10th jan 2016

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ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

India and Pakistan Find Overlapping Interests in Afghanistan

Issue 216

Dibrugarh, Sunday, January 10, 2016

Page 9

Page 10

Intelligence agencies have received inputs of possible terror attack by Ulfa cadres IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS Indian Air Force (IAF) airbase in Chabua under Dibrugarh District could be the next target for the militants to strike.

Chabua Airbase has the latest airplanes of the nation including the Sukhoi-30 MKi and Chetak helicopters making it’s a key airbase.

Anti-Talks faction of the Ulfa led by its C-in-C self styled Maj. Gen. Paresh Barua could be the one planning the attack to create sensation.

A file photo of Indian Air Force demonstrating their strenght at Chabua Air Base.

Pic - Pronib Das

At a time when the entire nation is reeling under the impact of the Pathankot episode, intelligence agencies has reported that the Indian Air Force (IAF) airbase in Chabua in upper Assam’s Dibrugarh district could be the next target for the militants to strike.

A senior police official in Dibrugarh said that there are certain inputs which need to be corroborated and confirmed in consultation with various agencies and the security forces.

“Security measures are be-

ET CAPSULES Road mishap, 2 killed Rangia Jan 9 : Two pedestrian were killed in two different road accident held at NH 31st of Rangia on Friday. one Mukut Ahmed(40) was killed on the spot when a mini Truck knocked him down near Barolia bridge on the NH 31 at 9-30 pm.

According to the Police the mini truck knocked Ahmed when he was just trying to cross the NH on foot at night.Police recovered the dead body and sent for post mortem . In another accident one Pradip kalita of ghograpar of Nalbari district was killed by a truck while he was crossing the road near fly over in the morning. (Correspondent)

aircraft and helicopters operating from the base. It then took on a training role as MIG21 were based here training young fighter pilots and providing air defence to the region. However, in 2009 the last squadron of Mig-21 moved out from Chabua. After undergoing major renovation and expansion, the Sukhoi-30 MKI multirole fighters were indicted in the base since Feb 2011.

“As the input was received that the station might come under attack, the IAF has restricted entry of casual workers in the base. The identity of these workers who are engaged for various works by contractors are cross checked and veri-

Security at the base is tightened entry is restricted for casual workers. fied”, sources said.

The sources also stated that cadres from the anti-talks faction of the Ulfa led by its Cin-C self styled Maj. Gen. Paresh Barua might be planning the attack to create sensation.

“In the past too it has been noticed that the Ulfa cadres trigger blasts or carry out attacks through its armed cadres on important central government owned installations like railway tracks, oil and gas pipelines, army camps and convoys, etc to send a message to New Delhi about its existence”, the source said. This time too they might be planning in the same manner, the sources said.

NE Youths, a talented lot: Assam CM A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 9

“The youth of the North East are no longer inferior to the rest of the country and elsewhere.

They are very talented and have carved out niche for themselves in different fields in national and international levels,” said Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi at the State Youth Festival and Metropolis, an Urban Winter Festival, at Nehru Park in Guwahati late evening yesterday.

In his inaugural address, Chief Minister Gogoi said that the youth of the North East have made a mark for themselves in different fields and have made

the region and the country proud of their achievements. “The youth of Assam and other North Eastern States are very talented and have displayed their prowess in different fields and earned laurels for the region and the country as a whole,” he added.

Gogoi said events like the State Youth Festival and Metropolis are platforms in which hidden talents can showcase their creativity and earn encomiums from the people. “These events give the much-needed exposure to the latent talents to exhibit their creativity and in the process earn approbation from the people,” he said, adding that the youth power needs to be channelized to bring about eco-

nomic prosperity of the State and the nation as a whole.

The Chief Minister felicitated the young achievers of Assam and other North East States who have bagged awards in national and international levels. Gogoi also posed with the mascot of the forthcoming South Asian Games being staged in Guwahati and Shillong in February. Earlier, Member Secretary, Students’ and Youth Welfare Advisory Committee, Debabrata Saikia highlighted the salient features of the State Youth Festival and Metropolis and the various events being lined up for the occasion.

Colourful dances showcasing the North East marked the three-day event.

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Pak's assurance to take prompt action a `good gesture`: Defence expert

Page 6

Oil achieves success in bio-remediation of oil contamination in drilling effluent pits ET Bureau Duliajan, Jan 9

Oil India Limited in Duliajan, Assam has achieved a unique success, in first of its kind “Pilot Scale BioRemediation” initiative for improvement of water quality with respect to oil content in the “Drilling Effluent Pits” at location NLA at Amgurigaon in Dibrugarh District, Assam.

BIO-REMEDIATION PILOT STUDY BY OIL, A SUCCESS

In Situ

Bio

Remediation

In Place

Microbial

Method to Fix

The pilot study by the Research and Development Department located in the field headquarters of Oil India Limited in Duliajan, Assam has found that the oil content at the NLA site has been brought down to a level of 10 ppm from original level of 2, 00,000 ppm. This has made the environment of the pits conducive for the growth of algae and associated aquatic flora & fauna.

(Protection) Rules, 1986) of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India.

Stated in a press release by the enterprise that the results obtained from bio-assay for determining the toxicity of the treated effluent (water) from the pits using the Fish Survivability Test, have been found to conform to the Standards for Discharge of Environmental Pollutants (The Environment

The initiative spearheaded by its newly established Biotechnology Section (Petroleum Biotechnology Centre, JAIVALAYA) started in the month of August 2015 with an objective of lowering the oil content in Drilling Effluent Pits to less than 10 ppm within a timeframe of six (6) months.

Biological agents (bacteria, fungi, plants or their enzymes) used to clean up pollution in the environment.

The technology used in the pilot scale study involves augmentation of the rate of biodegradation of floating oil in the pits with the help of microorganisms (bacteria) which are naturally occurring in the environment along with incorporation of bacterial species capable of rapid degradation of the oil contamination. This is for the first time that such an integrated approach of bioremediating oil contamination

Oil content at the targeted effluent pits at NLA site has been brought down to a level of 10 ppm from original level of 2, 00,000 ppm within a study time frame of 6 months.

This has made the environment of the pits conducive for the growth of algae and associated aquatic flora & fauna.

The results have been found to conform to the Standards for Discharge of Environmental Pollutants (The Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986) of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India in water bodies (effluent pits) has been tried out in Oil India Limited.

Measurement of the oil content in effluent water, using internationally accepted standard protocols and advanced Gas Chromatographic analysis, of the various fractions of crude oil corroborates to the success of the integrated In-Situ bioremediation/bio-augmentation technology used in the project.

MLAs call for lie detector test of Minister Tirong Aboh as politician-militant nexus generates steam in Arunachal A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 9

The reported case of politician – militant nexus in Arunachal Pradesh today gained more steam with two Congress MLAs Honchun Ngandam and Thangwang Wangham calling for a lie detector test of state food and civil supplies minister Tirong Aboh so that the truth on the minister’s alleged connection with NSCN (K) can be proved.

“If Shri Aboh is true to his words as stated in media that he has no contact with any cadre of NSCN (K), then we challenge him to have a lie detector test to prove his innocence”, the two MLAs stated in a written press statement emailed to the media.

Allegations and counter allegations of politician-militant nexus in Arunachal Pradesh is not a new thing. In the past too there have been several allegations that politicians particularly from the eastern part of

CHAKMAS IN MYANMAR CELEBRATES CHAKMA DAY

the state had taken the help of militants to topple governments. There are also allegations that politicians ‘pay heavily’ to militants to ensure their and their party workers safety during elections. The current round of allegations has surfaced after the two MLAs Ngandam and Wangham came up with a written press statement that one of the relatives of Ngandam was kidnapped by a NSCN (K) militant who was reportedly close to Aboh in the past.

The allegations were later denied by Aboh who had also stated in the media that he will file defamation case against the two MLAs. “We welcome any defamation case by Mr Tirong Aboh if he is able to prove his innocence. An FIR has been lodged in the police station at Pongchau and copy endorsed to DC and SP of Longding district on the matter of kidnapping of Shri Panggam Ngandam.

We are sure that police will be able to establish involvement of Shri Tirong Aboh and Shri Nabam Tuki in this case.

On this matter, we are ready to offer our full support to the investigation and due course of investigation will definitely reveal hands of Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and Shri Tirong Aboh”, the MLAs said.

When contact by this newspaper, Aboh said that these are all unnecessary controvercies.

“The two MLAs stay at the vicinity of Myanmar border and therefore they would have possible relation with the militants in Myanmar and not me who stay in Khonsa”. Aboh said.

Yesterday, Aboh as published by media alleged that the abducted boy Shri Honchun Ngandam could be a member NSCN (K).

Howver, the two MLAs argued that allegation is false and baseless. If it is so then how can Panngam be kidnapped by his own relatives putting his life to risk? the MLAs said.

ACDSU demands high level inquiry A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 9

The All Changlang District Students Union (ACDSU) has demanded a high level inquiry into the allegations made by a few MLAs from Longding that Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and Minister Tirong Aboh are allegedly using the NSCN (K) to intimidate and threaten them to join the Tuki camp. “It is a matter of concern for us. A proper inquiry should be conducted to bring out the actual truth behind the whole episode”, Mengpa Haisa, President, ACDSU said.

It should be mentioned that the elected MLA’s from Longding district Honchun Ngandam, Contd. on Page 3

Opium smuggled to Tinsukia through Manipur in oil - tankers

Two labourers injured in wall collapse Tinsukia, Jan 9. In an incident at Tinsukia college on Saturday, two labourers were injured after the wall they were breaking collapsed on them. One labour Sujit Bhumij of Katchujan gaon received severe injuries while the other labour moved away with minor injury. It is yet to be ascertained the exact cause of wall collapse and whether there was any negligence on the part of the contractor or college authorities.

Tinsukia college auditorium was being broken as it was unscientific ally built leading to echoing in the auditorium making it useless. (Spl Correspondent)

Pages- 12

Bajaj…the new market leader in entry-level and sports bikes

After Pathankot, it’s IAF Chabua airbase!

ing taken accordingly by the police, army and IAF so that there is no repetition of the Pathankot episode”, the senior police official of the district said.

The Chabua base is a key base of the IAF and it had the latest airplanes of the nation including the Sukhoi-30 MKi and Chetak helicopters.

Chabua is also known as the ‘eastern bastion’ of the IAF which was built in 1939 and used through the war by allied forces in support of the Chinese against the invading Japanese forces.

The station has served as a major supply point for the troops deployed in Arunachal Pradesh with various transport

5.00

Bollywood Movie on Racism Suffered by Northeast People

Page 8

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 9

Price -

Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Jan 9

In a major narcotics haul on Saturday wee hours, Makum police recovered 1.5 kgs of opium worth Rupees 1.5 crore from a house at Amguri under Phillobari police station in Tinsukia district arrested two persons.

The arrested duo, father - son has been identified as Monjit Moran and Sunil Moran.

Kali Kumar Tongchangya, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) of Mizoram (India) participated at the event ‘Chakma Day’ as the Chief Guest.

News at Page 7

According to police sources, after a specific tipoff of arms movement in the area Makum police led by

Makum ps officer in charge Bhaskar Saikia launched an operation on Friday evening.

Policemen in civil uniform started checking suspicious vehicles and in the wee hours intercepted a scooty, added sources and said although nothing was recovered from the scooty but when the scooty driver was questioned he admitted his role in opium smuggling.

Officer in charge of Makum police station Bhaskar Saikia said on his pointing police reached his house and recovered 1.5 kg opium and cash 35000.

Bhaskar said Monjit father Sunil was also arrested for

being involved in opium smuggling and handed over to Phillobari ps where and suo-moto case has been registered.

In the meantime, ET correspondent has learnt that the opium had come from Manipur in an oil - tanker.

Police is trying to find out the links in Manipur and whether the trail leads to Myanmar which means international drug rackets are involved in North East drugs business.

ET correspondent has also learned that several people in Tinsukia district are part of this racket and police is trying to identify them.

cmyk

Dalam Studio Near parking stand Khonsa

PAGE 2

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

Congress emerged as majority as ten BJP members join Congress formally ET Correspondent Haflong , Jan 9: As many as ten BJP members including Executive Members of N C Hills Autonomous Council under the leadership of Mihir Gorlosa have the joined the Indian National Congress ceremonially in presence of state congress leaders at Rajiv Bhawan, Guwahati on Saturday , in-

formed Kulendra Daulagupu over phone from Guwahati.

Sri Daolagupu talking to the media also said they would meet the Governor on Monday next to claim the majority and to form the government in the NCHAC. He further disclosed that three more Executive Members were also willing

to join the INC very soon.

Though there has been preparation of forming government in the NCHAC by the Congress with these members, but the people of Dima Hasao were in still confused.

Mihir Gorlosa, MAC NCHAC who is leading the team disclosed that the present political development of

NCHAC was only due to unjustifieds interference of the state political leader who have little knowledge of Dima Hasao.

Meanwhile, Sri H a m j a n a n Langthasa, BJP state Executive Member and also the former president said since the state BJP leaders took the credit of forming the government in the NCHAC

by toppling the congress led council they should also take the responsibility of this recent political development in which BJP is reduced to minority. He, expressing concern over the bleak future of BJP in Dima Hasao due to such political hegemony by the state BJP leaders who have little knowledge of politics in Dima Hasao.

Interference of State BJP leaders, ignoring of senior local BJP leaders of Dima Hasao in regards to the Dima Hasao politics has become boomerang to the BJP in Dima Hasao. He suggested that if the BJP party was to be strengthened in Dima Hasao, the present BJP president of the Dima Hasao should be changed by a popu-

lar and senior most BJP leader of the district taking all the grass root leaders of the district in confidence.

The politics in Dima Hasao in particular is different in comparison to other places of the state.

Yesterday’s firing at the residence of Chief Executive Member, NCHAC Sri Niranjan

Hojai by unidentified gunmen caused minor damaged informed the Addl. SP Sri Hoen Takbi who rushed to the spot and launched investigation. At a time when there was a political development was going on the firing at the CEM resident raised several questions in the mind of the people Dima Hasao.

APPDSSU general conference held Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi meets ATTSA delegation

A Staff reporter Itanagar, Jan 9 : The fourth general conference election cum cultural meet 2016 of the All Pakke Kessang, Pijerang, DissingPasso, Seijosa Students’ Union (APPDSSU) was held from 07-10th January 2016 at Govt. Higher Secondary School ground Pakke Kessang, East Kameng District.

Delegates from all these four places came together to discuss and share their experiences and grievances in the conference. Ex-ZPM cum founder member of APPDSSU B.C.Tok was the chief guest and spoke at length about the history of the union.

During his speech, Tok highlighted the criteria of a member to join the union.

He stressed on the role of a student while he or she is in the union. He frankly warned the system of appointing married people or those who are involving in the politics to lead students union. “This conference is purely for the students. Here we want to see the identical students whether he is in standard 1 or pursuing Ph.D. We must search for the students to join the union not otherwise,” Tok said. He informed the gathering that the union has been set up way back in 1981. He reminded how the union was formed and high-

APPDSSU general conference held

lighted the activities carried forward since those days to bring together the students of Pakke Kessang and the other villages under one platform.

govt. Special invitees who spoke on the occasion include Niania Golo, general secretary ANSU, Sunil Nabam, social worker and Tadap Nabam social worker was the guest of honor.

He explicitly outlined the ways on how to develop the connection and relationship among the members of the union, the intellectual and the representatives to the

ANSU general secretary gave words of advice and encouraged the delegates to be united, focus and dedicate in their studies. Guest

of honor also explained his experience as a student and delivered words of encouragement.

An album contains more than ten songs named ‘Ngulam Dwr Bukke’ was released on second day of the conference by the Chief Guest. It was dedicated to the people of Pakke Kessang assembly constitu-

ency. Singers including Taba Yall Nabam, Ngurang Yaper Nabam, Ashok sonam Tajo, Neelam Pop, Bengia Beeron, Panya Tadap contributed to the album and Lyricist Biki Para Tok was the main composer of all the songs. The album was sponsored by Sunil Nabam, B.C.Tok, Dema Natung, Raju Camder Tok and Yakap Nabam.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 9 : Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi met a delegation of the Assam Tea Tribes Students’ Association (ATTSA) led by its president Prahlad Gowala at his official residence late evening yesterday. In course of the hourlong discussion, Chief Minister Gogoi assured the delegation that a state level academic centre would be set up in Guwahati to impart coaching to the students of tea community so that they can compete in competitive examinations.

Gogoi said the Government is mulling the idea to set up study centres in the sub-divisions as well as district headquarters.

improve further the health facilities in the tea gardens. Gogoi assured the delegation that steps would be initiated to install individual electric metre in every household of tea workers.

Gogoi told the delegation that the Government would initiate steps to arrange posting of more language teachers in the tea gardens so that the tea students’ community are benefitted.

The Chief Minister said the Government is taking stringent punitive action against those tea garden managements failing to implement the Plantation Labour Act. “Deputy Commissioners have been directed to monitor the implementation of the Plantation Labour Act The Chief Minister and to take stringent said the Government p u n i t i v e action would take steps to against those man-

CULTURE WITH MODERNITY

A cultural troupe taking part during a cultural procession organized as part of Desang Festival at Sivasagar Desangmukh Today. Pic - Firuz Ahmed

agements failing to comply with the provisions of the Act,” he said. Gogoi further assured the delegation that the Government would look into other charter of demands of ATTASA that included, among others, creation of a special package for revival of 15 gardens u n d e r A s s a m Te a Corporation (ATC), setting up a hospital in the tea gardens falling under ATC, ration for tea workers in ATC gardens, enhancement of wages and a special package for students of tea garden c o m m u n i t y. T h e meeting was attended, among others, by Additional Chief Secretary, VB Pyarelal, Additional Chief Secret a r y, S L M e w a r a and Principal Secr e t a r y, PK Borthakur.

PAGE 3

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

Skill development training programme ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Jab 9: A three months long skill development training programme has been get underway on beauty culture and hair dressing at Fresh Looks complex in Kokrajhar.

Hundreds of trainees from various parts of the district are participating in the training, was organized by Indian Institute of Enterprsneurs (IIE),

Guwahati in association with Fresh Look saloon and SPA, Kokrajhar under the sponsorship of Assam State Urban Livelihood Mission Society.

An official team from IIE led by director Manaj Kumar Das at the training programme and interacted with trainees.

Das said, 'The training was started from December and has been imparting

trying educated girl and women on the beauti culture and hair dressing. The training programme has been aimed to give knowledge about keeping beauti culture and hair dressing among society'.

Prasant Goswami,Utpal Bayan, faculty members of IIE and Durga Mahan Goyary, proprietor of Fresh Look saloon, Kokkrajhar were also present on the day.

China treads cautiously on Pakistan link to Pathankot attack New Delhi, Jan. 9 (ANI): Even as the United States asked Islamabad to expedite its efforts in bringing down perpetrators of the Pathankot terrorists attack to the book, China on Saturday said Pakistan is also a victim of terrorism and China, India, Pakistan and the international community need to make joint efforts instead of accusing each other.

"I think you cannot say just in a go Pakistan. Pakistan is also a victim of terrorists' attacks.

Pakistan's Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and External Affairs Ministry have also strongly condemned the terror attack.

The government of Pakistan, and we are all, against terrorism - that's for sure," said Chinese Ambassador to India, Le Yucheng, on Saturday when his response was sought on the evidence provided by New Delhi to Islamabad linking Pathankot terror attack to Pakistan.

"The terrorism is our common enemy that we have to confront and

fight against," he said treading cautiously on the issue.

Condemning the Pathankot attack Yucheng said China is also a victim of terrorism and shares the feeling and anger of India.

"We strongly condemn terrorist attacks wherever they take place. China is also a victim of terrorists' attacks, so we share the feeling and anger of the Indian people. We have strengthened our cooperation to confront terrorism," he said.

"Over the years, we have a lot of contacts to discuss how to cooperate in dealing with the terrorist attacks. It is an important task not only for China, but for the international community to strengthen our cooperation to meet the challenges posed by terrorism and confront it," he said.

Meanwhile, the US has sent a tough message to Pakistan for the third time to act fast against perpetrators of Pathankot air base attack.

Talking to reporters in Washington, D.C., a senior US state department official asked Islamabad to walk the talk on its promises to act tough against terrorists operating from its soil.

He also asked Pakistan to conduct a complete and thorough probe into the terrorist attack on Pathankot air base.

He said the US was in touch with Pakistan on this issue, adding that Pakistan had said they were going to investigate.

It should be aggressive in its counter terror operations and bring the perpetrators of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack to justice, he said.

According to officials in Washington, D.C., it would become very difficult for the US to convince the Republicancontrolled Congress to approve the sale of eight F-16s to Pakistan, if Islamabad is seen as reluctant in taking action against terrorist groups.

(ANI)

More teachers appointment for Assam schools, says CM

Assam CM Tarun Gogoi ET Correspondent Jorhat, Jan 9: More teachers appointments in recent days for more schools in Assam, said Tarun Gogoi, Chief Minister of Assam while attending as the chief guest on the occasion of diamond jubilee celebration of Mihiram Saikia Higher Secondary School at Titabor here today.

The Chief Minister said teachers grievances will be resolved very soon and he further emphasized on academic flourishment and also announced awards for teachers who will excel in their respective subjects in various level school; levels.

He also announced Rs. 30 lakh for infrastructural development of Mihiram Saikia Higher Secondary School which was established 75 years ago.

He said with establishment of SEBA Regional office at Jorhat the functioning of SEBA system for nearly 700 schools from Upper Assam will be day by day

becoming more and more transparent in all aspects.

Regarding teachers-principals involvement in building construction work and teachers moving from door to door at the SEBA office at Guwahati and at the School Inspector’s office in respective district headquarter has been curtailed which will be looked by the department, all works will be done through various panels, informed Kamal Jyoti Gogoi- SEBA secretary who was also present in the occasion.

On the other hand the donor family of Mihiram Saikia Higher Secondary School praised for first school in Titabor that was established 75 years ago.

The donors family from the saikia’s clan was highly praised and thank for the great idea for donating land and property for the establishment of school when there was no other school in the entire sub-division then, Chief Minister added.

Governor's rule imposed in J-K: Jitendra Singh New Delhi, Jan. 9 (ANI): Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh on Saturday said that Governor's rule has been imposed in Jammu and Kashmir till a new Chief Minister is

sworn-in.

"For now Governor's rule has been imposed in Jammu and Kashmir," Singh told reporters here.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister's post

was left vacant after the incumbent Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed passed away due to multiple organ failure.

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday had said that it would take at least four

days for the swearing-in ceremony of the new Chief Minister.

fore Chaharum of her father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

According to reports, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti is reluctant to take oath as the first woman Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir be-

The PDP leaders met Governor N.N. Vohra earlier to assure him about the continuation of the government under Mehbooba's leadership.

AASU continues to block trucks carrying construction materials to LSHEP ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Jan 9: The blockade programme initiated by All Assam Student Union (AASU) in order to block the trucks carrying the construction materials to Gerukamukh by NHPC has been continuing in Lakhimpur and Dhemaji district. It is noteworthy that on January 7, the Dhemaji District body the organisation declared this program from January 8 to 12 as the building

organisation NHPC with utmost secrecy started the resumption of the construction of the big dam the Lower Subansiri Hydro Electric Project (LSHEP) located at Gerukamukh of Dhemaji district before the submission of the Expert Committee's Report. Condemning the arrogance of NHPC and the negligence of the government side, the organization administered protest burning the effigies of NHPC along with Union

Power Minister Piyush Goel, Youth Welfare and Sport Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi recently.

NHPC has proceeded to this task violating the decision taken in a meeting held in New Delhi between the Power Minister and the anti big dam organizations.

Meanwhile, AASU caught at least four construction materials carrying trucks and blocked them at Gogamukh. On the other

hand, the Lakhimpur District body of the organisation too, administered same kind of blockade at Harmutty in the association with the Harmutty regional body. Sanjiv Konwar and Pulak Borah, the president and the secretary of Lakhimpur District AASU condemned the NHPC and demanded the cease of the construction of LSHEP until the lives and properties of downstream living people are not ensured.

Moreover, Chitta Ranjan Basumatary, Organising Secretary of AASU slammed NHPC attending the blockade side. "NHPC, treading the sentiments of the people of Assam, dared to resume the construction of the dam due to the weak existence of CM Tarun Gogoi.

Sarbananda Sonowal is playing now the roll of agent for the big dam lobby forgetting the promises he made before the Parliamentary election" he alleged.

Tragic road accident at MB Road Tangla : January 9,2016 Shajid Khan Tangla, Jan 9: Two persons were killed and eight others sustained serious injury in a tragic road mishap in MB Road Tangla on Saturday today.The accident took place at 7 in the morning when the Tata DI (AS-13C 3353)carrying bazaar merchants hit a tree in Meskha Pukhuri area under Kalaigaon PS on the way to Puthimari weekly market. Due to the impact of the collision the vehicle overturned.The driver was believed to have lost his control over the vehicle and hit two tree simultaneously.

The persons dead have been identified as Bhajan Sarkar(42), Sajal Dey ( 38).

Among those injured

include Swapan Sutradhar (35), Sujit Kar (35), Subendra Saha (28), Ganesh sarkar (33), Apurba Pal

(26) Ujal Das (26) who have been rushed to GMCH Guwahati. Two other persons Bapi sarkar( 30) Sunil saha

(60) who sustained minor injuries are being treated at 30 beded Kala Guru Bishnu Rabha CHC Tangla. The local

people and organisations have offered condolences and expressed grief at the accident.

Meanwhile the members from donar family of Saikia’s kin namely businessman Pratha saikia, businessman Rocktim Saikia, Eye specialist Dr. Gautam Saikia today added another feather in their Saikia’s cap after donating ten lakh for talented economically poor students. The amount which will be kept in the bank and the interest of the amount will go for such students from ME, high and higher secondary.

Rupjyoti Kurmi (power parliamentary secretary-ad Mariani MLA), Bornali Saikia Bora-OHD to the chief Minister-Assam, Putul Burahgohain-OHD to the chief Minister –Assam among Jorhat DC, SP present in the occasion.

Later the Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi also inaugurated the pipe gas distribution system at Titabor Chariali besides the Dhudor ali here this evening in presence of Amiya Gogoi-chairman of Assam Gas CompanyLimited (AGCL), Duliajan an in presence of several senior officials from the AGCL.

Last night OC Makum PS,SI Bhaskar Saikia and staff Recovered 1.5 kg kaani valued 1.5 lakh approx and cash rupees 35000/ from the possession of Sri Sunil Moran @ Ine S/O Lt Letera Moran of Amguri,PS- Philobari,being chased his son Monjit Moran (left) riding in a scooty from Makum. Pic - Arjun Mishra

ACDSU demands high level inquiry Contd. from Page 1

In the first phase over 5000 families will be linked with domestic gas supply through pipes will start functioning from today. Meanwhile gas supply to Mariani, Jorhat has already underway but process is on to connect Golaghat and Nagaon district very soon, informed senior official of AGCL.

T h a n g w a n g Wangham and Gabriel D. Wangsu had alleged through a written press statement yesterday that Tuki and Aboh had hatched a conspiracy against the MLAs of the Kalikho Pul camp from the three districts of

Longding, Changlang and Tirap by threatening to return to Tuki camp.

“There should not be any role for militants in democracy until they leave the gun and come back to the mainstream.

Therefore, the matter of politician-militants nexus is a major allega-

tions which needs to be properly investigated”, Haisa said.

According to the allegations made by the three MLAs, on the night of 31st December 2015, Shri Panngam Ngandam, nephew of Shri Honchun Ngandam, Hon’ble MLA, PongchauWakka was called to

Kamkah Village in Myanmar by a member of NSCN (K) Johnny Longriam.

Jonny Longriam is stated to be a close worker of Tirong Aboh from Laho village. Now he is working as a revenue officer of NSCN (K). On reaching Kamkah village, Shri Panngam was held in captivity and one Shri

Langlem Pansa, who accompanied him, was sent back to the Indian side within the following threat message. According to the threat message, Shri Honchun Ngandam, Hon’ble MLA, PongchauWakka, should lend his support to Shri Nabam Tuki, the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh.

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

CM Gogoi assures tea community of an academic centre A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 9: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi met a delegation of the Assam Tea Tribes Students’ Association (ATTSA) led by its president Prahlad Gowala at his official residence late evening yesterday.

In course of the hourlong discussion, Chief Minister Gogoi assured the delegation that a state level academic centre would be set up in Guwahati to impart coaching to the students of tea community so that they can compete in competitive examinations.

Gogoi said the Government is mulling the idea to set up study centres in the sub-divisions as well as district headquarters.

The Chief Minister said

the Government would take steps to improve further the health facilities in the tea gardens. Gogoi assured the delegation that steps would be initiated to install individual electric metre in every household of tea workers.

Gogoi told the delegation that the Government would initiate steps to arrange posting of more language teachers in the tea gardens so that the tea students’ community are benefitted.

The Chief Minister said the Government is taking stringent punitive action against those tea garden managements failing to implement the Plantation Labour Act. “Deputy Commissioners have been directed to monitor the implementation of the

Plantation Labour Act and to take stringent punitive action against those managements failing to comply with the provisions of the Act,” he said.

Gogoi further assured the delegation that the Government would look into other charter of demands of ATTASA that included, among others, creation of a special package for revival of 15 gardens under Assam Tea Corporation (ATC), setting up a hospital in the tea gardens falling under ATC, ration for tea workers in ATC gardens, enhancement of wages and a special package for students of tea garden community. The meeting was attended, among others, by Additional Chief Secretary, VB Pyarelal, Additional Chief Secretary, SL Mewara and Principal Secretary, PK Borthakur.

Police to approach Interpol for fake Facebook account of Tripura CM IANS Agartala, Jan 9: The Tripura Police is likely to approach Interpol to probe the fake Facebook account opened in the name of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, an official said here on Saturday. This is the second time in last week the state police have registered a case after a similar misdeed in October 2014.

"Police officials immediately launched a probe into the opening of a fake Facebook account in the name of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar in October 2014. Last week, we came to know that the matter has to be referred to Interpol office in California," a senior police official told IANS on condition of ano-

nymity.

"The state law department would submit a proposal in this regard before the cabinet and after the cabinet approval, the matter would be referred to the union home ministry which would forward the case to Interpol," the official added.

He said the police have taken suo motu cases after learning that a fake Facebook account was opened in October 2014 in the name of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar.

"The latest attempt to open a fake Facebook account in the name of chief minister last week would also be clubbed with the first one.

The fake accounts were op-

erated from abroad," the official said, adding cases were registered with the West Kotowali police station here.

Meanwhile, Director General of Police K. Nagraj said: "The Tripura Police is developing a full-fledged wing of cyber crime. We believe that we would soon get a breakthrough into the offence."

Police found many postings were made in the bogus Facebook accounts.

When contacted, Sarkar told reporters he had neither any mail ID or Facebook account nor has he given permission to anyone to open mail ID or Facebook account.

45 cow recovered at Tinsukia, 3 detained - 2 trucks seized Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Jan 9: In a major cattle smuggling case on Saturday wee hours, Tinsukia and Makum police caught hold of two trucks fully loaded with cows on national highway 37 between Tinsukia and Makum. Altogether 45 cows were recovered from the trucks, four with injuries and seven cows who were in a condition to give milk.

According to sources, the trucks AS01FC2485 and AS02AC1345 were coming from Chowkham in Arunachal Pradesh. On investigation by police the drivers failed to show a single document related to

transportation of cows after which three persons including drivers of both the trucks were detained.

It must be mentioned that law restrict carrying of over 6 to 8 cows in a truck, that too, with cow food grains and water in the truck. However, the way the cows were loaded in trucks clearly indicates that it is a case of cow smuggling. Name of pioneer logistics is propping up for smuggling cows in the name of farming, added sources.

Activists of cow protection organization with help of police rescued the cows to a goshala at

gobindur in Laipuli. The activists alleged that the cows were kept in the trucks through out the day without giving them food and medical care.

It is important to mention that very often cow smuggling cases has been detected in Tinsukia district leading to recovery of hundred of cows. However, police has so far only succeeded in arresting the drivers and handyman but failed to arrest the person at whose behest cow smuggling is being done.

Activist has requested the police to catch the bigger fish involved in the heinous act.

ATRSU condoles demise of Krishna Baching Chungkrang ET Corresponent Lakhimpur; Jan 9: The Central Committee of All Assam Tribal Students' Union along with Lakhimpur District Body expressed deep grief on the immature death of Krishna Baching Chungkrang, who was a teacher of

Boginadi Model Higher Secondary School and a social activist. The lady with ideology, resident of Chetia Gaon, North Lakhimpur breathed her last at Dispur International Hospital yesterday at 5.30 am. The organisation observed a minute’s silence for the

eternal peace of the departed soul. "She always thought of the well being of the students, society and wished peace and prosperity in future. Her demise is an in repairable lost"-remarked the organisation in a press release.

Hailstorm lashed Darrang : Over hundred families effected Mayukh Goswami Mangaldai, Jan 9: Over a hundred families have been left homeless as an unprecedented hailstorm lashed Darang district at noon today. The hailstorm caused serious damages to several villages in the eastern part of the district . Villages like Nagajani ,Mowamari , Fakirpara , Shyampur , Ojagaon etc under Dalgaon LAC are the worst effected villages the hailstorm blown away roofs of many houses and also damaged walls , ceilings and

different valuable household properties including television, refrigerators , ceiling fans etc . Many matured trees were uprooted and high voltage power supply lines and posts have also been damaged. The actual loss of property is not yet assessed but it will definitely cross several lakhs of rupees as stated local sources.

Even though no loss of life and livestock has been reported , few children have reportedly sustained minor injuries in Nagajani and Mowamari areas.

Campaigning for Manipur municipal polls ends IANS Imphal, Jan 9: The campaigning for 18 municipal councils and eight nagar panchayats spread over 40 assembly segments in the four valley districts of Manipur came to an end on Saturday. The polls will be held on Monday.

Though there was no official report of pre-poll violence, there were reports at some places of minor incidents including alleged firing at a political worker. But police said no FIR was lodged about any major incident. State Home Minister Gaikhngam said: "Security measures have been taken up to ensure an incident-free polling. All licensed guns have been collected and additional forces deployed in the valley districts. We hope there will be no untoward inci-

dent."

The neck and neck fight is between the ruling Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The local body elections are crucial for both the parties. The outcome will forecast the beginning of the end of the Congress, which has been in power for the third consecutive term, if it cannot win the working majority.

At the same time, it will also indicate whether the BJP can wrest the political power from the Congress. There are 279 seats. The BJP is fielding 181 candidates while the Congress is fighting 199 seats. The BJP has been without a legislator or MP for a long time and in by-polls held at the Hiyanglam constituency, held on October 17, 2014, the BJP candidate

today at 11 am at Guwahati Press Club.

The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Amarjyoti Choudhury.

Dr. Hitesh Deka, Vice Chancellor of Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University was

the chief guest. Mr. Prasanta Rajguru, Editor, Amar Asom graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.

‘Jugaxandhit America’ is more than a travelogue, as it provides a glance of the socio-eco-

lost to the Congress. It was despite the fact that since the constituency had just 24,492 voters the BJP candidate Dhanabir Maibam had to secure just a few thousands of votes as there were five candidates.

In November 2015 by polls, the BJP won both seats at Thangmeiband and Thongju. The party then said in the March 2017 elections it will come to power.

PCC president Gaikhangam, who is also the deputy chief minister, said: "There was no BJP wave. The victory was due to some factors." It is no accident that as in all past elections the national leaders of the BJP have been coming to Imphal.

But they always make a point to be closeted with

the BJP state president Thounaojam Chaoba and other stake holders in the party office.

Sources said that elections matters topped the agenda.

Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said: "The Congress is the oldest party associated with every event of the country. People in Manipur support it and that is why this party created political record as the only one which has been in power for over 14 years."

Deputy Chief Minister and PCC President Gaikhangam said: "There is no (Narendra) Modi wave in Manipur."

BJP state president Chaoba has been concentrating on the alleged corruptions under the Congress "misrule".

"If the party wins, corruptions of all sorts in general and the Rs 400 crore scam in clearing the water hyacinth in the Loktak lake will be exposed and the corrupt elements sent to jail," he said.

Chaoba said: "The Congress government is dividing the elected members. A member of the Municipal Council gets an honorarium of Rs 3000 per month and a Nagar Panchayat member Rs 1500. On the other hand, a member of the ADC equivalent of the Municipal Council member in the hills gets Rs.10,000 per month."

The Chief Minister said: "In a small place like Manipur, people know who is corrupt and not.

There is no wrong doing and that is why no inquiry was ordered."

Assam gears up to celebrate Bhogali Bihu A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 9: The people of Assam are gearing up to celebrate the Bhogali Bihu festival across the state which began on Friday.

The countdown to the biggest post-harvest festival of the state began with young men erecting mejis and bhelaghars in the biting cold since early morning.

Uruka, the day before traditional harvest festival Bhogali or Magh Bihu, will be celebrated across Assam on Thursday. With the granaries full, celebrations for this agrarian festival will begin on Uruka when community feasts are arranged by the people preparing local delicacies of fish and meat inside the Mejis erected by them with bamboo, wood, leaves and hay.

The word 'Bhogali' is derived from 'Bhog', which means delicious and rich food. So Bhogali Bihu represents a festival of food with merrymaking.

Bhogali Bihu is celebrated at a time when

lowing actual Bihu day.

The temporary house built close to Meji is called 'Bhela Ghar' for feasting and community singing.

Meji is worshiped as God of Fire and lighted up. In the fire of Meji all types of potatoes are roasted and everyone eats them as divine offering. Women for many days cook various snacks and sweets for this day to be brought to the auspicious Meji spot to be served to everyone.

A elderly woman in a Jorhat village prepares for Bihu. Pic - Nekib Ahmed all the cultivation works get over and everyone has plenty to eat and rejoice.

nomic and political scenario of the United States and its significant status in the contemporary world based on the personal experience of the author. This book is an analytical reflection of the cul-

On the eve of Bhogali Bihu people in Assam build two structures called 'Bhela Ghar' and

'Meji'. The structure made of wood or tree leaves is called Meji, which is burnt on the fol-

Special sweet called 'pitha' is prepared from a special sticky red 'bora' rice, coconut, sesame and jaggery to be distributed and enjoyed by the gatherings at Mejis.

President Pranab Mukherjee issues directives to Governors A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 9: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said President

‘Jugaxandhit America’ authored by Dr. Arupjyoti Choudhury released A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 9: A book titled ‘Jugaxandhit America’ authored by Dr. Arupjyoti Choudhury and published by ‘Purbanchal Prakash’, Guwahati was released

A view after hailstorm lashed through Upper Assam. Pic - Amit Nagri

tural mindsets of the Americans as the supreme power on Earth.

A new horizon in Assamese travel literature will descend with the arrival of Dr. Arupjyoti Choudhury’s ‘Jugaxandhit America’.

Pranab Mukherjee’s directive to the Governors to perform their duties within the framework of the Constitution in the backdrop of controversies involving some Governors has come at a right time.

Governors to respect the distinct authority and responsibility vested in each of the three organs of the State and to perform their duties within the Constitutional framework has come at a right time following the overstepping In a statement here of Constitutional limtoday, Chief Minister its by some GoverGogoi said that the nors. directive from President Pranab “The manner in M u k h e r j e e t o t h e which some Gover-

nors are mired in controversies for acting as agents of the RSS than Constitutional heads of their respective States have brought disgrace to the high constitutional posts. The President deserves approbation for reminding the Governors to perform their duties within the framework of the Constitution,” he added.

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

Police officer shot dead Meghalaya to boycott Executive Committee Meeting of SAG Jan 9:Days af- tary and state Olympic the badminton venue from courts.Meanwhile, there are by unknown assailants Shillong, ter it threatened to pull out Association President are Shiillong to Guwahati," a indications that a final decias co-host of next month's among the members of member of the Executive sion on the badminton venue in Bihar South Asian Games, the EC of the SAG which Committee said.The bad- is yet to be taken and it may

Bullet-riddled body of an Assistant Sub-Inspector has been found in Vasihali district of Bihar

Hajipur, Jan 9: A bulletriddled body of an Assistant Sub-Inspector has been found in Vasihali district of Bihar, raising questions over the functioning of state government. Just days after bodies of two engineers were recovered from Bihar districts, reports of an ASI being shot dead by unknown assailants on Saturday in Hajipur in Vaishali district surfaced. The locals informed the nearest control room immediately, after which the police reached the spot and took the body in its custody.

After preliminary investigations, it was revealed that the deceased was Bihar ASI Ashok Yadav.

Reports say that Yadav, who was shot multiple times, died on the spot.

Yadav was on leave since last three days before he was shot dead.

It is being speculated that assailants used Yadav's service revolver to shoot him dead and later took away the revolver with them. Yadav's body has been sent for post-mortem. Police have registered a case of murder. (Agencies)

Students' gherao of Jadavpur VC continues

Students at the Jadavpur

Kolkata, Jan 9: Agitating students at the Jadavpur University here have gheraoed their vice chancellor and other officials since Friday evening over holding of students' union elections. The students have been demonstrating following an advisory issued by the West Bengal higher education department asking the state-run varsity to hold the elections after the state assembly polls. "I am hoping we can sort out the issue by discussions. I have faith in the students," Vice Chancellor Suranjan Das said.

The vice-chancellor, the pro vice-chancellor and registrar of the university, along with the executive council members spent the night inside the campus as protesting students have demanded the vice chancellor notify the elections on February 18. The varsity has witnessed similar events in the last couple of years. In 2014, students carried out a sustained agitation demanding the removal of the then vice chancellor Abhijit Chakrabarti for ordering a police crackdown on students.(Agencies)

Grenade blast in Meghalaya's William nagar, four persons injured Shillong, Jan.9: At least four people were injured after a grenade blast in the William Nagar market in East Garo Hills in Meghalaya. The Garo Na-

tional Liberation Army ( GNLA) group is suspected to be behind the blast. DGP Rajiv Mehta confirmed the news.

(ANI)

President Pranab Mukherjee to begin 2-day Jharkhand visit on Saturday

President Pranab Mukherjee

New Delhi, Jan 9: President Pranab Mukherjee will undertake a two-day visit of Jharkhand from Saturday, an official statement said.

He will arrive in the state capital here at 1.40 p.m. and go to Hazaribagh to attend the 7th convoca-

tion of the Vinoba Bhave University (VBU). He will return to Ranchi and also inaugurate an art gallery and lay the foundation stone of the Jharkhand Technical University at Audrey House, Ranchi. He will spend the night in the capital city.

On Sunday, the President will inaugurate the 88th Annual Conference of Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan in Ranchi. He will also attend the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of the Birla Institute of Technology at noon and address the convocation ceremony here.

Heavy security arrangements have been made for the President's visit.

(Agencies)

Meghalaya has decided to boycott the Executive Committee Meeting of the SAG to be held in Guwahati on Monday.It is learnt that on the advice of Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, Meghalaya representatives have been told not to attend the eighth meeting of the EC to be held at a Guwahati hotel on January 11 till the issue of shifting away of badminton venue from Shillong is settled.

Meghalaya Sports Secre-

is headed by Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.Meghalaya had threatened to withdraw from co-hosting the February 5-16 SAG, protesting against shifting of the badminton event from Shillong to Guwahati. The two Northeastern cities are co-hosting the regional multi-sporting event."The Director of Meghalaya Sports & Youth Affairs Ministry has written to Project Officer, Project Management & Legacy of

Meghalaya to boycott Executive Committee Meeting

the SAG that on the advice of the Chief Minister, Maghalaya is not sending its representatives to the EC Meeting to be held on

January 11 in Guwahati as the state government has not received any response to the protest letter regarding the proposed shifting of

minton event of the upcoming South Asian Games has been shifted to Guwahati from Shillong due to inadequate facilities at the proposed venue at the Meghalaya capital.The SAI Sports Centre at Shillong's North East Hill University, which is a multipurpose indoor stadium, was reportedly found not suitable by the Badminton Association of India officials owing to poor lighting and lack of wooden flooring for the warm-up

still be held in Shillong.National badminton coach Pullela Gopichand was to fly to Shillong yesterday from New Delhi to inspect the venue at the Meghalaya capital but could not do that as his flight was cancelled due to foggy conditions at the National Capital.Gopichand, who was in New Delhi for the ongoing Premier Badminton League, is likely to be in Shillong on January 13 to inspect the venue.

(Agencies)

Campaigning for Manipur municipal polls ends Imphal Jan 9 : The campaigning for 18 municipal councils and eight nagar panchayats spread over 40 assembly segments in the four valley districts of Manipur came to an end on Saturday.The polls will be held on Monday.

Though there was no official report of pre-poll violence, there were reports at some places of minor incidents including alleged firing at a political worker. But police said no FIR was lodged about any major incident.State Home Minister Gaikhngam said: "Security measures have been taken up to ensure an incident-free polling.

All licensed guns have

been collected and additional forces deployed in the valley districts. We hope there will be no untoward incident."The neck and neck fight is between the ruling Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The local body elections are crucial for both the parties.The outcome will forecast the beginning of the end of the Congress, which has been in power for the third consecutive term, if it cannot win the working majority.At the same time, it will also indicate whether the BJP can wrest the political power from the Congress. There are 279 seats. The BJP is field-

ing 181 candidates while the Congress is fighting 199 seats.The BJP has been without a legislator or MP for a long time and in by-polls held at the Hiyanglam constituency, held on October 17, 2014, the BJP candidate lost to the Congress. It was despite the fact that since the constituency had just 24,492 voters the BJP candidate Dhanabir Maibam had to secure just a few thousands of votes as there were five candidates.In November 2015 by polls, the BJP won both seats at Thangmeiband and Thongju. The party then said in the March 2017 elections it will come to

power.PCC president Gaikhangam, who is also the deputy chief minister, said: "There was no BJP wave. The victory was due to some factors." It is no accident that as in all past elections the national leaders of the BJP have been coming to Imphal.But they always make a point to be closeted with the BJP state president Thounaojam Chaoba and other stake holders in the party office.Sources said that elections matters topped the agenda.Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said: "The Congress is the oldest party associated with every event of the country.

People in Manipur support it and that is why this party created political record as the only one which has been in power for over 14 years."Deputy Chief Minister and PCC President Gaikhangam said: "There is no (Narendra) Modi wave in Manipur."BJP state president Chaoba has been concentrating on the alleged corruptions under the Congress "misrule"."If the party wins, corruptions of all sorts in general and the Rs 400 crore scam in clearing the water hyacinth in the Loktak lake will be exposed and the

corrupt elements sent to jail," he said.Chaoba said: "The Congress government is dividing the elected members.

A member of the Municipal Council gets an honorarium of Rs 3000 per month and a Nagar Panchayat member Rs 1500. On the other hand, a member of the ADC equivalent of the Municipal Council member in the hills gets Rs.10,000 per month."The chief minister said: "In a small place like Manipur, people know who is corrupt and not. There is no wrong doing and that is why no inquiry was ordered." (Agencies)

Malda fire reaches Bihar's Purnea; protesters ransack police station

Bengali writer Sankar to get honorary D.Litt

Purnia, Jan 9: Protesting against some `blasphemous` statements made by a Hindu Mahasabha leader Kamlesh Tiwari, a large number of people on Thursday went on a rampage in Purnea district of Bihar, torching vehicles and attacking a police station. While returning from an All India Islamic Council-led peaceful pro- All India Islamic Council-led peaceful protest march against Tiwari's statement

test march against Tiwari's statement, some protesters turned violent and ransacked Baisi police station. The situation was controlled by Pankaj Kumar Pal, District Magistrate, Purnea. There has been violence in Uttar Pradesh (Kanpur, Lucknow and Bareilly) and West Bengal (Malda) due to Tiwari's statement.(Agencies)

Air India passengers face brunt of VIP culture Bhopal, Jan.9: In another case of inconvenience being created because of VIP culture, Air India passengers were left stranded after a flight on Friday from New Delhi to Bhopal was delayed for seven hours following a holdup by some politicians. The passengers of the delayed flight claimed that the Air India flight, which was scheduled to depart at

7:30 pm, left at 2:30 a.m.

"Our flight was delayed and then was ultimately cancelled. After that we told them to reschedule the flight and they did.

But there was a politician who did not want us to reach on time because his Bhubaneswar flight was cancelled due to some unknown reason. He was also asking that his flight should be rescheduled," a stranded AI pas-

senger, Maninder Singh, told. "We had to suffer a lot because of the minister. We had kids who were hungry and to add to that the flight got delayed. Initially they told us that the flight is delayed by 15 minutes, then half an hour and ultimately they cancelled the flight.

The Air India manager did help us but the minister in the Bhubaneswar flight created a lot of

ruckus and as a result our flight got delayed," he added.

Meanwhile, Tathagata Satpathy, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP, who was on the flight from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, said that Air India kept on delaying their flight as the national carrier had posted the crew from their flight to the one in which Madhya Pradesh Minister Sartaj Singh was travel-

Fund mobilization by MSAD for the victims of Manipur Earthquake New Delhi,Jan 9: Manipur Students' Association Delhi (MSAD) had an emergency meeting at DU Garden on January 7 at 1 p.m. and discussed on two main agendas 'Fund Mobilization for the Victims of Manipur Earthquake' and 'Academic awareness programs in whole over Manipur', said a press release by MSAD.It said, a decision was carried out by MSAD to mobilize funds for the Victims of Manipur Earthquake, and for that cause, MSAD area committee members and College or Universities' Committee members will mobilize from their respective areas and colleges or Universities.MSAD mobile teams have formed for the mobilization for

Fund mobilization by MSAD for the victims of Manipur Earthquake donation at various places in Delhi and will mobilize donation for the victims in Vijay Nagar, Patel Chest, Delhi University, JNU, Maharani Bagh, Moti Bagh, Jamia Millia Islamia, and each colleges in Delhi University, said the press release.In the press re-

lease, MSAD has requested to inform the students' association if any group of the students want to do fund mobilization in other areas in Delhi besides already given areas.MSAD started fund mobilization for the Victims of Manipur Earth-

quake from January 8 onwards, and the first round collection started at Mall Road Masjid, Timarpur Masjid and Kingsway Camp, and altogether MSAD collected a total amount of 7006 rupees so far, said the press release.

(Agencies)

ling. "Air India flight from Delhi to Bhubaneswar was to take off at 6:20 p.m. But they kept on delaying it. When our aircraft was ready, we were then told that our flight will board after the Air India flight to Bhopal. It appeared as if crew from our flight was posted to Bhopal flight as MP Minister Sartaj Singh was one of the passengers on it," Satpathy told. (ANI)

Kolkata, Jan 9: Popular Bengali writer Mani Sankar Mukherji, better known as Sankar to his legions of readers, will be awarded an honorary D.Litt. by the University of North Bengal at its 46th Convocation in Siliguri on February 18. West Bengal Governor Kesari Nath Tripathi, the ex-officio Chancellor, will preside at the Convocation, sources said. Born on December 7, 1933, Sankar's first book Kata Ajanare -- based on life around law courts and the last days of the last English barrister practising in Kolkata (the Calcuta) "had created a sensation after it was serialised in a well-known literary weekly in 1954-55. Acclaimed as a masterpiece, the book has since been translated in many languages. Sankar has written over 80 novels, short stories, travelogues, biographies and historical pieces. The translations of his novels and biographies have appeared in many languages across India, as also in other nations like Britain, France, Italy, Spain and China.(Agencies)

Police to approach Interpol for Tripura CM Manik Sarkar's fake Facebook account Agartala ,Jan 9: The Tripura Police is likely to approach Interpol to probe the fake Facebook account opened in the name of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, an official said here on Saturday. This is the second time in last week the state police have registered a case after a similar misdeed in October 2014. "Police officials immediately launched a probe into the opening of a fake Facebook account in the name of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar in October 2014. Last week, we came to know that the matter has to be referred to Interpol office in California," a senior police official told IANS on condition of anonymity.

"The state law department would submit a proposal in this regard before the cabinet and after the cabinet approval, the matter would be referred to the union home ministry which would forward the case to Interpol," the official added.

He said the police have

taken suo motu cases after learning that a fake Facebook account was opened in October 2014 in the name of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar. "The latest attempt to open a fake Facebook account in the name of chief minister last week would also be clubbed with the first one. The fake accounts were operated from abroad," the official said, adding cases were registered with the West Kotowali police station here. Meanwhile, Director General of Police K. Nagraj said: "The Tripura Police is developing a full-fledged wing of cyber crime. We believe that we would soon get a breakthrough into the offence." Police found many postings were made in the bogus Facebook accounts.

When contacted, Sarkar told reporters he had neither any mail ID or Facebook account nor has he given permission to anyone to open mail ID or Facebook account. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

PAGE 6

Pak's assurance to take prompt action a `good gesture`: Defence expert BSF jawan arrested for New Delhi, Jan.9: With Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif assuring to take strong and prompt action against the guilty in the Pathankot terror attack,Defence expert Qamar Agha on Saturday said it was a good gesture from Islamabad and will surely send a strong message. "This is not a new thing as Pakistan has always been in denial mode. But

this time around they have promised to cooperate," Agha told.

"We don't know how serious they are about it. But surely it's a good gesture and it will send a strong message. Let's wait and see as this is the matter which will be decided by the government and army," he added. However, he said that there is a little hope because he doesn't trust Pakistan.

Manoj Tiwari cries foul, says did not call Aamir `traitor`

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari

New Delhi, Jan. 9 : Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Manoj Tiwari on Saturday asserted that he did not call Bollywood actor Aamir Khan a 'traitor' despite what had been published in a few national dailies, and added that efforts were being made to tarnish his image. "Whatever I said in the standing committee is secret. And if the talks of the committee are coming out in public, then it is illegal. I have never used the word 'traitor' for Aamir Khan. I can never say a word like that for him in my entire life," Tiwari told. "I would give

a notice to the newspapers who have published this false news. I am a responsible citizen and I can never use a word like that. The newspapers are trying to tarnish my image by publishing false news," he added He also asserted that the newspapers should apologise and should also mention the name of the source who gave them this 'false news'. Earlier, two leading national dailies reported that the BJP MP had called Aamir Khan a 'traitor' at a Parliamentary Standing Committee meeting on Friday in which members sought an explanation from the Tourism Secretary for replacing actor Khan with Amitabh Bachchan as the brand ambassador of the 'Incredible India' campaign. In their reports, the dailies quoted a source saying that Tiwari said, " Aamir Khan is a traitor, he should be thrown out."

(ANI)

PM Modi reaches Pathankot air base Pathankot, Jan.9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday reached the Pathankot air base to take the firsthand assessment of the situation following the deadly terror strike.

Pathankot district was attacked by six terrorists from Pakistan on January 2. Seven security personnel were martyred and another 20 were injured in the attack. Security forces have declared that the airbase has been fully sanitised after a massive combing operation by the Army,

National Security Guard and IAF's Guard Commandos which spanned over three days. According to reports, the Prime Minister will take an aerial survey including the border areas.

Earlier, the Minister of Home Affairs announced that four National Investigation Agency (NIA) teams are camping in districts of Punjab to verify the facts and examine witnesses in close cooperation with Punjab Police in the ongoing investigation. (ANI)

President Mukherjee asks Governors to work with constitutional framework

PresidentPranab Mukherjee

New Delhi, Jan.9: President Pranab Mukherjee has asked Governors to perform their duties within constitutional framework. He said that the Governors should respect the distinct authority and re-

sponsibility vested in each of the three organs of the state. In his New Year message to Governors yesterday, President Mukherjee said Governors, with their wisdom, experience and moral authority, must help in creating a harmonious relationship between the Centre and the states.

The President asked the Governors to use their astute leadership, power of persuasion and balancing influence with the Chief Ministers to help in the transformative process using the Centre's flagship programmes.

(ANI)

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif

India had earlier shared leads with

Islamabad which mostly included inter-

cepts of telephone calls made by the terrorists to their alleged handlers and the locations of the numbers which they had called i n P a k i s t a n . L a t e r, Pakistan acknowledged that they had received the leads and had begun working on them. Sharif then called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and assured him of prompt action against the guilty. According to a statement issued by

the Prime Minister's Office, the meeting reviewed the progress on the information shared

by India and it was decides that the matter would be continued to discuss with New Delhi. Meanwhile, India awaits Pakistan's formal response to the shared leads and has expressed quick action from Islamabad so that the upcoming foreign secretaries' talks are not hampered. (ANI)

India awaits prompt action from 'changed' Pakistan: BJP New Delhi, Jan.9: With Pakistan assuring to take strong and prompt action against the guilty in the Pathankot terror attack, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday expressed hope that Islamabad would take stringent action against the perpetrators of the attack. "Pakistan Government has promised prompt and decisive action based on actionable intelligence provided very expeditiously by the Indian Government. And India awaits prompt action from Pakistan against the perpetrators of Pathankot attack," BJP spokesperson GVL Narsimha Rao told. "I

think unlike in the past, Pakistan's response has not been one of denial but one willing to take quick action .We will wait and see whether there will be a change in the manner Pakistan acts this time because the past does not inspire confidence. We hope that like there has been a change in tone, there will be a change in action too," he added.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached the Pathankot air base to take the firsthand assessment of the situation following the deadly terror strike. Earlier, the Pakistani Government has asked for more and 'concrete' evi-

dence instead of 'leads' to take action against the suspects of being involved in the terrorist strike on the airbase. India had earlier shared leads with Islamabad which mostly included intercepts of telephone calls made by the terrorists to their alleged handlers and the locations of the numbers which they had called in Pakistan.

Later, Pakistan acknowledged that they had received the leads and had begun working on them. Sharif then called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and assured him of prompt action against the guilty.

According to a state-

ment issued by the Prime Minister's Office, the meeting reviewed the progress on the information shared by India and it was decides that the matter would be continued to discuss with New Delhi. Meanwhile, India awaits Pakistan's formal response to the shared leads and has expressed quick action from Islamabad so that the upcoming foreign secretaries talks are not hampered. Pathankot district was attacked by six terrorists from Pakistan on January 2. Seven security personnel were martyred and another 20 were injured in the attack. (ANI)

India should be in 'attack' mode with Pak: Ramdev Mumbai, Jan.9: Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev on Saturday called for 'teaching a tough lesson' to Pakistan following the Pathankot terror attack, saying that India should be in 'attack' mode when dealing with Islamabad.

"India is a strong and powerful country. It should be in 'attack' mode in context to Pakistan, that's when we will be able to protect ourselves," Ramdev told.

"Pakistan should be taught a tough lesson that it does not repeat such incidents," he added. The 4-day long Pathankot anti-terror operation ended on Friday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently visiting the Pathankot air base and will be visiting injured jawans among other things. Earlier, the Pakistani Government has

asked for more and 'concrete' evidence instead of 'leads' to take action against the suspects of being involved in the terrorist strike on the airbase.

India had earlier shared leads with Islamabad which mostly included intercepts of telephone calls made by the terrorists to their alleged handlers and the locations of the numbers which they had called in Pakistan. Later, Pakistan acknowledged that they had received the leads and had begun working on them. Sharif then called Prime Minister Modi and assured him of prompt action against the guilty.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, the meeting reviewed the progress on the information shared by India and it

helping cross border smuggling in Punjab Mohali, Jan. 9: The Punjab police has arrested a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan for allegedly helping in cross border smuggling of weapons and narcotics. "We have arrested a BSF jawan Anil Kumar for allegedly helping cross border smuggling," Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, SSP Mohali, told media. "The BSF jawan was bribed by a notorious smuggler group during a wedding, who promised him of financial assistance," he added. The SSP also asserted that there is no link established between this incident and the Pathankot terror attack.

He insisted that investigation is underway. The BSF had on Wednesday busted a drug peddling racket from Punjab's Khemkaran Sector. Six packets of heroin worth Rs. 30 crore, Pakistan SIM cards and

Gurpreet Singh Bhullar

mobile phones were seized from the peddlers. "There was some suspected movement found at 1 in night.

We got the information and accordingly took the action," BSF official Y.P. Singh said. "Three people were smuggling at the border. We have recovered a Nokia phone and a Pakistani Sim. We haven't recovered any arms, but generally they don't come without it," he added.

(ANI)

Security heightened in Pathankot airbase ahead of PM Modi's visit Pathankot, Jan. 9: Security has been heightened at the Indian Air Force Base in Pathankot where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive today for a firsthand assessment of the situation following the deadly terror strike. The Prime Minister is expected to reach the airbase by around 11 am. Meanwhile, security forces have declared that the airbase has been fully sanitised after a massive combing operation by the Army, National

Security Guard and IAF's Guard Commandos which spanned over three days.

According to reports, the Prime Minister will take an aerial survey including the border areas. Earlier, the Minister of Home Affairs announced that four National Investigation Agency (NIA) teams are camping in districts of Punjab to verify the facts and examine witnesses in close cooperation with Punjab Police in the ongoing investigation. (ANI)

First trace of Paris attacks fugitive Abdeslam found in Brussels flat

Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev

was decides that the matter would be continued to discuss with New Delhi.

Meanwhile, India awaits Pakistan's formal response to the shared leads and has expressed quick action from Islamabad so that the upcom-

ing foreign secretaries talks are not hampered. Pathankot district was attacked by six terrorists from Pakistan on January 2. Seven security personnel were martyred and another 20 were injured in the attack. (ANI)

London, Dec. 9 : A fingerprint of Paris attacks fugitive Salah Abdeslam has been found in a flat in Brussels where explosive belts may been manufactured, said police. According to The Independent, searchers were initially carried out at the third-floor apartment in Schaerbeek on December 10 where traces of bomb manufacturing material have been revealed now. The Belgian federal prosecutor said

that material that can be used to fabricate explosives and traces of TATP (acetone peroxide) were found. He said that the flat was rented under a false identity that might have been used by a person already in custody in this case. Abdeslam, whose brother Brahim blew himself up during the Paris attacks, is still on the run after disappearing following the 13/11 carnage that killed 130 people. (ANI)

Test firing of new Tank Ammunition for Arjun MBT Chandipur (Odisha), Jan.9: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted test firing of new tank ammunition PenetrationCum Blast (PCB) and Thermobaric (TB) Ammunition, specially designed for Arjun Tank at Chandipur, Odisha on January 6. The trials were found to be very effective and the damage was devastating with the firing of ammunition successfully

destroying the target tank and severely damaging its turret, barrel, tracks, ammunition bin, various sights, antennas etc. The ammunitions have been developed by aPune based DRDO laboratories Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL). An innovative chemical composition has been developed by HEMRL after extensive

research for the TB ammunition. During the development phase, these ammunitions were extensively evaluated against different simulated targets viz., armour plates, concrete structures and fortifications.

The trials were conducted jointly with the Army and were aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the ammunitions on derelict tank fitted with instrumentation to measure the shocks,

blast pressure and temperature at various locations and on advanced imaging systems. The trials were unique as for the first time such evaluation is carried out in India which will give a quantum jump in the firepower of Arjun tanks.

The technical trials were witnessed by Directors of HEMRL and PXE, Director DQRS, Army representatives and other senior officials from DRDO. (ANI)

A fingerprint of Paris attacks fugitive Salah Abdeslam has been found in a flat in Brussels

Eco-villages in Goa to promote hinterland tourism Chhota Rajan has special relationship with govt'

Underworld don Chhota Rajan

New Delhi, Jan 9: Former Delhi police commissioner Neeraj Kumar has claimed that the Indian government has a special relationship with underworld don Chhota Rajan, who was deported

from Bali in November last year. Kumar made the assertion during a session at the Delhi Literature Fest late last evening with journalist Avirook Sen. "The short answeryes there is," Kumar said

to Sen's question. Kumar reiterated his statement when session moderator Madhu Trehan asked him whether this was a fact or just hearsay. "If I say it, it is true," he said. The former top Delhi police officer in his tell-all memoir "Dial D for Don" had claimed that he had received a call from Dawood Ibrahim in June 2013.

Kumar had written that post the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts, he had telephonic conversations with the fugitive mob boss on three different occasions.

The book, which was released last year, also was in the news for its disclo-

sure that that at one point in the 1990s Dawood wanted to surrender. Responding to a question, Kumar said that all hopes must not be pinned on Chhota Rajan in order to get to Dawood. "There is hope in a manner of speaking, but let us not pin all our hopes on Chhota Rajan," Kumar said. Chhota Rajan, a former aide of Dawood, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail. The session also saw Kumar sharing some of his recollections from controversial cases over his long career, including the Ansal Plaza shootout and the Mandal Commission protests.(Agencies)

Panaji, Jan 9: Eco-villages may be a way for the future of eco-tourism in Goa, a state known for its beach tourism and nightlife. The forest ministry was working on the possibility of setting up eco-friendly villages in the rural areas of Goa and that the project would help deliver the benefits of tourism to the hinterland, away from the congested beaches, Forest Minister Rajendra Arlekar said on Friday. "We have to balance revenue generation as well as keeping the environmental balance of the state. Setting up eco-villages will help us greatly promote eco-tourism in rural areas," Arlekar said.

The minister also said ecofriendly villages would help rural youth as far as revenue generation was concerned. "The concept of eco-villages will have multiple benefits for Goa," Arlekar said. Goa is one of the most famous beach and nightlife tourist destinations in India. The state attracts more than three million tourists every year. Successive governments in Goa have promised to promote hinterland tourism via backwater cruises, spice farm tours, kayaking, white water rafting, ornithology etc. in order to decongest the coastal area, in which a majority of the tourism activity is located.(Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

US want Pakistan to act fast against Pathankot attack perpetrators Army Commander Washington, Jan 9: The US feels that time has come for Pakistan to walk the talk on the promises it made - both in public and in private conversations - that there would be no discrimination in its action against terrorist networks and bring the perpetrators of the Pathankot attack to justice.

Amid Indian intelligence reports that groups and people within Pakistan planned and executed the strike on the Pathankot airbase, a senior state department official said Pakistan should not come out with lame excuses to shield them as has been the case with the Mumbai terrorist attack."They (Pakistan) have said publicly that they are going to investigate.

Huge fire in Myanmar's Yangon market Nay Pyi Taw, Jan 9 : A huge fire on early Saturday burned down three flats of Mingalazay market, one of the major markets in Myanmar's Yangon region.The fire broke out around 1.30 a.m. (local time) as explosions were heard during it.Around 600 firefighters with 65 fire-engines rushed to the site.The firetorn flats collapsed and some firefighters were injured.Yangon Chief Minister U Myint Swe inspected the outbreak.Most of the shops at the fourth and third floors, which sell medicines, were destroyed.It was the second time that the Mingalazay market was severely burned down with the first being on May 24, 2010. (Agencies)

Beijing to shut 2,500 firms this year to fight pollution Shanghai, Jan 9 :Beijing will close 2,500 small polluting firms this year in its latest effort to combat pollution, citing the mun i c i p a l government.Pollution is a sensitive topic in China, with thousands of protests sparked every year by concerns about environmental degradation, particularly from factories.Four districts in the capital, which has been hit by bouts of choking smog this winter, will be required to shut down 2,500 companies by the end of the year, with more scheduled to be closed next year.Quoting an unnamed official, it said rising numbers of small polluting sources such as restaurants, hotels and garages offset the impact of a dramatic fall in the number of heavy polluting and high energy-consuming companies in the city.Last month Beijing issued its second ever "red alert" over heavy air pollution, closing schools and banning outdoor construction.On Saturday the environment ministry cautioned that heavy smog would return next week to Beijing, the province of Hebei and nearby Tianjin.Official data showed Beijing's average PM2.5 reading in 2015 was 80.6 micrograms per cubic meter, 1.3 times more than the national stated.

(Agencies)

They have said publicly that they are not going to discriminate between terrorist groups. We look to see actions to back up those words," the official added.The official indicated that the US wants to give the civilian government time and space to act on its words and hoped that Pakistan would not repeat its past trend wherein it is seen reluctant in taking actions against terrorist groups under one excuse or the other.

"They said that they (Pakistan) would investigate it and we need to let that process go forward. But obviously we want to see that the perpetrators be brought to account (as soon as possible)," the state department

government officials have been in close contact with their Pakistani counterparts in the aftermath of the attacks in Pathankot and Afghanistan's Majar-e-Sharif urging them to take right course of action which, if they do, would not only be a great confidence building measure but would also help improve relationship with India.

The US feels that time has come for Pakistan to walk the talk on the promises

official said on anonymity.The official also expressed a sense of satisfaction over the reaction by the Nawaz Sharif government on the first few days of the attack."It is not about believe. We have to take the

word that they have given.

They have said that they are going to investigate.

Let them do that," the official said when asked if they believe in what Pakistan is saying this time. Senior US

Referring to the outpouring of support for India among the US lawmakers in the aftermath of the Pathankot attack, the officials indicated that in the absence of a concrete action by Pakistan against these terrorist groups, it would be a tough call for the Obama administration to push for any new military aid for Pakistan to

through the Congress."We understand this is a challenging time.

This is a complicated relationship. We do not agree with Pakistan about everything...We look to see actions to back up those words," the official added .According to officials, it would become very difficult for the US government to convince the Republicancontrolled Congress to approve a sale of eight F-16s to Pakistan if Islamabad is seen as reluctant in taking action against these terrorist groups.Over 20 lawmakers from both the Republican and Democratic parties have come out in support of India, officials pointed out.

(Agencies)

''Chakma Day" celebrated in Rakhine State, Myanmar Randaw, Jan 9: The Chakma community in Myanmar celebrated the 5th Chakma Day at Randaw in Rakhine state of Myanmar with lots of enthusiasm on 7 January 2016.

Kali Kumar Tongchangya, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) of Mizoram was invited at the event as Chief Guest.

There are over 35,000 Chakmas in Myanmar where they are locally known as “Daingnets”.

The Chakma Day is celebrated by them to revive their lost culture, history, language and script.

Chief Guest KK Tonchangya was welcomed at the Randaw village amid euphoria and fe-

licitated by Myanmar Chakmas. Speaking on the occasion, Dangu KK Tonchangya said that he felt greatly honoured and a strong bridge of cultural relations has been established between the Chakmas of Mynamar and India.

In India there are more than 2 lakhs Chakmas in settled in four states of the country, Aruanachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Tripura and Assam. Though all the Chakmas enjoy political and citizenship rights, the Chakmas settled in the state of Arunachal Pradesh are deprived of their political and citizenship rights and they are being discriminated in by the state govt. and the local tribal communities who still consider them as refugees.

air traffic control centre," he added. In the seven days to January 8, Vietnam logged 46 incidents of Chinese planes flying without warning through airspace monitored by air traffic control in the southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, according to civilian aviation authorities quoted in the Tuoi Tre Daily newspaper report. Chinese state media on Wednesday said two civilian planes landed on an island in the Fiery Cross reef in the contested Spratly Islands, which have long been at the centre of bitter wrangling between Vietnam and its giant neighbour. The two "test flights" Wednesday followed an initial aircraft landing on Saturday, which prompted the first formal diplomatic complaint from HanoThe Spratlys are claimed by Hanoi but controlled by Beijing, which has ramped up activity in the area by rapidly building ar-

UN wants Lanka to probe murder of journalists Colombo,Jan 9:The United Nations (UN) yesterday called on the Sri Lankan Government to investigate killings of journalists.UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said cases of harassment also needs to be looked into.He was responding to a question raised on the murder of ."You know, obviously, unsolved cases of harassment and killings of journalists need to be solved and the perpetrators need to

be brought to justice," he said. Dujarric was also asked about incidents of torture said to have taken place last year after President Maithripala Sirisena took office, and made public by two Non-Gove r n m e n t a l Organisations ( NGO).

"On the reports of torture, I know our human rights colleagues are aware of the reports put forward by the NGOs that you'd mentioned," he said. (Agencies)

Army Commander Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva

Colombo, Jan 9:Army Commander Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva today insisted that there was no threat to National Security.Speaking to reporters in Kandy, the Army Commander said that the army is giving priority to National security on the instructions of President Maithripala Sirisena.

He said that there is no room for terrorism to raise its head once again in the country.

"The army will not even allow terrorism to raise its head here once again," he added.The Army Commander also said that the army will continue to assist the war displaced families in the North. (Agencies)

Illegal agency sending Indians overseas busted Colombo,Jan 9:The police have busted an illegal foreign employment agency in Colombo involved in sending Indian women to the Middle East and arrested four Indians.According to the police, the illegal foreign employment Kali Kumar Tongchangya, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) of Mizoram (India) participated at the event ‘Chakma Day’ as the Chief Guest.

Vietnam warns China over air safety threat Hanoi, Jan 9: Vietnam's civil aviation authority has accused Beijing of threatening regional air safety by conducting unannounced flights through its airspace to a disputed reef in the South China Sea, state media said today. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) warned that the unannounced flights "threaten the safety of all flights in the region," according to a report in the Tuoi Tre Daily newspaper.

In quotes published in Vietnamese official online newspaper Zing.vn late Friday, CAAV director Lai Xuan Thanh said a protest letter about the flights had been sent to Beijing, as well as a complaint to the United Nations' International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). "Chinese aircraft have ignored all the rules and norms of the ICAO by not providing any flight plans or maintaining any radio contact with Vietnam's

insists no threat to National security

tificial islands, including airstrips said to be capable of hosting military jets.

The recent flights, slammed by Vietnam as a "serious violation" of its sovereignty, have sparked international alarm, with the United States warning Thursday that the move would raise tensions in the disputed waters. The Philippines has also said it would file a protest. China asserts ownership over virtually all the South China Sea, putting it at odds with regional neighbours the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan, which stake partial claims. Several of these nations, including Vietnam, have also built facilities on islands they control, but at a significantly slower pace and smaller scale than Beijing. Rioting broke out in Vietnam after Beijing sent an oil rig into contested waters in 2014, and at least three Chinese people were killed.

(Agencies)

Pakistan to host four-nation Taliban preparatory talks Islaqmabad ,Jan 9:A four-nation conference on Afghan reconciliation process will be held here on Monday to explore ways to create a consensus for talks between the Taliban and Afghanistan's government, officials said today.The four-nation group was set up last year to expedite the process of reconciliation in the wartorn country after decades of bloodshed. "Representatives of Pakistan, Afghanistan, China and the US will participate in the preparatory talks," an official said.Pakistan will be represented by Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry, Afghanistan by Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai and China and the US by their respective special envoys for Af-

ghanistan and Pakistan region.The official said the four countries will set the platform for talks and also prepare an agenda for the second round of parley.The first round was held in July but the process was suspended in the same month aft e r n e w s o f Ta l i b a n chief Mullah Omar's death was announced.The second round may take place towards the end of the month if the four nations agreed on the minimum agenda, the official said.It is believed that the process of peace in Afghanistan will be testing for parties due to strong opposition within Afghanistan towards any peace with Taliban. (Agencies)

agency was operating in the Keselwatte area.The police raided the location and seized forged visas passports and air tickets. The Indians arrested are between the ages of 24 and 46.Investigations are continuing. (Agencies)

President warns extremist groups are at work Colombo, Jan 9:President Maithripala Sirisena today warned that extremist groups are at work and are attempting to destabilise the country.He urged the public not to be misled by such groups and added that there is no room for extremism be it in the North or the South.The President was speaking during the special session of Parliament today where a resolution was submitted to convert the Parliament into a Constitutional Assembly.Several political parties have sought amendments to the resolution and the President called for consensus to draft the new Constitution.He dismissed claims that

some foreign Governments were behind moves to draft a new Constitution for the Country.As part of the new Constitution a proposal is to be made to abolish the Executive Presidential system.The President says some feel the Executive Presidential system helped end the war. But he says is someone wants the Executive Presidential system to remain then they expect another war.President Sirisena said that instead of focusing on the Executive Presidential system efforts must be taken to prevent another war from taking place.

(Agencies)

Nepal, Bhutan agrees on six-point agenda to boost air connectivity and tourism Kathmandu, Jan 9: Nepal and Bhutan today agreed on a six-point agenda to boost air connectivity and tourism between the two land-locked countries. Nepal's Tourism Ministry Secretary Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya and Bhutan's Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications Kinley Dorji signed a memorandum of understanding on behalf of their respective governments in Kathmandu to formalize the agendas in the near future.

As per the initial consultation agreement, the two countries have decided to give permanent status to

the air service agreement (ASA) signed and revised in different periods.

Nepal and Bhutan signed the ASA in February 2004, which had allowed seven weekly flights. It was revised on May 17, 2014, permitting flight frequency to 21 per week.

Likewise, Nepal has agreed Bhutan's proposal to grant two more traffic frequency on ParoKathmandu-Delhi and Delhi-Kathmandu-Paro from existing four per week under the fifth freedom rights.

"The pledged extra frequency will be implemented by signing an ex-

change of letter between the two countries in the near future," said Thapaliya. Although Bhutan had asked two other routes-Bagdogra and Bodhgaya of India-to Kathmandu under the fifth freedom traffic rights, tourism ministry officials said the request has been "duly noted".

Under Nepal's request, Bhutan has agreed to offer "beyond rights" facilities for Nepali carriers, or "stopover" traffic where passengers may embark or disembark at an intermediate stop as part of an itinerary between the endpoints of a connecting flights.The beyond points

rights as asked by Nepali sides are KathmanduParo-Bangkok; KathmanduParoNaypyidaw, the capital city of Myanmar; Kathmandu-Paro-Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam; and Kathmandu-Paro- Phnom Penh; the capital city of Cambodia.

Thapaliya said the two countries also agreed to sign a separate MoU between Tourism authorities to boost tourism by simplifying immigration procedures.To increase the air connectivity to and between Saarc countries, Nepal and Bhutan have agreed to raise the issues of simplifying air routes

and connectivity at different Saarc forums. "Necessary legal process will be expedited to implement the initial consultation agreement and it may take at least 4-5 months to complete the process," Thapaliya said.

"Once all the agendas are implemented, it will give a big boost for tourism of the both countries." Currently, Bhutan's first private airline Tashi Air (also known as Bhutan Airlines) and Druk Air have been connecting Nepal. Nepali private carrier Buddha Air, which had launched commercial flights to Paro on August 23, 2010, has been making charter flights to Bhutan. (Agencies)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

India and Pakistan Find Overlapping Interests in Afghanistan Global Growth Champ India with 7.8 Percent Economy Expansion in 2016 India remains the global growth champion with its economy set to increase by 7.8 percent in the new year as per a World Bank report although cut it from the 7.9 projected last June. Overall the bank's Global Economic Prospects Report painted a gloomy global outlook cutting the global growth by almost a half percent to 2.9 percent in 2016 from the 3.3 percent forecast last June. In the growth race among the major economies, China remains the runner-up with its economy projected to grow by 6.7 percent this year and 6.5 percent next year. The growth projections for U.S. economy are 2.7 this year, 2.4 next year and 2.2 in 2018. It kept India's economic growth as measured by increase in gross domestic product at 7.9 percent for 2017, although the pace of reforms has slowed somewhat. For 2018, it cut the projection from 8 percent made last June to 7.9 percent. The report recognised India's resilience saying, Compared to most other major developing countries, India is well positioned to withstand near-term headwinds and volatility in global financial markets due to reduced external vulnerabilities, a strengthening domestic business cycle, and a supportive policy environment.

However, it also drew attention to the dark clouds overhanging the reform process. In India, progress in reforms is not assured as the upper house of parliament, which the ruling party does not control, has the power to block the government's legislative agenda. Also a failure to pass the goods and services tax (GST) could hamper the government's ability to ramp up spending on infrastructure needs and preserve the status quo of fragmented domestic markets.

On the bright side, the investment cycle is gradually picking up, led by a government efforts to boost investment in infrastructure, particularly roads, railways and urban infrastructure." It added that India's currency and stock markets weathered the volatility in the global financial markets last year. Whereas sensex, a key Indian stock market index ended 2015 up 1.08 percent. Progress on infrastructure improvements and government efforts to boost investment are expected to offset the impact of any tightening of borrowing conditions resulting from tighter U.S. monetary polic. Such investment will also lift potential growth over the medium term. Low international energy prices and domestic energy reforms will ease energy costs for Indian firms that tend to be energy intensive. Other positives on India's report card that the World Bank noted were the sharp reduction in current account deficit, to about 1 percent of GDP in the second quarter of 2015 from about 5 percent in mid-2013 during the turmoil in the financial markets over U.S. Federal Reserve policy. And the central bank rebuilding reserves while net foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows have stayed positive. Moreover reduction in the central government's fiscal deficit close to 4 percent of the GDP, down from a peak of 7.6 percent in 2009 through fiscal consolidation. And also the recently announced salary increases for public sector employees and support for urban spending from lower inflation offsetting fall in rural incomes because of two successively weak monsoons.

Child Labour Demeaning the childhood of the children As defined in the International Labour Organization (ILO) Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention (No. 182), 1999, where child domestic labour is exploitative and includes trafficking, slavery, or practices similar to slavery, or work which, by its nature or the circumstances in which it is carried out, is hazardous and likely to harm the health, safety, or morals of the child, it constitutes a worst form of child labour. Despite legislation, child labour continues to flourish in both rural and urban India. On October 16, 2006 two important notifications to the existing Child Labour Prohibition (And Regulation) Act 1986 came into effect. The notifications ban the employment of children below the age of 14 as domestic servants and in the hospitality trade such as in roadside dhabas, restaurants, hotels, motels and spas.

Two decades after a nationwide ban on child labour in hazardous industries was introduced, over 12 million Indian children, aged between 5 and 14, continue to work in dangerous occupations like construction, and the manufacture of beedis (an indigenous cigarette in which tobacco is rolled in a tendu leaf), bangles and fireworks.

Based on the 2001 census, 252,000 children are engaged in beedi manufacturing and 208,833 in the construction sector. An estimated 185,595 children are employed as domestic help and in dhabas (small roadside eateries); 49,893 children work in auto-repair workshops. The problem of child labour in India had become an issue of concern for one and all post Independence. The drafting committee of the India constitution wanted to formulate laws on their own without seeking recommendations from other countries with this regard. Since, India had been under the exploitative regime of the British, it only made sense that the provisions were devised keeping in mind the forms of exploitative labour that India had witnessed under the atrocious regime.

The primitive laws that were formed to prohibit child labour in India were when the Employment of Children Act, 1938 was passed. But this act failed miserably because it failed to address the cause of poverty as it is poverty that drives children into forced labour. Ironically, despite this huge array of laws, there seems to be no improvement in the working conditions of the child labourers and employers also freely flout the provisions of the Act covering the prohibition of child labour. It needs to be highlighted that the violation of these provisions means a deprivation of the basic human rights and demeaning the childhood of the children. The law also isn't very clear as to how where can the children work. The Acts covers only 10 percent of the total working children and thus not applicable to the unorganized sector. The Act also exempts the family of the child labourer from its purview if they all are working with the same employee as that of the child. Although the Act prohibits the employment of children in certain hazardous industries and processes, it does not define what constitutes hazardous work. It only provides a list of hazardous occupations.

India and Pakistan compete in Afghanistan, but they also have overlapping interests where it counts.

Umair Jamal A cordial handshake and a brief exchange of views between the Indian and Pakistani prime ministers on the sidelines of the Paris climate summit paved the way for ministerial level talks between the two countries, which took place almost a week later in Bangkok. This rare meeting between the National Security Advisors (NSA) of India and Pakistan, described as "candid, cordial and constructive," only became public news in the form of a brief joint statement. In another significant development, Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj visited Pakistan to attend the Heart of Asia conference, which focuses on the Afghan conflict.

Eclipsing this all and in an unprecedented show of statesmanship, the Indian prime minister, Narendra Modi, briefly visited Pakistan where he met with his Pakistani counterpart in Lahore. Other high level bilateral engagements are in line: while cricket diplomacy is being discussed to further improve the ties, Modi is said to have confirmed his attendance for next year's SAARC summit, which is set to take place in Pakistan.

This fast-paced reconciliation has even survived a terrorist attack on an Indian Air base in Pathankot and another attack on the

Indian consulate in Mazari-Sharif, Afghanistan.

While different media reports have confirmed that the attack at the Pathankot Air base was carried out by a Pakistani militant group, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), another Kashmiri militant group, the United Jihad Council (UJC), has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Modi, who has previously responded to such attacks in a proactive manner, reacted calmly: he blamed "enemies of humanity" for the Pathankot attack while refraining from giving any statement on the Mazar-iSharif consulate incident.

One can see cooperation and calm emerging on both sides instead of confrontation. Reportedly, the Indian nationa security advisor has provided some credible leads to his Pakistani counterpart regarding the Pathankot Air Force base attackers. Pakistan has welcomed this and promised to take credible action.

On the face of it, this series of engagements seem largely to focus on issues of bilateral cooperation: both countries have also agreed to initiate a "comprehensive bilateral dialogue" instead of "composite dialogues." In these dialogues, all outstanding issues - including Kashmir will be discussed.

But this softening of attitudes between the two neighbors has regional

connotations as well. India and Pakistan, while sometimes competing among themselves for influence in Afghanistan, also share some common interests there, primarily linked with regional security and trade.

In the coming weeks, the security situation in Afghanistan is likely to receive more attention and cooperation from both of these counties.

Modi, while addressing the Afghan parliament last week, said: "We know that Afghanistan's success will require the cooperation and support of each of its neighbors‌ that is why I hope that Pakistan will become a bridge between South Asia and Afghanistan and beyond." One can argue that Modi's surprise visit to Pakistan on his way back from Afghanistan was meant to shed away Pakistan's long-held perception that India's involvement in Afghanistan is a direct threat to Pakistan's security.

If the Afghan conflict, which has recently escalated sharply, is to come to any resolution, it is vital that Pakistan and India support a single peace process rather than opposing each other as they have done traditionally. In this context, such a high level presence from the Indian side in the recent Heart of Asia meeting in Islamabad and Modi's short visit to Lahore on his way back from Kabul

are significant.

Pakistan's counter-terrorism operations in the tribal regions along the Afghan border against the Taliban are bearing fruits and Islamabad is making efforts to push forward a regional plan for the reconciliation process to succeed in Afghanistan. This process includes India. Reportedly, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to resume the stalled peace process, which is likely to begin in January.

There are other impulses driving a modus vivendi between India and Pakistan in Afghanistan. For India to fulfill its rapidly rising en-

ergy needs, tapping into Central Asian energy market is vital which will remain futile unless there is peace and stability in Afghanistan - a gateway between Central and South Asia. Pakistan has similar interests.

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif visited Turkmenistan last week where he inaugurated the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline. Furthermore, India which has remained reluctant about any gas pipeline project crossing Pakistan, has also shown willingness to join the Afghanistan-Pakistan trade and transit agreement. Per-

haps, in the coming months, we may see a new era of economic cooperation between India and Pakistan, which in due course will also benefit the security situation in the insurgency-riddled frontier regions of Afghanistan.

The NSA-level talks in Bangkok, the Heart of Asia conference in Islamabad, and Modi's surprise visit to Lahore have without a doubt produced some of the most productive South Asian regional diplomacy in months. With security and economic interests at stake on all sides, one hopes that this engagement bears longevity.

The Pakistan-Afghan Nexus: The Culture of Drugs Among Pakistan's Youth A growing culture of drug trafficking and use needs strong action.

Along its western front, ian reports, the Taliban Pakistan shares a 2250 km presence in Helmand is relong border with the war- turning. torn country of Afghani- Implications for Pakistan stan. The fact that the bor- On the other side of the der is pob o r d e r, rous and it Mahboob Mohsin as poorly looks, managed the culhas contributed to multi- ture of substance abuse farious problems for Paki- appears to be of grave stan. One major problem concern to no one, with the that does not usually make authorities having virtuheadlines is the export of ally made peace with the opium to Pakistan, with the inflow of various forms of drug now making its way drugs. The supply and dedeep into Pakistani soci- mand side of this phenomety. enon makes it a workable The statistics of opium business which benefits production in Afghanistan many and feeds into terror should be truly worrisome financing and narco-terfor its southeastern neigh- rorism. It is a massive bor. According to the lat- cross-border drug trade est Afghanistan opium with enormous sums of survey, the area under cul- money involved. For intivation in 2015 is around stance, a U.N. report val183,000 hectares and po- ued 2014's crop at $22 biltential opium production in lion in Afghanistan (or 4 Afghanistan amounts to percent of the country's 3,300 tons. If we were to GDP). Now the business rely on the figures pro- has taken root in Pakistan. vided by the Afghan Min- Narcotics control comes istry of Counter Narcotics under the Ministry of Inand the United Nations terior and Narcotics ConOffice on Drugs and Crime trol. The ministry's narcot(UNODC), opium produc- ics control division is the tion in comparison with policy body and its anti2014 has decreased. Yet narcotics force is the law the number of poppy-free enforcement agency. provinces fell in 2015.

According to Pakistan's Helmand province, which Anti Narcotics Force Act borders Pakistan, tops the 1997, besides maintaining list of poppy producers. It a liaison with international represents 47 percent of narcotics control authorithe total area under culti- ties and representing Pavation in Afghanistan. kistan at conferences and Meanwhile, as The Guard- seminars, among other du-

ties, the anti-narcotics force (ANF) is tasked with coordinating the elimination and destruction of poppy cultivation.

As evidenced by the ground realities, however, the ANF has not done anything visibly remarkable on the poppy cultivation (and distribution) front.

Generally, youngsters are more likely to know where they can get, for instance, hashish than they are about the consequences or the state authority that deals with drugs control.

"Policy on drug education, treatment and rehabilitation of narcotics/drugs addicts" is one of the functions of the Narcotics Control Division. However, a lack of awareness and drug education is a major policy implementation lapse today.

An emerging culture of substance abuse, especially among Pakistani youth, is worrisome and dangerous for obvious reasons. According to a 2013 report, Drug Use in Pakistan 2013 (a collaborative research effort between the Ministry of Narcotics Control, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, and UNODC), "Approximately six per cent of the population, or 6.7 million people had used any controlled substance including misuse of prescription drugs,

in the last year" and "Cannabis is the most commonly used drug, with a prevalence of 3.6 per cent of the population, equivalent to four million users nationwide."

More worrisome is the rapid increase in drug use among college students in the cities, including and not restricted to Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Peddlers, operating under the noses of local administration, or rather with their alleged blessing, have comfortably carved out markets among adult students residing in hostels. And the practice of substance abuse has become very common (albeit under-reported) among elite students studying in universities in Pakistan's urban centers. Shrines, private farm houses, cafes in basements and rooftops, rented houses, and bungalows have turned into hotspots for drug use. Above the peddlers sit drug trafficking organizations and gangs that have turned into a powerful mafia. With their links to bureaucracy and law enforcement agencies, they are well connected and very powerful. These gangs are wallowing in cash and can quickly turn to narco-terrorism as their safety net.

The availability of a variety of drugs for a large pool of youth paints a very grim picture and partially explains the criminal activities, rapes, street crimes, domestic vio-

lence, mental unrestm and fatal health hazards. A press release by the ANF appraising its performance for the year 2014-15 categorized the seized narcotics and precursors into 14 categories: heroin, charas, opium, morphine, cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, ecstasy tablets, psychotropic tablets, xanax tablets, cannabis, acetic anhydride, sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid.

What Should Be Done?

But the odd seizure won't do much to eliminate drug trafficking. A holistic and meaningful effort in terms of both policy and action is required.

Terrorist activities on both sides of the borders are funded with the money earned from the drug trade.

Hence, the vicious chain of drugs, narco-money and narco-terrorism needs to be broken. For a start, effective border management is required to plug the routes drugs take across the border. Intelligence sharing between Pakistan and Afghanistan could be a starting point. And meaningful cooperation among the ministries of interior, counter narcotics forces and border police is required for the long term.

Pakistan has the law, but lacks enforcement, enabling those involved in the drug trade to act with impunity. Guided by a

long-term policy and concerted efforts, those elements of the Pakistani establishment and law enforcement agencies who benefit from this trade have to held to account across the board.

The media could play an effective role in drug education and awareness, especially among younger Pakistanis. It should engage with the civil society, government and non-government organizations, doctors and experts to launch an effective antidrugs campaign through seminars, debates, TV discussions and educational curriculums.

To defeat the lucrative appeal of the business of drugs and drug use, it must be fought from both the demand and supply sides.

It is perhaps worth recalling the 2015 theme of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking: Lets Develop - Our Lives - Our Communities - Our Identities - Without Drugs.

Mahboob Mohsin is a political scientist from LUMS, Pakistan. He is a media professional and works as a research analyst at the country head office of Channel 24 News in Lahore. He was part of the seventh Youth Parliament Pakistan.

Bonanzas Galore Sir, Time and again, we harp on the same string that Dibrugarh district's revenue earning is one of the highest in India and that it is the highest in Assam. But this district of upper Assam is still without a sub-division, falls a victim of Politics. Shrewd Politicians like the Chief-minister knows when and how to curry favour with the people. As the election is fast approaching, Chief-minister, in a show of magnanimity starts declaring umpteen numbers of bonanzas that include among others the names of 15 new sub-divisions. Naharkatia figures among the 15 proposed subdivisions. One can be sure, this is yet another spark shown by the Chief-minister to befool the people, as such bonanzas had been declared on earlier occasions too-but never materialized. This time, these bonanzas are declared at the fag-end of the present ruling dispensation's tenure, the fate of which is hang-

ing in the balance, whether or not the party will make it to the next Government.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

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, Dibrugarh-786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

PAGE 9

3 beautiful in one frame The secret about Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's new multi-starrer project is out. The former beauty queen will star with Sonam Kapoor and Katrina Kaif in one frame for an ad commercial. The actresses, who are also the brand ambassadors of the international beauty product brand will come together in an ad for the cosmetics and beauty brand's new product 'Advanced Haircare'. Sonam Kapoor and Katrina Kaif are excited about how the ad film has turned out. "I had a blast shooting for the campaign. I think it is really innovative and shows all three of us in a new light.

It is beautiful how L'Oreal Paris has brought all of us with our individualistic

personalities and choices together in the same frame for Advanced Haircare," Sonam said in a statement. "I can't wait for the film to go on air. I am sure all our fans are going to love it," added the

'Khoobsurat' actress.

Meanwhile, Katrina said: "I believe in the L'Oreal Paris core thought of expert solutions for different hair and am very happy with the way the film has turned out." The

driving force of this range of haircare products is "Every woman needs different hair care solutions for different hair problems" -- be it with damaged, dull or hair fall issues.

Bollywood Movie on Racism Suffered by Northeast People Bollywood to produce a Hindi Movie based on racial discrimination suffered by North East people of India within its own country by their own fellow brethren.

The people of North Eastern part of India who basically have different facial features, culture, ethnicity from the rest of mainland India suffer racial dis-

crimination in their own country on a daily basis.

And the number only seems to rise at an alarming rate. Off late, efforts to educate the larger section of the society about North East has been undertaken by the Government of India, NGOs, Media, various organizations & institutions, and the Bollywood. Recently, in a bid to promote a bet-

Piggy Chops keen to Kat calls herself "a die-hard romantic" work in Pakistani movies Actress Katrina Kaif, who is reportedly dating Ranbir Kapoor, says she believes in loving passionately and calls herself a "die-hard romantic" person. The actress hopes her next film "Fitoor" puts out this message. "Yes, I'm a die-hard romantic person. I hope it comes out from the film. May be that's the intention," Katrina said here.

"Fitoor", which means passion or obsession, is the story of a budding artiste Noor (Aditya Roy Kapoor) who falls in love with Firdaus (Katrina). And the trailer paints a whimsical picture with snow and a scenic backdrop. It

also hints at the politics surrounding Kashmir.

The film also stars Tabu, who is seen as Katrina's mother in the film. Talking about her character, Katrina said: "I think it really helps if you believe in love that way.

And that's the way I see love. I think love is life, love is passion and inherently I believe that.

So for me, I think without that belief and conviction, of course it's hard to portray a character passionately." Based on Charles Dickens's novel "Great Expectations" and directed by Abhishek Kapoor, "Fitoor" is slated to release on February 12.

Priyanka Chopra, who has been in limelight because of her American sitcom 'Quantico' and magnum opus 'Bajirao Mastani,' recently revealed that she would like to work in a Pakistani movie provided the project is good. The 33year-old actress said in a recent interview she wants

to visit Pakistan frequently and would not let the opportunity of working in a Pakistani movie slip, reports the Dawn. The 'Mary Kom' star said, 'I am an entertainer and will not turn down a good movie offer.' She added that her consent to work in a Pakistani movie will depend on the role she is offered.

'Million mark' on Instagram received by Kriti

TICKLE YOUR TASTE BUDS 100 ml oil 200 g butter 1 Tbsp cloves 1 Tbsp green cardamom 2 cups cream 1 tin coconut milk (470g) For garnishing: 1 tsp chilli flakes 3 lemons Method Take chicken. Cut in small pieces. Marinate in salt, pepper, ginger paste, garlic paste. Keep aside.

For white paste: Put onion, cashew, sesame seeds, poppy seeds in a pot, and quick boil.

Strain and blend in electric mixer with yogurt.

For green curry paste:

of Nido Tania, Salauni, Sangma who were victims of racial discrimination is said to be produced by BKT Production and Directed by Sidhant Saheb. The movie is said to cast big stars like Danny Denzongpa. The movie will be shot all across India viz. Mumbai, Delhi, Chandigarh and Arunachal Pradesh (Ziro, Parsuram Kund, Tawang).

Swarathma

"Heropanti" actress Kriti Sanon is on cloud nine as her fans have expressed their love by following her on Instagram, enabling her to touch the 'million mark' on the online photosharing platform.

"Wooohhoo!! Finally the 'million' mark! 1 M on insta!! Thank you so much guys!

Your love makes me happy! muah," Kriti captioned an image which she posted on Wednesday.

She is seen pouting and winking in the image. The "Dilwale" actress is quite active on the digital plat- Twitter, which she uses to share upforms including dates about her projects and more.

Murgh-e-Shalimar Ingredients 1 1/2 kg chicken, whole without skin (100 g per piece) For marinade: 2 Tbsp salt 2 Tbsp white pepper 3 Tbsp ginger paste 3 Tbsp garlic paste For white paste: 1/2 kg onions 100 g cashew nuts 40 g sesame seeds 1 1/2 Tbsp poppy seeds 2 cups yogurt For green paste: 1/2 kg assorted green leaves (mint, leek, celery, fennel, coriander, scallion) 8 green chillies For murgh-e-shalimar:

ter understanding of the people hailing from the North East, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has included a chapter on North East for Class IX students as part of its English curriculum for the Open Text Book Assessment (OTBA). In a similar attempt to familiarize North East India to the people of mainland India, a Bollywood movie reflecting true life events

Take green leaves, green chillies. Puree and keep aside.

For murgh-e-shalimar: Take a pot. Put some oil, butter, cloves, cardamom and white paste. Cook until oil separates.

Add marinated chicken and cook till medium well.

Now add the green curry paste and cream. Finish with coconut milk.

Put in serving plate and garnish with chilli flakes & lemon.

Swarathma is a folk/fusion band from Bangalore, formed in 2002.

Swarathma's music combines folk tunes with western sounds. The group has recorded with John Leckie (producer, The Stone Roses, Radiohead) as part of the British Council's Soundpad project, and followed that up by playing at The Great Escape Festival in the UK. The band released its eponymous debut album on EMI Music in 2009, supported it with a nationwide tour and released a music video for the song 'Pyaasi' (featuring guest vocals by Shubha Mudgal). In 2012 they released their second album Topiwalleh. Sharing the stage with other noted artistes like Usha Uthup and Sunidhi Chauhan the band was lauded for the strength of the compositions and onstage energy. The band was nominated in three of the eight categories of the Jack Daniel's Indian Rock Awards 2008, including Best Vocalist, Best Song and Best Al-

bum/EP. Post winning a second edition of Radio City Live in 2008, the band recorded their debut album with Amit Kilam as the producer. In October 2008, Swarathma entered the Yash Raj Studios with John Leckie and Massive Attack producer Dan Aus-

Vasu Dixit (vocals, rhythm guitars) Pavan Kumar KJ (percussions, backing vocals) Varun Murali (lead guitars) Sanjeev Nayak (violin) and

tin to record two tracks for a compilation album funded by the British Council, and, went on a mini-tour of the UK, their first international tour. On 27 November 2011, Swarathma featured in the 7th episode

of the Star World India series The Dewarists, collaborating with noted Hindustani classical music singer Shubha Mudgal. Together, they produced a track titled 'Duur Kinara'. They have re-

Band Members

Jishnu Dasgupta (bass, backing vocals).

Songs Topiwalleh Pyaasi Ee Bhoomi Duur Kinara Sur Mera

cently brought out their second studio album titled Topiwalleh, which has redefined the band's sound, making the group one of the most solid fusion acts to come out of the subcontinent.

BUSINESS

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

Bajaj…the new market leader in entry-level and sports bikes Pune, Jan 9: Bajaj Auto, the Pune-based manufacturer of two-wheelers and three-wheelers, has announced plans for the growing 'executive' bike segment with a new brand this quarter. However, the company said it will continue to focus on the entry level and sports bikes segments to further grow market share and volumes. The motorcycle market has three segments: entry level bikes priced at around Rs 40,000, executive bikes priced between Rs 44,000 and Rs 60,000, and sports bikes priced around Rs 1 lakh and above. Sports bike has three sub-segments: S1 priced up to Rs 1 lakh, S2 between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 2 lakh, and S3 above Rs 3 lakh. In Bajaj's portfolio, the Pulsar range of bikes is in the sports segment, while the Discover is in the executive segment. Its Platina model and CT 100 cater to the entry level segment,

known for their fuel economy and affordability. In December 2014, Bajaj had set a target to achieve market leadership at the entry level and sports bikes segments in 2015, and the company announced that it has fulfilled its commitment. In the entry segment, Bajaj said it grew its market share from 23 per cent to 36 per cent in the first nine months compared to the set target of 35 per cent.

In the November-December period, following the launch of Avengers, the company said it attained a clear market leadership of 53 per cent in the mass sports segment, priced below Rs 1 lakh, against the set target of 52 per cent. "The entry and sports segments constitute 43 per cent of the motorcycle industry and Bajaj is now the leader in this cluster with a 36 per cent market share," the company said. "In a challenging environment for

Employees of PUS bank on strike, operations hit partially

AIBEA general secretary C.H. Venkatachalam.Source: files.prokerala.com

Mumbai, Jan 9: Banking operations were hit partially as a section of public sector banks' employees went on a strike across the country to protest violation of bilateral settlement agreement by associate banks of SBI. Some of the services, like cash handling at branch level and clearing of checks were affected in the banks where presence of All India Bank Employees' Association (AIBEA) is strong. Private sector banks and

country's largest lender SBI continues to function normally. As precautionary measures, most of the banks, including United Bank of India, had issued advisory to their customers saying they will take all necessary steps in terms of existing guidelines for smooth functioning of branches or offices on the day of strike, in the event it materialises on January 8. The strike call was given on December 28 to protest violation of the bilateral settlement by five associate banks of the SBI and their attempt to force unilateral service conditions on the employees, AIBEA general secretary C.H. Venkatachalam had said.

Five subsidiaries of SBI are State Bank of Travancore, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala, State Bank of Hyderabad and State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur. (Agencies)

the automobile industry, Bajaj maintained positive momentum as a result of a well-crafted strategy, called superior customer value through differentiated products and strong brands," Eric Vas, president (motorcycle business), Bajaj Auto, said. "By the introduction of new products such as CT 100 and Platina, we strengthened our position in the entry level segment. In the sports segment we enhanced our leadership position through the launch of Pulsar RS 200, Pulsar AS 200 and 150, and Avenger Cruise 220 and Avenger Street 220 and 150," he said. CT 100, which was reintroduced in February last year, and the new Platina, which was rolled out in January 2015 helped gain market share and volumes in the entry level segment, Mr Vas said, adding that the Pulsar range of bikes led

by RS200, AS200, and AS150 did exceedingly

Ø Bajaj Auto, the Punebased manufacturer of twowheelers and three-wheelers, has announced plans for the growing 'executive' bike segment with a new brand this quarter. Ø The motorcycle market has three segments: entry level bikes priced at around Rs 40,000, executive bikes priced between Rs 44,000 and Rs 60,000, and sports bikes priced around Rs 1 lakh and above.

November-December period, following the launch of Avengers, the company said it attained a clear market leadership of 53 per cent in the mass sports segment, priced below Rs 1 lakh, against the set target of 52 per cent.

Ø Sports bike has three sub-segments: S1 priced up to Rs 1 lakh, S2 between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 2 lakh, and S3 above Rs 3 lakh.

Ø Pulsar RS200 has be-

Bajaj said it grew its market share from 23 per cent to 36 per cent in the first nine months compared to the set target of 35 per cent. In the

Ø In Bajaj's portfolio, the Pulsar range of bikes is in the sports segment, while the Discover is in the executive segment. Its Platina model and CT 100 cater to the entry level segment, known for their fuel economy and affordability.

Ø By the introduction of new products such as CT 100 and Platina, Bajaj thus strengthened our position in the entry level segment.

In the sports segment Bajaj enhanced their leadership position through the launch of Pulsar RS 200, Pulsar AS 200 and 150, and Avenger Cruise 220 and Avenger Street 220 and 150.

well. "Pulsar RS200 has become the largest selling performance bike brand priced above Rs 1 lakh. The recentlylaunched Avengers have clocked sales of 20,000

units in December and we plan to increase manufacturing capacity of Avengers to 30,000 units per month by March 2016," he said.

Bajaj said it will introduce

a new variant of an entry level bike this month and a new brand for the executive segment before March to maintain its leadership position.

(Agencies)

Ø In the entry segment,

Bengaluru, Jan 9: ICICI Bank will partner FINO PayTech to foray into the payments bank space, a top official said. "We have tied up with ICICI Bank as a partner bank for our payments bank foray. That discussion is already closed. We are now working to identify the areas where we will work together for building up avenues," said Mr. Rishi Gupta, managing director and chief executive officer of FINO PayTech. ICICI Bank joins some of the leading lenders of the country which have partnered with payments banks that have received licence from the banking regulator. For example, State Bank of India and Kotak Mahindra Bank have

picked up stake in the payments banks that will be floated by Reliance Industries and the Bharti Group, respectively. The ICICI Group, with about 16 per cent stake in FINO Paytech, a business correspondent, is the largest domestic shareholder.

FINO Paytech has received 'in principle' licence from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to start a payment bank. RBI regula-

tions allow universal banks to invest up 30 per cent in payments bank. "ICICI can increase stake if there is a requirement from us to increase the stake," Mr. Gupta said when asked about whether the lender is looking to increase its stake. RBI regulations also mandate 51 per cent of the equity of the payments bank should be with domestic entities, In FINO PayTech, about 70 per cent stake is with foreign entities. Mr. Gupta said FINO would raise capital which will help bring down foreign shareholding. FINO is planning to raise about Rs.500 crore from private equity and other strategic investors. Among foreign shareholders, Blackstone owns about 20 per cent in the

company, while Intel Capital, Headland Capital Partners and World Bank's International Finance Corporation (IFC) hold 15 per cent each. The tie-up with ICICI Bank will help FINO to extend services which a payments bank is not allowed to offer. "ICICI Bank has a stake in FINO PayTech, the parent company of the payments bank.

So, we already have an existing relationship. Now we are partnering with the bank for helping us to build some products and services that we cannot offer on our own," Mr. Gupta said adding the lender will also offer its help to set up the bank. "Technology is another area where ICICI Bank will support us," he said. (Agencies)

Gadkari to meet auto companies' heads on Jan. 14 New Delhi, Jan 9: Union Minister for Road, Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, will meet representatives of automobile companies on January 14 to understand their concerns following the

as is the case with most phones - one does get used to the skin and its features.

Camera The 13MP rear camera doesn't deliver great images but since m2 is a budget phone, one shouldn't have sky-high expectations. It takes time to switch between modes and the final image quality won't leave you too thrilled. Images clicked after zooming in were pretty blurry and camera certainly won't be the reason to buy this phone.

Battery The battery life of m2 is good and after heavy usage the phone does last for almost an entire day. However, while playing games we did feel that the device heated.

Verdict At Rs 6,999, the m2 is a good phone for the price it commands. Decent looks, sturdy performance, an average camera and good battery life -- there are quite a few things going for m2 and it might just find more than its fair share of takers. It's always tricky to pick a budget phone - more so when it's a Chinese brand but the m2 is certainly an option that could appeal to users in sub-7k price segment.

Specifications: 5-inch 720p HD display with Dragon Trail Glass protection 1.3GHz quad-core MediaTek MT6735 processor 2GB RAM and 16GB storage 13-mp rear camera and 5-mp front camera 2500 mAh battery Flyme 4.5 UI on Android 5.1

government's move to directly implement the Bharat Stage (BS)-VI emission norms by April 2020 skipping BS-V standards. The automobile sector representatives had voiced their apprehensions over an early deadline to implement clean fuel technology citing financial burden and inability to switch to BS-VI norms due to technical complexities. In a move to fight pollution, Mr. Gadkari had announced on Wednesday that government would implement the BS-VI emission norms from April 2020 throughout the country, advancing the earlier deadline by a year and skipping the BS-V norms. BS-VI is the Indian equivalent of the Euro-VI norms. At present, BS-IV norms are being followed in over 30 cities while the rest of the

country followed BS-III norms. "The automobile sector is worried about the integration of two technologies following the decision to skip BS-V norms. "They want more time to upgrade to BS-VI emission norms as the move would require some design changes in vehicles, particularly more bonnet space and lead to increase in their capital cost," said a senior Road, Transport and Highways Ministry official. Mr. Gadkari had assured support to the auto sector and said many companies were already exporting car engines, which support BS-VI norms and four years were sufficient to switch over to BS-VI norms. Earlier, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) had written to the government saying there was a

Raghuram Rajan conferred Central Banker of the Year Award 2016m

come the largest selling performance bike brand priced above Rs 1 lakh. The recently-launched Avengers have clocked sales of 20,000 units in December and we plan to increase manufacturing capacity of Avengers to 30,000 units per month by March 2016.

ICICI Bank to join hands with FINO PayTech for payments bank

TECHNOLOGY Meizu M2 Looks and design The m2 is a sturdy looking no-nonsense device and comes with a single home screen button. It looks like an earlier generation of Apple's iPhone and the solitary button serves the purpose of both Home button and Back button. A single tap serves the function of Back whereas if you press the button it takes you to the Home screen.

The display of m2 is anything but spectacular and the 5-inch 720*1080 pixel screen is decent. The resolution and colours come out fairly well but they certainly don't dazzle you.

Performance The m2 is a 4G-capable dual-sim device and comes packed with 2GB of RAM which runs on a 1.3 GHz MediaTek MT6735 processor. It runs on Flyme 4.5, a customized skin based on Android 5.1. m2 doesn't look like most other Android phones courtesy the skin and delivers pretty decent performance.

Since it runs on Flyme, a lot of Android users might find it a bit irritating to work on. For instance, the settings menu has a two-layered interface and gives a very complex working experience.

However after a while -

HAMARA BAJAJ

PAGE 10

substantial difference in the technologies of BS-VI and BS-V engines. It had said each stage of new technology required validation of over 6-7 lakh km before switching over to BS-VI norms directly.

The Centre for Science and Environment welcomed the government's move. "This is a gamechanger decision and will help India leapfrog to much cleaner emissions…It will be highly detrimental if the auto industry tries to block this move. They have four years to make the necessary changes. If the globalised auto industry is already producing the same clean and safe technology in other markets, there is no reason why the same cannot be done for the Indian market," said CSE Director-General, Sunita Narain. (Agencies)

RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan.Source: images.financialexpress.com

Mumbai, Jan 9: RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has been felicitated with the Central Banker of the Year Award (Global and Asia Pacific) for 2016 by the Financial Times Group's monthly publication 'The Banker'. "The Reserve Bank of India Governor, Raghuram Rajan has been conferred with the Central Banker of the Year Award (Global and Asia Pacific) for 2016 by 'The Banker', a monthly publication of the Financial Times Group focussing on banking," RBI said in a statement. The Central Banker of the Year 2016 awards celebrate the officials that have best managed to stimulate growth and stabilise their country's economy. Recounting the Reserve Bank's achievements in the past year, the Banker said, "India is the one glo-

bal economy that arguably weathered the capital outflow and currency storms in emerging markets that were fuelled by uncertainty over the US Federal Reserve interest rate hike in 2015." "At 7.4 percent, India's 2015 third-quarter gross domestic product growth was the strongest among large economies; the rupee was one of the few stable emerging market currencies in 2015; and a clear financial market liberalisation path is attracting foreign investors and making India's financial markets more sophisticated." In recognition of the RBI contribution to these achievements, The Banker has felicitated Rajan with the title of Global and AsiaPacific Central Bank Governor of the Year, said the release further.

(Agencies)

Industrial paints segment for growth aimed by JSW Group Kolkata, Jan 9: The JSW Group, which is now present in steel, energy and infrastructure sectors, is exploring the possibility of entering the industrial paints segment.

Group Chairman Sajjan Jindal gave this indication during the inauguration of a 2.4 million tonnes cement plant at Salboni in West Bengal's Paschim Medinipur District. Mr. Jindal said the demand for colour-coated steel was increasing and there was huge demand for paints. A separate vertical for paints seemed to be a natural progression for the group The JSW Group, which holds over 4,000 acres in this once naxalstronghold, had delayed its plans of investing

Rs.35,000 crore here to set up a ten million tonnes integrated steel plant. The proposal, made during the rule of the Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Government, was shelved due to downturn in 2008, recession in the steel industry and uncertainties over iron ore. Answering a query on the steel unit, he said, "I am a born optimist…the project is not shelved…it is on the backburner." Inaugurating the commencement ceremony of the project, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said her government wanted the group to invest in many projects beyond the Rs.800 crore committed for the cement plant.

(Agencies)

JSW Group Chairman Sajjan Jindal.Source: www.thehindubusinessline.com

Downfall in oil prices London, Jan 9: Oil fell below $33 a barrel for the first time since April 2004 as a fall in Chinese shares rattled investors already concerned by near-record production and massive stockpiles of unwanted crude and refined products. Oil prices have fallen by around 70 per cent since mid-2014, hurting oil companies and governments that rely on crude revenue. China let its yuan currency slip on Thursday, sending regional currencies and stock markets globally tumbling. The offshore yuan fell to its lowest since trading started in

FALLING PRICES Ø Oil fell below $33 a barrel for the first time

since April 2004 as a fall in Chinese shares rattled investors already concerned by near-record production and massive stockpiles of unwanted crude and refined products.

Ø Oil prices have fallen by around 70 per cent

since mid-2014, hurting oil companies and governments that rely on crude revenue. Ø More than five per cent to a low of $32.16 be-

fore paring some of its losses. It stood down 3.4 percent at $33.07 at 1230 GMT. U.S. crude futures hit a low of $32.10, their lowest since late 2003, before bouncing slightly to $32.72.

2010. China's stock markets were suspended less than half an hour after opening on Thursday after sharp falls triggered a

new circuit-breaking mechanism for a second time since its introduction this week. "Negative sentiment is hurting demand

expectations, growth is easing in China and there is a spillover from the inventory build in (U.S.) gasoline stocks from yesterday and this is reflected in prices," said Hans van Cleef, senior energy economist at ABN Amro in Amsterdam. Brent fell more than five per cent to a low of $32.16 before paring some of its losses.

It stood down 3.4 percent at $33.07 at 1230 GMT. U.S. crude futures hit a low of $32.10, their lowest since late 2003, before bouncing slightly to $32.72. Prices trimmed early losses, with violence in the Middle East and

north Africa offering a measure of support for the market. A military training centre in the Libyan town of Zliten was hit by a truck bomb, causing dozens of casualties, witnesses said, while dozens of air strikes hit the Yemeni capital, Sanaa. However, oil's rapid fall has made a prediction that Goldman Sachs made last year that crude could fall as low as $20 per barrel seem less outlandish than it then seemed. Recently, U.S. government data showed a 10.6-million-barrel surge in gasoline supplies, the biggest weekly build since 1993. (Agencies)

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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

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Dhawan says India ‘pumped up’ for OZ series ANI Melbourne : Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has said that his side is fully pumped up and preparing well for the upcoming ODI series against world champions Australia.

India opened their tour to Australia on a winning note as they claimed a 74-run win in the opening warmup T20 match against Western Australia XI at the WACA Ground on Friday.

The 30-year-old, who scored 74 during a warmup match, said that it was good to get a 100-run partnership with Virat Kohli (74) before the start of the main matches.

Speaking about the Austra-

ANI Johannesburg, Jan 9 : Former South African skipper Hashim Amla has lavished praise on Temba Bavuma, who became the first black batsman to score a Test century for the country, saying that it felt like a victory for his side.

The 32-year-old said he completely understand the pressure that the players of this colour face when they first come to the South African squad.

Amla said that he had a similar career to Bavuma and that everyone doubted his capability during the debut because of the colour of the skin, Sport24 reported.

Amla insisted that the team environment was in a very good space after Bavuma's brilliant performance.

Bavuma, who is by far the shortest batsman in the line-up, standing 162cm tall, used mere 141 balls laced with 16 boundaries to reach the three-figure mark on the fourth day of the second Test against England.

Bavuma made an unbeaten 102 in the first innings during the fourth Test against England that ended in a draw.

South Africa are currently trailing 0-1 in the four-match series following their humiliating 241-run defeat in the opening Test against England in Durban. The two sides will now play the third Test in Johannesburg, starting from January 14.

India, which claimed a 3-0 win in the recently concluded Test series against South Africa, will aim to continue their winning momentum when they will take on Australia in a five-match ODI series, starting from January 12 in Perth.

Shikhar Dhawan

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Swashbuckling batsman Chris Gayle and off-spinner Sunil Narine, who had previously turned down the Caribbean contract, have also failed to make it to the list.

The 15-member list features debutants like Jermaine Blackwood, Leon Johnson, Shane Dowrich, Shai Hope

Pallav stars in Assam's win over Railways PTI Vadodara, Jan 9 : Opener Pallav Kumar Das made a strokeful 77 to guide Assam to a comfortable five-wicket win over Railways in an inconsequential Group C match of the Syed Mushtaq Ali cricket tournament, here today.

Chasing 143 runs for victory, Pallav hammered the

Railways bowlers to all parts of the ground to score his runs off just 43 balls. He struck eight boundaries and three sixes in the process.

Ashish Yadav (2/20) and Anureet Singh (2/30) shared four wickets between them for Railways.

Besides Pallav, Jamaluddin Syed Mohammad was the other notable run getter for Assam with a 39-ball 36 as Assam chased down the target with ease, reaching 147 runs for five in 18.2 overs.

Earlier electing to bowl, leg-spinner Amit Verma (3/ 20) and left-arm pacer Mrinmoy Dutta (3/23) picked up three wickets apiece while Pallav (2/16) scalped two as Assam re-

stricted Railways to 142 for eight.

Wicket-keeper Mahesh Rawat top-scored for Railways with a 47-ball 72. He hit seven boundaries and three sixes during his knock.

Railways ended their campaign with just eight points

PTI Vadodara, Jan 9: Delhi produced a disciplined bowling display as they defended a small total to beat Goa by a narrow two runs and qualify for the knock-out rounds of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20 cricket tournament here today.

Put into bat, Delhi top-order batsmen, including captain and opener Gautam Gambhir (4),

came a cropper as they posted a mere 91 all out in 19.2 overs at the Moti Bagh Stadium here.

Left-arm spinner Shadab Jakati (5/17) ran through the Delhi middle and lower order batting lineup after Lakshay Garg (2/ 5) inflicted early damage in the Group C match.

Delhi did not have any substantial partnership as only three of their bats-

men could reach doubledigit figures with Milind Kumar top-scoring with a 29-ball 19. Opener Unmukt Chand (15) and Shivam Sharma (12) are the other main contributors.

Chasing 92 for a win, Goa could score 89 for 9 in the face a disciplined bowling show by Delhi.

The Goans also suffered a batting collapse as only two batsmen could score

in double digits.

Saurabh Bandekar topscored with a 28-ball 31 not out while Swapnil Asnodkar contributed 21.

For Delhi, pacer Parvinder Awana grabbed three wickets for 21 runs while Akash Sudan took two for 10 runs. Pradeep Sangwan, Pawan Negi and Suboth Bhati got a wicket apiece.

Darren Sammy and Rajendra Chandrika.

Legspinner Devendra Bishoo, fast bowlers Shannon Gabriel and Sheldon Cottrell.

Other players who have

joined the contract list are Jason Holder, Kraigg Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Marlon Samuels, Denesh Ramdin, Jermaine Blackwood, Jerome Taylor, Shai Hope, Kemar Roach.

De Villiers comfortable with captaincy job, believes Wessels

from six matches while Assam have one more match to go.

Brief Scores: Railways: 142 for eight in 20 overs (Mahesh Rawat 72; Amit Verma 3/20, Mrinmoy Dutta 3/23).

Assam: 147 for five in 18.2 overs (Pallav Kumar Das 77; Ashish Yadav 2/20)

Delhi beat Goa by 2 runs to book quarterfinals berth With four points from today's win, Delhi have secured 20 points from five matches to book a quarterfinal berth with one match left to be played.

Brief Scores: Delhi: 91 all out in (19.2 overs (Milind Kumar 19; Shadab Jakati 5/17) Goa: 89/9 in 20 overs (Saurabh Bandekar 31 not out; Parvinder Awana 3/21)

De Villiers ANI Johannesburg, Jan.9 : Former South African skipperKepler Wessels believes that swashbuckling batsman AB de Villiers is completely comfortable with the new job of the Test skipper.

He also asserted that Amla's decision to step down as the Proteas Test skipper should be respected, Sport24 reported.

Reflecting his views on new captain, Wessels said that De Villiers was very comfortable with the added responsibility, as the new role

would energise him and provide him with a renewed vigour.

Amla had stepped down as Proteas Test skipper after the conclusion of the drawn second Test against England at Newlands.

The 58-year-old further insisted that Amla's resignation as skipper would allow him to focus on scoring runs for his side.

Describing Amla as a `key member` of the South African squad, Wessels said that the amount of runs he scores hold immense importance to the team.

Chappell tips Australia favourites Federer thumps Thiem to in ODI series against India set up Raonic rematch tralia) and previous (India) ODI World Cup holders.

MS Dhoni will provide a true test for Australia and Steve Smith," Chappell wrote.

"India has the big names and the talent to push Australia but I don't see them beating the home side, as both teams ramp up their quest for another world title (World T20 in March-April in India)," he said.

PTI Melbourne, Jan 9 : Former captain Ian Chappell feels the Indian team will be quite a handful for world champions Australia in the upcoming ODIs but the hosts will still be the favourites to win the five-game series as the visitors are short of one specialist batsman.

Chappell, in his column for

'The Daily Telegraph', said India are short of a specialist batsman in the touring squad and their fast bowlers are likely to be tested quite a bit by the Australian batsmen on the bouncy conditions here.

"Following a lacklustre Test season, the public is thirsty for some meaningful contests. What looms is a battle between the current (Aus-

"Australia will have a psychological advantage in the first two contests," he added.

Chappell, however, questioned the non-inclusion of fast bowler James Pattinson in the Australian squad for the first two ODIs to be played at the WACA in Perth and the Gabba in Brisbane on January 12 and January 15 respectively.

"If Australia is looking to

inflict serious psychological damage on India prior to World T20, then why not unleash aggressive Pattinson on the bouncy WACA and Gabba? Especially as India's batting lineup, while talented, is one specialist short," said 72year-old Chappell who played for Australia in 75 Tests and 16 ODIs between 1964 and 1980.

"Australia, on the other hand, has a deep line-up.

Agencies Brisbane, Jan 9: Swiss maestro Roger Federer reached his third successive Brisbane International final today when he crushed Dominic Thiem in a lopsided semi-final.

Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Wade and James Faulkner can all either capitalise on a fast start from dashing David Warner and Aaron Finch, or resurrect an innings that has gone awry at the top," he said.

"I'm getting used to conditions, which is usually the case after a couple of matches," he said.

Chappell said India are also handicapped by the lack of all-rounders and they may struggle if their batting topfour do not deliver.

Sporting open their I-League campaign against East Bengal Agencies Margao, Jan 9: After a disappointing performance last season, Sporting Clube de Goa would look for a positive start when they lock horns against East Bengal in their opening match of the I-League at Nehru Stadium here tomorrow.

ANI Barbados, Jan.9 : West Indies T20 skipper Darren Sammy has excluded from the list of central contract for the 2015-16 international cricket season.

Besides Sammy, other key players like all-rounder Andre Russell and spinner Sulieman Benn have also been excluded from the contract list, which was increased from 12 to 15, ESPNcricinfo reported..

Sporting Clube de Goa is one of the two Goan clubs participating in the ILeague this season along with Salgaocar FC, in the absence of Dempo FC and Churchill Brothers.

Sporting Clube de Goa, who finished eighth last year in the I-League, have won the domestic Pro-

League title.

Barring the four foreigners, the team mainly consists of local lads who are out to prove themselves.

Captain Odafe Okolie will be leading the charge along with other three foreigners in defender Loveday Okechuwku, Mohmoud Amnah and

Densil Theobold.

Among the local talent, Rowllin Borges and Nicholas, who has been taken on loan from Churchill Brothers, have showed a lot of promise in the Pro-League.

Coach Mateus Costa is confident that his team will do well this time and im-

prove their position.

"Our team comprises of mainly of local talent and have done well to lift the Pro-league title. Tomorrow we are looking for a positive start against formidable East Bengal and we need crowd support to win tomorrow," stated Costa.

Federer took just 60 minutes to down the eighthseeded Austrian 6-1, 6-4 and said afterwards it was the best he had played all week.

"You understand the speeds more and you're more comfortable. Plus I'm definitely also feeling a bit better now. I was very pleased with how I played. I think it was the best match of the week so far, or most consistent maybe."

The first set lasted just 22 minutes as a shellshocked Thiem struggled to match the 17-time Grand Slam champion on Pat Rafter Arena.

Thiem, 22, settled into the match in the second set and took the fight to his 34-year-old opponent, but a lapse in the seventh game saw him drop his serve and Federer easily held on to book a place in the final.

Federer lost to Lleyton

fifth game of the first set.

But Raonic served his way out of danger and neither man was troubled on his own serve thereafter.

With such a huge serve Raonic was always favoured in the tie-breaks and he opened a 5-1 lead on both occasions.

Hewitt in the 2014 titledecider and beat Canadian Milos Raonic to win the title last year.

Sunday's final will be a rematch of 2015 after the huge-serving Raonic edged local hero Bernard Tomic in two close sets.

"I played some tough matches (against him) in the last, I don't know, I guess 16 months or so," Federer said of Raonic.

"I thought he played really well against me here and Indian Wells last year. So he's been looking good, you know.

Clearly with a serve like that things are always complicated."

The big-serving Raonic hit 13 aces on his way to a 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5) win in one hour, 47 minutes.

Tomic had his chances against Raonic, and had four break points in the

Tomic fought back to 5-5 twice but in the end Raonic closed out the match with a lunging backhand volley.

Raonic pushed Federer in three close sets in 2015 and although he said he was playing better now than 12 months ago, he conceded facing the Swiss great was always difficult.

"He can do a lot of things differently," Raonic said.

"You know what you want to do against him and what you should do (but) he can just make this part difficult for you.

"Each time he can come out playing in different ways and he's able to do a lot of different things.

"But what I need to do is very clear for myself," he added.

"So that's what I'm going to strive for and try to play it on my terms as much as possible, rather than his.

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Bavuma's ton `victory` for Proteas, says Amla

lian line-up, Dhawan said that the visitors were not concerned about it and that they were only looking forward to focus on their game, news.com.au reported.

Australia will play without their key strike bowlers Mitchell Johnson, who had retired from the format and Mitchell Starc, who is recovering after ankle surgery.

Darren Sammy omitted from WICB contract list

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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

ET SPECIAL COVERAGE Dibrugarh Hanumanbax Surajmall Kanoi College (DHSK)

Dibrugarh Hanumanbax Surajmall Kanoi College (DHSK)

The DHSK College, originally named the Dibrugarh College way back in 15th June, 1945, later on came to be renamed after its donors as Dibrugarh Hanumanbax Surajmall Kanoi College in 1957. It is a pleasure to remember even today that Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, the then Vice-President of India came all the way from Delhi to inaugurate the College. It is interesting to know that the donors of

Kanoi College and Dr. LP Dutta, the then Vice-Principal of this Institution of higher Education had a major hand in establishment of Dibrugarh University in 1965. The nucleus of the two nearby Colleges namely DHSK Commerce College and MDK Girls' College had also their origin in this College itself.

The College is permanently affiliated to the Dibrugarh University as a provincialised institution

whose academic activities are guided and controlled by the Dibrugarh University and whose financial aspects are chiefly dependent on the Department of Higher Education, Government of Assam and University Grants Commission. Apart from the financial support the College receives from Govt. of Assam, it also receives, from time to time, the UGC's financial support for certain areas of infrastructure development The total land area in possession of the college is 16.61 acres. The College has ever been working very hard to maintain peace and tranquility of the campus especially by keeping cordial and friendly relationship with the inhabitants in its vicinity.

The College has in total twenty departments of which 12 nos. are in Arts and 8 nos. in Science streams respectively. Almost all the departments offer Major courses excluding Hindi and Bengali.

Department of Sociology and Education are meant for Higher Secondary classes only. The number of successful candidates in their final University Examinations has been excellent since its inception.

The institution being a non-autonomous one does not enjoy the facilities of framing and designing the curriculum on its own. But then, with inputs from affiliated Colleges the University prescribed syllabus are meticulously followed.

Unit tests, tutorial classes, classroom and general seminars are regularly held to inspire and enthuse the students to pursue their studies in a meaningful way for their attitudinal development. The College also tries to provide impetus to the members of its family for getting involved in welfare and extension activities.

Naturally, this college has also begun its quest for attaining self-sufficiency and excellence through unrelenting all round efforts.

National Cadet Corps: A voluntary organization The National Cadet Corps (NCC) is the Indian military cadet corps with its head Quarters at New Delhi. NCC is open to all of the students of school and college on voluntary basis. NCC was conceived in 1917 when India Defence Act was promulgated with an objective of making up the deficiencies in the Armed Forces by raising the University Corps. In 1920 the India Territorial Act was passed and University Corps was replaced by University Training Corps. The Cadets in the NCC are given basic military training in small arms and parades. The officers or the cadets undergoing NCC training have no liability for active military service once they complete.

In 1942, the National Cadet Corps was renamed University Officers Training Corps. In 1946, a committee under Pandit H N Kunzru was set up at the behest of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru with a focus to formulate the establishment of an organization that would train and motivate the Indian youth to become better citizens and leaders in all walks of life, as a result of which the National Cadet Corps came into effect on July 16, 1948 with the declaration of the NCC Act XXXI of 1948 and the NCC was placed under the Ministry of Defence.

National Cadet Corps can be termed as a Tri-Services Organization as it comprises of the Army, Navy and Air Force. The main aim of Na-

from high schools, colleges and Universities all over India and gives those volunteers' military training. NCC inculcates among the youth a sense of nationalism and secular outlook that would contribute towards the building of a stronger nation and apart from that also provides a common platform for individual up-lift of masses through the process of channelizing the energy of the young Indians in a constructive purpose. National Cadet Corps helps the youth to realize the relationship between man and the community, between community and nature and their inter-dependability. Though after the completion of the NCC training volunteers' are not liable to join military, but still the candidates with their valid NCC certificates are given preference over normal candidates during selections based on the achievements in the corps. There is no compulsion for those active in the NCC to pursue with a career in the defense field, but yes, they do stand a better chance given preference over normal candidates during job selections.

History of NCC The National Cadet Corps in India was formed with the National Cadet Corps Act of 1948 with an objective of developing qualities of character, courage, comradeship, discipline, secular outlook, spirit of adventure, sportsmanship and the ideals of selfless service among the

youth to make them useful citizens and also to encourage them to take up career in armed forces. It was raised on 15 July 1948. The origin of NCC, which started with the 'University Corps' was

GLIMPSES FROM THE NCC CAMP

10 Assam Btln NCC organised Combine Annual Tranining Camp for the first time at DHSK College, Dibrugarh.

(4th from left) MP of Dibrugarh, Rameswar Teli at DHSK College, Dibrugarh.

An interview, with Dr.Sashi Kanta Saikia, Principal of Dibrugarh Hanumanbux Surajmal Kanoi College, Dibrugarh.

created under the Indian Defence Act 1917, and its objective was to make up the shortage of the Indian Army.

It was in 1920, when the Indian Territorial Act was passed and the 'University Corps' was replaced by the University Training Corps (UTC) with an objective to raise the status of the UTC and make it more attractive for the national youth. The UTC Officers and cadets dressed like the army and it was a significant step towards the Indenisation of armed forces.

A committee headed by Pandit H.N. Kunzru recommended that there should be a cadet organization established in schools and colleges at a national level to inculcate military training to youth. The National Cadet Corps Act was accepted by then Governor General and on 15 July 1948 the National

Fire fighting skills being displayed by the NCC cadets during the camp. tional Cadet Corps is to groom the youth of the country into disciplined, responsible and patriotic citizens.

The National Cadet Corps in India is a voluntary organization which recruits cadets

PAGE 12

Cadet Corps came into existence.

The Girls Division of NCC was raised in 1949 with a vision to give equal opportunities to school and college going girls and also to en-

courage their participation towards national cause. It was in year 1950 that, the NCC was given an inter-service image when the Air Wing was added, followed by the Naval Wing two years later in 1952. Same year, the NCC curriculum was extended to include community development as well as social service activities as a part of the NCC syllabus. Following the 1962 Sino-Indian War, to meet the requirement of the Nation, the NCC training was made compulsory in 1963, however this compulsion didn't last long, and again in the year 1968, the Corps was made a voluntary organization.

It was during the Indo-Pakistani war of 1965 as well as the Indo-Pakistani war of 1971, NCC cadets were second line of defense and organized a lot of camp to assist ordnance factories, supplying arms and ammunition to the front and also were used as patrol parties to capture enemy paratroopers. The NCC cadets were actively involved and also worked hand in hand with the Civil defense authorities and actively took part in all the rescue works as well as the traffic control. After the wars of 1965 and 1971 a need for revision of the NCC syllabus was felt, rather than just being second line of defense, NCC syllabus laid greater stress on developing quality of leadership and officer like qualities among those undergoing the training. The military training which the NCC cadets received was reduced and greater importance was given to other areas like social service as well as the youth management.

The Eastern Today (TET): Sir, first thing we would like to request is your very own introduction.

Principal: I am Dr. Sashi Kanta Saikia and recently I was appointed as the Principal of DHSK College, Dibrugarh. Prior to my recent appointment I was in Majuli serving as the Principal of Majuli College. I was born at Harabari village near Mohanbari in Dibrugarh district and after a year my family shifted to Bijulibon village, Philobari of Tinsukia district.

My schooling began at PadumPathar L.P. School and Philobari High School. In the year 1989-90, I got my B. Com degree from Doomdooma College securing Second Class Second position in Management (There were no First Class position holders in that year under Dibrugarh University). I passed from Gauhati University in 1994 securing First Class Fifth position in overall M.Com results and was the topper in Management and was awarded a Certificate of excellence by the HOD of Commerce Department, Gauhati University. I completed my Ph.D. (on tourism) from Dibrugarh University in 2007. I was the first research scholar under Dibrugarh University to submit a Ph.D. thesis on Tourism. I worked as night-shift casual worker at Assam Timbers, Rupai during my college days. During this period I was also engaged for duration of three years as a school teacher at Philobari Girls' High School.

In 1994, I began my teaching career as faculty in Dispur College, Guwahati and then I moved over to Dibru College in October, 1994 where I render my service as Associate Professor in Commerce Stream till 2nd March, 2012.

Apart from academics, I was also involved in the Mass Media for quite some time. I have sixteen years of experience as a journalist. I was also a columnist in various popular newspapers of Assam.I have a passion for writing and have till now published sixteen books altogether. Khuj: JibonorKhuj edited by Mrs.Riju Gogoi is a book based on my varied experiences in life.

TET: Sir, how do you feel to

be the new Principal of this old and prestigious college?

Principal: I feel very glad on being appointed as the new Principal of this old and prestigious college of Upper Assam. I do consider it as my fortune indeed. At the same time, this appointment entrusts upon me, great responsibilities as far as maintaining and keeping intact the glorious past, heritage and prestige of this leading college. I have to shoulder the big responsibility of ensuring and enhanc-

Principal: I have personally inspected all the class rooms and I am very much aware of the problems relating to classrooms and general infrastructure of the college.I shall promptly address these lapses at the earliest for the convenience of the students and the teaching faculty. I am resolved to provide better facilities to the students in classrooms which I consider is inevitable for enhancing learning and teaching environment. Provisions are already made to pro-

Dr. Sashi Kanta Saikia, Principal, D.H.S.K College, Dibrugarh ing the educational excellence of this college.

TET: Sir, tell us about your impression about the teachers and students of the college.

Principal: The teachers of this college are considerably dynamic, energetic, experienced, enthusiastic and innovative. I am happy to have such a good teaching community in the college. The students of DHSK College are talented and have various potentialities in varied fields. No doubt they are the bright future of the nation. My earnest message to my dear students is that they should concentrate on their studies and build the firm foundation for their future career from here. I shall urge my students to clarify their doubts and concepts from their concerned Professors, who are ever so ready and to help the students in academic and other related matters as well.

TET: Sir, don't you think that the classrooms are small, outdated and insufficient?

And do you have any plan to upgrade the class-rooms infrastructures of the college?

If yes when?

vide Wi-Fi facility within the college campus to the students as well as the teaching faculties so that they can keep themselves abreast of the wide stock of academic information and knowledge available in Internet.

TET: Tell us a bit more on your plans ...

Principal: This morning only we got a final nod from the army authorities that they will develop the playground of our college. This is the immediate fall out of hosting the NCC camp in our college. Next, there is a plan to develop the boy's hostel. Again, we want to introduce PG courses in subjects like English from the next academic session for which we have submitted a proposal to the Dibrugarh University.

TET: Can you please share with us, your vision for the college as a whole?

Principal: My vision is to ensure and provide quality education as per the demands of todays' global era so that my students can cope, face and fight with the present career related challenges. My vision is also to establish DHSK College as an academic institution

of national and international repute. I shall give high priority on providing high-tech classroom facilities to the students of the college so that learning becomes more effective. A holistic approach to overall development of the students will be initiated. In this regard sports coacher and music teacher have been arranged for to guide the students in these respective fields.I am firmly resolved to keep intact the glorious heritage of this college which constitutes the core of my vision.

We are also planning to adopt a village which in a way will make us and our students interact with the people of the grassroot level. We have also started a canteen at the college premises. We are also thinking of introducing some short term diploma courses like automobile engineering, tourism courses etc which will help the products of our college to find a way to a better lifestyle and also to be independent.

TET: Sir, we have heard that you are believer in the saying "Example is better that perception". Please explain.

Principal: Laughs! Yes, I am a firm believer of the saying "Example is better that perception", and so I try my level best in following this saying in my everyday life. It is the reason why I come to college early in the morning and I want to spend maximum hours of a day in my college. I want to provide my college with all possible opportunities and develop this college as a renowned college all over India.

My dream is to see this college among the top 100 colleges of India. Like people talk about Miranda House (Delhi), Christ College (Bangalore), Cotton College (Guwahati) etc, I want people should hold the same opinion about our DHSK College too.

TET: Sir, last but not least, through this interview what message would you like to give to the College fraternity.

Principal: My message to the fraternity is that each member should try his/her best to realize their hidden potentialities to the fullest and that they be inspired by noble ideals and devote themselves to the betterment of the society.

Interviewed by: Sushmita Jena & Jahnabi Pachani

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Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

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