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ASSENG/2015/64205
Page 12 Vol. 1
Issue 274
Dibrugarh, Friday, March 11, 2016
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Pages- 12
Page 6
AGP releases list of candidates in 25 seats Constitute inquiry After the BJP named the party's candidate for the upcoming assembly election in the state yesterday; the The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) today released its list of candidates in 25 seats today. The candidates are Jyotiprashad Das from Boko, Dr. Kamala Kalita from Chaygaon, Ramendra Narayan Kalita from West Guwahati, Satyabrat Kalita from Kamalpur, Phani Bhusan Chowdhary from Bongaigoan, Bhupen Rai from North Abhyapuri, Robin Banikya from South Abhyapuri, Keshab Mahanta from Kaliabar, Pradip Hazarika from Amguri, Prafulla Kumar Mahanta from Barhampur, Atul Bora from Bokakhat, Bhaben Bharali from Dergaon, Brindaban Goswami from Tezpur, Utpal Dutta from Lakhimpur, Naren Sonwal from Naharkatiya,Renupama Rajkhuwa from Teok, Binod Gowala from Sarupathar,Habibur Rahman from Dalgaon,Prabin Hazarika from BiswanathRanjit Deka from Laharighat, Ziyauddin Ahmed from Jamunamukh, Ali Azam Sheikh from West Bilashipara, Pabindra Deka from Patasarkuchi,Gunindra Das from Barpeta and Mukundaram Chowdhary will stand from the Kalaigaon constituency. The BJP and the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), last week, formally announced tie-up for the ensuing polls and AGP to contest on 24 out of the 126 seats. Speaking to reporters after making the formal announcement, AGP president Atul Bora called for support from the party workers and said that it is possible to defeat the Congress in the state.
ET CAPSULES
Caretaker of Tawang Monastery seeks support from State government Itanagar, Mar 10: Tulki Rinpoche, of Tawang Monastery along with Lawmakers from Tawang and West Kameng submitted a memorandum to CM Kalikho Pul seeking support from the state government in maintaining the Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, popularly known as Tawang Monastery which is 400 years old and second largest Buddhist Monastery in Asia. In response to the memorandum, CM Kalikho Pul assured them will all them that they will receive all the necessary support from the State Government. (Staff Reporter)
AGP CANDIDATES LIST Jyotiprashad Das
Boko
Dr. Kamala Kalita Ramendra Narayan Kalita Satyabrat Kalita Phani Bhusan Chowdhary
Chaygaon West Guwahati Kamalpur Bongaigoan
Bhupen Rai
North Abhyapuri
Robin Banikya Keshab Mahanta Pradip Hazarika
South Abhyapuri Kaliabar Amguri Barhampur
Prafulla Kumar Mahanta Atul Bora
Bokakhat Dergaon
Bhaben Bharali Brindaban Goswami Utpal Dutta Naren Sonwal
Tezpur Lakhimpur Naharkatiya Teok Sarupathar
Renupama Rajkhuwa Binod Gowala Habibur Rahman Prabin Hazarika Ranjit Deka Ziyauddin Ahmed Ali Azam Sheikh Pabindra Deka Gunindra Das
Dalgaon Biswanath Laharighat Jamunamukh West Bilashipara Patasarkuchi Barpeta
cmyk
In another accident two persons including one driver died on the spot when one iron loaded truck (No AS 01 BC 2550) rammed on a pick up van ( No As 15 C 7266) in which they were travelling at Rangia Bhatkuchi. The deceased were identified as Zakir Ali of Jhar para under Barpeta district and the other was Mainul Haque of Jania. The dead bodies were kept in the morgue of Rangia. (Correspondent)
A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Mar. 10 All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (ATASU) and Muttock Yuva Chatra Sanmilan of Tinsukia District jointly organised a protest today in Tinsukia and burnt effigy of Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal for giving ticket to Sanjay Kisan from Tinsukia. “Sanjay Kisan is a communal, how could he get ticket from BJP. We opposed the decision of BJP, he doesn’t deserve ticket. In Assam where Ahom community have majority but only five tickets were given to our community,’’ alleged Chao Milan Buragohain, Tinsukia District president of ATASU. After the declaration of the tickets of BJP candidates yesterday, some areas have witnessed protests from BJP workers. Contd. on Page 4
AJYCP organises ‘Mass Convention’ against Lower Subansiri Hydro Electric Power Project Strong demand to close the Big Dam ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Mar 10
Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad (AJYCP), along with its four district bodies, viz. Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Majuli and Biswanath, organised a huge
Mass Convention at the play ground of Gogamukh MV School demanding the immediate closure of Lower Subansiri Hydro Electric Power Project (LSHEPP) constructed at Gerukamukh located at Assam-Arunachal Border area of Dhemaji Distrct in Assam.
The central leaders of the organisation along with more than ten other anti-big dam organisations and individual activists took part in the convention. “At present BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath
Singh took u-turn from the promises that they made before the last Parliamentary Election and they are now trying to fulfill the interest of the corporate taking stand in support of big dam and completing the construction of LSHEPP” alleged AJYCP leaders.
Updating of Arm License Organisations protests under NDAL system against cutting down
committee: JAC A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Mar10
Addressing the media persons at Press Club today, Tame Phassang, the chairman of BJP Jan Andolan Committee (JAC) appealed on Chief Minister Kalikho Pul and newly appointed Chief Secretary Shakuntala Gamlin to initiate a high level inquiry committee for fund irregularities in the PWD, UD, PHE, Power and Disaster Management. Also, appealing on the CM to consider on improvising the already existing road at Jully and also the road from Papu Nallah to O-Point-via-Donyi Polo School to control the traffic congestion in the Capital
Complex area, Phassang also added that, “While we have strong hope that the new CM and the CS will live upto everyone’s expectations, we would also reiterate and raise the demand from time to time in case of their failure to meet the same.”
Meanwhile, lauding incumbent Chief Minister Kalikho Pul for “restoring proper governance” in the state and also for discarding the Civil Deposits, Phassang maintained that, “Victory has been achieved by Pul in forming a government. However, real victory will come if the people believe that the change has come.” Accordingly, he appealed on the legislators to allow CM Pul to independently decide the can-
didates for ministerial berth and not put any hindrance therein. Earlier, the chairman of BJP Jan Andolan Committee (JAC), Phassang while expressing satisfaction on achieving the purpose for which JAC was set up and in that, the establishment of a credible government in the state, extended gratitude to the BJP National President Amit Shah and state BJP leader of Opposition Tamiyo Taga for forming and supporting the cause of JAC movements, respectively. He also extended the JAC’s gratitude to Governor J P Rajkhowa, who he termed as the “Clean Man,” for setting an example of good governance during the President’s Rule.
Kiwis from Arunachal Pradesh? That's truly Make in India Agencies Itanagar, Mar10
Everybody talks about the way the country's depressed agriculture sector, the main source of income for 40 per cent of our population, has been pulling down our growth figures, but does anyone really care about what our farmers have to offer and how our traditional crops can be turned into money-spinners with some intelligent marketing? I kept asking these questions when I recently met Puneet Jhajharia and Ishira Mehta, who gave up lucrative, settled careers (Puneet was developing technology solutions for Wall Street and Ishira, after a stint with the NGO, Self Employed Women's AssociationSEWA, was with the International Finance Corporation) to launch CropConnect with the purpose of discovering hidden gems from our fields and getting them to the table.It is a very different startup in a market driven mainly by the urban hunger for a better lifestyle. To set it up, Puneet and Ishira crisscrossed India - across 70,000 kilometres - to contact farmers and see for themselves what's pulling the sector back. Of all the stories they shared with me, I found the one about kiwis grown in Arunachal Pradesh most telling. India imports 4,000 tonnes
Kiwis from Arunachal Pradesh are 30 per cent cheaper, yet theyâ•™re sold in Delhi with foreign labels. Photo: Reuters
of kiwis from New Zealand, Italy and Chile - the most favoured brand name being Zespry - but Arunachal Pradesh grows kiwis too and these sell for 30 per cent lower than the price commanded by the multinational. Over the last three years, Puneet and Ishira have seen Arunachal's kiwis struggle to gain a toehold in the national market; ironically, there are no takers as long they're identified as locally sourced and cheaper to boot. Fruit wholesalers therefore have hit upon a novel idea, as Puneet and Ishita have discovered, to clear domestic kiwi stock and make more money. They sell them under a foreign label at prices commanded by the imported fruit. Does that benefit Arunachal's
kiwi farmers? Well, the market subterfuge does ensure their stocks don't remain unsold, but do they benefit from the higher prices their produce now commands? No way! The north-east especially, Puneet and Ishira have found out as they go about "mapping the gap between the consumer and the producer", is a treasure trove of products that deserve to be better known in the rest of the country - these include Nagaland's pineapples, Meghalaya's ginger and turmeric, Manipur black rice and passion fruit, and the badi elaichi from Arunachal and Sikkim.
Contd. on Page 3
of trees in Jagun
Road mishap, 3 dead Rangia March 10: 3 persons killed on the spot one of them was a police constable in 2 separate road accident held at 31st NH Amingaon and Rangia Bhatkuchi today. One unknown vehicle knocked one police constable in front of the Kamrup SP office at the wee hours. He was identified as Bhaben Kalita of Changsari.
Student’s organisations hold protests in Tinsukia
ET Correspondent Jagun, Mar 10:
ET Correspondent Aalo Mar 10
In a notification served by Extra Assistant Commissioner (Judicial), Shri K. Ningo it states that Arms License having no Unique Identification Number (UIN) generated from National Database of Arms Licenses (NDAL) system will be considered invalid with effect
from 1st April next. Hence District Administration has appealed all defaulters of Arm License holders of West Siang for updating their arms license under NDAL on or before 30th March by filing up the prescribed format available at Judicial Branch of DC Office, Aalo along with a copy of their Arm Licence.
All Assam Shramik Krishak Kalyan Parishad Jagun Regional Committee, All Tea Tribe Students Association and Mason and Helpers Union on Wednesday took out a protest rally from Jagun to Lekhapani area against cutting down of Trees. The main motive of the protest was to increase the
value of Tea leaf, to provide safe drinking water, to convert Jagun Public Health Centre to Community Health Centre, to stop coming of outsiders Labours at Jagun and Lekhapani region and with several other demands. The protestors also shouted various slogans against Assam Government. A memorandum was also submitted to Margherita SDO (C) through Lekhapani Police Station officer in Charge.
Man tries to attack Kanhaiya Kumar for his statement about Army Agencies Delhi, Mar 10
A man tried to attack Kanhaiya Kumar inside the JNU campus, as per media reports today. His name is Vikas
Chaudhary and he tried to slap the JNUSU president. The man was later detained by security officials. As per initial reports, he is an outsider and native of Ghaziabad. Some reports said
that JNU students rescued the JNUSU president.
Vikas said that he was upset with Kumar over his remarks regarding the Army.
Also Kanhaiya is said to be out of danger. Later, talking to the press,
Contd. on Page 4
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A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Mar 10
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
ASTRO FOR YOU Aries Today, you may wake up with your nose in the air. Though you may feel bossy and important, others may not feel that way about you. Avoid giving orders that sound like insults. Otherwise, the whole thing may fall flat on your face. Taurus You will hear the division bell beckoning you to strike a balance between your personal and professional life. Today is an encouraging day for big business deals and new projects. In the afternoon, you may fall victim to iniquity. Safeguard your money from green-eyed monsters. Gemini A marathon brainstorming session with your colleagues, a scamper for meeting deadlines, and a demanding spouse will leave you quite stressed out by the end of the day. You, however, are an expert in dividing time between business, home and pleasure. The answer to your prayers is a late-night party, at least that’s what you think. Cancer This is your big moment. You are going to deal with a huge amount of money — the kind of amount you would want to fill your swimming pool with and swim in it. Statutory warning: Don’t dive in it, for you may hurt yourself as something or someone is likely to pull the plug, draining out most of the wealth that was amassed overnight. However, you will regain some of that lost money by the end of the day. Leo Call it a day with a positive difference, but today, you are more keen and inclined towards entertainment and relaxation. Everybody needs a break from the routine, so make the most of today. On a more personal note, you are required to make subtle moves as there are hints that you may want to give your love life a more definite turn, like a marriage. You and your beloved will spend the evening in passionate embraces. On a more cautionary note, take extra care while travelling, especially if you are alone. Virgo It is quite probable that today will be an action-packed day for you. It is going to be a progressive day for your business. Later in the day, you may retreat into your shell, and refuse company. Libra It’s now or never for you, as today, you may finally take out time to do some sound thinking for your future goals and success. Things seem to go your way, and all your plans are beautifully executed towards the afternoon. Also, find time in the evening to be with the ones dear to you. A movie and dinner sounds like a good idea. Enjoy life in all its goodness! Scorpio Armed with a good sense of judgement, you will make a number of encouraging changes in your behaviour today. Habits die hard, but all the effort that you put in to refine your routine will pay off brilliantly by the end of the day. Close friends and family will be pleasantly surprised by your efficiency and decisions. Sagittarius Today, you will probably emerge as the victorious gladiator in the arena of sports and games. But later in the day, some hurdles may come across your path. At your desk, your bosses might just lend you a helping hand to assist you to finish off pending jobs. Capricorn It’s not every day that you wake up with a positive feeling, one that pushes you to make right everything that has been going wrong around and within you. Today, you may be in one of those high-spirited moods. At home, you will strive to gain the confidence of your family members while at work, you will slog hard the entire day and get adequately rewarded for the same. Aquarius You are fully charged and raring to go! Your friends are supportive of your new schemes, and your bosses are pushing you to complete pending projects. This shouldn’t be a problem, considering your current levels of energy and enthusiasm. Pisces You will feel like King Midas himself today because everything you take up will fructify into something successful and rewarding. You will be alight with incredible ideas and abuzz with stupendous energy. Feel free to skip the coffee!
PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 11-3-16 (FRIDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Songs) 8-30 A.M-North East News Bulletin in English 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M- Live Phone in Surar Satsori 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikar Asor (Tea Garden Programme Programme) 8-00 P.M-Sponsored Programme-Brahmaputra Swasthya Sewa (Sponsored by BDHL) 10.00 P.M-Question Hour in Parliament Sd-/H.O.P
PAGE 2
Poll preparations gear up for Titabor Assembly Poll ET Correspondent Jorhat, Mar 10: Hectic poll preparation is in full swing within the premises of the sub-divisional office (civil) Titabor for training of polling officials and for keeping polling materials, for the prestigious 100Titabor Legislative Assembly Constituency (LAC)
Ms J.Keerthi (IAS) who is the SDO(Civil) Titabor and the who is the returning officer is keeping no stone untouched as the office is all
ready with poll activities all around, will receive nomination papers from three times sitting Chief Minister cum sitting MLA Titabor, Tarun Gogoi and from sitting BJP MP Kamakhaya Prasad Tasa, and many others. Titabor seat is going to wit-
ness a straight fight between Congress and the BJP, as Tarun Gogoi from (Congress) and Kamakhaya P Tasa from (BJP). A total of 2, 37,484 voters vote will be counted with 1, 20,800 male and 1, 16,684 female voters, from both the assembly seats from Titabor and Mariani.
Annual Conference of Haflong District Karmachari Parishad held at Haflong ET Correspondent Haflong, Mar 10: The Annual Conference of Haflong District Karmachari Parishad was held at the Cultural Institute Haflong today in presence of all the employees of the Dima Hasao district. In this connection, a well attended meeting was also held wherein Athong Lienthang, Nirmal Langthasa, Hlima Keivoum, EMs NCHAC, Amarendra Barua, DC, Dima Hasao, Ramesh Thaosen, Principal Secretary, NCHAC Basab Kalita, Secretary General SAKP etc were present apart from the office bearers various organisations of employees of the district. In this conference grievances of the employees and the other issues pertaining to the employees both state and the council were also discussed. On behalf of the Haflong District Karmachari Parishad submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister Sri Tarun Gogoi through the Chief Executive Member, NCHAC in respect of their State Govt
Annual Conference of Haflong District Karmachari Parishad held at Haflong Employees/ Workers & Teachers including the employees of the NCHAC. The memorandum included the 13 point charter of demand as to create separate PLA account of the State Govt Employees, Regularization of W/C, M/R and Fixed pay employees, Enhancement of Hill allowance at least 20%, ensure regular monthly salaries in the 1st week of the month, Continuation of services of SSA employees and TET teachers and contractual employees as like state Govt e m p l o y e e s ,
Provincialisation of Ad-hoc Schools, Revise Service rules and regular monthly salary for Autonomous Council employees, to develop the road communication, filling up the vacant post of education department immediately, normalize and create permanent retention for the post of ME school Teachers, to grant 30 days earned leave in education department, post creation of Head Teachers and 1000 post of Asstt. Teachers in Lower Primary school for normalisation by the state government, and to
setup at least one BEd College, Law College and medical college for better developmental of the district. Basab kalita, Secretary General, SAKP and M L Nunisa, President, Haflong District Karmachari Parishad talking to the media hinted if the government fails to fulfill their demands there would be effect in the coming assembly election. They also warned that they would launch vigorous agitation in near future if the governemtn ignores their genuine pleas.
ET Correspondent Golaghat, Mar 10: Under the aegis of Golaghat based social, cultural, literature and environment organization Pragya, Assam popular poet, critic Nilim Kumar's 55th birthday was celebrated in Golaghat yesterday. On this occasion a unique program of poetry and lyrics entitled ' Monoloi Phagun Ahe' was organised at the Amateur Theatre Society Auditorium in Golaghat where several upcoming poetic talents from different parts of Assam took part. Nilim Kumar was given a warm welcome and felicitated with traditional gamusa , books , flowers bouquet . His 55th birthday was celebrated by offering a huge cake. The program was conducted by a leading writer and educationist MK Saikia. The Poet Nilim Kumar thanked and appreciated for such an initiative taken by PragyaAssam and stated that such events inspire him to create new poems and literature.
BJP workers became jubilant over youth candidature for Mangaldai dreds of workers and supporters of the saffron party came out to the street here at Areng , Karimchowka , Telipara etc and burst fire crackers , shouted slogans in support of BJP and also performed Bihu dance and songs as a mark of expressing their delight in the decision .
ET Correspondent Mangaldai March 10 : The workers of BJP specially the youth force of the party under SC reserved Mangaldai Legislative Assembly Constituency have become jubilant after the last night announcement of a new young dynamic face as the party candidate for the prestigious LAC .
It may be mentioned here that Gurujyoti, a national level cricket umpire was in the fray for the BJP candidature from LAC along with Hiren Kr Das formerly two times MLA from AGP and
Immediately after the announcement of the name of Gurujyoti Das , a sincere , dynamic and educated young party worker with good social image , hun-
recently becoming BJP, owner of a local LPG dealer and a former party candidate Pradip Das and former RSS leader Ranendra Kr Sarkar among others. Meanwhile in his instant reaction before the Assam Tribune after being confirming party ticket, Gurujyoti considered this achievement as the outcome of his sincere work in the grass root organization of the party for the last two years as well as growing importance of youths in BJP.
Electronic Media Forum Assam Army distributes Sewing urges facility of postal ballots Machines to women for the city based media persons A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Mar 10: The Electronic Media Forum Assam (EMFA) has urged the election authority of India for providing the facility of postal ballots for the city based media persons during the forthcoming Assam Legislative Assembly election, scheduled for April 4 and 11 next.
CPI (M) protest againts Central Government. Pic - Nekib Ahmed
and 101-Mariani LAC as counting for both the Assembly seats will be done at Titabor SDO(Civil) office premises.
Poet Nilim Kumar's Birthday Celebrated in Golaghat
The media forum argues that there are thousands of media employees including journalists in Guwahati, who works for the over 20 morning news dailies, around hundred periodicals, five satellite news channels and
the few entertainment electronic media outlets. However, most of these media employees living in Guwahati are non natives to the city and they have their voting rights in their native home towns or villages. “There should be more than four thousand media employees along with their eligible family members who don’t have their names in the voters list of greater Guwahati. These people often miss the opportunity to exercise their voting right as they cannot leave the station on the poll-dates due
to their crucial duties to cover the election and thus most of the valuable votes often go waste,” said a statement issued by the Emfa. So the forum appeals to the chief election commissioner of India as well as the chief electoral officer of Assam to arrange postal voting facilities for the interested city based media persons along with their families. The Emfa clarifies that the centre for postal balloting and also the date & time for the same should be decided by the election authority, where the forum has no specific choice.
Army distributes Sewing Machines to women ET Correspondent Rangia, Mar 10: Army distributed 30 Sewing Machines under Operation Sadbhavana to the women of poor economic background from Kokrajhar District today. Apart from this, Army also provided 20 Bunk Beds to the children Alayaran Anath
Ashram. During the distribution ceremony, children of orphanage, Beneficiary women and representatives of civil administration were also present. All attendees expressed their gratitude and thanked Indian Army for carrying out such proactive work to help the needy.
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
PAGE 3
Tree falls on cars, one injured
Lone RCC Bridge over Kharsang River requires immediate repairing ET Correspondent Kharsang, Mar 10: The citizens of Kharsang demand an immediate repairing of the 30 years lone RCC Bridge over Kharsang River connecting two sides of the town and intervention of the elected leader is highly sought to redress the matters from appropriate pocket of funds.
ET Correspondent Khonsa, Mar 10: In a freak accident at Khonsa at the night of March 9 at around 8.45 pm two Alto Cars were damaged and a Ghumti destroyed when a tree fell down propelled by heavy rains and strong winds. One boy who was inside the ghumti was seriously injured and he has been evacuated to AMCH, Dibrugarh for treatment.
The unfortunate accident occurred in the Engineering Colony at Khonsa. Two motor vehicle garages were also damaged. On hearing about the news of the accident, the neighbors and passersby swung into action and rescued the unidentified injured person. It may be mentioned here that there are many old trees on the roadsides may occur similar accidents.
Governor congratulates for ‘Kayakalp Award’ A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Mar 10: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has congratulated the doctors, nurses, Para medics and staffs of the General Hospital, Pasighat, on being conferred the prestigious ‘Kayakalp Award’.
giene in the Hospital, which reflects the high sense of their dedication, commitment and sincerity of the team.
Conveying his felicitation, the Governor said that it is a proud moment for every citizen of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly those engaged in the Health, Hygiene and Sanitation Services.
The Governor expressed his hope that the Award will instil new zeal, enthusiasm and passion among those in the Health Services and also general public to contribute towards building a healthier society and to inculcate a culture of ongoing assessment and peer review of performance related to health, hygiene, cleanliness and sanitation.
The Governor, who recently visited the Hospital, said that Inspite of many infrastructural deficiencies, the officers and staffs have been abled to maintain high standard of cleanliness and hy-
I believe that Pasighat General Hospital would serve as a role model to other hospitals and health care centres in the State- both public as well as private, the Governor said.
The old bridge needs repairing which is under dilapidated condition with un-
countable potholes. The commuters find untold suffering while crossing the bridge due to many potholes. The citizens alleged that the representative and Zila Parishad members do always ply over this bridge but none of them has tried to address the issue for redressal. The citizens claim that this road is a life line for people
of Kharsang, Namphai, Miao and Vijoynagar circles and such important bridge cannot be overlooked. They alleged that since the construction in midst 70's and 80's, there has not been any repairing by the departments like Public Works Department and urban development. They further alleged that regular staffs had been appointed in the working department but when they
come to repairing of government assets, they are out of sight. Most of them have been seen engaged in a works which had been awarded to private contractors or projects. “I don’t know why government staffs or labourers are engaged so often in a works or projects awarded to private parties? Why they are given salaries for attending private projects that are under private contractors?
Why not the dilapidated structure that serves the real purpose for the common mass being left out?” asked a citizen.
duced of the sanctioned projects else the funds would not fulfill the targeted vision.
The citizens of Arunachal Pradesh have great hope over the new teams under the new Chief Minister and they believe that it shouldn't be an old wine in a new bottle. The central government should not sanction funds to the state unless the utilization certificate is pro-
The state has to bring overall development and reduce corruption at any cost at all possible levels which seems to be sole a priority of our new Chief Minister upon which the speculation is committed in his recent vision statement made recently.
DC advises to take up Arunachal: Husband sets schemes for Border people wife on fire on Women's Day
ET Correapondent Roing, Mar 10: Ravi Dhawan, Deputy Commissioner cum Chairman District Level Committee of Border Area Development Fund, Lower Dibang Valley District advised to take up schemes that will benefit the people of Border areas under BADP. He said this while chairing over the Annual Action Plan under BADP 2016-17 for HunliDesali Border Block in his office chamber on Wednes-
day. He further suggested that people residing in the border areas should not migrate for lack of basic amenities and facilities citing that BADP is meant to create and develop such amenities in the border areas.
A Draft Proposal received from the MLA Roing and PRI Members of HunliDesali Block was scrutinized and finalized on the need base in conformity
with latest guidelines. The meeting decided to submit final list of proposal to the Govt. soon for further consideration.
Take Ringu, SP, Aduk Paron, DFO(T), Assistant Commandant ITBP, Tezu, M Dirchi, DPO cum Member Secretary BADP, Jally Umpo, EAC i/c SDO Hunli, PD DRDA, EE PHED, DHO, CO Roing, BDO Hunli besides Public Leader attended the meeting.
A Staff Reporter Hawai, Mar 10: An incident of violence against women came to light on the day of International Women’s Day, which is celebrated throughout the world for social, political and economical empowerment of women. As per information received from the parents of the victim through Anjaw Deputy Commissioner, a husband in
Samdul village under Hawai circle of Anjaw district tried to kill his wife by setting her on fire on February 27 ‘without any reason’. The parents also accused the husband of meting out harassment against his wife both physically and mentally. Alleging police inaction in initiating action against the alleged accused husband
despite an FIR was lodged at Police Station, Khupa, the parents demanded adequate compensation and five years of life guarantee to the victim from the offender party.
They also demanded the authority concerned to award exemplary punishment to the alleged accused as per law.
Cabinet approves Pradhan Case against Kanhaiya for Mantri Ujjwala Yojana objectionable statement against Army personnel
ANI New Delhi, Mar 10: TheCabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime MinisterNarendra Modi, has approvedPradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, a scheme for providing free LPG connections to women from BPL households. Under the scheme, Rs. 8000 crore has been earmarked for providing five crore LPG connections to BPL households. The scheme provides a financial support of Rs. 1600 for each LPG connection to the BPL households. The identification of eligible
BPL families will be made in consultation with the state governments and the Union Territories. This scheme would be implemented over three years, namely, the FY 2016-17, 201718 and 2018-19. This is the first time in the history of the country that the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas would implement a welfare scheme benefitting crores of women belonging to the poorest households. In our country, the poor have limited access to cooking gas (LPG). The spread of LPG cylinders has been predominantly in the urban and semi-urban areas with the coverage mostly in middle class and affluent households. But there are serious health hazards associated with cooking based on fossil fuels. According to WHO estimates, about five lakh deaths take place in India alone due to unclean cooking fuels. Most of these premature deaths were due to noncommunicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer. Indoor air pollution is also responsible for a
significant number of acute respiratory illnesses in young children.
According to experts, having an open fire in the kitchen is like burning 400 cigarettes an hour. Providing LPG connections to BPL households will ensure universal coverage of cooking gas in the country. This measure will empower women and protect their health. It will reduce drudgery and the time spent on cooking. It will also provide employment for rural youth in the supply chain of cooking gas. In this direction, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his Budget speech on February 29 had announced a budgetary provision of Rs. 2000 crore for 2016-17 to provide deposit free LPG connections to 1.5 crore women belonging to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. Further, the Budget announced that the scheme will be continued for two more years to cover five crore households.
Ahmed Patel raises sanitation workers' plight in RS ANI New Delhi, Mar 10: Senior Congress leaderAhmed Patel on Thursday highlighted the plight faced by sanitation workers across the country in order to make the 'Swacch Bharat Abhiyan' a success. "I don't want to talk about the success of this scheme, but about the thousands of people in our country who die every day to make the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan a success. I want to raise the issue and the plight faced by sanitation workers. A study showed that in Delhi alone, every year nearly 100 sanitation workers die after entering drains and manholes with high temperature, slippery walls, floors and toxic gases," Patel said in Rajya Sabha. His Eminence Guru Tulku Rinpoche, the Abbot of Tawang Monastery along with Lawmakers from Tawang and West Kameng called on CM Kalikho Pul. They submitted a memorandum seeking support from the state government in maintaining the Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, popularly known as Tawang Monastery which is 400 years old and second largest Buddhist Monastery in Asia. Pul assured all possible support from the State Government. Also seen in the photograph - Pema Khandu, Pasang Dorjee Sona, Jambey Tashi, Tenzin Norbu Thongdok, Dr. Mohesh Chai, Tsering Tashi, Gabriel D Wangsu, Panchayat Leaders of Tawang and Buddhist Monks.
"The last estimate of the number of people who died all over India, puts the number close to 23,000 people," he added. Patel further said that some people lose their life while protecting the nation, some while farming for the nation and others while cleaning
up the nation and asked if they can't be treated as martyrs? "But families of such martyrs receive no government compensation," he said. The senior Congress leader also described the lack of knowledge among Indians about the sacrifice being made by the sanitation workers as 'very poor commentary on our society'. "Even the Economic Survey says waste disposal is substantially complicated by India's history of untouchability- work of disposing of human faeces is associated with severe forms of social exclusion and oppression," he added.
ANI Kanpur, Mar 10: A case has been registered against JNU Students' Union president Kanhaiya Kumar in the Kanpur civil court for giving objectionable statementagainst Army personnel. Speaking at a student's gathering on International Women's Day, Kanhaiya alleged that the IndianArmy
personnel have committed atrocities against women in Jammu and Kashmir.
nel," Kanhaiya said on Tuesday.
"No matter how much you try to stop us, we will speak up against human rights violations. We will raise our voice against AFSPA. While we have a lot of respect for our soldiers, we will still talk about the fact that in Kashmir women are raped by security person-
The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha had yesterday filed a complaint in the Vasant Vihar Police Station against Kanhaiya and JNU professor Nivedita Menon, saying they have made 'anti-national' statements in the aftermath of February 9 event in the JNU campus.
Govt. to provide free English tuition for SC, ST students of IITs ANI New Delhi, Mar 10: Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Smriti Irani on Thursday informed the Rajya Sabha that the government has decided to operationalise a Peergroup Assisted Learning (PAL) Programme for socially and educationally disadvantaged students in the IITs. Under this programme, the senior students would mentor fresh students especially from socially and educationally disadvantaged sections and help to cope with the academic pressures of IIT. Apart from this, many IITs have taken steps
such as, operationalising a basic English language course to improve English competency, offering two-non-graded courses in language and writing skills using professional software for English language instruction, conducting formal, informal English lan-
guage remedial sessions by student mentors and holding special English classes on weekends or evening tutorials and provision of additional help through teaching assistants. This support will be provided by IITs without charging any fee. (ANI)
Kiwis from Arunachal Pradesh? That's truly Make in India Contd. from Page 1
He urged the Government to What is more worrying is take note of the work done by sanitation workers to that many of the traditional keep the cities of India crops, some with healing properties, are getting lost clean. forever. These include Karnataka's 'Diana' rice, "I urge the Government to which has been found to be regulate the work hours, just right for diabetics. And working conditions, equip- then there are products just ment and pays for these waiting to be discovered, "equal" citizens of India," such as jamun powder from Jharkhand (again, beneficial he added.
for diabetics); bajra whole wheat biscuits from Jhajjar (Haryana); bamboo 'rice' from the seeds of bamboo blossoms growing in Karnataka; jhangora, or barnyard millet, from Uttarakhand, which is now being hailed as an alternative to quinoa (whose production cannot match the worldwide demand); and another hugely beneficial product from the hill state - nettle tea. These are baby steps that
they hope will lead to the creation of an FMCG brand dedicated to the traditional produce of India - neatly packaged and intelligently marketed. It's a commendable and creative initiative, but one is not good enough. Indian farmers need many more CropConnects to enable them to enter the marketplace without middlemen getting into the picture. Let the free market work in their favour too.
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
PAGE 4
Congress workers protest over Dr Zoii Nath Sarma’s candidature
ET Correspondent Mangaldai, Mar 10: The District Congress President went furious when hundreds of people both male and female identified themselves as Congress workers from Sipajhar LAC staged protest in front of Rajiv Bhawan against the news of granting party ticket to Dr Zoii Nath Sharma, former AGP Minister turning to Congress in Sipajhar LAC. The campus of Rajiv Bhawan here turned into a wrestling
ground for few moments today as few congress workers led by President of Darrang District Congress Committee Debobrat Dutta have to show their muscle power to drive away a section of his fellow party men from Sipajhar . The aggrieved Congress men also burn the effigy of Dr Sharma and shouted slogans against offering party ticket to the former Minister. They alleged that the grass root level Congress workers were ha-
rassed by the former AGP MLA and Minister while in power for long twenty years in the LAC. It may be mentioned here that apart from Dr Sharma , former MP Madhab Rajbongshi , senior advocate Jibon Barua young businessman Kuldip Barua and Satyarani Kalita are also in the fray for party tickets for the Sipajhar LAC where present MLA formerly a Congress candidate is contesting on a BJP ticket.
Cabinet approves proposal for removing minimum capacity utilization criteria for SSB units New Delhi, Mar. 10 (ANI): In order to push major policy reforms in the fertilizer sector, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today approved the proposal for removing the minimum capacity utilization criteria for the Single Super Phosphate (SSP) units to be eligible for the subsidy under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme with immediate effect. This is in continuation of other policy reforms made recently which include New Urea Policy, 2015 and Gas Pooling for urea production. Due to the emphasis on promoting energy efficiency and rationalisation of gas pricing mechanism, highest ever urea production in the period so far has been achieved this year. It is expected that there will be an additional production of 17 lakh MT of urea this year as compared to last year. Moreover, to prevent diversion to non-agricultural use and to enhance productivity, 100 percent of urea is now neem coated. Further, policy on promotion of City Compost is a major initiative which aims at the twin objectives of making cities cleaner and utilizing the city garbage as compost for improving soil health. Under this policy, for the first time market development assistance of Rs. 1500 per MT will be provided to scale up production and consumption of the product.
SSP is a phosphatic multi-nutrient fertilizer, which contains 16 percent phosphate, 11 percent sulphur, 16 percent calcium and some other essential micro-nutrients. Because of the simple production technique, it is one of the cheapest chemical fertilizer available. It is more suited for crops like oilseeds, pulses, horticulture, vegetables, sugarcane, etc. From 01.10.2009, it was made mandatory for the SSP units to utilize minimum 50 percent of their recognised production capacity or to produce 40000 MT, whichever is less, per year to become eligible for subsidy. There was some capacity addition in the beginning, but for the last four years the production and consumption of SSP in the country has remained more or less stagnant. Due to this minimum capacity utilization criteria, a large number of small SSP units which failed to reach this level were not able to avail of subsidy, in spite of having passed the subsidy benefit to the farmer in the form of lower MRP. Many units because of this apprehension did not commence production. Non eligibility to receive subsidy created financial problems including working capital issues for the SSP units, which also resulted in loss of capacity. The new units were also finding it difficult to achieve this production criteria as reasonable
time is required to establish their brand name and to increase the market share due to inadequate availability of dealers' network. Further, this minimum production criteria was applicable only to SSP and not to other P&K fertilizers. This new policy to remove the minimum capacity utilization criterion would put the SSP units on the same footing as other fertilizers and they would be eligible for subsidy irrespective of quantity of SSP produced and sold for agriculture purposes. This new policy will help revive smaller SSP units and encourage new SSP units to come up in the country to further boost indigenous production of SSP. It would also provide freedom to the SSP manufacturers to plan their production as per the market dynamics. SSP is also considered as a substitute to DAP, which is largely import based. Growth of SSP industry will not only increase domestic production of phosphatic fertilizers in the country but also its consumption and partly act as a substitute for more costly DAP. This would also encourage the evolution of a robust mixed fertilizer market with diversified micro-nutrients to promote balanced fertilization of the soil. This new policy would be uniformly applicable to all fertilizers and provide a level playing field. (ANI)
Student’s organisations hold protests in Tinsukia Contd. from Page 1 “Upper Assam is dominated by the Ahom community, whereas our community has got only five tickets. We demand BJP to change the name of the candidates viz. Bhaskar Shram (Margherita) and Sanjay Kisan (Tinsukia) and placed good candidates,’’ Buragohain said. He alleged that Bhaskar Shram was involved in secret killing during the days of Asom Gana Parishad (AGP)and how could he get ticket. “Sarbananda Sonowal, who left AGP because of the secret killing incident and joined BJP then who can a man like Bhaskar Sharma got BJP ticket from Margherita,’’ alleged the
president of ATASU. ATASU further said that the Ahom community have majority in Tinsukia, Margherita and Sadiya but why there is no candidate from our community. “If the party don’t withdraw the names of the candidate within two days then we will be compel to not give any easy entry to the BJP leaders and their supporters of our areas,’’ said Debojit Baruah, president of Muttock Yuva Chatra Sanmilan. On the other hand, Tinsukia BJP workers today organised a sit-in protest at Ranga ghara road in Tinsukia in protest against the tickets given to the person in the district. “We are totally dissatisfied with the BJP high command because the candidate was not fit to get the
ticket. We urged the BJP leaders to replace the name and place a good candidates in the four LAC of Tinsukia district,’’ said a BJP member. Dibrugarh sitting BJP MLA Prasanta Phukan was given the ticket for the third consecutive time and his supporters were happy after the name was announced in the TV channels. “From Congress who will be contesting against Phukan in Dibrugarh is not clear till now because the congress have not announced the names of the candidate who will be contesting. But, the people of Dibrugarh hopes that former DMB chairman Chandrakanta Baruah might be the candidate of Congress from Dibrugarh,’’ said a source.
BIHU WORKSHOP
Bihu workshop banner under NA-KUHI SILPI SAMAG at Sivasaagar. Pic - Firuz Ahmed
Incumbency and sleaze may cost Congress in Diphu and Howraghat LA seats ET Correspondent Diphu, Mar 10: After declaration of party candidatures list of BJP till now no disagreement or antagonism has surfaced in the district with 4 legislative assembly seats (united Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong district). On the other hand Karbi Anglong district Congress is in favor of retaining their old hands without making any drastic change to meet dual challenge of BJP and HSDC (Hills State Democratic Council). For the prestigious Diphu seat Sum Ronghang of BJP and Dr. Jayanta Rongpi of HSDC under all probability will meet Bidya Sing
whose 98% area is rural do not have smallest amount of communication facility in comparison to other normal districts of Assam. Banking on the incumbency of Congress and vast support of both Karbi and non karbi BJP has a good prospect from this seat” Said Bijoy Teron a small businessmen of Diphu.
“Two factors have driven the common voters towards BJP i.e. unbridled corruption of large number of Congress leaders since last 15 years and almost zero growth of basic infrastructure needed for initiation minimum physical growth. The autonomous region
Howraghar constituency with approximate 132000 votes where around 63% votes belongs to communities like Bengali, Assamese, Bodo, Garo etc who have virtually skewed against the ruling party chiefly for its incumbency and inflexible anti Congress stance of Bodo community, Congress
may find it complicated to retain its seat this time. Probable contender of Congress Khorsing Engti, seating minister of Gogoi cabinet will face tough challenge from Joy Ran Engleng of BJP who lost the MP seat to Congress in the last general election with a marginal difference. While Joy Ram will enjoy the support of a large number of Bodo votes along with a big chunk of Karbi and assorted support of Bengali, Assamese, Garo, Hindi speaking and Adavasi is sure to throw tough challenge to Congress.
“ Congress in Howraghat seat has the same legacy of corruption and cutback in every sphere, the party kept on winning in absence of substitute, the negative vote of Congress may help its opposition” Dhonirm Tisso a prominent businessman of Dikmoka said. In both Howraghat and Diphu Congress is not in comfortable position right now, in addition to other factors Bodo community which has around 18000 votes in Diphu constituency may cast doom for Congress if supports BJP for the Hagrama factor; in such a situation HSDC may cut better figure then the ruling party in both the place.
Tezpur University, JNU win annual Congress protest visitor's awards for central universities against Sherman
ANI New Delhi, Mar 10:Tezpur University has won the annual Visitor's Award for the 'Best University' and Prof. Rakesh Bhatnagar as well as the Molecular Parasitology Group ofJNU have won the Visitor's Awards for 'Research' and 'Innovation' respectively. President Pranab Mukherjee will present Visitor's Awards for the year 2016 at a function to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on March 14, as part of the 'Festival of Innovations'.
President Pranab Mukherjee had announced institution of these awards at the Vice Chancellors' Conference,
2014 with the aim of promoting healthy competition amongst Central Universities and motivating them to adopt best practices from across the world. The Visitor's Award for 'Innovation' will be given to Prof. Rakesh Bhatnagar of Jawaharlal Nehru University for development of a genetically engineered vaccine and a therapeutic antibody against anthrax.
The Visitor's Award for 'Research' will be presented to the Molecular Parasitology Group of Jawaharlal Nehru University of pioneering work in the area of molecular parasitology, especially antimalaria, leishmaniasis and
amoebiasis.
The 'Best University' will receive a Citation and Trophy while winners of Visitor's Award for 'Innovation' and 'Research' will receive a Citation and cash award of Rs. one lakh. For selecting the winners, online applications were invited from all Central Universities for each category. A Selection Committee headed by Omita Paul, Secretary to the President and with Secretaries of Department of Higher Education and Department of Science & Technology as well as Chairman, UGC; DG, CSIR etc as members chose the winners of the Awards.
A week-long 'Festival of Innovations' is being held in Rashtrapati Bhavan from March 12 to 19. It will commence with the inauguration of an exhibition of grassroot innovations on March 12, 2016 by President Pranab Mukherjee. The festival will witness a number of exhibitions; roundtable discussions on different topics related to innovations; group discussions; an award for Gandhian Young Technological Innovation; a meeting of Innovation Clubs set up in institutions of higher education; a workshop for children and a hackathon etc.
Ali at Baghbar ET correspondent, Barpeta Mar 10: The congress workers of Baghbar opposed against Sherman Ali who recently joined in congress after he was suspended from AIUDF. Sherman Ali demanded for the Baghbar seat. The enraged congress workers made the furniture of Mandia congress office. It may be mentioned that APCC President Anjan Dutta remained busy in giving Sherman Ali congress ticket. At this the congress workers were enraged. They also warned that they will resigned together and also boycott congress.
Man tries to attack Organisations Kumar for his stage out Kanhaiya statement about Army protest rally Contd. from Page 1
ET Correspondent Margherita, Mar 10: All Assam Shramik Krishak Kalyan Parishad Jagun Regional Committee, All Tea Tribe Students Association and Mason and Helpers Union on Wednesday took out a protest rally from Jagun to Lekhapani area.
Holy flower SR. Sec. School to celebrate Silver Jubilee. Pic - Nirmalendu Pathok
Engleng of Congress. Diphu constituency with just 35% karbi votes and vast numeral of other community vote has elevate the expectancy of BJP since the general election of 2014, where the saffron party edged pass Congress against all odds with sizable support of Karbi voters in both Diphu and Bokajan LA constituency.
Their demands were to stop cutting of trees, to increase the value of tea leaf, to provide safe drinking water, to con-
vert Jagun Public Health Centre to Community Health Centre, to stop coming of outsider labourers at Jagun and Lekhapani Region and with several other demands. The protestors also shouted various slogans against Assam Government. A memorandum was given to Margherita SDO(C) through the Lekhapani Police Station officer in Charge.
"He wants to be a leader. I wanted to teach him a lesson," he said. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court today asked the parties to two petitions, pertaining to incidents of violence in the Patiala House court complex during the hearing related to Kanhaiya, to complete pleadings by March 29. In one such petition, filed by advocate Kamini Jaiswal, an SIT probe had been sought into the incidents on February 15 and 17 in which three lawyers were allegedly caught on
camera "bragging and boasting" they had beaten up the student leader and others. The court had, on February 26, sought response from the Centre and Delhi Police on Jaiswal's plea which has also sought initiation of contempt action against the lawyers for allegedly beating Kanhaiya and others in the district courts complex. The plea has sought "suo motu contempt proceeding" against lawyers Vikram Singh Chauhan, Yashpal Singh and Om Sharma on the ground that they have allegedly been caught on camera talking about the attacks, claiming that the three interfered in the "ad-
ministration of justice" and willfully violated the orders passed by the apex court on February 17. In the earlier petition, an alumnus of JNU who was hurt in the violence on February 15, N D Jaiprakash, had complained of inaction of police against those were allegedly involved in thrashing journalists, students and teachers in a city court and sought a fair trial "free from fear of violence and prejudice". It had alleged that police were a "mute spectator to this brazen display of violence and brute force being perpetrated on innocent persons" who had gathered in the Court premises.
REGION
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
Nagaland Chief Minister T R Zeliang asks NPGs to come together for 'permanent peace'
T R Zeliang Dimapur, Mar 10 : Nagaland chief minister T R Zeliang has given a clarion call to all Naga Political Groups (NPGs) to come together for an early solution to the protracted Naga political problem. "The Naga political problem is not a factional, tribal or any political party's problem - it is a problem of all Nagas and we must all come together to find permanent peace," Zeliang said during a meeting of Nagaland Legislators' Forum on Naga political issue yesterday, an official statement said. Zeliang called upon the leaders of various NPGs to have more consultations on how best to solve the protracted Naga problem so that the sacrifices made by generations of Nagas "may bear fruit for the future generations". "Nagas have suffered for too long and we must find a solution that is honourable, acceptable to all sections of the society. We know only how to criticise each other and not how to protect each
other", he added. The chief minister said as elected representatives of the people, they have sworn allegiance to the Constitution of India and therefore, "we cannot take part in the negotiations table. We have made it very clear to the Government of India that we can only facilitate early solution of the problem; we can only suggest and ask that the interests of all are taken into consideration while bringing out a final solution". He expressed confidence that government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi "is sincere and determined to solve the Naga political issue" . "We have also made it clear to the Government of India that Naga people do not want piece-meal solution, but a one-time solution that is applicable to all Nagas regardless of where they live," he said. The meeting was attended by representatives of NNC, NSCN (KholiKitovi) and NSCN (Reformation) groups.
PAGE 5
BJP protest against sugar price hike in Tripura, demands rollback Agartala, Mar. 10 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit in Tripura organised a protest in state capital Agatala against the state government's recent decision of hiking price by Rs. 6 for kilogram of sugar distributed through public distribution system (PDS). Protestors gathered in front of the head office of food department and raised slogans against the Left Front government demanding immediate rollback of the sugar price. They viewed that the
state government is antipoor and the hike in sugar price is totally unjustified since there has been no increase in sugar price in the market. Later, a team of BJP state leaders met the state's Special Secretary and Director of food and civil supply Soumitra Bandopadhyoy to press their demand. Former MLA and BJP leader Subal Bowmik said, "All of a sudden the state government has hike the price of sugar by six rupees (per kilogram) which is an extra burden
BJP protest against sugar price hike in Tripura, demands rollback
on the people of the state. In no other Indian state the price of sugar has been hiked but here the
state government is blackmailing the people, telling lie and cheating them."
"They have hiked the price in order to divert the money to party fund keeping in view the 2018 assembly election. They (CPIM) are scared as the BJP is gradually growing and so they want to keep the people in hunger and create such a situation that the poor section of people lives half fed and claim themselves as government of the poor people. We strongly protest against this, he added. The BJP also gave 48 hours ultimatum to the state government for the
Manipuri youth attempts to revive dying tribal tattoo art Imphali, Mar 10 : Tattooing the face, maybe a style fad today, but for certain tribal and indigenous people in the far North East of the country, such tattoos have been a integral way of life for ages. And now, a 27-year-old Naga youth from Manipur is working to revive and give a new form to the traditional tattooing art of the tribal communities. Moranngam Khaling, better known as Mo Naga, has just started the first ever official tattoo training institute - in North-East India.
of heads a warrior took the more the number of tattoos he sported. Today, of course, the practise is no longer in vogue. "I want to combine old school art, the art of the Japanese, the native Americans, the Maoris, and others with Naga and tribal tattoo art forms of the North East," Mo told PTI here.
"My main intention for the school in to revive the art of the head-hunters. The main aim is to revive the art, the facial tattoo art of head-hunters. Just because people now do not do it does not mean that the art cannot be used anywhere," says Mo.
A graduate of National Institute of Fashion Technology, Mo, has been running a tattoo parlour in New Delhi since the year 2008. "Guwahati being the centre of the North East and the biggest city in this region. The school is not only for Assam but for the entire North East," he says. A qualified fashion designer, Mo believes that the need to uphold the dying tribal tattoo art from different regions of India is paramount.
In the olden days taking a head was believed to increase the fertility of the crops and the more number
"I will be based in Guwahati but I will keep visiting Delhi frequently because my clientele are
Manipuri youth attempts to revive dying tribal tattoo art
based there. One of the associates would handle the Delhi studio in my absence," says Mo. He said that the tattoo industry is booming in India. "North East should also be a part of this welcome change. Though tattoos have
emerged as a fashion craze amongst youngsters, for most people a tattoo is something deeper, much more personal and meaningful unlike the clothes or the makeup we wear," says Mo. he designer says he believes that "having or get-
ting a tattoo is the most overwhelming experience where art, fashion and design come together in the most meaningful ways for an individual." Mo was invited to be a part of India's biggest tattoo convention 'Tattoo Republic' held in Pune last November.(PTI)
rollback or they shall go for state-wide protest against this. "This is not the end of this issue and BJP is giving 48 hours time for rollback of the sugar price and if it is not resolved within 48 hours time then we shall go for bigger protest," said Bhowmik. Only four days back the state government had declared the hike in the price of sugar distributed through PDS by rupees six for every kilogram. (ANI)
Nagaland CM urges political groups to hold consultations Dimapur, March 10 : Nagaland Chief Minister T.R Zeliang has urged all the Naga Political Groups (armed factions) to have consultations among themselves to solve the state's decades-long conflict issue. "Nagas have suffered for too long and we must find a solution that is honourable, acceptable to all sections of the society," said Zeliang hile addressing a Consultative Meeting of Nagaland Legislators with the various Naga Political Groups. "The more we consult each other and share our views and opinions, the better we understand each other and we need to have more consultations on the issue at hand," he added. Naga Political Groups refers to various armed groups which have been fighting for the sovereignty of the Nagas in the northeast, but now have a ceasrfire accord with the central government. Pointing out that the Naga political problem is not a factional, tribal or any political party's problem, Zeliang said it is a problem of all Nagas and, therefore, all must come together to find permanent peace. "This is not the time to point out who is right and who is wrong, but the time to point out what is right and what will be best for our Naga people as a whole," the chief minister added. (IANS)
Sri Swami Anubhavanandaji Lays the foundation of a new academic building Happy Friends from all over the country come together in reaching out to Arunachali children ET Correspondent Wakro, Mar 10: The Apnes will soon have a state of the art academic building as the project is proposed and approved by His Holiness Sri Sri Swami Anubhavanandaji. The saint in his previous visit felt that the Apna Vidya Bhavan should be supported with better infrastructure. Accordingly Anu Swamiji guided corporate and social leaders to contribute for the project. What makes the project special is that Swami Anu decided and ensured the participation of innumerable Happy Friends from all over the country in the noble initiative. Bharat Desai (Baroda), Parul Desai (Navi Mumbai), Vinanti Desai (Bangalore), Tapasvi Desai (Baroda), S R Menon (Mumbai), A Nagananda (Mumbai), Ajit Awasare (Mumbai), S P Enterprises (Mumbai), Mihika Desai (Bangalore), Kamini Desai (Baroda), Shree Narayana Industrial Corporation (Baroda), Devendra Kothari (Baroda), Ansh Desai (Bangalore), Mahir Desai (Bangalore), Tejas Chavan (Navi Mumbai), Shakuntala Chavan (Navi Mumbai), Tushar Chavan (Mumbai), Parul Mathur (Mumbai), Suresh Narang (Mumbai), Chandrashekhar S Tulapurkar (Navi Mumbai), Membrane Systems (Mumbai), Lata Tambe (Mumbai), Minal Dighe (Mumbai), Riddhi Chavan (Navi Mumbai), Sunil S Deshpande (Mumbai), Vipul Sutaria (Mumbai), Aarti Shah (Mumbai), Suvarna Khedkar (Ranjangaon), Umesh Kolapkar (Mumbai), Rohit Ashtavadhani (Mumbai),
Madhav Vattikutti (Rajahmundry), Sulekha Salian (Navi Mumbai), Prakash Salian (Navi Mumbai), Indersingh Goraiya (Navi Mumbai), Moolraj Bhinde (Mumbai), Nalini Shetty (Navi Mumbai), Mahesh Shukla (Ahmedabad), Softsys Hosting Pvt Ltd (Baroda), Anjani Desai (Baroda), Ashutosh Desai (Baroda), Nita Satish Luhar (Baroda), Dr Thimappa Hegde (Bangalore), Prashant Y Shah (Mumbai), Y R Shah (Mumbai), Mansi Garg (Delhi), Neela Desai (Baroda), S J Gadhvi (Baroda), Dreams International (Surat), Hasmukh Doshi (Mumbai), Nimish Sharma (Ghaziabad), Gurudev Singh (Agra), Sharmila S Nahatta (Jaipur), Biswaroop Mukhopadhyaya (Bokaro), Dr Anil Mansukhani (Mumbai), Ratan Chaudhry (Jaipur) and Prabhu Mandhana (Jaipur) have happily contributed for the Apna Academic building. Swami Sri Sri Anubhavananda appreciated all the contributors and lauded Bharat Desai saying "Bharat is god sent for the Apnes" The ASSET members thanked Bharatji for the excellent coordination. Deepa and Deven Singh volunteer to render all possible assistance to see that the Apnes get the sweet gift soon. Swamiji along with GBs, panchayat leaders of the area, govt officials laid the foundation of The Anusaran today in presence of Happy folks Bharat J Desai, Mai, Nanaji, Umesh Kolapkar, Rohit Ashtavadhani, Dr Thimmapa Hegde, Kunaal Mullick, Nimish Sharma, Dr Mala, Sokio Dellang,
Sohan Krong, Mantaw Bellai, Suraj Tayang, Ranepsi, Soleng Rangmang, Kameno Dellang, Solemso Ama, Dakto Riba, Er Ginko Linggi, Er Lupalum Kri, Deepa, Deven and Virendra Singh. Apna Vidya Bhavan is a school located in the lush green town of Wakro in Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh, which is home to the Mishmi tribe. The school was founded as per the desire and vision of His Holiness Swami Sri Sri Anubhavananda Saraswati. Swamiji strongly felt the need for a good educational institution in the area, which will turn out to be the very foundation of a strong, selfreliant local community. Hence with this vision in mind, the school started functioning on the 16th February, 2003. Chairman of ASSET, an ardent follower of Swamiji recalls how Swamiji inspired the school, He said, 'if you start the school for rural children I am with you, otherwise also I am with you.' It is this unconditional love Swamiji imbues that truly became the foundation for the school. The only instruction he ever gave to the founding members was that "Before we start serving people around, we must cultivate genuine respect in our mind and true love in our hearts for the ones we serve." And this is the sole guiding motto of ASSET. The patron saint Swami Anu, as he is addressed affectionately, stands true to his assurance. Right from choosing the Name of the school, the Apna Vidya Bhavan, to adding various facilities and infrastructure, his help is pouring ceaselessly and his ever soothing presence felt
Sri Swami Anubhavanandaji Lays the foundation of a new academic building
endlessly by the ASSET and community members. As the Apnes are receiving the delightful gift from Anu Swamiji and Happy friends, the Apnes and members of ASSET are fondly reminded of the kind support received from the local community, many organizations and well wishers like the Army, Arunachal Pradesh Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Border Roads Organization, Oil India Limited to count a few. The print media houses of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam have heartily supported the educational and social efforts of the school by dedicating prestigious space in their papers regularly. The Apnes and school management fondly remember J M Tangu, IAS, Gegong Apang, Dr Syeda Hameed, Dipti Bhalla, Kunal Verma, Jija Madhavan Hari Singh, IPS, Lt Gen R K Swami, Shraddha Prakash, Brig
Ajai Prakash, Meeta Bardalai, Maj Gen A K Bardalai, Gunjan, Binod Saharia, Vineeta, Manoj Jalan, Dolly Sachar, Lt Gen B S Sachar, Geeta Katoch, Maj Gen G S Katoch, Yamini Saini, Brig Jayesh Saini, Col P S Bindra, Brig Savneet Singh, Col G S Jamwal, Col Pramit Saxena, Col H S Chouhan, Col D N Mallick, Brig Manjeet Mehta, Latika Sahni, Maj Gen Vikal Sahni, Y D Thongchi, IAS, Robin Hibu, IPS, Kirli Padu, APPS, SI J Malo, Col Vinod Kumar Painyuli, Col R K L Srivastava, Tapi Gao, Prashant Lokhande, IAS, K Rina, Er Saroj Pradhan, Babu Taloh, APPS, Isaac Pertin, IPS, Sukeshi Mein, C K Mein, IPS, Rajeev Takuk, APCS, R K Sharma, APCS, Tamiyo Tatak, APCS, and all leaders who stood by and supported the humble rural Wakro effort. The school also has partnerships with many other social and educational causes, the
prominent of them being the VT-AWIC libraries that has started a library movement in the Lohit district. The Apnes also engage in other voluntary services like medical camps and environmental activities of ASSET, in meaningfully shouldering various social responsibilities. Presently they are actively engaged with social leader Chinmay Panth in taking forward Clean and Green campaign in the area. The effort is receiving great response from people of all walks of life including the govt administration, Panchayat Raj Institutions of various levels, traders and members of general public. "Vocational training to tribal youth in their young days of learning will do great good to their socioeconomic structure. While the modern day education stresses on producing more graduates for white collared jobs, emphasizing on an
educational efforts to encourage learners to reconnect to Mother Earth through farming and other vocational training will certainly help produce productive human resources and reduce the number of frustrated youth found wasting away precious human lives in hunting for jobs." The school and ASSET is receiving the much needed guidance and support for this cause from social entrepreneurs Sujata and Chinmay Panth. The school motto - "Grow Wise" is to inspire children not to pursue knowledge endlessly but be guided to live fruitfully and joyfully by being in Wisdom. The world is multi faced and life not a straight line so the Apnes are trained to accept and interact with the world properly with the guidance "Be fit to fit everywhere." The saint also laid the foundation of Shriram-Samvit Grounds housing Tatong Padung Football ground, Ajai Basketball court, and Apna Volley Ball court. The play area is dedicated in gratitude to saints Sri Sri Shriram Tamhan and Swami Sri Sri Samvit Somgiriji. Tatong Padung was an ace footballer and a renowned athlete who contributed immensely to social welfare without holding any public office. He is fondly remembered by family and friends for his affectionate tireless care and love. The Apnes were overjoyed when Swami Anu declared that he comes to Arunachal just because he loves the Apnes immensely. He also appreciated the Apnes for being quick, cheerful and spirited learners. He admin-
istered an oath inspiring the kids to be on the learning mode on a daily basis. The Apnes were deeply touched by the visit of editor Ripunjoy Das leading a media team from Dibrugarh. The Chairman thanked Das for his affection. On being informed Das also lauded the Arunachal Print media houses for supporting the rural Wakro service initiative. He further assured support from his side. The media team also visited the project site where the Happy Friends had planted trees to mark the occasion under clean and green program. In a delightful atmosphere with the Apnes rejoicing the coming of new gift from the saint and Happy Friends by singing and dancing the school management assured all present that the rural Wakro set up is committed to the teachings of H H Swami Sri Sri Anubhavanandaji expressing that it is joyful to follow his teachings and in trying to share the same with all around in the society life becomes meaningful. We respect and love the ones we serve as Swamiji desires and guides all with a clear direction in this regard. The ones who give us the opportunity to serve are our lords says Swami Anu. The ASSET will continue to render selflessly without desiring for name and fame because Anu Swamiji helps us with the enlightening words that a free bird soaring in the open sky does not leave a trail behind. The saint also help with the advice to mankind to live with a zero complaint level with the "Be Happy- Mauj Me Raho" mantra.
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
PAGE 6
Congress leader meets Mamata warns Congress, says 'it's time to fight back' J-KRahul Gandhi, discusses
Murshidabad (West Bengal), Mar. 10 : Chief Minister Mamata Banerjeeon Thursday reached out to the voters in north Bengal districts and exhorted her party workers to be geared up for the fight against friend-turned-foe Congress. Mamata, who launched her election campaign in the Congress-Left bastion where the TMC failed to register an impressive victory in the 2011 assembly polls winning just 16 seats, said that her party had helped the Congress to win the elections in this
Jaitley rakes up Bofors case to hit back at Rahul New Delhi, Mar 10 : Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today raked up the Bofors case reminding Rahul Gandhi of Ottavio Quattrocchi's escape to hit back at him for his attack on the government over liquor baron Vijay Mallya leaving the country despite owing over Rs 9,000 crore to banks. Jaitley underscored that the loans were given during UPA rule and said mockingly that the Congress Vice President perhaps "could not understand" his answer. He also advised Gandhi to "study Constitution once" after the opposition party questioned Mallya's continuance as member of Rajya Sabha. Debunking Gandhi's criticism on why Mallya was not stopped from leaving the country, the Minister said, "There is a legal process to stop anybody. Either your passport has been impounded or there is any court order. Except that immigration cannot stop you." "Banks have gone to the Supreme Court to take an order and perhaps in the anticipation of that he (Mallya) left before," Jaitley said when asked about Gandhi's question as to how did the government allow Mallya to leave the country. Raking up the Bofors case of Rajiv Gandhi tenure that has haunted Congress for decades, Jaitely trained his guns on the Congress Vice President. "But Rahul ji should remember that there is a basic difference in Mallya leaving (the country) and Quattrocchi going out (of India). And let me explain him the difference. "When the officials of Switzerland informed that Quattrocchi was also among the beneficiaries of Bofors and though the person who was heading the CBI investigation earlier K Madhavan wrote a letter that his passport should be impounded, the then government had not stopped him and within two days he left India. That was a criminal case," the Finance Minister said addressing the Cabinet briefing.
region but the grand old party instead helped the Communist Party of India (Marxist). "During my meetings here, I saw how we helped the Congress to win in Malda, Murshidabad and Uttar Dinajpur, while the Congress, instead of helping us, helped the CPI (M). Today, it is time to fight back. Trinamool doesn't believe in bloodshed or terrorism rather we believe in God, Allah, amma and mother," Mamata told an election rally here. Decrying the Congress for ignoring
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjeeon Murshidabad, the fire band politician from Bengal sought to know from the Congress as to what they have done for the development of the
region. "I want them (Congress) to show what they have done for the development in Murshidabad," she said.
"When we came to power, the CPI (M) had left us with huge debt of more than Rs. two lakh crore. Despite such enormous pressure, we made huge developments. We did not get any seat in Murshidabad, but developed 83 families out of 100," she added. In 2011, the Trinamool Congress had won 16 seats in north Bengal, Congress 17 and Left 16. Of Malda's 12 seats, the Congress had bagged eight, the Left three and Trinamool one. In Murshidabad, which has 22 seats, the Congress had won 14, the Left
seven and Trinamool one seat respectively.
The Election Commission on Friday announced the dates for the West Bengal assembly elections, according to which the first phase of the six-phase voting will take place on April 4 and 11, while the second and third phases will be conducted on April 17 and 21, respectively. The last three phases of elections will take place on April 25 and 30 April and May5, whereas the votes will be counted and results will be declared on May19. (ANI)
'Homestay tourism' flourishing in rural Sikkim Gangtok, Mar. 10 : Tucked away in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Sikkim, the second smallest state in the country, charms visitors with its charismatic beauty. It has now come out with an initiative to offer tourists with traditional and homely feeling to make people feel at ease and simultaneously enjoy the beauty and culture of Sikkim. Sikkim is arguably one of India's loveliest destinations. Homestay Sikkim offers the visitors an experience and an opportunity to live with locals and share their lifestyle. People of Yaakten, a small hamlet in East Sikkim, have joined hands to start this com-
munity-based 'homestay tourism' to attract visitors and also improve their socio-economic condition. Some eight families are engaged in homestay business and they have developed an infrastructure which is being appreciated. "Earlier, villagers used to earn their livelihood through cultivation only, but once homestay came in, it became a tourist hub and for which the economic condition of the people has improved a lot. It provided the students with an opportunity to earn as they get an opportunity to perform cultural dances of Sikkim and showcase their talent to the tourists," said Basant Gurung, Opera-
'Homestay tourism' flourishing in rural Sikkim tor, Sikkim Kisaan Traditional Village Tourism. Apart from Yaakten homestay, there are other homestays in Sikkim which have grown in recent times such as Orchid homestay, Guras homestay, Chakha homestay, Kothebari homestay, etc
Besides offering homestay to the travellers, Yaakten has marvelous views of the Kanchenjunga range and the lush green valleys of Sikkim. Being in Yaakten one can witness the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim people and enjoy the lo-
post-JNU situation
cal cuisine and beverages. "Well, economically we are improving a lot and different tribes like 'Sirpa', 'Bhutia' we all have gathered and have taken this initiative to promote tourism and to basically help our future generation especially our girl child to get proper education. If we talk about the one year record till now 70 groups of tourists has visited our homestay and we try our best to offer them the best hospitality," said Gayan Bahadur, Subba Kisaan, Sikkim Kisaan Traditional village tourism. The homestay not only provides the comfort of home to tourists, but also helps villagers generate some extra income. (ANI)
Rahul Gandhi New Delhi, Mar.10 : Salman Nizami, a leading member of theJammu and Kashmir unit of the Congress Party, met party vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday and discussed various issues including the post-JNU situation. During their brief meeting, Nizami said he apprised Gandhi of the impact of the recent JNU episode across the country. Rahul Gandhi, according to Nizami, reiterated his full faith in the Indian judiciary and was hope-
ful that the real culprits behind the incident would be brought to book. Nizami said that he had told the Congress vicepresident that he was working tirelessly for the student community so that their legitimate voices were not suppressed by anti-youth and communal forces. "Rahul Gandhiji is committed for the welfare of every Indian and believes in working behind the scenes," said Nizami. (ANI)
Chidambaram gave clean chit to Ishrat under 'severe pressure': Rijiju
Rahul questions govt on how Vijay Mallya could leave country New Delhi, Mar 10 : Trying to push the government on the backfoot, a combative Rahul Gandhi today asked how it allowed liquor baron Vijay Mallya, who owes over Rs 9,000 crore to banks, to leave the country and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley have failed to answer this question in their speeches. New Delhi: Trying to push the government on the backfoot, a combative Rahul Gandhi today asked how it allowed liquor baron Vijay Mallya, who owes over Rs 9,000 crore to banks, to leave the country and said
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley have failed to answer this question in their speeches. He also hit out at the Modi government for bringing the "Fair and Lovely" tax amnesty scheme, saying it only helped thieves, black marketeers and drug mafia to convert their black money into white. Rahul also attacked the Prime Minister over his style of functioning, saying Modi in his long speeches has not answered his queries made to him. "When a poor man steals, he is beaten up and thrown into jail. Some-
one who does not have food to eat and steals a roti is beaten up and put behind bars and a big businessmen who steals Rs 9,000 crore from country, you allow him to escape in First Class from the country. What is this happening? "We simply asked that someone who stole Rs 9,000 crore from the country, how did he run away from the country. How did you allow him to escape? This is the simple question and we neither got a reply to this from Modiji nor from Jaitley ji. The question is why did your government allow him to run away from the country,"
he told reporters outside Parliament. Attacking the government for its tax amnesty scheme, Rahul said, "Fair and Lovely scheme is for thieves, black marketeers and drug mafia. Anyone who wants to convert his black money into white can do so through this scheme. The entire country is asking, I am not asking, that why are you helping these people. The question I am asking is if you have promised to give us Rs 15 lakh,then why are you giving him Rs 9,000 crore" The Congress leader said if Modi government had
promised to bring back black money, then "it should have not allowed Mallya to escape abroad and should have stopped him". "Before he became Prime Minister, Modi had promised that he will put Rs 15 lakh in our bank accounts. We did not get even a single rupee and Vijay Mallya ran away from the country with Rs 9,000 crore. "We asked Mr Jaitley to tell us how Mallya ran away from India. If there is action against him and a lookout notice has been issued against him, then what is he doing in Rajya Sabha," he said. .
Week-long 'Festival of Innovations' to start at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Festival of Innovations to start at Rashtrapati Bhavan New Delhi, Mar. 10 : A total of 65 grassroots innovations will be part of the week-long Festival of Innovations to be held at the Rashtrapati
with the National Innovation Foundation. The highlights of an exhibition ofgrassroots innovations are anti-molestation device worn on wrist; alert switch in bus/ auto rickshaw for the safety of women; posture correcting chair; rain water syringe for water conservation; simple flushing mechanism for public urinals; foot operated page turning device for differently abled; height adjustable wash basin; a wrapper picker etc.
Bhavan from March 12 President Pranab to 19. Mukherjee has extended The festival is being tremendous support to organised by Rashtrapati the innovation moveBhavan in collaboration ment in the country ever
since assumption of office, especially by encouraging setting up of innovation clubs in all institutions of higher learning and introducing annual residency programmes for grassroots innovators in Rashtrapati Bhavan.
tral Universities, including in the field of innovation; a meeting of Innovation Clubs set up in institutions of higher education across the country; a workshop for children and a hackathon to develop applications useful to society etc.
The week-long 'Festival of Innovations' will witness a number of exhibitions; roundtable discussions on different topics related to innovations with national and international participation; a talk by Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi; an award for Gandhian Young Technological Innovation; Visitor's Awards to Cen-
The Exhibition of Innovations will remain open between 10:00 a.m to 17:00 p.m from March 12-19 for the public. All visitors to the Mughal Gardens will be able to visit the Exhibition. Background information on the innovations and innovators whose exhibits will be displayed in the exhibition is attached. (ANI)
State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju New Delhi, Mar. 10 : Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday said former home ministerP. Chidambaram, who is a 'seasoned and experienced politician', must have given a clean chit to Ishrat Jahan under severe pressure. "Chidamabram ji is very seasoned, very learned and a very experienced politician and a very effective home minister, but why he made a particular point where the credibility is under doubt. I personally feel that Chidambaram ji may not take this kind of decision on his own where a terrorist is given a clean chit, he must have been under severe pressure from elsewhere. I feel that this must have been done under immense pressure," Rijiju told the media outside Parliament. "My question is why a Home Minister should give a clean chit to a terrorist. All the intelligence report showed that Ishrat Jahan was a LeT aid, but (the then) Home Minister Chidambaram went a step ahead and went on
to declare that there was no conclusive proof against her," he added. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today told the Lok Sabha that many documents related to the preparation of the ministry's second affidavit in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case are missing and added that an internal inquiry has been ordered into the same. Replying to a motion on change in the Ishrat case affidavit filed in the Gujarat High Court on September 29, 2009, he said the ministry is conducting an internal inquiry on missing documents from the Ishrat affidavit file. "Further course of action will be decided later," he added while stating that two letters written by then home secretary (G.K. Pillai) to the Attorney General are not traceable. Singh further said the draft of the second affidavit that came from the Attorney General in which the then home minister (P Chidambaram) made the changes is also missing. (ANI)
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
PAGE 7
NEIGHBOURS
Pak PM, army chief witness military exercise in Saudi Arabia Islamabad, Mar. 10 : Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifand Chief of Army StaffGeneral Raheel Sharif along with the top Saudi leadership witnessed the concluding ceremony of the 'North Thunder' military exercise in the northern region of Saudi Arabia on
Thursday. "Premier and army chief with Saudi leadership and other dignitaries on site of the North Thunder final manoeuvres," the Director General of military's media wing, ISPR, tweeted. Sharif arrived on a threeday visit to Riyadh yes-
Progress in Indo-Pak ties hindered by cross border violence: Pentagon commander
Progress in Indo-Pak ties hindered by cross border violence: Pentagon commander
Pakistan, Mar 10 : Progress in India-Pakistan ties has been hindered by cross-border violence and territorial disputes, but leaders of both the countries have demonstrated commitment to reinitiate the comprehensive dialogue, a top Pentagon commander has said. "Progress on the IndiaPakistan relationship is hindered by cross-border violence and territorial disputes," General Lloyd J Austin, Commander of US Central Command told members of the Senate Armed Service Committee during a Congressional hearing on Wednesday. "However, there have been some encouraging
signs and lines of communication remain open as demonstrated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's meeting in Pakistan in late December 2015 and the subsequent commitment to reinitiate the Comprehensive Dialogue," Austin said. "Dialogue between the two countries is critical especially given that they are both nuclear powers," Austin said. The US Central Command will continue to do its part to help encourage and strengthen the critical relationship between Pakistan and its neighbours, Austin added.
Lanka appoints panel to probe media harassment under Rajapaksa
terday to witness the military exercises as well as hold regional and bilateral talks of mutual interest. Sharif was accompanied General Sharif and Special Assistant to the premier on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi.
Upon their arrival, Sharif and his officials were received by Prince Muhammad bin Salman and other high-ranking officials. A dinner was also hosted by King Salman bin Abdul Aziz al Saud last night. Meanwhile, a number of
other leaders also witnessed the ongoing military exercise and its closing ceremony. Troops from 21 countries, including Pakistan, participated in the exercise. The main aim of the exercise is to improve train-
ing to counter- threats posed by terrorist groups. During the visit, Pakistan will offer to expand its cooperation with Saudis and its support for the for the 34-nation coalition of Islamic countries cobbled together by Saudi Arabia to fight terrorism (ANI)
North Korea fires missiles, liquidates Seoul's assets in its territory North Korea, Mar 10 : North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea on Thursday in defiance of a U.N. Security Council resolution, as South Korean and U.S. forces conducted massive war games. The North also announced on Thursday it has scrapped all agreements with the South on commercial exchange projects and would "liquidate" South Korean assets left behind in its territory. North Korea has a large stockpile of short-range missiles and is developing long-range and intercontinental missiles as well. The missiles fired on Thursday flew about 500 km (300 miles) off its east coast city of Wonsan and were likely from the Soviet-developed Scud series, South Korea's defense ministry said. Japan, which is within range of the longer-range variant of Scud missiles or the upgraded Rodong missiles, lodged a protest through the North Korean embassy in Beijing, Japan's Kyodo news agency reported. North Korea often fires short-range missiles when tensions rise on the Korean peninsula. Pyongyang gets particularly upset about the annual U.S.-South Korea drills, which its says are preparations for an invasion. The U.S. and South Korea remain technically at war with the North because the 1950-53 Korean War ended in an armed truce instead of a peace agreement. Around 17,000 U.S. military personnel are participating alongside some 300,000 South Korean
It was his first direct comment on the technology needed to deploy nuclear missiles. North Korean state media released photographs it said showed Kim Jong Un inspecting a spherical miniaturised warhead. State media has previously made that claim, which has been widely questioned and never independently verified.
North Korea fires missiles, liquidates Seoul's assets in its territory
troops in what South Korea's Defence Ministry has called the "largest-ever" joint military exercises. North Korea on Sunday warned it would make a "pre-emptive and offensive nuclear strike" in response to the exercises. "LIQUIDATING" ASSETS After Thursday's missile launches, North Korea announced it would "liquidate" South Korean assets left behind in the Kaesong industrial zone and in the Mount Kumgang tourist zone. Seoul suspended operations in the jointly-run zone last month as punishment for the North's rocket launch and nuclear test. Mount Kumgang was the first major inter-Korean cooperation project. Thousands of South Koreans visited the resort between 1998 and 2008. Seoul ended the tours in 2008 after a North Korean soldier shot dead a South Korean tourist who wandered into a restricted zone. North Korea is also livid about stepped up United
Nations sanctions adopted last week following its recent nuclear test and long-range missile launch. South Korea's foreign ministry said the Thursday's missile launches again violated a series of U.N. Security Council resolutions and it would refer the matter to the Council sanctions committee mandated to enforce the resolutions. Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Hong Lei described the situation on the Korean Peninsula as "complex and sensitive". "All sides should stop their provocative words and deeds to avoid a further rise in tensions," he said. M I N I AT U R I S E D WARHEADS North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said his country has miniaturised nuclear warheads to mount on ballistic missiles, state media reported on Wednesday, and called on his military to be prepared to mount pre-emptive attacks against the United States and South Korea.
South Korea's defense ministry said it did not believe the North has successfully miniaturised a nuclear warhead or deployed a functioning intercontinental ballistic missile. State Department spokesman John Kirby declined to comment on Kim's claim to have miniaturised nuclear warheads and accused him of "provocative rhetoric." "I'd say the young man needs to pay more attention to the North Korean people and taking care of them than in pursuing these sorts of reckless capabilities," Kirby said. The Pentagon said this week it had not seen North Korea demonstrate a capability to miniaturise a nuclear warhead. But Captain Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman, said the department was working on U.S. ballistic missile defences to be prepared. North Korea conducted its fourth nuclear test on Jan. 6 but its claim to have set off a miniaturised hydrogen bomb last month has been disputed by the U.S. and South Korean governments and many experts, who said the blast was too small to back it up.
Chinese navy commissions 3 ships first time on same day Mahinda Rajapaksa
Colombo, March 10: Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena on Thursday, March 10 appointed a committee to probe the harassment of media personnel under the regime of his powerful predecessor Mahinda Rajapaksa. A notice from the President's office said that all journalists who suffered harassment and loss of property under Rajapaksa must report to an Additional Secretary under Sirisena by mid June. Media freedom in Sri Lanka was rated low when the former president was at the helm for a decade. The Reporters Without Borders, 2015 world press freedom index ranked Sri Lanka at 165 out of 180 countries,
up 2 positions compared to 2013, which was an improvement postRajapaksa. In 2013, Sri Lanka was ranked 162 out of 178 countries. Sri Lanka was also ranked among the most dangerous countries to practice journalism. Many journalists reported harassment under Rajapaksa, the most prominent was the broad day-light murder of the editor of the Sunday Leader, Lasantha Wickrematunga, while several other media institutions faced attacks by goon squads. Rajapaksa, credited with ending the country's nearly threedecades-old civil war with LTTE in 2009, was in power from 2005 to 2015. He was defeated by Sirisena in January last year. (Agencies)
Beijing, Mar 10 : Displaying a sense of urgency, Chinese navy has commissioned three new stealth landing ships on a single day for the first time amid escalating tensions with the US in the disputed South China Sea. The Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has commissioned CNS Wuyishan, CNS Culaishan and CNS Wutaishan, having improved amphibious capabilities, official media here quoted PLANs statement.
Compared with predecessors, the new design has a lower radar signature, which makes it harder to detect it at sea, and a streamlined design that helps speed up the loading of amphibious vehicles.
They were delivered to the East Sea Fleet at an unidentified naval port on Monday.
The ships are armed with close-in weapons systems capable of hitting mid- and short-range targets, and include a flight pad that can accommodate a helicopter, staterun China Daily reported. The ships will strengthen the Navys capabilities in joint landing operations and transportation, the statement said.
The ships have a displacement of 5,008 metric tonnes and a maximum speed of 20 knots (37 km/h).
According to IHS Janes Navy International, the new-type vessel is able to transport 10 armoured vehicles and 250 fully
armed troops, which means that three ships can ferry roughly an entire amphibious assault battalion. This is the first-time the PLAN has commisioned three ships in a single day, the report said. At least 100 new ships and submarines have joined the Navy since 2012, including an aircraft carrier, three Type052D guided missile destroyers that have cutting-edge air defence abilities, 13 Type-054A large multi-role frigates and four Type-903A supply ships as China braced for a showdown with the US in the South China Sea to assert its sovereignty in the area. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan and the Philippines contest Chi-
nas claims of sovereignty on all most all of the South China Sea. In February, the Chinese Navy commissioned the CNS Xiangtan, a Type054A frigate, the CNS Tongren, a Type-056A corvette and the CNS Yimengshan, a Type-071 amphibious transport dock. However, much of the Navys new equipment is still not as good as that of their counterparts in the United States Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, the report quoted a PLA officer as saying. "There are a great number of things that we need to catch up on - for instance, the technological level of ships and submarines as well as our crews skills and experience," he said.(PTI)
Indian envoy congratulates new Nepal Congress president Deuba
Indian envoy congratulates new Nepal Congress president Deuba
Kathmandu (Nepal), Mar.10 : India's Ambassador to Nepal Ranjit Rae has congratulated Sher Bahadur Deuba on his election to the post of Nepali Congress president. In a 30-minute interaction with Deuba at his residence in Budhanilkantha on
Wednesday, Ambassador Rae said that India wants to see peace, stability and prosperity in Nepal. In response, Deuba said Nepal-India relations have been harmonious for centuries and expressed the confidence that it would further strengthen in the future. (ANI)
Unknown gunmen abduct 11 bus passengers in northern Afghanistan Kabul, Mar. 10 : At least 11 bus passengers were abducted byunknown gunmen in Afghanistan's northern Sar-e-Pul province. The incident took place yesterday in Sayad district of the province when armed men stopped a bus and abducted 11 people, Zabihullah Amani, a spokesman for the Provincial Governor, reported Tolo news. Amani said that the armed men reportedly
released three women present inside the bus. The search operation has been initiated by the police forces and it is still underway. Further details of the incident are awaited. No group has claimed responsibility for the incident so far. Afghanistan in the past year has witnessed such incidents where scores of bus passengers were been abducted. (ANI)
North Korea fires missiles, liquidates Seoul's assets in its territory
North Korea fires missiles, liquidates Seoul's assets in its territory
Iranan , Mar 10 : Secretary of State phones Iranian counterpart in wake of Iran's claims it test fired ballistic missiles. Secretary of State John Kerry on Wednesday called his Iranian counterpart to protest Tehran's latest round of ballistic missile tests, AFPreported. Iran and the United States have no formal diplomatic ties, but Kerry and Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif built a close working relationship during negotiations for last year's nuclear accord between Tehran and world powers. The phone call comes several days after claimed to have conducted more ballistic missile tests. Furthermore, during those tests the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards declared that Israel is "in range of most of our missiles." The United States says that a series of recent apparent missile tests by Iran breach the terms of a UN Security Council resolution and will result in new economic sanctions -- either from Washington or the world body. "If they are confirmed, if they're true, as I said yesterday, we'll take up the appropriate action inside
the UN," State Department spokesman John Kirby warned Wednesday, according to AFP. "But I don't want to convey the impression that we are only looking at multilateral or UN possibilities in terms of measures to deal with it," he added. Earlier on Wednesday, U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, who is visiting Israel, said the United States would take action against Iran if its longrange ballistic missile tests were confirmed. Later, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton blasted Iran over reports of further ballistic missile tests and called for new sanctions on the Iranian regime. "Iran should face sanctions for these activities and the international community must demonstrate that Iran's threats toward Israel will not be tolerated," she said, though she also emphasized the need to preserve the framework of the Iranian nuclear deal negotiated by the Obama administration last year. "This demonstrates once again why we need to address Iran's destabilizing activities across the region, while vigorously enforcing the nuclear deal," said Clinton.
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A New Direction for India-Saudi Arabia Ties Criminalization of politics 349 Cases Pending Against Politicians in Assam The biggest threat that the citizens are facing is candidates with criminal backgrounds brooding to power. Infact, criminalization of politics has been an all time debatable and worrisome phenomenon of the Indian political arena. Though democracy implies 'rule of law' and the holding of free election to ascertain the will of the people but it has been much vitiated. The criminalisation of Indian politics and consequent cult of gun has created great threat to the life of the common people. India, world's largest democracy, money and muscle power has certainly been the two major pillars for fighting elections. With assembly elections round the corner in Assam, politicians belonging to various parties are gearing up to represent the people. For the voter, the time is nigh to choose the right candidate. As per report as many as 349 cases are pending against political leaders in the State. What is more worrisome is the fact that despite Supreme Court directives, the Assam police have so far failed to complete investigation in many of these cases. Highlighting this, RTI activist Dulal Bora slammed the Assam police for its 'failure'. As according to Bora "On July 24, 2015, the Additional Director General of Police (Prosecution) wrote a letter to the Commissioner of Police, Guwahati and the Superintendents of Police of Barpeta, Nagaon, Morigaon, Hojai, Kamrup Rural, Baksa, Biswanath Chariali, Karimganj,
Kokrajhar, Golaghat and Sonitpur asking them to fast track cases against sitting MLAs and MPs. In the letter, the ADGP (Prosecution) also asked them to complete the investigation with proper supervision with 90 days from the date of issuance of the letter." However, the police were unsuccessful to act on it and only a negligible number of cases were disposed off while 349 cases have remained awaiting. Some of the prominent politicians with cases pending against them include Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Rakibul Hussain, Atuwa Munda, Ajit Singh, Prasanta Phukan, Jatin Mali, Majendra Narzary, Bijoya Chakraborty, Pradip Hazarika, Ataur Rahman Majar Bhuyan, Mazibur Rahman, Rupjyoti Kurmi, Akon Bora, Nilomonisen Deka etc. It may be mentioned that last year, the Supreme Court issued instructions to fast track cases against sitting MLAs and MPs and asked police departments to take necessary action. The Right to Information which enables the public to access information about public servants and politicians must be strengthened further, especially at the states where subterfuge rules. Also various report suggest that Assam is at the lowest of those with either serious or just "normal" offences - 6% of the 126member Assembly face such prosecution. Kerala and West Bengal score top grades here, the first for pending criminal cases and the other was serious criminal case. Photo: livelaw
Jointly to launch Power Supply and Intl Internet Gateway in Tripura Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will jointly launch 100 MW power supply to Bangladesh and third international internet gateway (IIG) on March 23, as per sources. The government earlier announced supply of additional 100 MW of electricity to Bangladesh from Tripura power plants and accordingly 47-km transmission lines were erected linking Tripura power grid to Comilla power grid in eastern Bangladesh. To improve the internet capacity in northeastern states and other parts of India, New Delhi has set up India's third IIG in Agartala availing the 10 gigabit bandwidth from Bangladesh Submarine Cable Company Limited. The minister,who was recently in Dhaka and attended a series of meetings there to finalise the power tariff. As in Dhaka, several meetings were held to finalise the power tariff. It was decided that the electricity would be supplied to Bangladesh at a price of Rs.5.5 per unit. The Tripura government was ready to provide more power to Bangladesh if the central government has no objection. The Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. and the Power Generation Company of Bangladesh, both government-run companies,
set up the 47-km transmission lines on their sides for electricity supply from the Tripura power plants. During his visit to Dhaka on June 67 last year, Modi discussed with Hasina power supply from Tripura. India had started supplying 500 MW power to Bangladesh in 2013 after a deal was signed between India's NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVN) and Bangladesh Power Development Board on February 28, 2012. The deal was a follow-up of agreement inked during Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit in New Delhi in 2010. Tripura will also be the third internet gateway after Mumbai and Chennai with the inauguration of internet bandwidth. The BSNL had inked an agreement with BSCCL for providing internet bandwidth. Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad laid the foundation stone for 'International Gateway' during a programme in Agartala last year. The NE region including Tripura will get uninterrupted internet services as the connectivity from Cox's Bazar will provide high speed internet connection. The cost of the project is Rs. 1.91 crore with operational expenditure annually to the tune of around Rs. 7.2 crore.
On March 8, the foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, Adel al-Jubeir, was in New Delhi to prepare the agenda for an upcoming visit from the Indian prime minister in early April. This will be his second visit to an Arab Gulf country after visiting the UAE in August 2015; it shows the significance the government attaches to the region. This will also be the first high-level visit between the two countries since the February 2010 visit of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, when the Riyadh Declaration was signed. The visit comes at a time of extreme disturbances and uncertainties in the Middle East and India's heightened concerns over growing radicalization, especially through social media. In addition to bilateral trade, investments, and expatriates, security and counter-terrorism are likely to be foremost on the agenda for the prime minister's visit. This is evident from the press release issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) after Jubeir's meeting with the prime minister, which said: "Both leaders exchanged views on further strengthening bilateral relations, including in the fields of trade, investment, energy, and security cooperation." Trade and Investment Ties India and Saudi Arabia share robust bilateral trade relations that have risen steadily since the mid-2000s and particularly thrived during the last five years. In 2010-11, total trade was $25 billion. Trade reached $48 billion in 2013-14 but dropped to $39 billion in 2014-15, thanks to the decline in oil prices. In fact, Saudi Arabia has been one of India's top five trading partners during the last decade. It is also the largest supplier of crude oil to India. India imports nearly 20 percent of its crude from the kingdom, and 90 percent of Indian imports from Saudi Arabia consist of petroleum. In 2012, Saudi Arabia came to India's rescue by increasing oil exports to compensate for the
deficit caused by sanctions on the Iranian oil industry. In addition to trade, investments in India's infrastructure and development projects will be high on the agenda of the bilateral talks. The Bhartiya Janata Partyled National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has been aggressively seeking investments in the Indian market and oil-rich Gulf countries can benefit from the fast growing Indian economy. Media reports suggest that India will seek investments in its infrastructure sector. Another significant aspect of the bilateral
wings to South Asia. The issue of terror financing has lingered for enhance ties with Arab a long time and has reernment, especially dur- countries in the Gulf ceived less attention due ing his second term with a special focus on to its domestic sensitiv(2009-14), sparked by ity. The Indian security India's desire to seek intelligence inputs from countries in the Gulf after the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The issue came under discussion during Singh's visit to Riyadh in 2010, which was followed by Defense Minister A. K. Anthony's visit in 2012. In February 2014, Saudi Defense Minister (now King) Salman paid a reciprocal visit to India, where a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation was signed.
Md. Muddassir Quamar
State. Indian agencies have also apprehended a number of youths who were found to be radicalized online and were ready to join the Islamic State. Even
In June 2012, Saudi
In addition to trade, investments in India's infrastructure and development projects will be high on the agenda of the bilateral talks. The Bhartiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has been aggressively seeking investments in the Indian market and oil-rich Gulf countries can benefit Indo-Saudi ties are increasingly taking on an important security dimension Photo: The Diplomat from the fast growing Indian economy. Media reports suggest that security, which was one establishment, particu- more alarming is the India will seek investments in its of the highlights of the larly under the current possibility of Islamic joint statement issued government, is working State succeeding in infrastructure sector. relations is the presence of a large number of Indian workers in the kingdom. At nearly 3 million, Indians in Saudi Arabia make up the largest expatriate community and were acknowledged by Jubeir, who "deeply appreciated the constructive role being played by the Indian community in the development of Saudi Arabia." In the past, however, issues of Indian workers facing problems and harassment have come up and India is keen to develop better mechanisms to deal with such avoidable situations. It also wishes to have a labor agreement that will include non-domestic workers.
Arabia deported Zabiuddin Ansari (Abu Jundal), an accused terrorist wanted for his involvement in the Mumbai attacks. Up till then, Pakistan had been a major component in Saudi strategic calculations vis-Ă -vis India but despite Ansari carrying a Pakistani passport and Pakistan's pressure to not deport him, India succeeded in achieving his extradition. This indicated a shift in IndoSaudi security cooperation. Since then, many suspects, including A. Rayees and Fasih Mohammad, have been deported by Saudi Arabia for their involvement in terror financing or radicalization activities.
Security Cooperation Trade, investments, and expatriate manpower notwithstanding, India and Saudi Arabia are likely to focus on security. The two began to have security cooperation during the Manmohan Singh gov-
Developments since the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggest deepening security cooperation. He met Salman on two occasions on the sidelines of G-20 meetings in Brisbane and Antalya. India is keen to
during Modi's UAE visit. Reports suggest that India is keen to have a "strong security and counter- terrorism partnership" with Saudi Arabia. India is also seeking Saudi support for its draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), which if received will be a strong message for Pakistan. The significance India associates in pursuing close security ties with Saudi Arabia is also reflected in the appointment of former policemen, Ahmed Javed, as its new ambassador to the kingdom. In all, the emerging contours of Indo-Saudi relations have a strong security dimension. There are two important aspects driving this. One is the Indian concern to prevent financing or material support to local radical outfits from the Gulf and second is the rise of Islamic State (also known as ISIS, ISISL, and its Arabic acronym Da'esh), which plans to spread its
to create a robust system to prevent this. As a result, a number of those accused or suspected of involvement have been deported from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait in the last couple of years. Meanwhile, the rise of Islamic State and the impunity with which it has mounted big and small attacks across the globe, including inside Saudi Arabia, has alarmed security agencies the world over. It has ambitions to spread its activities in South Asia and especially target India. In fact, a competition among global Islamist terrorists organization to capture bases in the Indian subcontinent witnessed the launch of al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) in September 2014. Security agencies in Afghanistan and Pakistan have found documents concerning Islamic State's ambitions to spread jihad in India, and some of the recent attacks on rationalists and secularists in Bangladesh were claimed by the Islamic
forming a base in the troubled AfghanistanPakistan border region that can be used to attack Indian territories. These developments have made necessary for India to seek intelligence and security cooperation with Saudi Arabia, specifically in the cybersecurity area. India has the technology and expertise to trace the origins of online propaganda and radicalization efforts, but if traced to the Gulf they cannot be checked without high-level security and intelligence understandings. For example, if a Twitter handle originating in Saudi Arabia is involved in radicalization efforts among Indian youths, it cannot be handled without involving Saudi security agencies. The kingdom has some experience in counter-terror and deradicalization efforts and also has reasons for cooperating as it sees India as playing a role in maintaining security and stability in the Gulf. Courtesy: thediplomat.
Best Letter
Of International Women's Day
Image for representational purpose Photo:.quotesgiant.com
Sir, We feel pity on ourselves at the way we are befooled by our great political leaders by their lip services. One example of such lip service of the great politicians is enough to convince us their pseudo love to the women. The international women's Day is celebrated throughout India on March 8 with much enthusiasm. The state politicians lost no chance to curry favour with the women, as they will play a pivotal role in ascertaining the result of the forthcoming assembly polls. How many of the national politicians are serious about passing the bill reserving 33% of seats in the legislative assembly, in parliament and in government jobs? Why the issue is still hanging in the balance? How many fast-track courts have been formed to try for molestation and raping perpetrated by the miscreants? There have been myriad case of dowry deaths, atrocities on the daughter-in-
laws, instances of foeticide (North-India) and many other injustices meted out to the girl-child and women. Even now, the birth of girl is not viewed with a good grace. In every walk of life, girls are faring at par with their male counterparts. In most of the cases, particularly on academic counts, girls are doing better. In the backdrop of all these facts we wholeheartedly wish, may good sense prevail on our politicians irrespective of their party affiliation, who, we believe, will come forward under one platform to grant the long-awaited reservation as specified taking appropriate steps to do away with the injustice meted out to the women, not excluding 'witch-hunting'. Let Assam act as a pioneer, we appeal to all the political parties to field 33% women candidates in the forthcoming assembly polls. Yours etc. Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh
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, Dibrugarh786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com
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How mob 'justice' seems to have become a substitute for relieving personal frustration This is countered by the evergreen phrase, "gehun ke saath ghun bhi pista hai." But if that were to happen in a court, people would go crazy. Isn't that hypocrisy?
Sarthak Chaure India, these days, has been making quite a buzz over issues ranging from intolerance, caste, moral policing and what not. And then there is an occurrence which frequently keeps showing up-mob justice-where a mob present at the spot of any incident take it to the next level by delivering 'justice' themselves. Maybe this happens because of the shattered faith in the judiciary which makes the public impatient. Of course, the public has lost the faith in the judiciary due to its prolonged process of delivering verdicts. The courts have become sluggish as the number of cases filed are high in number. This is due to its commitment to hear every case no matter how pointless it may be, otherwise its commitment to justice might be questioned. And this makes the public impatient and they take it to the extreme level.
The incidents of mob justice from Nagaland, where a boy was beaten to death over a false rape allegation, from Bengaluru, where a girl was stripped and paraded naked, appall me. Where any person is beaten up without any authenticity of the crime they're alleged to have committed, it appalls me.
Image for representational purpose only. (Photo: intoday)
The increase in crimes also outrages the public making them feel that they ought to do something. There are many shortcomings in the judicial system too but it is not always the court that is at fault. The sluggishness is due to certain people who file cases
that are not worthy of the court's precious time. For instance, a case filed against Lord Ram and Lakshman in Bihar. The courts should dismiss such cases and utilise this time for delivering justice on crucial cases. This will gradually resurrect the
shattered faith in the judiciary. Whatever the reason may be, it ultimately harms the occasional innocent victim trapped in the mob system of delivering justice. This form of justice, or something that
just seems like justice, appears to be the only viable option to the public and is accepted as the apt punishment for the guilty. Wait. How is the victim proven guilty when you just start beating that person without any dialogue. Maybe s/he's not guilty.
Mob justice has another side to it. People can be violent and often tend to relieve their frustrations violently. In our daily life, when someone is angry, that person may sometimes act violently. Be it on the road or anywhere else. We get to see enough instances of it. Mob justice is an opportunity for such people. You get a body to smash all your frustrations (due to boss, wife, col-
leagues) on and you do it. Who's the person? Why's s/he being beaten? Fuck that. Let's go with the flow. The real face of the latent inhumanity and violence behind sympathetic faces shows up. The advantage of this method is that you don't get caught. It is the safest way for indulging in physical abuse. The most recent Bengaluru case, where the victim was a woman, added more shame to the nation. It can be aptly summed up as lustful morons relieving their sexual lust over a woman by stripping her and assaulting her sexually, for something she didn't do. The woman had no connection with the guy who had hit a woman with his car and run away. They had just one apparent similarity - race. And this similarity made the lustful morons assault her, giving it the face of mob 'justice', leaving the 21year-old with a lifelong trauma and shattering the
notion of India being a peaceful country. This is sick. Also, this may even give some people an opportunity to shed their personal grudge against someone, accuse them of something and get them beaten by the eager public. What makes me say that mob justice is a way for people to relieve their frustrations are the petty issues people act violently on. Like in Mumbai, a guy from Delhi was beaten up just because he uttered a slang in frustration. Not at someone in particular, but a man misunderstood it and started beating him and others joined in. Mob justice, in my opinion, has become a new substitute for the public to just relieve their personal frustration, or maybe sexual lust (in the case of the victim being a woman) over some poor innocent victim with the security of never being caught. And all this is disguised as justice.
Why reading 'the unbearable lightness of being' Why as a 'bhakt', I reject the idea of a 'Hindu' took me back to a lesson on nuclear fusion nation or a world 'without' borders "There are betrayals in war body and regards it as that are childlike compared shameful; and grows inwith our human betrayals creasingly burdened and during peace. The new insecure by her husband's lovers enter the habits of need to find intimacy out the other. Things are of their marital union. Her smashed, restruggle for vealed in a new Sahil Sood lightness is relight. This is flected in her done with nervous or ten- acts of humiliation der sentences, although working as a barmaid, the heart is an organ of having sex with a stranger, fire." engaging in dissident photojournalism, and defecat? Michael Ondaatje, The ing in the open. English Patient While reading Milan Franz, who spends his life Kundera's 'The Unbear- in rarefied scholarly purable Lightness Of Being', I was reminded of a science lecture that I once attended in my early school days. The thought of the Sun burning out and getting self-annihilated sometime in the distant future is one that has terrified many, and for some, it has been one of their earliest brushes with the apparent meaninglessness or futility of life. It was also the time when I first learned about fusion. The book, set against the backdrop of Russian invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968, chronicles and novelizes the everyday life of four people, who play with their own romantic ideals of love and sex, in desperate attempts to achieve freedom from the burden of existence - the utopian lightness of being. The reason I draw a parallel of nuclear fusion is because Kundera's characters are elemental in nature. Until their paths converge, they exist in isolated spheres of thoughts and ideals, only to be set off into elemental turbulence of activity, coalition, and gradual decline. Tomas, a surgeon, philanders from one woman to another, taking great relish in examining their characteristic oddities by using an imaginary scalpel, while retaining his coldness and solitude. For him romantic love and physical love are two irreconcilable desires - the former being his idea of burden, since it entails attachment and responsibility, and the latter his idea of achieving lightness. Tereza, his wife, follows her romantic pursuits in the form of achieving her husband's loyalty. She is repulsed by the sight of her
against her puritanical ancestry by painting erotic images and participating in sexual acts with a reckless abandon. She prefers to keep herself intact in her own element, aloof from the teeming multitudes and their collective tastes. Like Tomas, she is stifled by romantic attachments and finds lightness in her repeat acts of betrayal. "The heaviest of burdens crushes us, we sink beneath it, it pins us to the ground. But in love poetry
Kundera's work mirrors life. One can picture him with a sly smile and a bemused look on his face, sketching his characters with deep empathy and part mockery. His characters, in their attempts to soar and become lighter than air, become so oppressed by their lightness that they sink quicker than a diving bell. They become victims of their ideals-their own element. But is it possible to drown in your own element? We read later in the book that Tomas, burdened by his lightness, moves to the countryside with Tereza, in order to make amends with her and lead a solitary lifestyle, filled with simple pleasures. Tereza recognizes her anima and becomes a recluse, finding solace in the company of domestic animals. Sabina, tired by her own betrayals, finds admirers of her art in the USA and settles there permanently. Franz, weary of his intellectual detachment and fear of inviting Sabina's derision, sheds his inhibitions and joins the Grand March, as a protester playing an active role and seeking comfort in the company of his fellow men.
Image for representational purpose only. (Photo: gr-assets) suits, in academia, falls in love with the free-spirited Sabina. He responds to her indifference and strong individualism with amorous display of affection and vows of eternal love. He grows increasingly despondent of being reduced to an intellectual tool-head and wishes to feel the rush of joy and belongingness by participating in protests and struggles, along with the general public. Sabina, a free-spirited artist, is Franz's and Tomas's mistress. She celebrates her rebellion
shall we choose? Weight or lightness?"
of every age, the woman longs to be weighed down by the man's body. The heaviest of burdens is therefore simultaneously an image of life's most intense fulfillment. The heavier the burden, the closer our lives come to the earth, the more real and truthful they become. Conversely, the absolute absence of burden causes man to be lighter than air, to soar into heights, take leave of the earth and his earthly being, and become only half real; his movements are as free as they are insignificant. What then
Life demands surrender. It is said the Sun will burn out in a few billion years from now. The scientists claim that it will lose its life source-the hydrogen fueland will annihilate itself. In nuclear fusion, heavier elements are formed from lighter ones. The hydrogen nuclei combine to form a larger nucleus, helium, releasing massive amounts of energy. But what is often overlooked is the fact that for the nuclei to combine, energy is first needed to bring them together, since they carry the same charge. This occurs naturally in stars, through heat and gravitational forces, but it is also possible to do it on earth, between two people who carry the same longing-to combine and perpetuate. They only have to give up resistance. Perhaps then their lightness will no longer be unbearable.
The discourse on nation- wing Hindutva ideology alism in India mainly re- of the nation in principle? volves around two con- Are such claims justified? cepts: Hindutva and any- And now, a question for thing other than the first group. Why is it Hindutva. I would like to that the arguments of clarify my stand at the Kashmiris or Nagas or outset. I am against the Tamilians for a homogconstruct of nationalism enous nation state acthat the rightcepted w i n g Manoj Kurbet and seen Hindutva as their radical forces subscribe right to dissent, while to and would defend and those who subscribe to a fight for the diversity this Hindutva ideology and country stands for. This want India to be a hoform of nationalism is mogenous country using shaped by an identity religion as their paramthat is Hindu and eter are made demons organisations who sub- and condemned for dilutscribe to this identity ing and destroying the dihave defined various versity of India? physical attributes and geographical territories Each group has its own for forming a nation idea of 'nation'. I am of the opinion that if one based on that identity. supports the idea of new Now that many have de- nations then they should bated and have showed, also be open to an idea and I too believe, that this of a Hindutva nation else is detrimental to our country, what has not been talked much is the nationalism in Kashmir, in Tamil Nadu, Nagaland, Manipur. What is the basis for such arguments? Is it about religion? Is it about language? Is it about ethnicity? Is it about the subjugation or humiliation they face from the rest of India? What is it? Why do they want to form a new nation? Now, there are two sets of people who support such ideas. One that does not believe in the idea of a nation, a country. Their belief is in the utopian idea of humanity without borders etc. For them, be it India or Kashmir or Pakistan, it doesn't matter. The other set comprises those who believe in the idea of 'nation' and are convinced by the justification the separatists are providing but oppose it to the Hindutva idea of nation. This amounts to a double standard. First, my question is to those from the second group. Are these claims to a new nation any different from that of right-
litical reasons. Then we would have a situation wherein India might have to be divided into its earlier famous figure of 565, the number of princely states in British India. Each of those 565, or more, would have their own stories and justifications to give. It would be ethically wrong to grant nationhood to only a few of them only because they have for a certain number of years been demanding nationhood and have created an arms resistance. Weighing the rationale of each of those 565 would be an absolute blunder. Where and how would this dismantling stop? Now, for the people who think that the world should be without borders, I would like to say that no physical lines on
such cases in the history of mankind. Boundaries have always existed. Armies have always existed. Hence, it's very unlikely that this utopian idea is practical in any imaginable future. Now, on the current issue, groups who subscribe to this belief are often found supporting separatist sentiments. Then, doesn't this contradict their own stance of no national boundaries. Again double standards! Moreover, on real-time burning issues like that of the violent Jat agitation, how would a demilitarised, anarchist state handle it? PS: Yes, for some it has become fashionable to
Hindu priest giving blessing. (Photo: baltimoresun) it becomes hypocritically selective. Is the onus of preserving the diversity of India only on one set of people? The plurality of this country remains only when Kashmiris, the Nagas, Tamilians, tribals, people of all faiths/ atheists remain under the present definition of India. Else, there is no India at all! Be it Hindutva or anything else, it affects the nation and dissolves the country we call India and is not justified. In a more liberal sense, let's assume that there is a genuine need for creating new nations owing to various historical, po-
the map can restrict humanity. But we can't treat ideas of nationalism as farce and waste inspired by the writings of a minuscule literary and artistic elite. The military, the armies according to them are a burden and hindrances to such utopian ideas. Being a firm believer in Hobbes' theory, I do not see any such scenario wherein any country would demilitarise and open its border and expect its enemies, or friends for that matter, to follow suit. Though theoretically possible, I haven't come across any
call some people as 'prestitutes', or to call themselves as 'anti-nationals' and to brand anyone who differs with their ideology as 'bhakts'. Yes, I am a proud bhakt. But, mind you, I am not a bhakt of a party or ideology unlike you. Neither am I a bhakt of any individual personality. I am a bhakt of this country India and I need not shy away or hesitate in saying that. More importantly, I don't have to prove my credentials and carry 'red' or 'rashtravadi' certificates.
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
BUSINESS
RBI recommends steps to boost card use New Delhi, Mar 10: Concerned over the lack of card acceptance in shops despite most households now having debit cards, the RBI has decided to nudge banks to promote plastic payment. On the anvil are moves to direct banks to install more point of sales terminals in shops and also a proposal to rationalize charges banks impose on merchants. The RBI floated a concept paper and invited comments to its proposals to improve card acceptance infrastructure. The report notes that in India the average number of card transactions per inhabitant at 6.7 is among the lowest in the World. The corresponding data for a few other countries reveal a much higher level of card usage - Australia (249.3), Canada (247.9), Korea (260.8), France (143.4),
Disney books to be published by Penguin in India Pune, Mar 10: Disney's iconic Mickey and Friends characters as well as Aladdin, Peter Pan, Pinocchio, Dumbo and the cast of "Jungle Book" will now be published in the country by Penguin Random House, which announced the launch with Disney India's consumer products business. Published under the Puffin imprint and aimed at young readers, the fullyillustrated books will include readers, storybooks, colouring and activity as well as novelty books. The first series of titles is set to be available to consumers from March 14, publishers said. The books include Dumbo and Aladdin colouring books, Jungle Book, Dumbo and Peter Pan Treasured Classic Editions, Peter Pan and Dumbo storybooks and readers Mickey's Round Up, Donald's Special Delivery, Minnie's Rainbow, Minnie Red Riding Hood and Mickey Mouse Flies the Christmas Mail. "Puffin India has long published some of India's finest writing for children with generations brought up on books from authors including Ruskin Bond, Sudha Murty and APJ Abdul Kalam. We are delighted to now be working with Disney India to bring their wellloved characters to readers with a specific range of Indian publishing," Gaurav Shrinagesh, CEO, Penguin Random House in India said. "Disney is synonymous with storytelling. We all have grown up reading Disney stories and are familiar with Disney characters. We are happy to be working with Puffin India to launch a series of Disney books for the new generation of readers in the country," Abhishek Maheshwari, VP & head, consumer products, Disney India said. (Agencies)
25% share buyback got by Nalco in FY 17 Nagpur, Mar 10: Aluminium maker Nalco's estimated Rs.3,250 crore share buyback programme has been delayed due to procedural issues and will be completed in FY 2016-17. In January, the Mines Ministry had said that the Finance Ministry asked it to allow Nalco to buy back 25 per cent of government's stake in the Navratna company in a bid to tap PSUs' funds to make up for the shortfall in disinvestment proceeds. "There are certain procedures that need to be followed, which is taking time. The buyback will not happen in this month," said Mines Secretary Balvinder Kumar. (Agencies)
Sweden (270), United Kingdom (201.7), Brazil (54.8), China (14.4), Mexico (16.6) and Russia (47). Besides mandating banks and rationalizing charges, the other proposals include setting up a fund for investing in card swipe machines. The note also talks about differential charges for government to encourage usage. The report said while the card base in India is increasing rapidly, activation or usage rates of cards are quite low, especially for purchase of goods and services. Card usage at ATMs, on the other hand, is quite high. "A high number of debit cards have been issued in recent times under the prime minister's Jan Dhan Yojana, especially to customers in rural areas and smaller towns. The growth in ac-
ceptance infrastructure has not kept pace with the growth in cards. While debit cards registered a growth of 64% between Oct 2013 and Oct 2015, during the same period ATMs increased by around 43% while POS machines increased by around 28%," the concept paper said. According to the report another disconcerting feature is that the rate of growth in setting up card acceptance infrastructure has also slowed down during these three years. While debit cards registered a growth of 64% between Oct 2013 and Oct 2015, credit cards grew at 23% during the same period. As at endDecember 2015, the total number of credit cards stood at 2.27 crore while debit cards stood at 63.68 crore in the country. But
PAPER FREE TRANSACTIONS Concerned over the lack of card acceptance in shops despite most households now having debit cards, the RBI has decided to nudge banks to promote plastic payment.
The report notes that in India the average number of card transactions per inhabitant at 6.7 is among the lowest in the World.
But credit card swipe machines POS machines increased by around 28%.
The corresponding data for a few other countries reveal a much higher level of card usage - Australia (249.3), Canada (247.9), Korea (260.8), France (143.4), Sweden (270), United Kingdom (201.7), Brazil (54.8), China (14.4), Mexico (16.6) and Russia (47).
credit card swipe machines POS machines increased by around 28%. As of end-December 2015, the number of ATMs has increased to 193,580 while POS ma-
chines had increased to 12.45 lakh in the country. Interestingly usage of debit cards has shown a jump of 72% in terms of volume and 63% in terms of value. "Based on inputs
The RBI floated a concept paper and invited comments to its proposals to improve card acceptance infrastructure.
growing organically, it has acquired TastyKhana and Just Eat to expand its market share in India. In the recent past, the food ordering company was in the midst of rumours about its possible exit from the Indian market. Wenzel dispelled them saying there was no reason for the company to shut down its business in India.
Ralf Wenzel, CEO and co-founder of Foodpanda Global. (Photo: nationmultimedia) improved customer loyalty and helped bring down marketing cost. Wenzel said delivery of close to 30% of the 12,000 restaurants on Foodpanda platform was controlled by them. He said he wanted to take it to over 50% in 2016. "In 2016, we want to increase the share of Foodpanda-controlled de-
livery in India, which is a big part. It is roughly 30% (currently). We will take that share to more than 50% this year," he said. Foodpanda began its operations in India in May 2012 and is currently a leading player in the market with presence in over 200 cities and 70,000 orders per day. Besides
"Foodpanda is not trying to get out of the Indian market. It's the opposite, and we are now investing more than ever before. Our Indian arm generates positive gross margins. It continues to grow and be the market leader. So why shouldn't we focus on accelerating the expansion?" the food delivery company's chief said. And Wenzel said most of the expansion in India would be done organically, and any acquisition would be
While debit cards registered a growth of 64% between Oct 2013 and Oct 2015, during the same period ATMs increased by around 43% while POS machines increased by around 28%. While debit cards registered a growth of 64% between Oct 2013 and Oct 2015, credit cards grew at 23% during the same period.
provided by card networks, it is understood that growth in debit card usage is largely witnessed in the CNP segment driven by e-commerce," RBI said. (Agencies)
looked at in a "pragmatic" way. "We will be looking at that (acquisition) in a very pragmatic way. If we think that there is a right fit and it is a company that will help us grow faster and would be complementary to us, then we would be open to it. At this point in time, we don't expect any (acquisition), but we would be opportunistic about it," he said. According to him, there was "significant" cash on the balance sheet for acquisitions. "We still have a significant amount of cash on the balance sheet. As you know, we raised $300 million over the last two years. From this, we still have a very large part available. So, we can be very flexible in terms of our investment in India and if there is an acquisition opportunity in India, we would be looking at it," he said. (Agencies)
Rs 4,500-crore SSTL merger approved by Reliance Communications shareholders New Delhi, Mar 10: Reliance Communications said its shareholders have approved the proposal for merger of Sistema Shyam Teleservices with the company. "The Court Convened meeting of the members of the Company held on March 8, 2016 to consider and approve Scheme of Arrangement of Sistema Shyam TeleServices Limited with the Company (Scheme), the Members of the Company have duly approved the Scheme, voting by way of poll at the meeting and through e-voting," RCom said in a BSE filing. The RCom-SSTL
merger deal has been cleared by Competition Commission of India, Rajasthan High Court, Bombay High Court and SEBI. On March 18, shareholders of SSTL are scheduled meet to decide on the deal. After clearance from SSTL shareholder, RCom will approach the Department of Telecom for final paperwork. The deal between RCom and SSTL is valued at around USD 690 million (Rs 4,500 crore) and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2016. SSTL will hold about 10 per cent stake in
stake has been valued at USD 290-300 million at current prices. RComs 10 per cent stake comes at around USD 300 million. While SSTL will pay off its existing USD 500 million debt, RCom will assume the liability to pay the government installments for SSTLs spectrum, amounting to Rs 392 Mukesh Ambani, elder amongst the Ambani brothers. crore per annum for the next 10 years. Sistema (Photo: gozoomo) may get up to USD 300 RCom and pay off its ex- million in cash from isting debt before closing RCom if the government the deal. While the two were not to agree on the companies did not disclose fee payment. financial details of the deal, as per industry Russian tycoon Vladimir source SSTLs equity Evtushenkov-controlled
France's highest civilian award given away to Anand Mahindra
Besides mandating banks and rationalizing charges, the other proposals include setting up a fund for investing in card swipe machines.
Foodpanda India aims to break even soon: Global CEO Ralf Wenzel Mumbai, Mar 10: Food ordering and delivery platform Foodpanda India is looking to break even at the net profit level in the next couple months this year after becoming gross profit positive in the last quarter, Ralf Wenzel, CEO and co-founder of Foodpanda Global says. "As of today, we are gross margin positive. We turned gross margin positive in February (this year). (We expect to) breakeven at the net profit level in a couple of months," he told dna in a telephonic interview from Germany. Wenzel said the marketplace and food delivery company was driving towards profitability by aggressively optimising its business and upgrading technology. The Indian arm of the German food technology company has been focusing on its delivery business, which has
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AFK Sistema currently holds 56.68 per cent stake in SSTL while Russian government owns 17.14 per cent interest. Shyam Group has 23.98 per cent stake and the rest is owned by small investors. The deal will make RCom the largest holder of the 800/850 megahertz band for wireless fourthgeneration services and help it not just compete with present players but also consolidate its position ahead of Mukesh Ambani is foray into sector with 4G services under Reliance Jio brand. (Agencies)
Mahindra & Mahindra Chairman and Managing Director Anand Mahindra. (Photo: motoroids)
New Delhi, Mar 10: Mahindra & Mahindra Chairman and Managing Director Anand Mahindra has been conferred with Chevalier de la LÉgion d'Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour) by the French authorities. "François Richier, Ambassador of France to India, conferred the Chevalier de la LÉgion d'Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour) on Anand G Mahindra, Chairman and Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra, on March 5," Mahindra & Mahindra said in a statement. The highest French
civilian distinction came in recognition of Mahindra's outstanding national and international achievements and initiatives at the helm of the Mahindra Group, it added. Mahindra is recognised as one of the most prominent business leaders in India, who has turned Mahindra & Mahindra into a global company of outstanding repute. Under his leadership, fruitful partnerships have been developed, among many others, between French and Indian industries, the statement said. (Agencies)
25.4% downfall in China's February trade performance
Image for graphical representation only. (Photo: dreamstime) Beijing, Mar 10: China`s February trade performance was far worse than economists had expected, with exports tumbling the most in over six years, days after top leaders sought to reassure investors that the outlook for the world`s second-largest economy remains solid. Exports fell 25.4 percent from a year earlier, twice as much as markets had feared as demand skidded in all of China`s major markets, while imports slumped 13.8 percent, the 16th straight month of decline. The export drop was the biggest since May 2009, but economists said it may not necessarily point to a significant worsening in economic conditions due to sharply reduced business activity during the long Lunar New Year holidays, which fell in early February this year. Still, January-February exports on a combined basis, which should iron out some of the holiday effect, fell 17.8 percent and imports 16.7 percent,
pointing to persistently weak demand at home and abroad that is weighing on the economy of the world`s largest trading nation. "Exports were very strong last year in February because the Lunar New Year started so late and much of the usual disruption from the holiday was pushed into March. So the implication is that we`ll probably see a significant reversal and a stronger number next month," said Julian Evans-Prichard, China Economist at Capital Economics in Singapore. "We suspect that overall exports remain weak but we don't see much evidence of marked deterioration, for instance there was no sudden drop-off in export orders in the Markit PMI (activity survey), and they generally do a pretty good job of adjusting for seasonality." China posted a trade surplus of $32.59 billion for the month, down from $63.29 billion in January, said the General Administration of Customs. (Agencies)
Tata Motors join hands with Bharat Forge, Jewellery exporters urged Govt. to withdraw US firm for $11billion defence project bid proposed 1% excise duty: GJEPC Jamshedpur, Mar 10: Tata Motors, Bharat Forge and General Dynamics Land Systems of the US have joined hands to bid for the ministry of defence's $11 billion (Rs 78,000 crore) infantry fighting vehicle project. Besides the Tata MotorsBharat Forge-General Dynamics consortium, several other parties including Rolta, Larsen & Toubro and Pipavav Defence have expressed their interests for the project. Another Tata Group entity Tata Power (strategic engineering division) is a bidder for the manufacturing contract of 2,600 vehicles, which will replace the army's obsolete carriers.
JOINT PROJECT Tata Motors, Bharat Forge and General Dynamics Land Systems of the US have joined hands to bid for the ministry of defence's $11 billion (Rs 78,000 crore) infantry fighting vehicle project. Besides the Tata Motors-Bharat Forge-General Dynamics consortium, several other parties including Rolta, Larsen & Toubro and Pipavav Defence have expressed their interests for the project. Another Tata Group entity Tata Power (strategic engineering division) is a bidder for the manufacturing contract of 2,600 vehicles, which will replace the army's obsolete carriers. The two finalists and the state-owned Ordnance Factory Board will have to develop a prototype, which will be reviewed and on selection, the contract will be awarded. The defence ministry will pay 80% of the prototype's cost.
Image for graphical representation only.(Photo: gozoomo)
The two finalists and the state-owned Ordnance Factory Board will have to develop a prototype, which will be reviewed and on selection, the contract will be awarded. The defence ministry will pay 80% of the prototype's cost. (Agencies)
Kochi, Mar 10: Gems and jewellery exporters urged the Centre to withdraw the proposed 1% excise duty on non-silver jewellery, adding that they do not want to join the ongoing strike by bullion traders and retailers. Members of over 358 associations related to jewellery trade and related businesses are on strike since March 2 to demand withdrawal of the proposed 1% excise duty announced in the Union Budget. "Though we morally support the stand taken by All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation (GJF) and other industry associations, we don't want to go on a strike as a protest
against this announcement as we believe in engaging with the Government to persuade them to repeal the same (duty)," Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) Chairman Praveen shankar Pandya said in a release here. GJEPC has approached the government to initiate meetings with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and officials of Finance and Commerce Ministries to persuade them to rollback the decision, Pandya said. "For 30 to 40 years, there was no excise on jewellery due to the small scale nature of manufacturing, sale of goods and the unique way in which
the industry does its business. Also, the industry imports all its gold from outside after paying customs duty. Hence, the Council is of the opinion that it needs to be withdrawn forthwith," he added. More than 358 associations affiliated with GJF, consisting of over three lakh manufacturers, retailers and artisans, among others, are on strike since March 2 to oppose the move. The Finance Ministry has clarified that only jewellers with turnover of more than Rs 12 crore will be liable to pay 1% excise duty on non-silver jewellery. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, MARCH 11
Features
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TRAVEL & TOURISM Eco Resorts in North Eastern States The natural diversity and live in thatch-roofed tents splendor of northeast In- that have bathrooms atdia is undeniable. Every tached. By staying in this year several thousand camp, you get the chance visitors throng hilly states to experience the awein the region some flora including and fauna of A s s a m , Arnab Ghosh the region. Nagaland You can pick and Arunachal Pradesh. from an array of activiThe undulating hills, mag- ties to experience wildlife nificent green forests, while staying here. wildlife sanctuaries and river valleys allure tour- The nights are awesome ists of various types from as you can feel wild elthe country and abroad. ephants being present in However, a huge influx of the vicinity. In the morntourists can also have an ing, you can go for the adverse impact on ecol- jungle walks and see a ogy of the region- if variety of birds. You may proper measures are not also opt for light grade taken. In recent years, rafting in Jia-Bhoroli eco tourism initiatives River. Angling lovers can have increased in these try their luck and end up states- which is quite catching the prized positive. Several eco re- Golden Mahseer. Explorsorts have come up and ing the nearby villages they are attracting huge and observing rituals of the tribes is another opfootfalls. tion. Assam Bhoroli AnBelow listed are the top gling and Conservation environment friendly re- Association runs the sorts in North East India: camp. Potasali Nameri EcoHomestays with the Camp In the beautiful Nameri Monpa, Arunachal National Park of Assam, Pradesh you will find the Nameri In the less travelled borEco-Camp. Its location der state, Arunachal near the Jia-Bhoroli River Pradesh, you can experimakes the camp even ence home stay with the more alluring to nature Monpa tribe. Located in village, loving tourists. You can Thembang
Monpa House offers you the experience of living in the way the tribes have lived for several centuries. It is also a part of WWF-India's CCA initiative. The lifestyle facilities available are basic. While living in the cottage, you can explore the Monpa village and learn about their unique culture. Trekking lovers can explore adjacent trek routes in mountains near Thembang. Lucky ones can catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard and the variety of rhododendron and orchids are also mind blowing. La Maison De Ananda- Majuli Island The Majuli Island is a natural wonder in Assam that witnesses thousands of footfalls all over the year. Located in middle of the vast Brahmaputra River, this beautiful river island is also a favorite destination of eco-tourism lovers. The La Maison De Ananda is a home stay setup in the island. It is basically a tribal styled cottage with decent amenities. The bamboo stilt house was set up by a French couple who
were enticed by the serene beauty of the island. While staying in the beautiful cottage, admire the serene natural splendor around. You can also explore the lifestyle of locals residing at the local xatras or Assamese monasteries adhering to Vaishnav culture and religion. Observing the mask making of Mishing tribe is also a fascinating experience for visitors. Some tourists also buy enticing bamboo crafts as souvenirs. Your experience of the home stay will remain incomplete without tasting the local rice beer. To soak in the Majuli culture, visit the island during festivals like Ras leela or Ali-ai-ligang festival. Tree HouseMawlynnong, Meghalaya If you are curious about learning the lifestyle of Khasi tribe in Meghalaya, a visit to the lovely village of Meghalaya, namely Mawlynnong is advisable. The cleanest village of Asia, located in East Khasi hills, has enchanting and serene natural beauty. Tourists can stay
in a tree house which offers beautiful aerial view of the region. You may also opt for a home stay with the villagers. The village is known for the resident's attention to keeping it clean and they are also highly literate. They are also very warm and hospitable in nature. The wildlife in the adjoining area is nothing short of enthralling. There is a local natural pool and some tree root bridges that are worth exploring. Angami Community cottages- Touphema, Nagaland The life and culture of Naga tribes is nothing short of fascinating. If you want to experience living in typical tribal style in Nagaland, head to the beautiful Touphema village. You will get a close feel of the life and custom of the famous Angami tribes in the home stay setups. The picturesque and hilltop village offers a nice break from the clutter of urban life. The traditionally styled cottages have decent amenities and Naga decorations.
Amazing Eco Resorts (Photo: nelive) You can also interact with the locals and they are quite educated. The community singing is something you can enjoy as well. The tourist village is about 41 km from Kohima and easily accessible through road. Diphlu River LodgeKaziranga, Assam Kaziranga in Assam has become almost synonymous with the one horned rhinoceros though a vari-
ety of bird and animal species are also found in the region. To enjoy living in close proximity to wildlife in the region, your best destination is the Diphlu River Lodge. As evident from the name, the eco tourism lodge is located on banks of the Diphlu River which meanders through the Kaziranga National Park. The beautiful environment-sensitive cottages are replete with modern
amenities. You can explore the park by opting for jeep and elephant safaris during your stay at the lodge. The park is also home to a variety of birds. Based on your time of visit you can also see some rare migratory bird types. Visiting the nearby tea and rubber plantations is also another option. The best time for visiting is November to April. Courtesy: Nelive.
Top 5 Train Journeys 5 Wildlife Sanctuaries to Explore Kalka-Shimla malayan Railways between lower section of the line. the distance in approxiThe majestic toy train jour- Siliguri and Kurseong has The train leaves Siliguri mately 4 hours 25 minutes ney from Kalka to Shimla is been temporarily sus- Junction at 10.00 arriving with two stoppages enroute a real treat to people who pended following a Land- Rangtong at 11.15. The re- at Jwalamukhi Road and are passionate about rail slide at Tindharia. Currently turn service leaves kangra. It consists of 4 journeys. The railway track on this section there is a Rangtong at 14.30, arriving coaches; one first class, two was first introduced at the Kurseong - Darjeeling ser- Siliguri Junction at 15.45. chair cars and one second age of British government vice which is a daily three- Train to beautiful Kangra class coach, with a total in the year 1903 and was carriage diesel-hauled ser- Valley seating capacity of 92 pasnamed as little meter-gauge vice (52540/52544) operates, Pathankot-Jogindernagar sengers. The first class/ railway. The total distance leaving Darjeeling at 10.15, The Kangra Valley Railway chair cars are furnished with covered between Kalka to arriving Kurseong at 1310. belongs to the sub-Hima- comfortable sofa sets/ Shimla is 96 km and the train The return service (52541/ layan region in Himachal chairs and have wide glass p a s s e s 52545) leaves Pradesh. Starting from windows. Facilities such as through 102 Kurseong at Pathankot in Punjab, it cov- newspapers, mineral water, tunnels and 87 Upendra Swami 15.00, arriv- ers 164 kms to tea, snacks, food etc. are bebridges. The i n g Jogindernagar in Himachal ing provided on board, on route offers beauty at its Darjeeling at 17.50. Occa- Pradesh, meandering the pattern of Shatabdi best; the five hour journey sionally the service is through numerous passes, trains. Public address sysis one of the most beautiful steam-hauled if the (only) rivers and valleys. Even tem has also been provided rail route journeys to enjoy. diesel is undergoing main- though it's a laid back op- in all the coaches for playThe toy train passes tenance. Then there are Joy tion of traveling across the ing music and giving inforthrough hills, valleys and Trains- these steam-hauled Kangra valley, yet the views mation about historical lush forest of oak, rhodo- tourist services run daily on it offers compensates the places in the valley. The dendron, Deodar and Pine a return trip from Darjeeling speed. The sight of the fares are all-inclusive and trees. Throughout the journey, the most exciting thing to observe is that the train moves in upward direction till it stops at Shimla. Moreover, this 96 km Kalka Shimla toy train route was declared as the world heritage site by UNESCO in the year 2008. Four premium services for travellers on the Kalka-Shimla section are available - The deluxe Rail Motor Car, The Shivalik Deluxe Express, The Shivalik Palace (Tourist Coach) and The Shivalik Queen Tourist Coach. New Jalpaiguri-Darjeeling The toy train on the Darjeeling Himalayan section is not merely a source Train journey from Kalka to Shimla (Photo: himtourers) of delight for the young and old, it also represents the to Ghum (India's second snow capped Dhauladhar most competitive. engineering skills of the highest station at 2257m). hills at a distance after M e t t u p a l a i y a m highest order. The railway, Trains leave Darjeeling at: Palampur rewards the tired (Coimbatore)-Ooty along with the Nilgiri Moun- 10.40.Train 52548 (14D), soul exuberantly. The jourtain Railway and the Kalka- 13.20.Train 52549 (16D) and ney from Pathankot to When the blue and cream Shimla Railway, is listed as 16.00.Train 52547 (18D) Jogindernagar takes almost colored coaches chug up a Mountain Railways of In- Each train has two first class a whopping 10 hours. Ear- the blue mountains, even dia World Heritage Site. The carriages. The train stops at lier the unreserved Kangra the crudest of all hearts will railway line is laid more or the impressive viewpoint of Valley Passenger was the skip a beat. The Nilgiri less on the same alignment Batasia Loop for 10 minutes only train on this route. Mountain Railway, running as the Hill Cart road, which and for 30 minutes at Ghum Keeping the travelling com- for over a 110 years is ancriss-crosses the line at sev- where there is a railway fort of its passengers in other train journey, you simeral locations. The head- museum. There is also a mind, a new luxury narrow ply cannot miss. It was in quarters of the railway is in 'Jungle Safari'- this daily gauge train 'Kangra Queen' 1854, that the first plans the town of Kurseong. The diesel-hauled service is the has been introduced on this were made to build a mounOperation of Darjeeling Hi- only regular service on the section. This train covers tain Railway from
Mettupalaiyam to the Nilgiri Hills. But it took the decision-makers 45 years to cut through the bureaucratic red tape and complete the construction and installation of the line. The steam engine covers the 46 km to Ooty in four and a half hours, twisting and turning through the rocky terrain, before slowly meandering into the sprawling tea estates. The familiar chuffing sound of the steam locomotive casts an old world charm and reminds of the legacies of the British Raj. If taking the Ooty toy train, take care to book as early as possible, it tends to get booked up months in advance, especially the prized First Class seats (users say that seat #8 is the best) Neral-Matheran Matheran, nestled in the Western Ghats, is one of the favorite weekend destinations for busy Mumbaikars. It still holds its charm, thanks to no vehicles being allowed in the town. One has to take a pony ride or walk on the dusty and muddy roads to go around Matheran. The Matheran Hill Railway is the only heritage railway in Maharashtra. This narrow gauge rail link between Neral and Matheran was built by Abdul Hussein Adamjee Peerbhoy between 1901 and 1907 at the cost of Rs.1600000. The route, through large swathes of forest territory, covers a distance of 20 kilometers in about one and half hours, is full of panoramic views. The track zig zags up the side of the hill, bringing into view the full beauty of the Matheran Hill. Any lone visitor will surely enjoy the tranquility this ride offers. There are four pairs of train running between Neral and Matheran. However, during monsoon i.e. June to September, only one pair of train is run to open timings. Courtesy: Nelive.
North East India is 'para- gered species. At dise unexplored'. The Manas, you can see the natural splendour, cul- Assam Roofed Turtle, tural vibrancy and largely Pygmy Hog, Hispid tribal lifestyle of the re- Hare and Golden Langion makes it different gur. Through the heart of from the nat h e tional r e s t Reetasri Bhattacharjee park, a o f river country. The region still called Manas passes has large areas of forest through and it is from cover which means that this that the place gets its wildlife is still abundant name. It is recomhere. There are numer- mended that you have ous wildlife sanctuaries powerful binoculars in the region and they at- while visiting Manas. tract large number of tourists every year. A wildlife trip to the North East also gives tourists an opportunity to spot endangered species and marvel at the rich bio-diversity of the region. Here are the five best wildlife sanctuaries/ wildlife parks of North East India. Kaziranga National Park, Assam - Kaziranga National Park is undoubtedly one of the best and most famous national parks of the region. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to 2/3rd population of the endangered one-horned Rhinoceros. In recent years, Kaziranga has also become popular as a tiger reserve. The best way to enjoy the large landscape of Kaziranga is to ride atop an elephant and be guided by a mahout. You can also take a jeep safari. Best time to visit: November - April. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam - This wildlife sanctuary is nestled in the foothills of the Great Himalaya and is home to many endan-
Gaur. It is also home to about 165 species of butterflies such as Bhutan Glory, White Owl and Grey Admiral. Best time to visit: October - April. Keibul Lamjao National Park, Manipur - The specialty of the Keibul Lamjao National Park is its location. It is an integral part of Loktak Lake, the region's largest fresh water lake. Keibul Lamjao National Park is
The one-horned Rhinoceros in Kaziranga National Park (Photo: nelive)
Best time to visit: November - April. Eagle's Nest Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh Eagle's Nest Sanctuary is a protected area in Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated in the Himalayan foothills of West Kameng District and is famous for its rich biodiversity. You can spot numerous kinds of birds, frogs, butterflies, moths and lizards here. The sanctuary is also home to 15 species of mammals such as Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Red Panda, Asiatic Black Bear, vulnerable Arunachal Macaque and
the only natural habitat of the Brow Antlered Deer or Sangai. The park is located 48 km from Imphal. Best time to visit: December - May. Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, Sikkim -The wildlife sanctuary is East Sikkim district is connected to the forests of Bhutan and the Neora Valley National Park in West Bengal. There are several exotic birds to be spotted here such as the kalij pheasant, Oriental honey buzzard, blood pheasant, white-crested laughingthrush, Whitecapped redstart. Courtesy: Nelive.
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Women's World T20: In-form India ready to fight for maiden title stages. As hosts of the fifth edition of the event, the Indian women's team will be aiming to give their best performance ever. Since the World T20 in 2014, India have played just ten T20Is - including six in 2016 - with an impressive win percentage of 80. They beat the visiting South African side 1-0 in a one-off T20I series in November 2014 and then defeated New Zealand 2-1 at home in July 2015. Their next assignment was the Australia tour in January 2016.The Indian team's T20I record since the last World T20 stands at 8-2.
New Delhi, Mar 10 : The Indian women's team led by the experienced 33-year-old Mithali Raj is in a similarly rich vein of form as its male counterparts this year, going into the upcoming ICC Women's World Twenty20 at home. Raj's team has won five of its six Twenty20 internationals played in 2016, including a historic 2-1 series win against world champions Australia in January. They followed it up with a 3-0 series clean sweep against Sri Lanka at home in February. India will host the biennial ICC event for the Indian women Cricket team first time and the women's team is un- favourites on form. Pre- reached the semi-finals T20s but endured two doubtedly one of the viously, India have of the first two World forgetful outings
thereon as they failed to go beyond the group
The squad announced for the mega event is a
mix bag of experience and youth, and is beaming with confidence and playing like champions. They are likely to give other favourite teams, such as three-time defending champions Australia, former champions England and twice finalists New Zealand, a good fight this time around. Seven from the 15member squad have featured in the last edition of the tournament in 2014, so there is no dearth of experience in the side, especially with three of them - Mithali, Jhulan Goswami, Harmanpreet Kaur having played in all the four previous World T20s.
Inter Batallion Volleyball Competition held ET Correspondent Golaghat, Mar 10: CRPF 142 Batallion organized Inter Batallion Volleyball Competition in Jonakinagar where 20 Batallion emerged as winner. It is to be known that the competition is going on from 8th March at CRPF 142 Headquarters playground. In the very tournament under Jorhat CRPF Range Batallion 20, 30, 34, 119, 142 & 155 took part. Today the final match was played between 20 Batallion and 142 Batallion in which 20 Batallion became winners and 142 were runners up. 34 Batallion stood 3rd. In the prize distribution ceremony Officer 142 PK Kharmujai and other officers and CRPF men were present. The players were awarded with trophies and medal. Chief guest Mr Kharmujai appreciated the tournament and the players too for showing sporting spirit.
PCB threatens to reopen Wasim Nadal fires over doping ICC to carry out random dope rumours post Sharapova Akram's betting files tests during World T20
Wasim Akram ANI Karachi, Mar.10 : The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has warned Wasim Akram that the files regarding his involvement in betting could be reopened after the former skipper questioned the constitution of a special committee. Following the team's dismal performance in the recentlyconcluded Asia Cup T20, the
PCB had constituted the committee in a bid to examine the national side's performance in the upcoming World T20 in India. Veteran batsman Younis Khan and Test skipper Misbah-ulHaq, Shakil Sheikh (Chairman Cricket Committee), Subhan Ahmad (Chief Operating Officer) and Iqbal Qasim (Member) were named in the
committee, which will work towards the improvement of the selection process in the national side. Sheikh lashed out at Akram for questioning his appointment, saying that he should first have a look at his own career and allegations levelled against him before criticizing others, the Dawn reported. The special committee chairman also referred to Justice Malik Qayyum's report on match-fixing in 2000 and said that Akram was the one who brought betting in Pakistan cricket. He added that Akram was not in favour of the inquiry committee because he was scared that something against him would come out. Pakistan, which suffered a humiliating defeats at the hands of hosts Bangladesh and India in Asia Cup T20, are due to play their World T20 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata from March 16.
Mathews asks struggling Lanka to play with freedom in World T20 ANI Johannesburg, Mar.10 : Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews, who has recently replaced injured Lasith Malinga as the T20 skipper, believes that the World T20 would allow his side to get free from the burden of expectation. Sri Lanka, which have slipped down to the eighth spot in the T20 rankings, will head into the T20 pinnacle event following a disastrous performance at the recently-concluded Asia Cup in Bangladesh. Despite the recent slump in form, the 28-year-old called on his side to play with a lot of freedom, saying that it would allow them to beat most teams, Sport24 reported. Lanka, which have claimed their last World T20 title in Bangladesh in 2014, have been badly weakened after the retirements of star batsmen Kumar
Angelo Mathews Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene and have also struggled to fill the void left by them. Mathews, however, said that the morale of the team was quite good and they were not at all depressed about the Asia Cup.
He added that his side was focusing on expressing themselves fully in the upcoming challenge. Sri Lanka will begin their ICC World T20 tournament at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 17.
controversy
Rafael Nadal ANI Johannesburg, Mar. 10 : Spanish tennis maestro Rafael Nadal has defended his training methods and outrightly rejected to have used any banned substance in order to speed up his recovery from injury. The speculations that Nadal had used performance enhancing drugs came after Maria Sharapova admitted that she had failed the drug Test at Australian Open in January. Describing himself as a 'clean' player, the 39-yearold said that he never had the temptation of doing something wrong, insisting that he was extremely far from indulging in doping. The 14-time grand slam winner said that he had become a bit tired of allegations against him and pointed out that he sees himself as an ambassador of tennis who would never
tarnish the image of the sport. However, Nadal said that Sharapova, who announced that she was tested positive for a drug test at the Australian Open, should be punished as an example to others, Sport24 reported. Nadal, who will now play in the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, admitted it was difficult to imagine that the Russian player had done something like this, but added that she should pay for it even if it was a case of negligence. Sharapova also received a provisional ban after she tested positive for meldonium, a substance, she has been taking since 2006 for health issues. Sharapova had admitted that she made a huge mistake, but insisted that she failed to look at the new list of prohibited items from WADA for 2016.
ANI Johannesburg, Mar.10 : Following a series of drug scandals that hit the sports world recently, the ICC World T20 organizers have decided to conduct random doping tests during the tournament. Tournament director M.V Sridhar pointed out that the dope tests were already in place, but added that they would conduct random tests in order to keep players away from indulging in any such activities. Sridhar highlighted that the test would be done by the ICC doping committee as per the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency). According to Sport24, the managers of the two teams will exchange the names of two players from their sides to be tested and the sample will be taken in the evening. Earlier on Monday, former World number one Maria Sharapova had announced that she had failed the drug tests at the Australian Open.
ICC to carry out random dope tests during World T20
Subsequently, she was handed with the provisional ban for testing positive for banned substance, meldonium that she has been taking since 2006 for health issues. Cricket saw the ugly face of doping when Australian spinning great Shane Warne tested positive for a banned drug ahead of the 2003 World Cup. He was handed suspension for
a year. Besides Warne, Pakistani pacers Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif had also faced bans after they were tested positive for a prohibited substance named nandrolone before 2006 Champions Trophy. Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah and Sri Lankan wicketkeeper Kusal Perera had also received suspension for the same reason.
Ibrahimovic fires as PSG knock Chelsea out of Champions League
Zlatan Ibrahimo ANI London,Mar.10 : Zlatan Ibrahimovic netted a secondhalf goal as Paris Saint Giant ended Chelsea's Champi-
ons League dreams after claiming a 2-1 win over Guus Hiddink's team in the second leg of the last-16 tie at Stamford Bridge, thereby pro-
gressing through to the quarterfinals of the tournament. Midfielder Adrien Rabiot put PSG ahead in the 16th minute of the match before Chelsea' star striker leveled the score just after 11 minutes, the Guardian reported. Chelsea, which required two more goals in order to reach the next round, could not score any further and in turn, Ibrahimovic scored a goal from close range in the 67th minute to seal the victory for the PSG. With the win, PSG completed 4-2 aggregate triumph against the hosts.
Maria Sharapova thanks ICC Cricket for Good's `Team Swachh clin`supportive` fans ics` begin at World T20 in India
ANI Washington D.C., Mar. 10 : Days after Maria Sharapova announced that she tested positive for meldonium during the Australia Open in January, she is thanking her fans for their support. In a Facebook post, the 28-year-old tennis player wrote, "I woke up yesterday morning with an inbox, in full capacity of love and compassion.In this moment, I am so proud to call you my fans. Within hours of my announcement, you showed
me support and loyalty, which I could only expect to hear when someone would be at the top of their profession," reports E! Online. "I wanted to let you know that your wonderful words put a smile on my face. I'd like to play again and hope to have the chance to do so. Your messages give me great encouragement. This message isn't anything else but to say thank you. Thank you very much," her post further read.
ANI Dubai, Mar.10 : In a unique and remarkable CSR initiative under the sponsorship of ICC Cricket for Good and Team Swachh, players from the 16 participating teams in the World T20 will engage with children and adolescents on sanitation and toilet use, as one essential step towards ending open defecation in India. As the cricket frenzy of the T20 pinnacle event
begins, cricketers from 16 teams will join forces to promote messages on health, sanitation and hygiene as part of the innovative Team Swachh campaign.
education, nutrition, and protection of children. Globally, ICC and UNICEF will engage the broader cricketing community to empower children and adolescents."
actors-from the Government to the people practicing open defecation, from role models to international development partners--play together as one team."
During the tournament, cricketers of participating teams will interact with children through a cricket coaching programme and educate in the use of toilets, stressing on the importance of hygiene and sanitation at the specially designed Team Swachh
Meanwhile, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and master blaster Sachin Tendulkar also emphasized the need for team play, "Ending open defecation and achieving sanitation for all in India takes a genuine team effort in which all relevant
Earlier, ICC had reaffirmed its commitment to the spirit of cricket and bringing about positive social change through the sport by launching Cricket for Good and Team Swachh campaign in partnership with UNICEF and the BCCI.
ICC World T20 Logo cricket clinics set up at the various stadia. Reflecting on the launch, ICC Chief Executive
David Richardson said, "ICC was committed to working with UNICEF to help improve the health,
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