are well known because they are popular and popularized. Their popularity soars because these are constructed and packaged as well as advertised in such a way that is acceptable to most sections. Then the need arise for analysis of the present state of exasperation and disrespect for them in India in general and Assam in particular.

The analysis of such distinct trend needs an understanding of the category of intellectuals and the theorization around it. The acceptability of the views of intellectuals depends on neutrality or a balanced view.

Therefore the general notion is that such views of knowledgeable person which is impartial will guide the society for better. This

is the known and defined 'should be' characteristic of any intellectuals. If at any point of history somebody discards the defined should be characteristics of an academician , then one need to defend her/ his stand by redefining the nomenclature itself as well as explaining the reasons for questioning the prevailing or acceptable mode of functioning.

Hence the requirement of activist intellectual is the current debated topic.

Now the question is who exactly are these people?

The term politically neutral or neutral for that matter is seen by most as respectable position. Academics for a long time have acclaimed a position of value neutrality.

However such a view has been criticized by many because no individual and no society can remain neutral in real sense; having knowledge of all sides neutrally is different from taking position and expressing positively about the better side.

And that holds the basis of difference between an armchair intellectual and an activist intellectual.

The difference between the two can also be cleared from the very famous slogan study and struggle, meant for the students who are also activists. While the armchair intellectuals maintain the boundary of study

Image for representational purpose (Photo: i.ytimg.) and teach, the activist intellectuals further their role to study, teach and struggle.

Meaning that they opt for roles in making a better society by knowing facts and truth and taking positions for the side which is factually, ethically and historically correct. Therefore activist intellects not only bring out truths and give them to society to choose the right direction, but having known the truth they themselves choose the right side as well as express them.

If we string along Antonio Gramsci, who has enormously written on the question whether intellectual are autonomous and indepen-

dent social group or does every social group have its own particular specialized category of intellectuals, then we need to divulge upon the terminology called organic intellectuals as against the traditional intellectuals.

While the traditional intellectuals are oldest form who was ecclesiastic and organically bounded to landed aristocracy, the organic intellectual category evolved to challenge the monopoly of the former when new socio-economic dominant class evolved.

Such opposition to monopoly of old class of intellectuals created many 'hobbles de robe' category

who put themselves as autonomous and independent of dominant social groups.

However Gramsci calls this syndrome as social utopia.

Because according to him every new class creates a set of new intellectuals alongside itself, so autonomy of intellectuals is far from reality. For him, intellectuals are dominant groups exercising the subaltern functions of social hegemony. The two main functions they perform are to create spontaneous consent which the dominant groups enjoy and act as apparatus of State coercive power which 'legally explores discipline'.

The whole debate that is presently going on in Assam regarding the public position of more than three dozens of public intellectuals against BJP has a need to be analyzed in context of the above cited theoretical intervention. The ongoing debate in Assam is not isolated event because dissenting voices are being raised in whole country by people who are creams of this society in various fields against the rising intolerance during present times because of particular form of belief of RSS family. The most interesting part of this dissenting category of intellectuals is that they cater to different ideologies, from Marxist, socialist to liberals and nationalists.

Actually activism on the basis of hard data, facts, evidence, research and reason has remained the basis of intellectuals' mode of functioning throughout ages. Starting from Galileo and Socrates, who had put reasonable questions and came under the rage of supports of status quo to Noam Chomsky who openly performed public debates against US government policies in Middle East on many occasions and Shahbagh movement in Bangladesh.

In Indian context too public intellectuals have always

taken public positions (for or against) on different issues (remember their dissenting voices against the Partition, Pokhran blast, Sikh riot, BabriKand, our very own Assam Movement, inNandigram-Singur and not forget intellectuals as activists in movement against big dam, nuclear plant, environment protection etc.). In most of these events, the intellectuals not only provided grounded data on them, but also took public positions.

So how the appeal of 43 in Assam was is different from what they are meant to do or that they have been doing throughout ages? If the 43 earned men and women of Assam have enough evidence against imminent danger of spreading communal hatred and fascism by that particular party in the garb ofporiborton and vikas, there can be no reason for denying or criticizing against that. There can be and should be many who may and have already expressed their opinion about no existence of such danger. At least in national scenario the intellectuals on both sides are present visibly. However the case of Assam in different from national scenario and that is why attack on these acade-

micians is more.

The reason that can be cited for now is that the party in power at the centre does not have a Baeumler, Rosenberg or Heidegger.

And in Assam their organization is so weak that they are nonexistent in academic circle or those new faces are far from the image of public intellectuals. So the option remain is to harshly and forcibly stop the opposition voice by using State power. Unless the State ruling class creates a strong organic intellectuals who can create public opinion in their favour, such anti intellectualism will persist.

However the argument that the freedom of expression of the academicians and intellectual as against the democratic rights of the masses should be restricted holds some ground. This is because the appeal that came from those 43 renowned persons directly talked about whom not to vote; instead the most acceptable appeal would have been to be aware of the problems of BJP and to reject all communal forces.

This, though, does not mean that the hullabaloo would have died down even after such precautions; exactly because of the intellectual vacuum of the ruling party in the country today.

Courtesy:Nezine

Engaging The Quiet Ones: How Schools Why Do People See Feminism As Some 'Evil' Force Out To Need To Encourage Shy Children Damage Society?

Samar Arpit Goel At its core, there is no difference between the personality traits that guide adult behaviour and the behaviour of children.

Symptoms and manifestations, that is, how behaviour plays out, may be informed by age, but behind it, the prime driving forces remain the same. Therefore, if a 40year-old turns down a party invitation while a 6year-old is seemingly unable to respond to a simple question, they both may be dealing with : Image for representational purpose (Photo: teachhub) stimuli in age-specific ways but the trigger could be exactly the same: shy- when asked one, who not just individuals, to dren who do not have finds corners during recognise that student is- such issues. Teachers ness. break time with those sues are also of a psycho- should provide friendly, In schools, just as any- similar to them in these social kind. Efforts in this non-academic support to where else, this some- ways. They are afraid to direction could include an those who find their stride times-detrimental trait is be put on the spot and introduction to certain on the school field but are abundant. Its cousin consequently are often confidence-building exer- mute in class, and, convariations such as ignored. They are not cises, inclusive methods versely, to those who quiunderconfidence, anxiety, 'popular' in that typical, to break the ice between etly do well in theoretical inability to communicate exclusionary way, per- different personality studies but otherwise well, prolonged silence haps unique to primary types of children and an only speak when spoken and the like exist inside and secondary education. earlier and mandatory in- to.

This has no bearing on troduction to basic psyand outside the classUnderconfidence room. With time, most their intelligence, creativ- chology. The educational adults learn how to ac- ity or skill. Kids who are framework should at- steals from the well of cept or deal with their in- socially unsure of them- tempt to undercut the he- potential. This needs to nate shyness; they form selves may still excel in gemony of nerves that be rectified, beginning their rituals and routines studies or lose their inhi- some students suffer with primary education. around it and gradually bitions in music class or from so that more talent Kids in school cannot be hindered by unsolicited manage to cope and ad- tear through track and can surface. personality traits which just. School-children (es- field events. However, it The most important are irrelevant to their talpecially the younger does have a negative efones) have no such fect sometimes: a viva role, as always, will be ent but are damaging anyagency. Their shyness is scuttled by sudden anxi- that of the teachers. way. The caricature of of a bare, helplessly un- ety, an ignored high- They are in the best place the quiet, shy and ignored school life spent on the to be encouraging and school kid will fade when adulterated kind. social margins, a lack of steer early traits in a posi- a school atmosphere sugThis has a bad effect real ties with teachers or tive direction. By gests there is no shame on the entire schooling worse of all, a student's recognising the shy ones in it and actively engages experience. As one car- resignation to the fact that and providing individual with such kids.

Whether they are ries their social fears his/her introversion will attention with requisite wherever they go, for end up mostly dictating patience, they can really teachers or legislators, turn things around for this is clearly a job for extremely underconfident life. those children. For this, adults, who are no differkids, no facet of school At the level of school- the treatment of timidity ent with respect to shylife is exempt from being sullied. These are the ing, this phenomenon and reticence has to be ness; the luxury of age ones who never ask ques- must be dealt with stigma-free. Empathy just allows for a better Courtesy: tions in class, who through careful interven- and understanding have cover. mumble incoherently tions. It is time for policy, to be fostered in the chil- Youthkiawaaz

Feminism is not a term I use as a hashtag, as a twitter trend or use it in parties to get noticed. It is not just a slogan banner creatively doodled with graphic metaphors on my T-Shirt, but it tries to say something more than that. It definitely doesn't deserve to be seen as a threat by any person. And it is more than fair to all stakeholders in every society. Considering Feminism with a serious eye would be a wise decision and there are reasons for that.

It matters that we understand feminism because it is not based just on actions but also vouches for our understanding of the reasons behind each action. Feminism simply espouses requirements that essentially demand us to do the right thing at the right time and it can be applied to anything in our day to day lives: From how we construct our cities to be socially progressive, to ensuring our freedom of expression through attire or speech. It helps create and engender a libertarian narrative with arguments around people and even their sexual habits.

'change' in the daily lives of all genders is more radical in lives of the dominant sex in Indian society - men - as it seeks to create spaces within the spaces they have inherited under their status as dominant.

cially where an individual's sensitivities matter and become all the more important. For example, at certain places, feminism's implied actions are seen to demand the betterment of all.

Feminism then justly demands an equal sharing of roles and taking charge, consciously, of customary habits and practices daily. It proves to be a hard trade-in at each hierarchical level, as this aspect of equal level participatory action has been absent and unheard of before. And it is assumed by the dominant Shockingly many sex that it marks the stachoose to grasp only that tus quo. It perhaps tries limited definition of femi- to shake it up. nism made available by its opponents - who view But it is not the naughty tomorrow's possible equi- child in society out on table change as a 'threat; rampage as it is often to their present. But accused of being. It feminism presents a fair works to offer a positive challenge to status quo change towards equitable and argues for human lib- opportunities for women erty and freedom. It is fair and does suggest optimisto accept that this tic consequences espe-

Within the public scope, it asks for mandated personal convenience spaces and an equal and 'no prejudice approach' to consideration in jobs prospects. When it comes to personal necessities and choices, it exhibits itself through demanding access to contraceptives and freedom to practice a safe sexual lifestyle of one's choosing.

Feminism alters our way of life by giving place to raise questions regarding length of breadth of liberties that women deserve unequivocally. But it is not a women-centric term, as it can work for the rights of all people by criticising and releasing conventional shackles of

possibly all gender-based norms. Sharing of power, or in other much fairer terms, the demand for natural rights through feminism, should not be seen as thrifting away of something that was for men to give, but a basic need, like every human being desires and expects from life, for acquiring prosperity with dignity in the pursuit of happiness.

Every thought deserves a critique, so does feminism, we agree. Therefore a ready and active social leadership coupled with vision are needed and together they must engage with a bustling young population like us.

Efforts to include youth to vociferously advocate and indulge in conversations becomes pertinent youth who can represent its nuances in simplistic mannerisms of everyday lives. But it can only come once we are not scared of feminism and choose to consider it by inviting into our lives.

Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

BUSINESS

Karnataka appears as investors' preferred Ahmedabad, Aug 8: Gujarat, which was ranked first among all States in 2015 for attracting maximum 'investment intentions' in value terms, has lost its position to Karnataka halfway through this calendar year.

Gujarat received investment intentions worth only Rs.21,309 crore during January-June 2016, while Karnataka - which topped the list - received over thrice that amount, or Rs.67,757 crore, during the same period, government data showed. The Centre, which is co-ordinating efforts to rank states on 'ease of doing business', also maintains a State-wise break-up of investment intentions in terms of Industrial Entrepreneur Memoranda filed for de-licensed sector, Letters of Intent issued and Direct Industrial Licences granted. Interestingly, the Rs.67,757 crore worth investment intentions received by Karnataka in the first six months of 2016 was more than the Rs.64,733 crore that Gujarat had at-

MOST DESIRABLE Ø Gujarat, which was ceived by Karnataka in the cent - or Rs.21,309 crore. ranked first among all States first six months of 2016 was ØMeanwhile, Karnataka's in 2015 for attracting maximum 'investment intentions' in value terms, has lost its position to Karnataka halfway through this calendar year.

more than the Rs.64,733 crore that Gujarat had attracted in the whole of 2015, the year when it topped the all-India list in this regard.

ment intentions worth only Rs.21,309 crore during January-June 2016, while Karnataka - which topped the list - received over thrice that amount, or Rs.67,757 crore, during the same period.

tions Gujarat got was 20.81 per cent of the total investment intentions worth Rs.3,11,031 crore that India received in 2015.

share jumped from 10.18 per cent (or Rs.31,668 crore) in 2015 to 38.34 per cent (or Rs.67,757 crore) in JanuaryJune 2016.

Ø The Rs.64,733 crore- Ø Other leading States in ØGujarat received invest- worth investment inten- terms of 'investment inten-

Ø However, out of the

Ø Interestingly,

the Rs.67,757 crore worth investment intentions re-

Rs.1,76,738 crore worth proposed investments that India received in JanuaryJune 2016, the share of Gujarat declined to 12.06 per

tions' during January-June 2016 were Maharashtra (Rs.15,688 crore), Telengana (Rs.13,600 crore) and Chhattisgarh (Rs.8,514 crore). In 2015, the States in the top five after Gujarat were Chhattisgarh (Rs.36,511 crore), Maharashtra (Rs.33,277 crore), Karnataka (Rs.31,668 crore) and Odisha (Rs.24,524 crore).

tracted in the whole of 2015, the year when it topped the all-India list in this regard.

The Rs.64,733 crore-worth investment intentions Gujarat got was 20.81 per cent of the total investment

intentions worth Rs.3,11,031 crore that India received in 2015. However, out of the Rs.1,76,738 crore worth proposed investments that India received in January-June 2016, the

share of Gujarat declined to 12.06 per cent - or Rs.21,309 crore.

Meanwhile, Karnataka's share jumped from 10.18 per cent (or Rs.31,668 crore) in 2015 to 38.34 per cent (or Rs.67,757

crore) in January-June 2016. Karnataka said 'Invest Karnataka 2016', an investors' meet held during February 3-5 this year, concluded with 1,201 approved projects and MoUs valued at Rs.3.08 lakh crore. Other leading States in terms of 'investment intentions' during January-June 2016 were Maharashtra (Rs.15,688 crore), Telengana (Rs.13,600 crore) and Chhattisgarh (Rs.8,514 crore). In 2015, the States in the top five after Gujarat were Chhattisgarh (Rs.36,511 crore), Maharashtra (Rs.33,277 crore), Karnataka (Rs.31,668 crore) and Odisha (Rs.24,524 crore). Even in the latest 'Business Reforms Action Plan' index (or measures taken by states to improve ease of doing business), Gujarat was sixth with a score of 53.98 per cent.

Uttarakhand topped that dynamic 'implementation scorecard' with 63.72 per cent, followed by

Rajasthan, Telengana, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh. Gujarat government officials rejected apprehensions that incidents (which even led to changes at the Chief Minister-level) - including the Patidar agitation for reservation and more recently, Dalit protests after some of them were reportedly attacked for allegedly skinning cow carcasses - are leading to lower investor interest in Gujarat. "These numbers (on investment intentions) keep going up and down.

Some big announcements could come up soon and the situation can change," a senior Gujarat government official said, indicating that some major decisions are likely in the run-up to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors' Summit that is slated to be held during January 10-13 next year.

Most of the investment intentions that Gujarat has received are getting converted into amount that is actually being spent on the ground, the official said. (Agencies)

Gas price might be cut New norms to dent down by 20% by Govt L&T's topline by 3% for producers in Oct Dehradun, Aug 8: Natural gas price paid to producers like state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) and Reliance Industries is likely to fall 20 percent to USD 2.45 in October. This will be the fourth reduction in last 18 months following the formula approved by the government in October 2014. Price of natural gas produced from existing fields of ONGC and RIL is likely to fall to USD 2.45 per million British thermal unit with effect from October 1 as opposed to USD 3.06 currently, a senior official said. This rate is on gross calorific value (GCV) basis.

The gas price was last cut on April 1 from USD 3.82 per mmBtu to USD 3.06 per mmBtu. On a net-calorific value (NCV) basis, the gas price was on that day cut to USD 3.4 per mmBtu as compared to USD 4.24 previously. On NCV basis, the new gas price is likely to be USD 2.7 from October 1. As per the new gas pricing formula approved by the NDAgovernment in October 2014, gas prices are to be revised every six months and the next change is due on October 1. The reduction in natural gas prices would mean lower raw material cost for compressed natural gas

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: stepchange) (CNG) and natural gas piped to households (PNG) and would translate into reduction in retail prices. This will be the fourth consecutive reduction since the implementation of the domestic gas pricing formula that calculates the rate on a volume weighted average of rates in gas surplus nations of the US, Canada and Russia, based on the 12-month trailing average price with a lag of three months. The price of gas has declined by around 39 percent since the implementation of the gas pricing formula in October 2014. On October 1, 2015 price of natural gas was lowered to USD 3.82 per mmBtu from USD 4.66. The price cut

on October 1, 2016 will put further pressure on finances of upstream producers who do not find the current rate incentivising enough to invest more in oil and gas hunt. The official said the cap price based on alternative fuels for undeveloped gas finds in difficult areas like deep sea will also fall to around USD 5.2-5.3 per mm Btu from USD 6.61 currently.

The government had earlier this year approved marketing and pricing freedom for all undeveloped discoveries lying in difficult areas subject to a cap. The cap for April 1 to September 30 was USD 6.61 per mmBtu on GCV basis and USD 7.3 on NCV basis, the official said. (Agencies)

Daily Mangaluru-Sharjah flight started by Jet Airways Mangaluru, Aug 8: Jet Airways has started a new daily service between Mangaluru and Sharjah.

Addition of this new service will bolster Jet Airways offering to the Gulf market, further strengthening the airline's growing network and significantly enhance connectivity for guests. With the addition of Sharjah, Jet Airways will connect Mangaluru with three cities in Gulf.

Jet Airways currently operates daily flights from Mangaluru to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Additionally, with a large number of Indians travelling from Mangaluru to Gulf, Jet Airways has expanded connectivity options from various cities across India to Gulf.

Likewise, inbound guests from Sharjah would be able to enjoy domestic connections from Mangaluru. Jet Airways 9W 504 will depart

Mangaluru at 9.30am and arrive in Sharjah at 11.45am local time. Jet Airways 9W 503 will depart from Sharjah at 12.45pm local time) and arrive into Mangaluru at 5.55pm. Gaurang Shetty, whole-time director, Jet Airways, said, "It is a proud moment for us to launch flight between Mangaluru-Sharjah.

We are confident that our approach to provide direct global linkages with emerging Indian metros will be popular to those living in these cities and Indians working in gulf and beyond. With economic ties between India and Gulf region flourishing, Jet Airways recognizes need to provide connectivity options to its guests," he said. The launch of additional daily services strengthens Jet Airways' already extensive network of routes serving the region and cements its place

as the largest operator connecting India and the Gulf. The airline will deploy Boeing 737-800 Next Generation (NG) aircraft on this route, where premier and economy guests may enjoy airline's in-flight service, in-flight entertainment programme and the airline's concept of hospitality. N Vinaya Hegde, Chancellor, Nitte University, Nalin Kumar Kateel, MP, B Ramanath Rai, and U T Khader, ministers, J T Radhakrishna, airport director, MIA and U Harish Shenoy, GM, South India, Jet Airways (I) Ltd were present at the airport to mark the launch of the inaugural flight. Hidayathulla Abbas, chairman, Hidayath Group, UAE, was the first guest flying on premier class to Sharjah. Jet Airways operates 11 daily direct flights each from India to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

(Agencies)

Hyderabad, Aug 8: Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is likely to see a decrease of between Rs.2,000 to Rs.3,000 crore, or about two to three per cent dip, in revenue and 100 basis points (bps) fall in earnings before depreciation and income tax (EBDIT) margins in the financial year ending March 31, 2017 due to adoption of Ind-AS accounting standards, according to a top official.

However, its net profit and order book are unlikely to be affected."If the first quarter revenues are lower by Rs.400 crore, in a year's context, the impact could be to the extent of Rs.2,000 to Rs.3,000 crore between the numbers that we normally project out," said R. Shankar Raman, Wholetime Director & CFO, L&T. "We had a revenue of about Rs.1,03,000 crore for 2015-

16, for the full year consolidated basis, that if I were to restate based on Ind AS would be down by about Rs.3,000 crore," he said.

"For the first quarter, the revenues were lower by Rs.400 crore due to this disaggregation. "In first quarter of FY16, we had revenues of Rs.20,400 crore under the old system that restated into the new system was Rs.20,000 crores and in the current quarter, we had reported the numbers based on Ind As which was Rs.21,800 crore," Mr. Raman said.

The lower numbers are because the new Ind-AS does not consider a company as subsidiary even if the holding company owns over 50 per cent. Such a company is treated as joint venture unlike the old I-GAAP

where 50 per cent and more in an entity is deemed as a subsidiary and its revenue, costs and profits are aggregated in the consolidated financials. Due to the new standards, L&T could not aggregate the revenues, costs and profits of its joint ventures like MHI Boiler, MHI Turbine, the forge shop JV with NPCIL, and the IDPL -- where it has CPPIB as a partner -in its consolidated results leading to the fall in top line. Some brokerage houses like Ambit Capital and IDFC rated the company's stock 'sell' after the first quarter results despite a 46 per cent increase in net profit to Rs.610 crore citing the results to be below expectations, and the confusion over restated numbers.

(Agencies)

Self-driving car project quit by Google executive Washington, Aug 8: Chris Urmson, who was instrumental in building Google's self-driving car project, said he is leaving the team after seven-and-a-half years. Alphabet Inc's Google had named Urmson Chief Technical Officer of the project after it hired former Hyundai Executive John Krafcik to be Chief Executive of the project. Mr. Urmson, who joined the project when it was launched and has been a public face of Google's autonomous vehicle efforts, testified before a U.S. Senate panel on autonomous cars in March. Mr. Krafcik confirmed Mr. Urmson's departure in a tweet on Friday afternoon. Mr. Urmson, in a blog post late Friday, said he was "ready for a fresh challenge." He said he was not sure what he would do next.

"Going to take some time and get some perspective from outside of Google," he wrote in a text message. Mr. Urmson said earlier this year that self-driving cars are com-

Chris Urmson, who was instrumental in building Google's self-driving car project. (Photo: cdn.ndtv) ing. "I've gone from hoping this would happen to thinking it might happen to knowing it will happen," Mr. Urmson said. Google selfdriving car project spokesman Johnny Luu confirmed Mr. Urmson's departure and praised him. "Seven years ago, the idea that a car could drive itself wasn't much more than an idea. Chris has been a vital force for the project, helping the team move from a research phase

to a point where this lifesaving technology will soon become a reality," Mr. Luu said. Google's project has had other significant departures, even as it has hired dozens of new employees.

Earlier this year, Anthony Levandowski, who was product manager for Google's self-driving car program, left the project to co-found a start-up with two other former Google employees. (Agencies)

PAGE 10

17.7% rise in Paradip Port cargo volumer Pondicherry, Aug 8: Five major ports on the east coast have collectively handled about 80 million tonnes of cargo during the first four months of the current fiscal year, fuelled by imports of coal and petroleum, oil and lubricant (POL) products. For the first

four months, Paradip Port topped the list with 28.65 million tonnes of cargo, followed by Chennai Port 17.42 million tonnes, V.O.C Port 13.07 million tonnes, Krishnapatnam Port 11.57 million tonnes and Kamarajar Port close to 9 million tonnes. (Agencies)

Model Y compact SUV and a minibus launch confirmed by Tesla

Technology innovator and the CEO and founder of Tesla, Elon Musk. (Photo: slate)

Washington, Aug 8: Technology innovator and the CEO and founder of Tesla, Elon Musk, made use of social media to announce his company's upcoming car - the Model Y. Confirming the news on Twitter recently, Musk revealed that the new addition to its stable of allelectric cars will be a compact SUV titled 'Model Y', which will be based on the chassis of its Model 3 sedan.

The announcement is in line with Tesla's 'Master Plan, Part Deux', an article released last month, which talks about Tesla's future products. However, Model Y was not confirmed then.

As per the plan, Tesla is not only restricting itself to passenger cars, but

venturing into the commercial vehicle segment by introducing an electric cargo van, a pick-up truck as well as a minibus.

Musk revealed that these vehicles are in the early stage of development, but that they could be launched as early as next year. After occupying a significant share in the global market for luxury electric cars, Tesla now seems to be aiming to redefine the public transport sector with its future electric products. Musk had also expressed as a part of his company's 'Master Plan' that with improvements that can be seen in autonomous technology, Tesla will eventually empower all its vehicles with selfdriving aid. (Agencies)

South India to be focussed by RollsRoyce for growth New York, Aug 8: British carmaker Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd. has identified South India as a growth area for increasing the sales of its luxury cars, according to a top official.

Increasing appetite for super luxury goods and growing number of entrepreneurs in the region is making South India an attractive destination for the company, he said. "We have significant market in Asia-Pacific. South India is the biggest growing region for Rolls-Royce. It is positive for us," said Sven J. Ritter, Regional Sales Manager, South Asia, Rolls-Royce. Briefing the media after the roll out of its super-luxury convertible Dawn in Chennai, Mr. Ritter said, "Globally, the average age of our cus-

tomers for new products is between 54 and 46 years. In India, we see young people getting attracted to the brand. In New Delhi, we had a customer who is 20 years old." According to Paul Harris, Asia Pacific Regional Director, South India continues to be a very important area for RollsRoyce as it is an economic growth driver for India and an increasingly vibrant market for super-luxury goods. About Dawn, Mr. Ritter said it is a fourseater convertible and priced at Rs.6.25 crore. It came in six colours. It has been introduced in India after Phantom, Ghost and Wraith. Dawn is powered by 6.6 litre twin-turbocharged v12 petrol engine.

(Agencies)

157% rise in pension of retired central govt staff New Delhi, Aug 8: Retired central government employees will now get a minimum pension of Rs 9,000, up 157.14 per cent from the current Rs 3,500, following the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission's recommendations. The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions has notified acceptance of pay panel's recom-

mendations for the pensioners. The ceiling of gratuity has also been enhanced from the existing Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. The Commission had also recommended the ceiling on gratuity to be raised by 25 per cent whenever Dearness Allowance rises by 50%, a proposal which has been accepted by the government. There are about 58

lakh central government pensioners.

The amount of pension shall be subject to a minimum of Rs 9,000 and the maximum pension would be Rs 1,25,000--which is 50% of the highest pay in the government, an order issued by the Ministry said. The highest pay in the government is Rs 2,50,000 with effect from

January 1, 2016. The maximum limit of retirement gratuity and death gratuity shall be Rs 20 lakh, the order said.

The ceiling on gratuity will increase by 25% whenever the dearness allowance rises by 50 per cent of the basic pay, it said. There has been a substantial increase in payment of ex-gratia

lump sum compensation for civil and defence forces personnel, payable to the next of kin. A payment of Rs 25 lakh, from existing Rs 10 lakh, will be given in case of death occurring due to accidents in course of performance of duties and those attributed to acts of violence by terrorists, anti social elements etc. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

Features

PAGE 11

ENVIRONMENT

Brazil's genetically modified mosquito farm to reduce the incidence of dengue fever The mosquitoes are a genetically modified (GM) version of the Aedes aegypti, the species responsible for transmitting the dengue virus to humans.

The farm was inaugurated early last week and is expected to produce millions of GM insects each month.

Scientists at the Britishbased Oxitec developed a method of shortening the lifespan of the mosquitoes and reducing mosquito populations by, essentially, sterilizing them. The mosquitoes are engineered to need the antibiotic tetracycline to develop beyond adolescence. Male mosquitoes in the laboratory are given the antibiotic to reach adulthood and then released into the wild to breed with wild females. The larvae, unable to access tetracycline, die before they are fully-grown. After a few days, both the offspring and the released males are dead.

Small-scale trials of the method have shown some success in the Grand Cayman Islands, Brazil and Malaysia. After the introduction of the GM mosquitoes into the environment, A. aegypti populations were reduced to between 75 to 90

percent, compared to similar areas where the mosquitoes were not released.

Scientists are calling it a victory in the fight against dengue.

"From a scientific point of view and an environmental sustainability point of view, we think we have a really good solution to the problem," said CEO of Oxitec, Hadyn Parry.

It is easy to see why researchers are excited about the results. Dengue fever is a public health nightmare.

The mosquitoes that transmit the virus feed during the day, making it difficult to kill them effectively with insecticide and the use of bed nets ineffective. The insects also lay their eggs in clean, still water, often in urban areas. There is no effective vaccine or cure, only limited treatment options, and it is widespread - affecting between 50 and 100 million people each year worldwide.

The primary method of managing dengue has been through mosquito control.

The use of GM mosquitoes could help eliminate the A. aegypti at a lower cost than current methods and without using as many chemi-

Mier said, was the uncertainty and lack of scientific data regarding potential the GM mosquitoes will pose long-term harm to Key West's ecosystem and its inhabitants.

She and others who oppose the research also point out the potential risk of females being released along with the males, the possibility that the gene will mutate, and any unforeseen potential negative effects it might have on the area's insects and wildlife.

Representational image Photo: healthmap cals, effectively saving endemic countries billions of dollars each year.

Oxitec estimates that apart from the cost of startup - production facilities, equipment and training - its method would cost less than $10 per person per year, making it more feasible for poorer countries to fight rising rates of dengue.

"This is not a rich man's tool; there's no point in pro-

tecting a rich man's mansion," Parry said. "You want to protect a community so it's got to be cheap."

But not everyone is thrilled about the idea.

A mothers group out of Key West, a proposed location for the release of the GM mosquitoes, has come out vehemently opposed to it.

"If something goes wrong the consequences could be

catastrophic, not only for humans but also the whole ecosystem, said Mila de Mier, a Key West resident told the Guardian. "I don't want my family being used as laboratory rats for this."

De Mier started a petition on the social movement website Change.org in opposition to Oxitec that has now collected roughly 100,000 signatures.

The primary concern, de

Researchers, however, dismiss these concerns.

"We are not putting an advantage into these mosquitoes; we are putting in a disadvantage, sterility, which is the biggest disadvantage you can have," Parry said. "You are not spreading your gene down generations because each one is sterile - it dies out.

They do not out cross and mate with other species. So you are not spreading your gene laterally or downward."

Additionally, the mosquitoes have been bred in the laboratory for roughly a

decade with "no signs of mutations or changes in performance," according to the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District.

Researchers also point out that there is already an effort to eliminate A. aegypti by spraying insecticide and that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has found Oxitec's method to be "environmentally preferable" to currently available alternatives because of the lower impact it has on the environment.

The A. aegypti are considered invasive in Key West, originating in Africa - thus the name aegypti and thought to have been brought over on slave ships.

They have only been in the area for a period of about 200 years and are not a true part of the native ecosystem.

De Mier and her cohort in Key West aren't the only skeptics. Earlier this year, Germany's Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology looked at information from Oxitec's trials in Malaysia and Grand Cayman, and accused the company of having a lack of transparency. Its findings suggest

"deficits in the scientific quality of regulatory documents and a general absence of accurate experimental descriptions available before releases start."

For now, the city of Key West has decided to delay any release of the Oxitec mosquitoes until more information is available regarding their potential impact on the local environment.

If Oxitec's method does prove successful in Brazil, it's possible that the technology could be used to combat other similar zoonotic diseases. The company said that has already tested the method with malaria-carrying Anopheles mosquitoes.

But in order to do that, the research needs to gain more support and a return on investment.

"We could have outdoor trials in five years' time," Parry said. "We have transformed it, modified it. It can be done - it's only a question of time and money. Our plan is to prove it works in dengue and then people will be willing to invest the money for the next stages."

Courtesy: healthmap

Allergists: the Doctors You Didn't Know I was born with two left feet: Tiger Shroff Could Help you with Your Asthma If you frequently experience shortness of breath or you hear a whistling or wheezy sound in your chest when you breathe, you may have asthma - a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, the passageways that allow air to enter and leave the lungs. If people with asthma are exposed to a substance to which they are sensitive or a situation that changes their regular breathing patterns, the symptoms can become more severe.

Asthma symptoms affect an estimated 26 million Americans - 19 million adults and 7 million children - and are one of the leading causes of absences from work and school. Asthma often runs in families; according to the World Health Organization, about half the cases are due to genetic susceptibility and half result from environmental factors. Although there is no cure for asthma, effective treatments are available. Asthma can be best managed by seeing an allergist.

There are two types of asthma: allergic (caused by exposure to an allergen) and nonallergic (caused by stress, exercise, illnesses like a cold or the flu, or exposure to extreme weather, irritants in the air or some medications).

Asthma Symptoms " Coughing " Shortness of breath " Chest tightness " Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound in your chest when you breathe, especially when exhaling) Asthma Triggers " Outdoor allergens, such as pollens from grass, trees and weeds

productive life by avoiding triggers and following their allergists' instructions. If left unmanaged or misdiagnosed, asthma can be fatal; about 3,300 people die from it annually. If you have allergies, the medical professional you want to see is an allergist. And if you have asthma, the medical professional you want to see is‌also an allergist.

Representational image Photo: canadianpharmacymeds

" Indoor allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites and mold " Certain drugs and food additives " Irritants in the air, such as smoke, chemical fumes and strong odors " Colds, the flu or other illnesses " Exercise (although people with asthma can benefit from some exercise) " Stress " Weather conditions, such as cold air or extremely dry, wet or windy weather Asthma Management and Treatment Prevention of symptoms is the best strategy. A person with asthma should know what situations trigger an attack and avoid them whenever possible. If asthma attacks are severe, are unpredictable or flare up more than twice a week, consultation with an allergist can help to determine their cause and provide long-term treatment that controls or eliminates the symptoms.

Asthma Facts and Figures Studies show that people with asthma who see a specialist, such as an allergist, reduce their: " Symptoms "Emergency room visits " Hospital stays " Visits to the doctor be-

cause they are sick " Missed days from work or school " Health care costs If asthma is left unmanaged or is misdiagnosed, it can be deadly: " Asthma is among the most common chronic childhood illnesses, accounting for 10.5 million missed school days a year.

It also accounts for 14.2 million lost workdays for adults. " Every year, about 14 million Americans see a doctor for asthma. About 1.4 million patients visit a hospital outpatient department for asthma; almost 1.75 million go to a hospital emergency room. " The number of people in the U.S. diagnosed with asthma is increasing. The greatest rise in asthma rates is among black children, with an almost 50 percent increase from 2001 through 2009. " Researchers estimate asthma-related costs, including the direct cost of health care and indirect costs such as decreased worker productivity, at around $60 billion annually.

Many people with asthma manage the condition well and can live a healthy and

Many people with asthma don't know allergists are specialist in asthma care and they can get asthma symptoms under control.

"Allergists are specially trained to identify the factors that trigger asthma," says allergist Bryan Martin, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). "But statistics show most people with asthma, including children, don't see an allergist - a specialist who could improve their symptoms. Allergists take a detailed history, and may do testing to identify your unique set of triggers and symptoms, and create an asthma plan to treat them."

Studies show that when an allergist treats asthma, it results in: " A 77 percent reduction in time lost from work or school. " A 45 percent reduction in sick care office visits. " A 77 percent reduction in emergency room costs. " Improved emotional and physical well-being, and greater satisfaction with your physician and with the quality of your general medical care.

May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness month, and it's a great time to evaluate whether your asthma is under control. If it's not, ACAAI has information on why you should

see an allergist. With the right measures in place, those who suffer from asthma can reduce or stop their symptoms.

You should consider going to an allergist if you: " Have asthma symptoms every day and often at night that limit your activities. " Have had a life-threatening asthma attack. " Have symptoms that are unusual or hard to diagnose. " Have co-existing conditions such as severe allergic rhinitis ("hay fever") or sinusitis that complicate asthma or its diagnosis. " Have been admitted to a hospital because of asthma.

While asthma cannot be cured, it can be controlled.

And when asthma is controlled, you can expect improvement in your overall health. Controlling asthma means: " No or fewer asthma symptoms, even at night or after exercise. " Prevention of all or most asthma attacks. " Participation in all activities, including exercise. " No emergency room visits or hospital stays. " Less need for quick-relief medicines. " Minimized side effects from asthma medications.

Treatment for your allergies may include immunotherapy (allergy shots).

Allergists are specialists at providing allergy shots, which can reduce sensitivity to the allergens that trigger asthma attacks, and significantly reduce the severity of the disease.

They can also prevent the development of asthma in some children with seasonal allergies. Courtesy: acaai

"My becoming an actor wasn't planned. My interest always lied in sports such as football, martial arts, gymnastics and dance", says Shroff.

Photo: timesofindia Budding actor Tiger Shroff, known for his flawless dance moves, says he wasn't born a dancer and had to work hard a lot.

Budding actor Tiger Shroff, known for his flawless dance moves, says he wasn't born a dancer and had to work hard a lot. He has paid a tribute to late pop star Michael Jackson, but he shared that dancing doesn't come easily to him. "I was born with two left feet. I worked hard," Tiger Shroff told reporters after winning the Best Debut trophy at 16th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend and Awards on Sunday.

He was feted by dancing star Hrithik Roshan, who said that the son of actor Jackie Shroff reminds him of his days when he started off in the film industry as an actor in 2000. "We have one thing in common. We both have to fight genetics as our fathers are amazing dancers," Hrithik, son of actorfilmmaker Rakesh Roshan, joked before handing over the award to Tiger.

The "Heropanti" star has always been vocal about

how much he respects Hrithik, but when it comes to dancing there are more actors who inspire the youngster. "Shahid Kapoor is technical and his dance moves are clean. Govinda is the smoothest dancer. I don't think I can dance like him," said Tiger, who was nervous about joining the film industry.

Having made a successful Bollywood acting debut with 'Heropanti', he says he didn't expect to be appreciated by the audience.

"There was so much pressure on me as I am a star's kid. I didn't want to join the industry. My father became an overnight star with 'Hero' so, I was scared what if my debut film didn't work," said the actor, who gives most of the credit to the film's producer Sajid Nadiadwala.

His father might be from the same industry, but Tiger says Jackie doesn't interfere in his work. "He has a different mind and I have a different mind. He doesn't help me in choosing scripts," said Tiger.

"My becoming an actor wasn't planned. My interest always lied in sports such as football, martial arts, gym-

nastics and dance. I was not a demanding child and was happy to be given a football, a pump and food. I was very shy and would dance to Michael Jackson videos when nobody was watching me. Michael Jackson is so unique and I look upto him and try to imbibe as much from him and marry it to my own style. I started training in martial arts from the age of four. As a child, you don't understand much but there are people whose aura attracts you.

Bruce Lee was that person for me. He had this X factor and I knew at a young age that he was somebody like whom I wanted to be some day. I have seen all his films. I learnt gymnastics as I was always fascinated with those athletes. My dream is to play a super human by playing a super hero some day as that is the closest you can come to being a super human. Basically, what a gymnast does is extraordinary as he basically defies physics. That is the closest you can come to flying. A gymnast can easily play the role of a Spider-Man.", adds Tiger.

Courtesy: Indianexpress

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Rio Olympics: Dipa Karmakar lifts India on another disappointing day New Delhi, Aug 8: The news from Rio de Janeiro was not encouraging from an Indian perspective barring one exceptional performance from gymnast Dipa Karmakar+ , who qualified for the finals of the vault event. India's contingent struggled to produce dominant performances at the Olympics for the second day running.

Dipa scripted history as she became the first Indian to make the cut for the individual vault finals in her debut Olympic Games after finishing eighth in the qualifying round.

She managed to perform her much-appreciated 'Produnova' vault cleanly to secure 14.850 points after two attempts. It was a nervous wait, for she had ended sixth after the third sub-divisions with two more to go. She dropped to 8th eventually when Canadian Shallon Olsen's effort of 14.950 reshuffled the overall standings.

But that was just about enough to secure her a place in the finals scheduled for August 14 as the top-8 made the cut for the medal round. Dipa secured 7.000 on difficulty and 8.1 on execution in her first attempt.

Her score for difficulty was a tad lower at 6.000 in the second attempt.

In shooting, Heena Sidhu+ failed to qualify for the 10m women's air pistol event while her male compatriots

work of Bombayla and Laxmirani. In the third set, however, Deepika nailed a 10-pointer early on before the Colombians rallied to level the scores 52-52. In the fourth and final set, the last of the Colombian archers succumbed under pressure and came up with a bizarre 3-point shot to hand India a 52-44 victory and a place in the quarterfinals.

Dipa Karmakar Manavjit Singh Sandhu+ and Kynan Chenai were precariously placed headed into the Monday's second round of men's trap qualifications, while the women's archery team was narrowly beaten in the quarterfinals of their event.

In the individual all-round ranking, she is at 27th spot with no chance of making it to the final of the event.

In all-round, she registered scores of 15.100 (vault), 11.666 (uneven bars), 12.866 (balance beam) and 12.033 (floor exercise), finishing with a cumulative score of 51.665

The best result of the day was the Indian women's hockey team+ drawing 2-2 with Japan in their first Olympics appearance since 1980.

Indeed, the return of Indian women's hockey to the Olympics after 36 years ended on a promising note, as the team, ranked 13th in the world, rallied from 0-2 to having conceded two goals in the first half. Goalless at half-time, India rebounded through Rani Rampal in the 31s minute and Lilima Minz in the 40th for a superb rearguard ef-

fort.

India next play Great Britain in their next pool match at 02:35 IST on Tuesday.

Before the draw with Japan, the big new of the day was the women's archery team, comprising of Deepika Kumari, Laxmirani Majhi and Bombayla Devi, holding their nerve to beat Colombia 5-3 in the pre-quarter-finals at the Sambodrome.

Having clinched the first set 52-51, the Indian archers lost the second set 49-50 with Deepika hitting a 7point shot at the end to somewhat negate the good

However, come the bigger stage and the team ended up losing by two points+ against their Russian counterparts.

The news from the Olympic Shooting Centre was not encouraging. The former world No 1 Sidhu finished 14th to exit her first event of the Games, and when day one of the men's trap qualification ended, three-time Olympian Sandhu and debutant Chenai were placed 17th and 19th respectively.

The 39-year-old Sandhu who went to the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Summer Games and has won at every major tournament barring the Olympics - fell from third place to 17th while Chenai, 25, held onto ninth place for a period but slipped down to 19th position at the end of the day. The pair will resume shooting at 18:00 IST on Monday, but their chances of making the final look slim.

Vikas to open India's Oly boxing campaign tomorrow Rio de Janeiro, Aug 8 (PTI) An American ended his Olympic dream in 2012 amid controversial circumstances and Vikas Krishan will have redemption on mind when he takes on another American Charles Conwell in his opening bout to kick off India's boxing campaign in the Olympic Games here tomorrow.

Seeded seventh in the middleweight draw, the only Indian boxer to get a billing in the Games, Vikas will be up against a greenhorn opponent in Conwell, merely 18 years of age and making his debut in the mega-event.

The 24-year-old Indian, on the

other hand, has grown quite literally, moving from welterweight to middleweight after the London debacle against Errol Spence -- the American who was initially adjudged the loser before successfully appealing against the decision on technical grounds.

Vikas would be aiming to make amends for all that had gone wrong in 2012.

waiting for him.

Incidentally, middleweight is the category which gave India its maiden Olympic medal through Vijender Singh back in 2008.

A day after Vikas's bout, the three-member Indian team's seniormost boxer Manoj Kumar (64kg) will be in action against Lithuania's former lightweight Olympic bronze-medallist Evaldas Petrauskas.

Among the three Indian boxers in fray, Vikas' draw has turned out to be most favourable and the biggest challenge that he might come across will be in the quarterfinals where second seed Bektemir Melikuziev could be

On Thursday, the squad's youngest Shiva Thapa (56kg), a World Championships bronze-medallist, will square off against Cuba's Robeisy Ramirez, seeded sixth and flyweight Olympic champion from the 2012 Games.

Independence cup football tournament 2016 miao

Indrajit Tingwa Miao, 8 Aug : The first quarter final of the ongoing Independence Cup Football Tournament was played between Scorpion Returns and Civil Power FC. Scorpion Returns defeated Civil Power FC and secured their place in the semis. Nobo Phukan,Jersey No.8 of Scorpion Returns scored their gaol just five minutes before half time. Civil Power FC could not score any goal till the end of the first half.

In the second half Civil Power

FC got a free kick and its player Nongkop Techi, Jersey No. 6 made a superb use of the opportunity giving a straight drive of the ball and netting it on the upper corner of the goal post. With the equaliser from Civil Power FC, the regular match time ended in a draw.

In the ten minutes extra time both the teams failed to score any goals paving the way for the extra time penalty shoot out. The decider came through the extra time penalty shoot out during the five men each round as one of

the players from Civil Power FC could not score as the ball hit the bar. Thus Scorpion Returns won the match by 1 goal lead in the extra time penalty shoot.

Scorpion Returns will take on the winner of fourth quarter final which will be played on 11 August next. Today's match saw three players get the yellow card; two players of Civil Power FC and one from Scorpion Returns.

Tomorrow's match : Kuttum FC will play against UMFC in the second quarter final.

About JD Institute of Fashion Technology

National Handlooms Day:JD Institute Celebrates In Assam Awards Won Interior Department 1. Most Commercially Viabl KABYASHREE RABHA 2. Most Innovative RITU KEJRIWAL 3.Best Design KOMAL DAMANI 4.Outstanding Collection TRIKHA SONOWAL

Dibrugarh, Aug 7: Leading up to August 7, The National Handloom Day is observed to generate awareness about the importance of handloom industry which is part of India's rich heritage and culture.

On the occasion of World Handlooms Day, JD Institute of Fashion Technology has decided to Celebrate its 8th Jd Annual Design Awards at Tirupati Mandapam, Seujpur. Indian hand-looms have long been languishing in the corner of a fast churning fashion cycle, it's historic beauty has been unravelling in the rush of industry driven trends.

Over 43 lakh people are engaged in handloom weaving and allied activities in India.

The event provided a platform to the student designers from the fashion and interior design departments to showcase their innovative skills. The Annual Design Awards is one of the biggest platform for JEDIIANS not only to showcase their flair but an opportunity to work with leading designers and be seen and recruited by leading brands. This event of creativity showcased the creations designed by the students of fashion and interior design departments on the theme 'UNTOLD STORIES'. Behind every work of art lies a story. A story of artists and artisans no one hears about, because they work in the shadows.

The students of JD Institute are going to use their imagination to tell the lost stories

of these artists, because every artist has a story to tell.

But sometimes it is up to someone else to bring their story into light, celebrate their craft through their

work and create something new - AN UNTOLD STORY Mr.Rc Dalal,Executive Director, JD Institute of Fashion Technology says," "Handloom industry forms an important part of culture and tradition and it's one of the second largest employment generating sector for rural India. All it needs is our attention (fashion industry ) to evoke a new revolu-

Fashion Department 1. Most Commercially Viable JOYSHREE LEKHARU, SABITRI SHAH, JINTI SONOWAL 2. Most Innovative: MAMSHAM RONRANG, POONAM CHETIA 3.Best Design Mridusmita das &Sumi borah 4.Outstanding Collection Krishna Ram, Naina Regon & Pushpa Bhujil

tion and take this to the world. I have already requested to India Fashion week in London to have a special section on Handloom Designer products of India.

Mr. Deepak Jain, Centre Director, JD Institute of Fashion Technology Dibrugarh spoke on the occasion and congratulated the student designers of JD and assured that JD

The Institute sets a new benchmark in innovative teaching methodologies for its students and giving them the best learning experience. The institute was established by Mr. Chandrakant Dalal & Mr. R.C. dalal with an intention to enhance the student's worthiness and imbibe the nobler values of life in their receptive minds. The Dibrugarh Centre is headed by Mr. Deepak Jain who has always had a progressive outlook and has cultivated a symbiotic relationship with the National and International design fraternity.

The JD Institute of Fashion

Technology focuses on creating the designers of tomorrow.

The institute is committed to anticipating and fulfilling the ever-changing requirements of the design industry by producing world-class designers. JD provides the perfect setting for aspirants to become professionally competent, confident and translating talent into a rewarding career. This provides young jediiians an optimum exposure to the real world of fashion by taking assignments with choicest of brands, participating in selected shows, exhibitions and competitions, while pursuing their education.

Dibrugarh would come out with such initiatives every year. Mr. Jain also said that he was very happy to see that the student designers presenting beautiful collections and added pride to the state of Assam. "It was a night to remember, I hope all the students will achieve their dream in future who have so much talent here at this stage. Best wishes from my side to all my passing

out Jediiians"In order to inspire the potential designers and give them a prospect to associate with the leaders of the industry, the Annual Awards are organized every year. JD Institute of Fashion Technology focuses on creating the designers of tomorrow and is committed to anticipating and fulfilling the ever-changing requirements of the fashion industry by producing top-notch fashion designers.

In the Event Awards were also given to three most prominent weavers from Dibrugarh Mr.Bharat Gohain, Mrs Gunyaprova Sonowal, Mrs.Nirabha Pait Gohain in association with Handloom & Textile dept, Govt of Assam. Mr.Ranjit Deka, Assistant Director, Handloom & Textile gave away the awards along with Mr.RC Dalal & Deepak Jain to celebrate National Handlooms day.

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