11th jan 2016

facebook.com/easterntoday

@easterntoday

For business, mail at: md.easterntoday@gmail.com

cmyk

cmyk

www.eastern-today.com For your copy of The Eastern Today in Khonsa please contact: Dalam Studio Near parking stand Khonsa Ph. No.-08471896580/ 07085295635

ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Issue 217

Consensual India and NehruPatel Debate

Dibrugarh, Monday, January 11, 2016

Price -

5.00

How Crowdfunding Is Revolutionising The Way We Give Back To Society

Travelling by trains might become costlier

Page 9

Page 10

Page 8

Tuki files defamation suit against three dissident MLAs A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Jan 10

Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has strongly refuted and rubbished the allegations levelled by three MLAs from Tirap and Longding, Thangwang Wangham, Honchun Ngandam and Gabriel D Wangsu of using the NSCN (K) to coerce representatives from Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) to support his leadership.

While terming the allegation as baseless and made out of utter frustration, Tuki said that such false and fabricated allegations have been intended to tarnish his political and social image.

He further revealed that he has filed a defamation suit against the trio and legal notices have been served to them through his counsel for defaming him with such cheap and

ET CAPSULES Road mishap One killed Tangla, Jan 10: One Jiban Debnath ( 24) was killed on the spot after the Bajaj Boxer (AS13 9989) he was riding hit a tree at Beltola Teliyapara under Paneri PS last night at about 10.30 pm. According to reports, Debnath a resident of Ulubari under Harisinga PS was going to his home. His body has been sent for postmortem to Udalguri Civil Hospital. (Correspondent)

Hailstorm in Golaghat Golaghat, Jan 10: Several areas especially tea garden were affected in the hailstorm in Golaghat yesterday. Some old and large trees were uprooted and roofs of houses were damaged during the hailstorm.

In Borjan Tea Estate a giant tree fell on the roof of a house in the labour line causing severe damage to the house. However, no human causality was reported. (Correspondent)

Golokganj MLA threatened for extortion Dhubri, Jan 10: A lesser known group named Tiger Khan Gang has demanded 50 lacs rupees from Golokganj MLA Abu Taher Bepari over SMS and telephone. Bepari was a former Congress MLA, but has recently joined the BJP under the leadership of Himanta Biswa Sarma.

As per reports, Abu Taher Bepari was demanded 50 lacs over telephone and SMS otherwise he was threatened to death. The news has created sensation in the district. The MLA informed to the press about his insecurity even also to his family members and he has filed an FIR against the calling mobile No. that was 7664958946 at Chagolia Police Station. (Correspondent)

THE ARUNACHAL WAR OF ALLEGATIONS resentatives from TCL districts to support Tuki's camp.

Nabam Tuki

Tuki outrightly denied his links with any underground elements while rubbishing the allegations as baseless.

Day before yesterday 3 MLAs from Tirap and Longding namely Thangwang Wangham, Honchun Ngandam and Gabriel D Wangsu put an allegation on Nabam Tuki and Tirong Aboh of using the NSCN (K) to coerce rep-

Tuki revealed that he has filed a defamation suit against the trio and legal notices have been served to them.

unfounded allegation which on ground holds no water.

Out rightly denying his links with any underground elements, the CM made it very

clear that he has been putting all out effort to bring normalcy in these three disturbed districts of the state.

Contd. on Page 3

He would further institute a high level enquiry to unearth the truth.

Arunachal Civil Society apprehensive on the safety of State Capital A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Jan 10

Amidst the war of allegations on politicians having alleged militant link between Tuki Camp and few dissident MLAs, the Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) is skeptical on the safety of the state capital.

ACS led by its Chairman, Patey Tayum met the Chief Secretary and submitted a memorandum to adopt immediate safety measures in case there are truths in the allegation leveled by the three dissident MLAs.

ACS in its letter to the Chief Secretary requested him to call on the Principal Secretary, Home, DGP and other sub-ordinate Officers to conduct Instinct identity derivation against hotel and apartment occupants within Capital Complex. It further demanded to ban rallies and gathering of any sorts as to prevent untoward incidences by the UGs. The Chief Secretary assured to take necessary actions and will direct the Director General Police for immediate intervention, said Patey Tayum.

Tirap District Students Union appeals to NSCN (K) A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 10 After the All Changlang District Students Union (ACDSU) demanded a high level inquiry into the allegations made by a few MLAs from Longding that Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and Minister Tirong Aboh are allegedly using the NSCN (K) to intimidate and threaten them to join the Tuki camp, the All Tirap District Students Union (ATDSU) today appealed before the NSCN (K) to refrain from indulging in 'dirty politics', thereby disturbing the peace and tranquility of the district as well as the eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh. Speaking to this newspaper over telephone, Hapwang Lowang, President, ATDSU said that it had been noticed that the NSCN (K) is unnecessarily poking its nose into the affairs of the district which is not at all acceptable.

Soon a hassle free public services in Arunachal Cabinet to enact Right to Public Service Act 2016 in the ensuing Assembly starting from Jan 14next A Staff Reporter Regulations for Itanagar, Jan 10 WHAT DOES 'RIGHT TO PUBLIC SERVICE' ENTAILS What could be termed as a Education Institutions major development in terms of administrative reforms in the state, the state government is all set to enact a statutory law to provide the citizens of Arunachal Pradesh a hassle free public services and redressal of grievances in a time bound manner.

State Cabinet headed by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki in its meeting on Saturday approved for enacting of a Bill, Arunachal Pradesh Right to Public Service Act 2016 to be tabled in the ensuing Assembly Session starting from January 14 next.

Concerned over the prevailing scenario of public services where the common citizens has to contend with delays and denials at various levels, the Cabinet viewed that the process of governance particularly on public services delivery sys-

The common framework of the legislations includes, granting of "right to public services", which are to be provided to the public by the designated official within the stipulated time frame.

A citizen shall approach the Designated Officer for obtaining the service and shall file an appeal to the Appellate Officer in case of default or delay in getting the service.

If the citizen is not provided the specific service within the prescribed time period, the concerned Government employee may be penalised.

tem has to be overhauled and improved. It is for this reasons that the state government has taken a firm stem for enactment of Arunachal Pradesh Right to Public Service Act 2016 which intends to guarantee time

bound delivery of services for various public services rendered by the Government to citizens and provide mechanism for punishing the errant public servant who is deficient in providing service in stipu-

21 states in India have enacted similar legislation for effectuating the right to service to the citizen. lated under the statute.

This legislation will reduce corruption and increase transparency and accountability while ensuring timely delivery of public services.

Another major decision that the cabinet took on its Saturday Cabinet Meeting was to frame necessary regulations for effective and proper monitoring of functioning of the Private Higher Educational Institutions in Arunachal Pradesh.

Cabinet took serious note on mushrooming of private universities in the state and lack of effective monitoring mechanism with the state government to regulate their activities. In the backdrop, Cabinet approved for framing of regulations for the effective functioning of Pvt. Higher Education Institutions and enactment of Arunachal Pradesh Private Educational Institutions (Regulatory Commission) Bill 2016, which will be tabled in the ensuing Assembly Session to be discussed and passed for becoming an ACT.

Pages- 12

Defence expert lauds 'troubleshooter' Kerry for asking Pak to deliver on Pathankot Page 6

Buildings in Guwahati have high resistance to earthquake: A Report A staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 10

International scientific agency from Norway called NORSAR has in its report states that the resilience of buildings in Guwahati to probable earthquake is far better than buildings studied in other cities of India.

This project examined approximate of 16,000 buildings samples in Guwahati. Experts from Norway and Assam Engineering College have imposed simulated earthquakes like the Nepal earthquake or even bigger including the Great Assam earthquake of 1897 and 1950 and their impact on these buildings. They have just concluded their studies and submitted their final report which states that the resilience power ofbuildings in Guwahati to probable earthquake is far better than buildings studied in other cities of India.

After the Bhuj earthquake in 2001, Guwahati buildings were the subject of numerous studies by various agencies both national andinternational.

All of them have reported favorably.

The Assam Real Estate and Infrastructure Developers Association (Areida) has also stated that, after the Bhuj earthquake, the Government of India had appointed a Padma Bibhusan awardee, scientist Dr A.S.Arya to examine the building laws across the country.

Guwahati was one of the first cities where the building by laws were amended as per Dr Arya's recommendation in 2006 and made fully compliant withengineering requirements for a zone of high seismic activity. The organization has stated that the engineers and expert from the region do not feel the need of any any further change in the building by-laws of the state.

In Guwahati, no high rise building can be constructed

A STUDY REPORT International scientific agency from Norway called NORSAR studied approximate of 16,000 buildings samples in Guwahati Experts from Norway and Assam Engineering College have imposed simulated earthquakes like the Nepal earthquake or even bigger including the Great Assam earthquake of 1897 and 1950 and their impact on these buildings Guwahati was one of the first cities where the building by laws were amended as per Dr Arya's recommendation in 2006 and made fully compliant with engineering requirements for a zone of high seismic activity. without the services of licensed; architects, engineers, structural engineers, geotechnical engineers and field supervisors. The design prepared by the Structural Engineer has to be vetted by a Structural Design Review Panel like IIT Guwahati and Assam Engineering College.

P.K Sharma, President of AREIDA has said, "Assam must learn to live with earthquakes; and Guwahati cannot escape high rise buildings due scarcity and affordability of residential land."

"After surveying the building damage in Guwahati, the construction industry deserves a word of appreciation for the building performance in withstanding the seismic forces.

There have been no structural damage in our high rise building and some non structural damage asreported in the media was of such nature as is permissible by law. It once again proves the seismic quality of the constructions in Assam."P.K Sharma added.

Freedom Fighter Bhadreswar Clean Govt. Schools of Assam Borah of Lakhimpur passes away to be awarded on Republic Day ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Jan 10

One of the pioneer freedom fighters of Lakhimpur Bhadreswar Borah breathed his last today at 12.30 at his own residence following age old ailments. He was 94.

He was involved in the Freedom Movement of India in the very beginning of the 40's with as an enthusiastic young boy. He actively participated in the 'Gana

Andolan' (Quit India Movement) of 1942 and then up to the independence of the Nation in 1947.

He came close to several state and national level leaders of the Freedom Movement. During this period, he successfully played a very significant role of sending the secret messages to the leaders of the movement. Born in Salal Gaon under Telahi Mauza of the district, he lived in the village and involved himself into social service activities in the post independent years.

As soon as the news of his death spread many people of the area rushed to his residence expressed their concern. Kan Nath Phukan, the former President of Lakhimpur District Congress Committee paid last homage to him. Batori Botala Parijat Sangha and the people of Salal Gaon Purani Namghar too paid their last homage. He is survived by four sons with four daughters-in-law and five daughters with five sons-in-law along with a host of relatives.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 10

water and safe and clean environmental standards.

Assam has become the second state in the country after West Bengal to initiate an award for government-run lower primary andmiddle schools that have catered to proper sanitation, drinking

The Nirmal Vidyalaya Purashkar, initiated by the state government in collaboration with Asom Sarba Siksha Abhijan Mission (ASSA) andUnicef, will be given out on Republic Day. Over 47,000

schools from across 27 districts have been sent the format forms to get themnominated for the award. The criteria laid down for the awards are a safe and clean environment, proper health standards of students, cleantoilets, better water facilities and separate toilets for boys and girls.

The state government has roped in the Centre for Environment Education (CEE) for a field study and evaluation of the schools. According to the required norms, every block should nominate five schools.

Contd. on Page 4

Rural bazaar and middlemen alone can't alter the farmers' destiny in Arunachal and the community based organizations.

Presently, there are two things that occupy open public discourse in Arunachal Pradesh. One is the power crisis faced by the state government and the other, organic agri-horti farming. The strength of participation and their dialogue on power crisis seems to be spicier on social media; predominantly on facebook.

During every winter, your day long journey in many of the districts of Arunachal passes through a lot of women folks selling seasonal orange on the road side. Even a single glimpse on those fresh and organic oranges can stimulate your thirst double.

cmyk

But the discourse on the later, agri-horti farming is confined to the neediest and the poor farmers of the state. They do not know the usage and the role of social media at all.

Apparently, they do not draw attention from the power players, so called pressure groups,

Fortunately, if your trip is on a bike or with your own vehicle, there you can take a break. Normally, many of us habitually taste a chosen piece and start bargaining some more. And I believe you all find it quite syrupy and juicy filling your thirst and appetite right? On leaving the spot, one thing always cheerfully realized how cheap you got a bas-

ket of orange packed hundred pieces inside.

But, did you notice the frozen facial expression of those women? Yes, their facial vocabularies were a composition of hard work, agony and a narrative of untold misery. Because, they manually brought it from across the steeply sloping hills covering at least four to five kms. Most of their villages and farms are not connected by roads. Moreover, they do not have a defined market and a regulated price to earn their return.

Arunachal Pradesh, by virtue of nature has tremendous potential for growth of horticulture sector which is visible from the fact that 21.49% (18 lakh Ha) has been identified suitable for horticulture crop

FARMER’S CHALLENGES IN ARUNACHAL Organic certification has no role in getting the best market price Lack of market and road infrastructure causes wastage and discourages the buyers

A farmer selling oranges in Pasighat town.

Most of the horticulture produces of Arunachal are marketed by middlemen from Assam, West Bengal and Tripura.

cultivation out of 8374300 Ha TGA. Moreover, the state has all kinds of agro-climatic conditions ranging from tropical to temperate strengthening the farmers to grow verities of cash crops. Taking advantage of it, the farmers are already producing apple, kiwi, orange, ginger, pine apple and large cardamom in huge quantity.

According to government data, the state has covered about 1.09 Lakh Ha under various horticulture crops which constitutes only about 5% of total available area. The current production is about 3.65 Lakh MT. Fruit sector occupies the highest area and production (78.5 % and 84.5% respectively). Among fruits Mandarin Orange is the oldest cultivated major fruit. It is

given top priority in area expansion being the principal sub-tropical fruit. Current area and production of orange is 39046 Ha and 175707 MT. It occupies 45.8 % of total area under fruit crops and contributes about 56.8 % of total fruit production. Area expansion in Mandarin Orange is being taken up in East, West and Upper Siang districts, Lohit, Lower Dibang Valley, Some parts of Upper Subansiri, Papum Pare, East Kameng districts.

Even then, agri-horti farming is still unorganized market. Highlighting the challenges Upper Subansiri desitrict deputy commissioner Komkar Dulom said, Contd. on Page 3

cmyk

Debananda S Medak

PAGE 2

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

10 Assam Battalion Camp of NCC concludes at DHSK College A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 10: The ten days NCC Camp conducted by 10 Assam Battalion came to a conclusion today at DHSK College, Dibrugarh. Approximately 500 NCC cadets participated in this camp. The concluding ceremony started from 4.00 p.m. and came to an end with a fascinating cultural programme organized by the participating NCC cadets. In this camp itself cadets were selected to participate in the upcoming Republic Day parade to be held at Delhi on 26th January, 2016. The group of selected cadets will perform Bihu Dance along with other cultural groups at the aforementioned event.

An artist perform during the cultural programme held as part of the closing ceremony of the NCC camp at DHSK College in Dibrugarh. Pic - UB Photos

Mr. Jiten Das, an expert in Bihu Dance, specially trained this group for the gala event. Moreover, cadets were also selected from this camp itself to take part in Republic Day parade. Second Mountain Division Deputy GOC Brigadier J.S. Bhardwaj was present at today's concluding ceremony. In his speech he urged the cadets to work selflessly and unitedly for the sake of the nation. The concluding ceremony was also marked by the gracious presence of Colonel A. S. Ghumne and Dr. Sashikanta Saikia, Principal DHSK College. Professors and employees of the college were also present at today's concluding ceremony.

27th Road Safety Week at Golaghat gets underway Amit Nagori Golaghat, Jan 10: District Transport Office of Golaghat is organising the 27th Road Safety Week from today with a weeklong programme. An inauguration meeting was organized in the premises of DTO office today and theme of 2016 was displayed through banners and posters in public places. DTO Nandeswar Lahkar said that this years' theme is "Road Safety Time for Action". He said that several programmes are being organised in the current month. Tomorrow, on 11th a public meeting will be held on awareness of Road Safety at Public Bus Stand Golaghat followed by Procession with Traffic Police, Vehicle Dealers and Transport Associations to minimize Over Speeding Driving mix with Drinking and using cell phones etc. On 12th a Free Eye and Health Check up

Fireman of Oil India Ltd, Duliajan giving demo on fire fighting on the occasion of 27th Road Safety Week in Dibrugarh. Pic - UB Photos Camp will be organised at Public Bus Stand Golaghat.

On 13th Enforcement Drive against violation of Traffic rules and non use of Helmet and other will be carried out at various places. On 14th an aware-

ness program will be held in places of Dergaon and Bokakhat region with various programmes. On 15th Leaflets will be distributed among public, students and other road users in Golaghat town. On 16th the aware-

ness program will be held in Sarupathar region with cooperation of all. DTO Nandeswar Lahkar and MVI Debojit Dutta has urged the people to co-operate and participate in the programme.

BIG CATCH

Fishermen and villagers holding fishes during community fishing at Deepor Beel ahead of the Bhogali Bihu (Uruka) at Mirza in Kamrup district (rural) . Pic - UB Photos

Blood donation camp for Army Day in Guwahati ET Correspondent Rangia, Jan 10: As part of Army Day- 2016 celebration, a Blood Donation Camp was organized by 151 Base Hospital and 222 ABOD at Navdeep Hall in Narengi Military Cantonment under the aegis of Head Quarter 51 Sub Area on 10 Jan 2016 from 9.30 am to 2.30 pm. The camp was inaugurated by Major General AK Jha, General Officer Commanding 51 Sub Area in presence of Brig TK Sahoo, Commandant 151 Base Hospital, Dr Babul Bezbaruah, Medical Superintendent Guwahati Medical College & Hospital, Dr Tirtha Chaliha, Prof & HoD Department of Pathology and in-charge of Blood Bank Guwahati Medical College. The inauguration

Book launched at Golaghat District Journalist Association ET Correspondent Golaghat, Jan 10: A book releasing ceremony was held today at the premises of Golaghat District Journalist Association. A book for children and parents titled "Children and Their Reactions" written by Dilip Kumar Sharma, a teacher at Gelabil High School of Barpathar in Golaghat was released during the programme. In a meeting presided over by Golaghat District Journalist Association President Apurba Ballav Goswami the book was released by renowned film producer, educationist Dinesh Gogoi. The book is published by Golaghat District Journalist Association. Many people of various organisation took part in the same.

Bank of Guwahati Medical College & Hospital not only for the camp but also during any need for blood or blood products for the troops and families of Indian Army. The general Officer also stated that as a goodwill gesture to Guwahati Medical College & Hospital for providing constant support to Indian Army, all the collected blood units will be given to the Blood

Bank of Guwahati Medical College & Hospital for the benefit of general public. The camp was attended by a large number of blood donors including senior officers of Indian Army where a total of more than 250 units of blood were collected. Rave reviews where received from various civilian dignitaries who lauded this praiseworthy effort of Indian Army for the general public.

ASTRO FOR YOU Ganesha anticipates some exciting times for you. You are likely to meet some people today who will prove to be assets in the future. You apply yourself to perfection in work, and in your thinking. Towards that end, you will have to remain practical.

This is a great day for showcasing your administrative and organizing abilities. Go all out and put in all you have, at your workplace or in your business. You can be sure of impressing your colleagues and superiors, partners and competitors and gaining their admiration and support. Just one thing. Do not over do anything. Do not take up anything that is beyond your means and capabilities. That could make things backfire.

You may come up with a precise understanding of others today. You will please your sweetheart with both your presence and presents. You will browse through dozens of showrooms for that perfect, and expensive, gift for your beloved. You will also work towards achieving your longterm goals.

People will surround you. You will entertain them with your hilarity.

Social contacts will benefit you. Students will excel and concentrate on their work. It will be a good day.

Try and put on some protective gear today - maybe a suit of armour should do fine. For, you may find some need for it on this day of mixed fortunes as you miss out the expected and come face-to-face with the unexpected. Manage through the day somehow, since the day's distress will eventually give way to an evening of ecstasy and a night of pleasant surprises.

Today, you will be aspire to be a master of your own destiny. You have the ability to see through the faรงade that people put up to shield their true self. You will choose your company wisely and plan for success. Polish your presentation skills and you may need to work an extra bit to get your ideas approved.

Guests releasing the book during the programme held at Golaghat District Journalist Association.

Pic - Amit Nagori

Gogoi has jumped onto the back of Badruddin Ajmal for his political career : Sarbananda Sonwal ET Correspondent Mangaldai, Jan 10: President of the State BJP and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal along with party state in charge from its central committee Mahendra Singh, former state congress minister turned BJP leader Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma , BJP MP from Mangaldai Ramen Deka and some other state leaders of the saffron party while addressing a party workers rally at Sipajhar in Darrang district this afternoon strongly criticized the ruling congress party.

Sonowal said that the congress party is now so scared of the BJP that Chief Min-

ceremony was also attended by a large number of senior officers and troops of Narengi Military Station. The General Officer in his inaugural address emphasized the importance of this noble gesture by which one can help in saving the life of a dying man and also insisted that every individual who is fit to donate blood must donate at least 3-4 times in his lifetime. He lauded the help extended by Blood

Himanta Biswa Sarma and Sarbananda Sonowal ister Tarun Gogoi who once dared to say "who is Badaruddin ?", has jumped onto the back of Badruddin Ajmal to cross the ensuing assembly election and safe guard his future political

career . The State BJP President further said that Tarun Gogoi and the Congress is no more in the minds of the people of the state , they are confined only to the road side hoard-

ings now a days . Criticizing Tarun Gogoi of arranging press meets on a regular basis just to make feel their existence in media, Sarbananda said , " we don't want to waste time in such press meets as we have other important agenda to implement." The Union Minister urged the party office bearers and supporters to work unitedly for bringing BJP in power with a assurance of corruption free good governance and thereby putting a full stop to the long fifteen years misrule of the Congress. He also assured that in next five years the people of the district will be fortunate to achieve its

long standing demand of railway connectivity with the rest of the country and a bridge over river Brahmaputra at Kuruwa, Sipajhar connecting Guwahati among others.

The rally jointly organized at the playground of Sipajhar Academy by the Sipajhar and Pathorighat Mandal committees of the party was attended by Binanda Kr Saikia, the former Congress MLA from Sipajhar and the possible BJP candidate for the Sipajhar LAC, President of Darrang district BJP Manoj Saharia along with more than two thousand party members and supporters.

Ganesha says governmental work will be beneficial today. Those of you who are officials in the government will be having a positive and good day ahead. Your family members will show their support for you and this is something that you will need from them. Children will progress in life.

This is a good time to take important decisions.

The stars are aligned in a way that they produce a constructively favourable day for you today. You know the importance of a team and treat everyone - seniors & juniors as equals. This will make the work environment harmonious.

It is not your nature to warm the bench, but you will wake up feeling lazy and laid-back today. This may be due to the fatigue of some recent endeavours. For a change, you will try and delegate your work and responsibility to those around you. Make sure that they you do so wisely as they may not live up to your standards.

Plans for expanding business may require you to take risks, leaving you in a dilemma on more than one occasion. In such desperate circumstances, following your instincts can lead you to success.

You are good with words and with the art of eloquence you manage to get through any situation. Today, thanks to your communication skills, you will be able to crack important deals and make people follow your vision. You, however, need to respects opinions of others' as well.

Today is a day of mixed fortunes. So, while you may not win a gazillion dollars in the daily lottery, you might just end up winning a return air ticket to Timbuktu. No one has really been there, but it is better than nothing. However, the distress of those lost dollars is likely to be eased by the ecstasy awaiting you in the evening.

PAGE 3

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

BPF to support BJP in Governor conveys greetings on Assam Assembly polls the occasion of Sarok Festival Itanagar, Jan 10: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has conveyed warm greetings to the people of the State and Aka community in particular on the auspicious occasion of Sarok Festi-

val.

In his festival message, the Governor said that festivals are one of the important aspects of social-cultural heritage of our tribal society. They reflect the vibrant cul-

tural traditions of the people and at the same time strengthen, preserve, protect and re-enforce our cultural identity. To preserve the ageold heritage, the indigenous people must celebrate the festival with

traditional fervour and enthusiasm. He expressed hope that the elders of the society will guide the younger generations to actively participate in their festivals and socio-cultural events as also to understand and

appreciate the rationale behind the same.

May the festival evoke the blessings of the Almighty for wellbeing, peace, progress and prosperity of one and all, the Governor wished.

CM Nabam Tuki Tuki files defamation suit wishes Sarok Festival against three dissident MLAs Itanagar, Jan10: Chief Festival imbibe bonhomie, Minister Nabam Tuki has extended warm wishes to the people of the State on Sarok Festival of Akas.

Baksha (Assam), Jan. 10 (ANI): The Bodoland People's Front (BPF) on Sunday announced that it would support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the

upcoming Assam Assembly polls. Speaking at a meeting here, BPF president Hagrama Mahilary said that his party would support the BJP in areas other than the

Headmaster picked up in Dhubri

Tripura Left leader arrested for sexual offence

ET Correspondent Dhubri, Jan 10: Monirul Islam, headmaster of Newaspur Lower Primary School of Dhubri district was picked up by Kharuabandha police today for alleged anomalies in the midday meal scheme. He is being interrogated, a police official said. An FIR was lodged by the villagers about gross anomalies and corruption in midday meal, a police source said.

IANS Agartala, Jan 10: Veteran CPI-M leader Manoranjan Acharjee, who resigned from the Tripuraassembly on December 10, 2015 after the party expelled him over allegations of sexual wrongdoing, was arrested on Saturday, police said.

Acharjee has denied the charge. "Police arrested Acharjee and presented him before a local court which sent him to police custody till January 12," a police official said.

Bodoland Territorial Council. BPF, which has 10 seats in the current Assembly, was part of the Congress-led Assam government between 2006 and 2014.

mutual understanding and spread love and brotherhood besides bringing peace, tranquillity and prosperity in the society, the further added.

He called upon all to pass on the rich and vibrant cultural heritage of the state to the younger generation to keep it alive.

Speaker Ramendra Chandra Debnath told the assembly on Friday that he had accepted Acharjee's resignation. The 54-yearold Acharjee was elected to the assembly in 2008 and again in 2013 from Birganj constituency. "I was let down by a section of party men who do not tolerate me," Acharjee earlier told IANS. "I did not indulge in any misconduct on any minor girl." Following the hue and cry, police had suo motu registered an FIR

In his message, Tuki said that festivals reminds us of our responsibility towards mother nature and the need to preserve and protect our rich culture and tradition.

against him. Opposition Congress legislators raised questions in the assembly on Friday and demanded a statement by Chief Minister Manik Sarkar on the issue. Sarkar, who also holds the home portfolio, later told the house that police would act at the earliest.

Sources in the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) said the action followed a complaint by the mother of a minor girl in Amarpur in southern Tripura. "The party carried

out an internal inquiry into the molestation of a minor girl by Acharjee," a source said. The legislator was then served show cause notice. CPI-M state secretary and party's central committee member Bijan Dhar said: "Acharjee's reply was not satisfactory. He was then expelled from the party and asked to resign from the membership of the state assembly." The woman also complained to Chief Minister Manik Sarkar.

Mehbooba Mufti rejects BJP's demand of 'rotational chief ministership' in Jammu and Kashmir?

Srinagar, Jan 10: Days after the demise of Jammu and Kashmir CM Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, it seems that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alliance has come under a serious strain. On one hand PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti has put some conditions in front of BJP, while the latter, in a tough move, has put some counter terms.

As per a 'Times of India' report, BJP has asked the PDP chief to agree on appointing a 'rotational chief minister ship' for Jammu and Kashmir, which has been rejected by Mehbooba.

While Mufti's daughter had already made it clear that none of the conditions of BJP will be accepted to maintain the alliance in the Valley.

Earlier Mehbooba re-

Sonia Gandhi, Nitin Gadkari meet Mehbooba Mufti in Srinagar; will PDP chief remain with BJP?

jected BJP's demand for the deputy chief minister's post in Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, speculations are ripe that Congress is offering an olive branch to Mehbooba Mufti ahead of the oath taking ceremony of the PDP chief as the chief minister of Jammu and

Kashmir. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and Union minister Nitin Gadkari, earlier today, met Mehbooba Mufti at her residence in Srinagar and condoled the death of her father and J&K chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

Gandhi was accompanied by party leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad, a former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and now a parliamentarian, and Ambika Soni.

However, both the parties dismissed speculation that political issues were discussed during his meeting with

Mehbooba Mufti a day after Governor's rule was imposed in the state, which is without a government after Sayeed's death in New Delhi's AIIMS hospital on January 7.

However, speculations were rife that Mehbooba Mufti had proposed some conditions to Gadkari for heading the likely future PDP-BJP coalition government.

"There is no truth in those rumours. Bereavement is not the time to discuss politics or future coalition for Mehbooba ji," the PDP leader said.

Earlier in the day, congregational prayers were held at Sayeed's grave in Bijbehara town of Anantnag district.

Mehbooba Mufti also visited her father's grave on Sunday, where she was seen breaking down.

Contd. from Page 1

Apart from enhancing the yearly allocation to DoTCL, there have been many developmental activities undertaken in the area to channelize the youths to come to the mainstream. He had also been relentlessly

Contd. from Page 1

"The biggest challenge is a channelized market and its related infrastructure. We do not have commercial hub for regular buyer seller meeting. Lack of cold storage has been causing damages in huge quantity".

The Mandarin orange plants cultivated in Arunachal are semi wild and indigenous species best suiting the soil and its topography. Production is quite satisfactory. But we are yet to regulate its price to attract a compatible market, Dulom said.

Sharing their grievances to this scribe, the farmers of Tapi, Bari Rizo, Tarak and Lusi under Maro circle of Upper Subansiri district said, "We have formed a federation under north east development welfare society (NEDWS) comprising around 10 self help groups and farmers clubs who have been producing orange, zinger, banana, and large cardamom in huge quantity. Including the district administration, nobody is in a position to give us a market.

Daporijo town is 55 kms far away from our villages. Government bus is the only mode to transport our produces to reach Daporijo. But, there too we do not have selling outlet. Therefore, we submitted a memorandum addressing the DC to provide us at least two vendors' point for selling our produces. We are waiting for that".

Similar is the case with the farmers of Sissen village in Siang district. It is

12th BPMT20CT, 11 Wonders outscored Combat CC by 47 runs 5 wickets, but Combat CC lost its all wickets scoring 119 runs. George Boring of winning team was named as the man of the match with 40 runs and 5 wickets in his kitty.

Earlier, speaking to the players, Chief Guest Er. Alat Megu, AE, PHED, Mebo appealed the players to maintain the sportsmanship spirit while recalling the contribution of late Bakin Pertin as a visionary leader in the context of political history of

Arunachal Pradesh. Special Guest Kuk Borang, Ex-ASM Kiyit and Guest of honour Gyatem Pertin, public leader also spoke during the opening ceremony. Total of 19 teams from across East Siang are vying for the trophy and Sigar Cricket Club will meet Damroh in the first while Eleven Brothers with Darne Cricket Club in the second match tomorrow. The final of the tournament will be played on 25thJanuary, informed the organizing committee.

"Instead of involving into blame games, the misguided legislators should come back to the state and join hands in developmental activities. The people of their respective constituencies are deprived of their leaders to guide them in the process of development" CM emphatically said.

Rural bazaar and middlemen alone can't alter the farmers' destiny in Arunachal

SPORTS Spl Correspondent Pasighat, Jan 10: Playing in the inaugural match of 12th Bakin Pertin Memorial T20 Cricket Tournament (BPMT20CT) at Kiyit village general ground under Mebo Sub-Division, some 35 KM away from here today, 11 Wonders defeated Combat Cricket Club by the margin of 47 runs. Winning the toss, defending champion, 11 Wonders batted first and set a target of 157with the loss of

taking the cause of granting Autonomous district council to these three districts with the Union Government.

CM further added that he would institute a high level enquiry to unearth the truth so that a clear picture comes out who is involved in what matter.

quite pertinent to mention here that, Sissen Farmers Club is a conglomeration of organic farmers certified by the government of Indian. Their cultivation of mandarin orange, ginger, and large cardamom has been certified as organic. But citification has no role in getting a fixed and regulated market.

Kalung Taki, a senior villager from Sissen said, "Our village Sissen does not have motorable link road. Sissen hanging bridge is the only source to reach the highway at Rottung, which is around 60 kms from Pasighat town. Sissen is more than 3 kms far from the Rottung highway again.

Middlemen offer us Rs 8 to 10 a kg for ginger and a rupee on orange. If we hire manual porters, wages go above the price we get from the middlemen. So we physically load it at Rottung as possible as we can and rest remains wasted."

As informed to this scribe, most of the horticulture produces of Arunachal are marketed by middlemen from Assam, West Bengal and Tripura. Sabhir Hussain, a middleman from Karimganja said, "Collection of fruits and vegetables like orange and ginger involves headache, time, extra efforts and huge wastages till reaching our contact clients due to lack of road infrastructure. Half of the materials get damaged on the way.

Villages are scattered and far away from the link road. So it becomes quite laborious and transportation charges goes above the value of the raw mate-

rials we expect from our first party clients."

All the auction centers established in various district head quarters of Arunachal Pradesh have been remaining in a dilapidated conditions and of no used today. Even the Arunachal Pradesh Agricultural Marketing Board (APMB) has been quite neutral in pioneering this sector. This categorized government agency is not streamlining the produces to the market for which the entire agri -horti produces has still been remaining in an unorganized manner.

With the emergence of smart city in Arunachal, various govt and non govt organizations have started talking about smart food synonymously indicating the benefit of organic food to human lives, but who will channelize those crying farmers to an organized market is a big question. Numbers of state and the central govt sponsored schemes and policies for marketing and farming assistance are yet to reach those farmers in the rural, remote and isolated villages of Arunachal effectively. Till then we all believe, only an appropriate and a systematically developed road infrastructure and a marketing infrastructure build by the government can sort out a solution in this regard. Let the farmers serve the nation and the world. At the same time, let us also share their grievances on social media so that they can also understand the value of so called digital India that we spend time and equally talk about round the clock.

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

Several houses damaged in "PRAK BHOGALI ADIN" an hour long storm in Jorhat celebrated with much fanfare and gaiety at Bokajan ET Correspondent Jorhat, Jan 10: In a heavy and a high speed storm that lasted for an hour, several houses including schools, namghars, etc were damaged while many trees were uprooted, many bamboo grooves, banana plants, were also destroyed in areas of Dhekiajuli, Jalukanibari, Baghorchuk, Gotonga, Koronga, Rajabari, Dholajan, Kasojan, Madhopur, Bekajan etc across Jorhat district.

On the other hand, several areas in Jorhat, Titabor, Mariani, Majuli and Teok was cut off as power lines and cables were severely damaged as many trees got uprooted and fell upon these power cables and poles. Hundreds of birds including crane, crow, sparrow, were also reported killed when branches of big trees fell at the nest of several hundreds of birds that was recovered from several areas of Dhekiajuli and

Jalukanibari. While hail stones also killed and injured over hundreds of birds while relaxing at their nests as the storm occurred in the night hours on Saturday. During the first half of the day the main road connecting Jorhat-TitaborMariani-Golaghat was blocked after felling of big trees on the road. It could be cleared for commuters by the second half of the day today by Forest, Administration and Police departments.

Doctor's alleged neglect leads to death of new born dead at Teok FRU

Family members infront of the duty room of Teok FRU. Pic - N. Pathak ET Correspondent Teok, Jan 10: In a bizarre incident a new born baby died at Teok Fast Referal Hospital, today evening almost immediately after its birth, resulting in angry reactions from the family members. According to family sources, a pregnant woman Juli Buragohain, a resident of Jhanji Moran gaon, near Teok, was admitted at the Teok FRU with labour pains. However, it has

been alleged by the family members that since no doctor was available at that time, some nurses took the pregnant lady in and tried to secure the delivery of the child. However, in the process the new born died. "They declared the new born to be dead after a long time", a family member said.

Since, there was no doctor during the time of delivery, we suspect there might have been some

Kite Festival by Marwari Yuva Manch in Dibrugarh A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 10: Marwari Yuva Manch, Dibrugarh organized the 9th Kite Festival in Kachari Ghat, Brahmaputra river bank, Dibrugarh today. Thousands of people participated and had fun during the event.

The

BSF seizes 200 cattle at IndoBangladesh border area ET Correspondent Dhubri, Jan. 10: 17th No. Border Security Force conducted a smart operation against cattle smuggling on Saturday night at IndoBangladesh border area and seized 200 cattle. According to sources, a group of BSF jawans carried out the operation against the cattle smugglers in the bordering villages of Gashpara, Patamari, Hatichar, Kalairchar etc. on the basis of prior confidential information. During the operation BSF recovered two hundred cows from the various areas which were kept to smuggle into Bangladesh. The cost value of the seized animals is approximately 15 lacs. The operation carried out by the BSF has been appreciated by all in the locality.

programme was inaugurated by Bir Bikram Gogoi, SP, Dibrugarh. He praised the organisers for organising such an event where everyone can participate and enjoy.

Dibrugarh MLA Prashanta Phukan also attended the event and actively participated in it.

foul play, the family member said. Later, the woman was transferred to a private hospital in Sivasagar town for proper treatment.

The family members of the woman told the media persons that they will file a case on charges of negligence on part of the hospital authorities. The incident has once again exposed the pathetic state of affairs of the government run hospitals, particularly those in the rural belts.

Minister Ajanta Neog Conferred Golaghat Ratna Award ET Correspondent Golaghat, Jan 10: A delegation led by United Chambers of Golaghat with President Apurba Ballabh Goswami and accompanied by Ganesh Paul, Pawan Baheti, Ajay Kanoi, Tanuj Mahanta met state cabinet minister Ajanta Neog yesterday at the Circuit House, here. It was formally informed to the minister that the organisation has decided to felicitate her on Jan. 27

Clean Govt. Schools of Assam to be awarded on Republic Day "PRAK BHOGALI ADIN" celebrated with much fanfare and gaiety at Bokajan.

Contd. from Page 1

ET Correspondent Bokajan, Jan 10: Along with the rest of the state, Bokajan, too had a fair share of community feasting on the eve of Magh Bihu, which has become quite absolute all through the state as of now. An advance celebration of Bhogali Bihu which marks the end of the harvesting season in Assam, was celebrated today at Bokajan Higher Secondary School playground in a much bigger manner with many communities get together being arranged to showcase

the rich cultural and tradition, including various traditional games and sports, folk dance and music etc. Apart from the cultural activities and community games and sports, a tradition makeshift hut (Bhela Ghar), to be lighted in a traditional manner early on the day of Bhogali Bihu, was also erected for display in the event campus along with other tradition equipments. A stall serving smoked pork and smoked chicken was also installed in the event campus. "The most im-

portant aspect of the programme was not just to mark the festive spirit but also to create a better social understanding which is of obvious importance in this multi cultural, multi lingual and multi ethnic society of ours", said a senior citizen Ambeswar Chetia.

The programme menu even had an arrangement of a cultural night and many invited artist from Guwahati would enthrall the audience with their enchanting notes and Bihu songs for rest of the evening.

The same has been set at the district level. The state government will then select 30 schools of which 10 schools that closely meet the mandate will be awarded.

"We are collaborating with Unicef. This is important because Assam is the second state in the country to initiate this award. The groundevaluation process has been undertaken.

School visits are under way.

The entire process began some months ago," said ASSA's executivedirector Vibekananda Phookan.

Forest department to check illegal sand excavation Sushanta Roy Diphu January 10: The Karbi Students Association (Rajen Enghi and Mirjeng Kro faction) which has been opposing use of mechanized tools like excavator, back how loader for extracting sand in large volume from river bed in the downstream rivers of Eastern Karbi Anglong to protect the fragile eco system and the endangered aquatic life, has de-

cided to enforce the command through cooperation of people and authority. This has been informed through a press release jointly issued by both the KSA yesterday.

Along with the Divisional Forest Officer (West Division) J.Rongpi, Hari Nath Ronghang Assistant Conservator of Forest, Rajen Rongpi Range Officer Dokmoka range, Jiten Terang Beat Officer of

Patradisa Beat the Karbi Students Association Central Committee has entrusted its regional unite of Howraghat to keep strong vigil in places like Dokmoka, Langhing, Patradisa, Longnit, Manja etc. and initiate legal step in league with the Forest authority concern if use of mechanized system is put in operation to excavate sand from the riverbed in these areas is observed. Both the

KSA has urged the private machine owners to remove their unites immediately from the river beds to avoid legal action and public fury and has urged the Karbi Anglong Truck Owners Association not to operate any truck owned

by Nitu Sumi within Karbi Anglong unless he clears all airs with various organizations who are opposing him.

PGPR holds adda in Dibrugarh A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 10: Policy Group of People's Rights, Dibrugarh hold an Adda (informal discussion) at Hotel Tea County in Dibrugarh today to discuss "India's Act East Policy: How it affects Assam in general & Dibrugarh in particular". People from various sections took part in the

and confer her Golaghat Ratna Award at Amateur Hall. The Minister accepted and gave her consent to accept the honour.

Litterateur and Head of Assamese Linguistic Department of Guwahati University Dr Malini Goswami will be Chief Guest of this ceremonial function. Along with Sarvananda Duwarah, Debobrat Boruah and Madan Khetan will also be felicitated.

adda featuring former ambassadors Jaimini Bhagawati and Bhaskar K Mitra.

The programme was moderated by Prof Rajib Handique.

Jaimini Bhagawati in his presentation insisted on improvement of communication system in Assam with rest of the neighbouring countries

as well as other states of India. The road, rail, air and waterways connectivity in the state is far lagging behind, he said.

"Unless the North East is fully developed the objective of Act East Policy cannot be achieved.

Look East policy/Act East policy has no sense unless the economic policy of Assam is im-

proved. The infrastructure must also be improved"- said Bhaskar Mitra. Aradhana Kotoky delivered the welcome speech on behalf of PGPR. Road safety week Dibrugarh, Jan 10: Dibrugarh district administration, Transport department and Traffic police jointly observed

Road Safety Week today in Dibrugarh. On the 1st day today, Art competition, street drama and fire fighting demo was held at the Chowkidinghee playground to make people aware to follow the traffic rules so that accidents can be averted.

The awareness programme will continue till Jan. 16.

Field officers from CEE would even check the purity level of water samples to be collected from schools nominated for the award.

The samples would be sent for laboratory tests.

"Only government-run provincialised schools at lower primary and middle levels are eligible for the award," said Simanta Kalita, programme coordinator, CEE. In 2012, Assam became the first state in the country where the Daily Hand Washing for an Ailment Free Life initiative was launched byUnicef, ASSA and CEE as a pilot project.

Karunamoyee of Balya Bhawan School passes away ET Correspondent Jorhat, Jan 10: Ms. Edit Bansal (86) a former teacher of Balya Bhawan School, Jorhat died at 4.20 pm after prolonged illness at her Rajabari Mission compound residence. She served the school since 1952, the year of establishment and she was conferred with the title of "Karunamoyee" by the students of the school for her outstanding care and teaching in the school from 1952 to 2004. A book on her named "Karunamoyee" was written and edited by the students of the school. She was still a spins star till death. Her sudden demise was condoled by AASU, AJYCP, Teachers Association, Balya Bhawan School family, students, teachers etc. She retired from the school in 2004.

3 arrested in Makum, brown sugar seized ET Bureau Tinsukia, Jan 10: Today at about 8 pm, based on specific information, SI Bhaskar Saikia ,OC Makum PS and staff laid naaka checking near SBI, Makum and recovered 5.3 gm suspected brown sugar carried and concealed inside a Hero Honda Super Splendor No AS23 N 7393 during checking at AT Road, near SBI, Makum from Tinsukia side towards Makum side. The accused persons are Jackychan, aged 27 yrs S/O Sri Gajinder Shah of Sankardev Nagar, Makum, Pritam Debnath, aged 28 yrs S/ O Lt Pramud Debnath of Loharipatty, Makum and Joy Gupta, aged 23 yrs S/O Sri Sadhulal Pd Gupta of Ushamaati, PS - Doomdooma have been arrested and a suo motto case is being registered vide Makum PS case no 07/16 u/s 21(a)/ 27 NDPS Act.

Two among the three arrested drugs peddlers along with the recoveries. Pic - Arjun Mishra

MSAD continues to mobilize fund for the victims of Manipur earthquake

MSAD continues to mobilize fund for the victims of Manipur earthquake

New Delhi, Jan 10: Continuing the fund mobilization for the victims of Manipur earthquake, Manipur Students' Association Delhi (MSAD) collected a total amount of 25,516 rupees by January 9, said a press release by MSAD. It said, the amount collected so far on the second day are 9540 rupees from Jamia,

Maharanibagh, 4230 rupees from Vijay Nagar, 1240 rupees from Emoinu Hostel, Dhaka, Mukherjee Nagar and 3500 rupees from Patel Chest, making a total of 18510 rupees.Altogether, the amount collected on first day which is 7006 rupees and on second day make a total of 25,516 rupees, said the press release. (Agencies)

Continuing the fund mobilization for the victims of Manipur earthquake, Manipur Students' Association Delhi (MSAD) collected a total amount of 25,516 rupees by January 9

Blast in Williamnagar market, 9 hurt Tura, Jan 10: In one of the most audacious attacks by suspected Garo militants in the heart of Williamnagar town, a powerful improvised explosive device was detonated outside a wine store at the centre of the market during peak trading time on Saturday noon leading to nine civilians sustaining injuries.Among the nine people who sustained injuries four are said to be serious and have been taken to Tura civil hospital together with another minor injury victim for treatment.

The prime accused in the attack during the weekly market day is the banned Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) which operates from its strongholds in the Durama Hills, across the Simsang River.

According to eyewitness accounts, Saturday being a weekly market day people were purchasing essential items from the stores when the IED hidden in a bag and placed outside Warimong wine store at the centre of the market exploded with a deafening sound at around 12:45 pm.The store belongs to a prominent businessman from Williamnagar identified as Winderson R Sangma.

The impact from the blast was such that the wine store was totally destroyed with even its roof being blown off and a stop attendant inside sustaining serious injuries. The other victims were reportedly passing through the area when the explosion took place. Some of the victims were thrown to the ground due to the impact of the blast and remained there before locals with support from the police lifted them and rushed them to the Williamnagar civil hospital for emergency treatment.

The nine injured victims have been identified as Probith N Marak (22) of Songsak, Jolash Marak (48) of Chekwegre, Pledash T Sangma (48) of Sobokgre, Andrew R Marak (35) of

Chekwegre, Rosel Momin (50) of Rongbokgre, Jacob Marak (29) of Rongonggre, Pisen Sangma (72) of Warimagre, Shyam Sharma (16) of Nabakgre and Silvarinba D Sangma ( 41 year old lady) of Warima.

Following the incident security has been tightened throughout the town and the blast site cordoned off.

Deputy Commissioner Cyril Diengdoh and SP Davis Nestell R Marak visited the blast site and also the injured victims at the hospital and arranged for the seriously injured to be shifted to Tura for medical treatment.

GNLA tax: Meanwhile, Meghalaya police have blamed the banned GNLA for the Williamnagar market IED blast and stateed that the reason was because traders and businessmen have refused to comply with the financial demands of the militant group.

The GNLA had reportedly served demand notes ranging from one to ten lakh rupees on traders and businessmen at the start of the December month, last year.

They were reportedly angry that most traders had not paid them their tax and to send a message across the militant group had lobbed a hand grenade at Kundu store, last month.According to senior police officials, the militants triggered the IED blast to send a message across to the business community.

GNLA area commander of Williamnagar, Ajan Ch Momin alias Jimmy is accused of dispatching a cadre to the town to place the IED on the orders of their military chief Sohan D Shira.The attack comes less than a week after North Garo Hills police intercepted a Tura registered Bolero vehicle in Bajengdoba area and recovered over a thousand gelatine sticks and electronic detonators that are used for IEDs which were reportedly sent by the ULFA for the GNLA. (Agencies)

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

Jadavpur VC remains under gherao for 3rd day Kolkata,J an 10:Jadavpur University Vice Chancellor Suranjan Das and other officials remained under gherao in the campus for the third day today by a section of the students demanding holding of union elections next month. Das and other officials spent two consecutive nights under gherao. The agitators said they would not allow the VC, Registrar Pradip Ghosh and other officials to leave the office building till the authorities announced a date for the election.

"The VC has passed the ball to the Chancellor saying it depends on him.

Now we will meet the Chancellor with Professor Bimal Roy. Till the time the matter is resolved our gherao will continue," the protesters said.The higher education department had recently issued an advisory to the state-run university asking it not to hold elections to students' union in February to avoid any disturbance during exams of different boards.Protesting this decision, a group of students of the university gheraoed

Jadavpur University Vice Chancellor Suranjan Das and other officials remained under gherao in the campus for the third day

Das and other officials and have been sitting outside the office since Friday evening and shouting

slogans and raising placards to press for their demands.The students said they wanted the VC

to notify on their behalf that elections would be held on time.

The VC said that a letter has already been sent to the office of Governor K N Tripathi, who is also the Chancellor of state universities."I think he is not in the town now.

After he comes we will meet him. A letter has already been sent to his Secretary on the demands of the students. I hope to resolve the situation through negotiations," Das said. State Education Minister

Partha Chatterjee had said that the students were not concentrating on their upcoming exams and raising protests which the government does not support.

In 2014, Das's predecessor Abhijit Chakrabarti was gheraoed demanding a fresh probe panel in the alleged sexual harassment of a girl student.

Fearing threat to life, he called police inside the campus which created a huge furore and Chakrabarti was forced to resign. (Agencies)

Tripura leader arrested for sexual offence Nagaland street Agartala ,Jan 10:Veteran CPI-M leader Manoranjan Acharjee, who resigned from the Tripura assembly on December 10, 2015 after the party expelled him over allegations of sexual wrongdoing, was arrested on Saturday, police said. Acharjee has denied the charge.

"Police arrested Acharjee and presented him before a local court which sent him to police custody till January 12," a police official said.Speaker Ramendra Chandra Debnath told the assembly on Friday that he had accepted A c h a r j e e ' s resignation.The 54-yearold Acharjee was elected

to the assembly in 2008 and again in 2013 from Birganj constituency."I was let down by a section of party men who do not tolerate me," Acharjee earlier told media. "I did not indulge in any misconduct on any minor girl."Following the hue and cry, police had suo motu registered an FIR against him.

Opposition Congress legislators raised questions in the assembly on Friday and demanded a statement by Chief Minister Manik Sarkar on the issue.

Sarkar, who also holds the home portfolio, later told the house that police would act at the earliest.Sources in

notice.CPI-M state secretary and party's central committee member Bijan Dhar said: "Acharjee's reply was not satisfactory.

He was then expelled from the party and asked to resign from the membership of the state assembly."The woman also complained to Chief Mini s t e r M a n i k S a r k a r.

(Agencies)

fashion showcased in London

Veteran CPI-M leader Manoranjan Acharjee, who resigned from the Tripura assembly on December 10, 2015 after the party expelled him over allegations of sexual wrongdoing, was arrested on Saturday

Fabric of India exhibition displays street fashion from Nagaland

the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPIM) said the action followed a complaint by the mother of a minor girl in Amarpur in southern Tripura."The party carried out an internal inquiry into the molestation of a minor girl by Acharjee," a source said. The legislator was then served show cause

Bengal govt takes back land from Prasoon for Nayachar uplift Kolkata, Jan 10: In a stern message to investors that dillydallying with implementation of projects won't be tolerated chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday announced the state government's decision to take back 11,200 acres of land at Nayachar island off Haldia from the Universal Success Enterprises Limited (USEL) of Prasoon Mukherjee for its failure to deliver the project on time.

The project at Nayachar kept changing its nomenclature from chemical hub to power plantcum- eco Tourism Park within a period of four years.

Mukherjee will, instead, be given a small parcel of land at Baruipur in South 24Parganas to set up a project. The state government, Banerjee announced, would develop the land at Nayachar on its own

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee

keeping the interests of fishermen in mind.

The project at Nayachar island in Hooghly River was jinxed from the beginning when the Left Front-government first undertook it. The previous LF government had initially planned a chemical hub in Nandigram in East Midnapore. However, the project had to shift base following aggressive land movement from the then Opposi-

tion party, Trinamul Congress, which was protesting against forcible acquisition of land in Nandigram by the Haldia Development Authority.

The next blow came when environmentalists raised warning against violation of coastal zone regulations and disturbance of ecological balance for allowing a chemical hub on an island.

Meanwhile, Mukherjee also realized that the

project was not going to be viable.

The rout of the Left Front in 2011 Assembly election and Trinamul Congress coming to power gave Mukherjee an excuse to wriggle out of the chemical hub project and the new government also found an opportunity to drop the chemical hub and announce a power plant and an infrastructure cum eco-tourism park at Nayachar, in keeping with its election manifesto. Mukherjee in October 2011 announced pumping in Rs.26,000 crore for the power plant and infrastructure and ecotourism park.

Such tall claims again came to nothing.

Even though the project kept on changing the venue and the special purpose vehicle formed for the project acquired new names, the state government never tried to reclaim the land. (Agencies)

Hailstorm lashes Nagaland Dimapur,Jan 10:Four days after high intensity earthquake with epicenter at Tamenglong, Manipur jolted the north east, a hail storm on Saturday hit Nagaland, particularly Dimapur, and brought down the mercury to low levels .Rains on Friday night in Dimapur city, brought down the mercury level to around 15 ยบC and by Saturday, overcast skies loomed large. Heavy rains followed by hailstorm hit the commercial hub at around 1.30 p.m. causing water logging in several areas.

The hailstorm lasted several minutes and dam-

ages if any, to crops, were yet to be ascertained at the time of filing this report. Sources in the Meteorological Department said the hail storm was due to cyclonic circulation arising from Bay of Bengal.It was the first time Dimapur experienced a heavy hailstorm in as many winter months. The temperature of Dimapur on Saturday plunged to 12ยบC , with 93 percent relative humidity before the storm. The down pour on Saturday also brought a natural relief to the 'dusty city' after it cleaned up dust on roads and streets.

According to me-

teorological reports for Monday ,dense to very dense fog very likely at isolated pockets in the north east, including Nagaland. Good rain and thundershowers was also being observed over parts of northeastern states. Scattered light to moderate rain and thundershowers will continue over Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur and Nagaland.According to Skymet Weather, the fresh rain activity can be attributed to easterly movement of Western Disturbance. After affecting the hills of North India, Western Disturbance

generally divides into two parts. Out of this, one travels north of Himalayas while, the other moves along the foothills of Himalayas affecting Sikkim, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and northeastern region.

Moreover, a feeble cyclonic circulation prevailing over the region has also contributed towards the recent activity.

Light to moderate showers to continue over Assam and Arunachal Pradesh for another 24 hours.

Nagaland, Manipur and Meghalaya are also likely to receive scattered rain during this time period. (Agencies)

Dimapur, Jan 10:Photographs of street fashion in Nagaland, captured by Manou, an Indian photographer, who runs the photo blog 'Wearabout,' are on display at the Fabric of India exhibition at the V&A Musuem, London.Taking images across India, Manou, shows the continued use of hand-made textiles in a regionally and socially diverse society.

The Fabric of India exhibition is a roundup of the importance of textiles in India, covering the history of textiles to 20th century clothes by contemporary Indian designers and Manou's images are a final reflection on

the pervasive, and persistent nature of hand-made Indian textiles.uzy Menkes, the International Vogue editor, writes of the Fabric Of India exhibition as one of the most memorable shows of 2015 and mentions Manou who has spent months in Nagaland and few other North East states documenting street fashion. She says, "Most striking of all are the images from the street-style photographer, Manou, showing Indian clothes today - one of many gestures that bring the show to life."The exhibition started on October 3, 2015 and closes on January 10, 2016. (Agencies)

In slamming Manish Tewari's troop March claim, VK Singh finds an ally in Congress New Delhi, Jan 10: The Congress on today refused to stand by its senior leader Manish Tewari on the 2012 troop movement controversy and said his claims are not the version of the then United Progressive Alliance government led by the party.

"On behalf of the Congress, we want to clearly and categorically deny this report. There was no such troop movement without information of the government," Congress spokesperson PC Chacko said, shortly after Union minister and former Army chief General VK Singh rubbished Tewari's claims.

On April 4, 2012, the Indian Express had reported about the non-notified and unexpected movement of a key military unit from the mechanised infantry unit towards Delhi from neighbouring Haryana's Hisar in the night of January 16-17 that year.

The story headlined 'The January night Raisina Hill was spooked: Two key Army units moved towards Delhi without notifying Govt' had triggered a massive row and raised questions on the relation between the government

and the Indian Army.What had made the entire episode more suspects was that the alleged movement of the 33rd Armoured Division was reported to have taken place on the day VK Singh had approached the Supreme Court on his date of birth issue Earlier on Sunday, General Singh also dismissed Tewari's claim, calling him 'jobless'. "Manish Tewariji has nothing to do these days. There is this book of mine, ask him to read it and everything will be clear to him," he told reporters.

At an event in Delhi on Saturday, Tewari had brushed aside allegations that the news item published on January 16, 2012 was fake. The former information and broadcasting minister said the unexpected movement of troops was "unfortunate, but the story was true"."At that tim e , I u s e d t o serve in the Standing Committee of Defence. And it is unfortunate, but the story was true. The story was correct," Tewari said, adding that he is not interested in "getting into an argument" over it. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

PAGE 6

Defence expert lauds 'troubleshooter' Kerry for asking Pak to deliver on Pathankot New Delhi, Jan. 10 : Defence expert Ranjeet Rai today lauded US Secretary of State John Kerry's move to ask Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to take action against the evidence provided by India with regard to the Pathankot terror attack.Rai said Kerry, who is experienced and travels a lot, is actually the troubleshooter for the United States."Now, he has rung up Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and actually I believe told him that every evidence is transparent, you must take action against the evidence given by India and he expects some action.

So, as a troubleshooter for the United States who knows Pakistan very well, he has put pressure on the Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif," Rai

told ANI."But actually the ball lies also in the Army Court of Pakistan. So, let us see what happens. I believe China has also made a statement supporting the evidence to Pakistan.

Now, the ball is completely in Pakistan's court to do something," he added.

The Pakistan Prime Minister told Kerry in a telephonic conversation earlier that Islamabad is 'swiftly' carrying out investigations in a 'transparent' manner into the Pathankot terror attack and 'will soon bring out the truth'.He added that the world will see Pakistan's 'effectiveness and sincerity' in the Pathankot attack probe, the Dawn reports.Sharif also assured that Pakistan won't allow its soil to be

US shows off B-52 bomber in response to N Korea's nuclear test New York, Jan 10 : In a response to North Korea's nuclear test last week, the United States has flown a B-52 long range bomber to South Korea to carry out a low level flight over a US military base, 30 miles south of Seoul.The U.S. conducted a similar flight in 2013 about a month after North Korea's last nuclear test.

U.S. Pacific Command said in a statement that a U.S. B-52 bomber from Andersen Air Force

Base, Guam, conducted a low-level flight in the vicinity of Osan, South Korea, in response to a recent nuclear test by North Korea.After the mission was completed, the bomber returned to its base in Guam.General Curtis M. Scaparrotti, United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, U.S. Forces Korea commander, said that the flight today demonstrates the strength and capabilities of the Alliance. (ANI)

Refugees fleeing war in Syria affiliated with ISIS: Donald Trump Washington D.C., Jan 10 : Republican frontrunner Donald Trump told a rally on Friday that refugees fleeing war in Syria were affiliated with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria ( ISIS).According to CNN, a 56-year-old Muslimwoman, who was seated right behind Trump, stoop up in silent protest after the presidential candidate's remark and was immediately led out of the rally during his speech.

Trump supporters

around Rose Hamid began chanting Trump's name, as per the instructions given by the campaign staff before the event in case of protests.They pointed at the woman and the man alongside who also stood up along with Hamid.As they were escorted out, Trump supporters roared, booing the pair and shouting at them to "get out."Hamid said that one person had been shouting, 'you have a bomb.' (ANI)

Gadkari, Sonia to meet Mehbooba Mufti in Srinagar

Gadkari, Sonia to meet Mehbooba Mufti in Srinagar

Srinagar, Jan.10 : Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari Congress president Sonia Gandhiwill today meet People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti in Srinagar.Both are scheduled to offer condolences to the family of late Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mufti

M u h a m m a d Sayeed.Gadkari will call on Mehbooba Mufti at Sayeed's 'Fairview' residence on the Gupkar Road on at 2:30 p.m.Following Mehbooba Mufti's refusal to be sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir at present, Governor's Rule has been imposed in the state. (ANI)

response from Islamabad is crucial for the upcoming Foreign Secretarylevel talks scheduled for later this month.The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier said Islamabad has been given actionable intelligence that those responsible for the planning and execution of the attack had come from Pakistan.

Defence expert Ranjeet Rai

used for terrorism.

Kerry on his part expressed hoped that the talks between the two hostile nations 'would continue' despite the attack which was meant to thwart the peace process.The US Secretary of State's call to Sharif came amid Indian intelligence reports suggesting that Pakistanbased groups have

planned and executed the strike on the Pathankot air base.The United States has maintained that India and Pakistan should go ahead with their upcoming talks and see it through in the interest of regional stability.Meanwhile, India is awaiting Pakistan's response on the information provided with regard to the Pathankot attack. The

The NIA has also made initial details of probe into the Pathankot attack public. The NIA's forensic experts have taken DNA

samples, weaponry, accessories and other important evidences from the site of the attack.The NIA have also lifted the footprints believed to be of terrorists from the Bamihal village near border area and from within the Air force station and sent to CFSL for investigation.Six terrorists, believed to owe allegiance to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed were gunned down by the security forces after a four-day gun battle. Seven security personnel also lost their lives. (ANI)

Defence expert Ranjeet Rai lauded US Secretary of State John Kerry's move to ask Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to take action against the evidence provided by India with regard to the Pathankot terror attack.

Russian raids kill dozens in Syria, aid delayed Beirut,Jan 10: Russian air strikes Saturday on an Al-Qaeda run prison in Syria killed nearly 60 people, a monitor said, as aid needed in three besieged towns where people are reportedly starving was delayed.The bloodshed came as UN envoy Staffan de Mistura met in Damascus with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem to prepare for peace talks between the government and the opposition.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the air raids that hit a building

near a popular market in the northwestern Idlib town of Maarat al-Numan killed 21 civilians, 29 militants and seven detainees.Thirty people were wounded, with many in critical condition.The building houses a jail and a religious court run by AlNusra Front, Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Syria, said the Britain-based Observatory which relies on a network of sources in the ground.A child and two women were among the civilians who died, while 23 Nusra fighters were among the militants killed.

Russian warplanes have been conducting strikes against the Islamic State organisation and other "terrorist" groups in Syria since September 30.Although Al-Nusra and IS are both jihadist organisations, they are fierce rivals and regularly clash in Syria.But AlNusra has formed an alliance -- dubbed the Army of Conquest -with other rebel groups in Idlib, including the hardline Ahrar alSham.But the Red Cross said the much-needed supplies cannot be deliv-

ered before Monday due to logistical problems."The distribution of aid will not take place today for logistical reasons; we are working hard for it to take place on Monday," said Pawel Krzysiek, spokesman in Damascus of the International Committee of the Red Cross.Tamam Mehrez of the Syrian Red Crescent had said "technically we are ready to begin distribution as early as Sunday, but if there are logistical issues it will be Monday at the latest".(Agencies)

Give us 3 temples, keep 39,997 mosques: Swamy to Muslims New Delhi, Jan. 10 : Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy who has his hands deep in the Ram Temple construction issue, courted controversy on Sunday and offered the `Lord Krishna` package to the Muslim community where in return for `three temples` they get to keep `39,997 mosques`."We Hindus offer Lord Krishna's package to Muslims-give us 3 temples and keep 39,997 masjids. I hope Muslim leaders don't become Duryodhans," Swamy tweeted. Swamy had earlier said that the issue surrounding the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya should not be seen as a 'political stunt'.

"Suppose we don't do it this year, the next year

Subramanian Swamy

is the election and then we have to do it the following year which is 2018.

Then you will say it is for the Lok Sabha elections.

Every year there is an election. So, we can't stop our activities just because there is going to

be an election," Swamy told ANI.He also lashed out at those opposing a seminar on Ram Janmabhoomi in the Delhi University campus yesterday and dubbed the protests as 'intolerance'.The National

"We Hindus offer Lord Krishna's package to Muslimsgive us 3 temples and keep 39,997 masjids. I hope Muslim leaders don't become Duryodhans," Swamy Students' Union of India (NSUI) members yesterday staged a protest outside the Vice Chancellor's office against the Delhi University's decision to allow a seminar on Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

(ANI)

Over 1400 undertrials can be released from jail :AAP govt to HC New Delhi,Jan 10: The AAP government has told the Delhi High Court that over 1,400 undertrial prisoners can be released from jails of the national capital if the Supreme Court's order that arrests can be made only if they are required is followed.A bench of Chief Justice G Rohini and Justice Jayant Nath was also told that the trial court and police were violating the Supreme Court direction, which attracts contempt of court proceedings against the authorities concerned.

"If the Supreme Court order is followed that police should not arrest persons unless they are required and courts should not authorise detentions in a mechanical manner, at least 1,460 undertrial prisoners will get the benefit, who can walk out of

the jail immediately," the Delhi government's senior standing counsel Rahul Mehra said.1,460 undertrial male prisoners are lodged in jails of Delhi for offences which are punishable with less than seven years of jail term, he added, while referring to the status report filed by the Delhi government.He further said that both the police and trial courts are responsible for putting these prisoners behind bars, so in violation of the Supreme Court direction they are liable to face contempt proceedings.Mr Mehra further urged the court that some direction can be passed under Section 227 (If, upon consideration of the record of the case and the documents submitted therewith, and after hearing the submis-

1,400 undertrial male prisoners are lodged in jails of Delhi for offences which are punishable with less than seven years of jail term.

sions of the accused and the prosecution in this behalf, the judge considers that there is not sufficient ground for proceeding against the accused, he shall discharge the accused and record his reasons for so doing) of the CRPC. The Delhi government's submission came in the backdrop of court's query which was sought during

hearing of the issues related to overcrowding in jails and prolonged detention of male and female undertrial prisoners in Delhi.

Meanwhile, Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) said that the police officials are found to be violating the Supreme Court's direction.

(Agencies)

2-minute observance of silence on 30th Jan for 'Martyrs day': MHA

2-minute observance of silence on 30th Jan for 'Martyrs day'

New Delhi, Jan. 10 : The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) today issued a directive that from now on every year on January 30th, two minutes of silence will be observed at 11 am throughout the country in the memory of those who were martyred in India's freedom struggle.According to the standing instructions by the MHA, silence should be observed at work and all movement must be stopped throughout the country during the two minutes.

The silence period

will be indicated by the sounds of 'sirens or Army guns' from 10: 59 am to 11:00 am and after two minutes the sirens will sound again from 11:02 am till 11:03 am.Stating that in the past the general public did not adhere to the 'solemnity of the occasion' and went about their business, the MHA has asserted that state governments and union territories need to ensure that 'Martyrs Day' is observed with due solemnity and better public participation. (ANI)

Triple murder rocks New Delh New Delhi, Jan. 10 : In a shocking incident, a family of three have been found dead in their house under mysterious circumstances in old Rajendra Nagar today.The husband was found dead in a cupboard in his house and the police are investigating if it was murder or he committed suicide. Nothing is, however, clear as of now."Their house was also found ransacked,"

Joint Commissioner of Police (Central Range) SK Gautam told the media.

The wife and their son were also found dead in the house with strangulation marks around their neck.According to reports, the bodies of the three were found when their maid arrived this morning.No arrests have been made so far and the police have launched a thorough probe. (ANI)

Warmer winter to continue in January because of El New Delhi,Jan 10: The above normal temperature spell this winter will continue through the month of January as a result of the continuing effects of El Nino, weatherman has said.

According to Laxman Singh Rathore, Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), November and December were the warmest in terms of temperature usually recorded during winter and the spell is expected to continue. 2015 was the hottest year on record.

"The temperature in January is expected to be above normal. Also, duration of day will increase gradually and this will lead to rise in radiation, which will affect the temperature level," Rathore told media. The

MET department chief listed out regional as well global reasons for a warmer winter.

"El Nino, which is associated with the warming of Pacific waters, is still active. This has had an impact on the winter this year," Rathore said. The El Nino was also behind the deficient Southwest Monsoon. He also attributed an anticyclone in Central India for the warmer winter. An 'anticyclone' is opposite to a cyclone in which winds move into a lowpressure area. In an anticyclone, winds move out from a high-pressure area with wind direction clockwise in the northern hemisphere and anti-clockwise in the southern hemisphere.

(Agencies)

Crude bomb hurled at TN minister Sellur Raju's office Madurai, Jan.10 : Unidentified people on Saturday night hurled a crude bomb at the office of Madurai West Assembly constituency MLA, Minister for Cooperation Sellur K. Raju, at Sammattipuram here.According to po-

lice officials, none of the person were injured in the incident.According to them, a bottle filled with kerosene was hurled at the office around 11:30 p.m.The motive and the people behind the crime are still not known. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

'Indo-Bangla relation now dynamic, comprehensive' Dhaka, Jan 10: The acting high commissioner of India to Bangladesh, Dr Adarsh Swaika, yesterday said that the current relation between the two nextdoor neighbours was dynamic and comprehensive. "Our relationship with Bangladesh is presently dynamic, comprehensive and responds to the aspirants of both our peoples. Our shared cultural heritage and people to people contacts are the pillars of our relationship," he said.

Addressing a

Market fire in Myanmar's Yangon destroys over 1,600 shops Nay Pyi Taw, Jan 10: A huge fire which broke out at Mingalazay Market in Myanmar's Yangon has engulfed three floors of the building and destroyed 1,638 shops, according to an official estimation .The loss caused

by Saturday's fire totals over 3.6 billion Kyats ($2.7 million), Xinhua cited the police as saying.

With the help of 65 fire engines and 600 fire fighters, the fire was put out after more than four hours fight. The fourth floor, destroyed by the fire, had cosmetic and medicine stores, while the third floor housed textiles and clothing and the fifth floor food stalls.

The cause of the fire was under investigation.

(Agencies)

China condemns Pathankot attack, says it shares similar feelings Beijing, Jan 10: Chinese ambassador to India Le Yuchengcondemned the attack on Indian Air Force base in Pathankot, saying that China shares the feeling and anger of the people of India."China is also a victim of terrorist act. We share the feeling and anger of Indian people," Le said.He also said that the important task for the international community is to strengthen cooperation, meet challenges and confront terrorism.

Six terrorists were neutralised in the terror attack at the Pathankot air base that began in the wee hours on January 1. Seven security personnel were martyred in the terror attack.The conspiracy behind the terrorist attack in Pathankot was hatched in Markaj, Pakistan, as per high-level official sources.

Sources said the intelligence agencies have identified the mastermind who was controlling Asfaq Ahmed, Hafiz Abdul Shakur, Kashim Jan and Masood Azhar, the perpetrators of the Pathankotattack. (ANI)

programme of "Pravasi Bharatiya Divas" on the High Commission's new chancery premises in the capital, Swaika said: "The landmark visit of our honourable prime minister last year and the intense bilateral engagement in practically all spheres of cooperation has created conditions for their further expansion into newer areas."While government to government is one aspect of the relationship, business to business engagements have the potential to transform this re-

lationship, and this is an area in which you have a large and significant role to play.

"The acting high commissioner inaugurated the event attended by Indian expatriates. It was followed by a cultural programme. Swaika also said: "When I mention about our strong bilateral relationship at present, I do not imply that there are no challenges. There may be a few of them, as is usual in every relationship, but we are committed to addressing them in

a spirit of friendship and good neighbouringness and respect for each others' concerns and interests."

For the first time, the day was celebrated in Dhaka although it has been celebrated by the Government of India since 2003 in Indian high commissions as well as in some other parts of the world. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated on January 9 each year to mark the contribution of overseas Indian community in the development of

India. January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion since it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravashi, re-

turned to India from South Africa, led India's freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever, the organisers said.

(Agencies)

"Our relationship with Bangladesh is presently dynamic, comprehensive and responds to the aspirants of both our peoples. Our shared cultural heritage and people to people contacts are the pillars of our relationship," Dr Adarsh Swaika

Sri Lanka drops plan to buy fighters from Pak after India objects Colombo, Jan 10:Stiff opposition from India has forced Sri Lanka to drop plans, at least for now, to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft from Pakistan.New Delhi shot off a diplomatic missive a few weeks ago to Colombo on why it should not buy the JF-17 Thunder, including a negative technical assessment of the aircraft. It was also pointed out that the country's defence requirements did not need fighters.

While questions were raised in Sri Lanka too about the reported $400-million deal, India's forceful opposition, conveyed through a non-paper, was one of the likely reasons that made Sri Lanka drop the plan for now.The Pakistani media were reporting that the deal for JF-17s would be signed during Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's three-day visit to Colombo which ended Wednesday.Despite its

JF 17 Thunder fighter aircraft, sri lanka pakistan defence deal, lanka pak defence deal

own financial crunch, Pakistan was also said to be ready to extend a line of credit to Sri Lanka for the aircraft.

On Tuesday, Sharif and Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who is also the Defence Minister, signed agreements under eight heads in Colombo, but the sale of aircraft was not one of them.The Indian government delivered the non-paper -diplomatic parlance for a white sheet of paper without a letterhead or signature - to Colombo at

the highest levels about three weeks ago after reports that Pakistan was seriously engaging the Sri Lankan Air Force (SLAF) on the Chinese fighter aircraft to replace the SLAF's ageing fleet of Israeli Kfirs and MiG27s.Pakistan had been pushing for the sale of 10 to 12 JF-17s; each priced about $35 million. Talk of the deal gained ground after a visit to Pakistan

by SLAF chief Gagan Bulathsinhala last November. He was invited to send a team to assess the aircraft at the Paki-

stan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) in Kamra.

Kamra is where the PAC and China's Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) co-produce the aircraft. But defence experts believe that the aircraft are more or less only assembled at Kamra from readymade Chinese kits. Taking up the Pakistani invitation, a team of Sri Lankan Air Force officials visited Kamra to test the aircraft and run simulation tests.New Delhi has opposed SLAF plans to buy the J-17s on the ground that Sri Lanka does not need fighter aircraft.

It is six years since the war against the LTTE ended. Since then, Sri Lanka's defence spending has increased. For 2016, it is an estimated $3 billion.Sri Lankan sources said India also put forth a technical argument that the Russian engines of the JF-17 were not the best, that even China does not use

these aircraft. Earlier, some Sri Lankan reports had said India had offered its own Tejas to the SLAF instead.

India is also concerned that the deal, if it goes through, will enable the PAC, and perhaps even the CAC, to set up a facility in Sri Lanka for maintenance and training, and increase and widen contacts between Pakistan and Chinese security forces and Sri Lanka.In 2014, the then Sri Lankan government had cleared a proposal for China to set up a maintenance-cum-servicing facility for its aircraft that are part of the Sri Lankan fleet in Trincomalee. The SLAF has in it fleet the Chengdu F-7 fighter aircraft, and the Y-12 and MA60 transporters. India had raised concerns then about the plan and the Sri Lankan government had said it would be manned only by SLAF personnel. With the change in government, that plan was shelved. (Agencies)

Pakistan to present list of Taliban opens to peace talks

Pakistan to present list of Taliban opens to peace talks

Kabul, Jan 10: Pakistan will present a list of Taliban willing to negotiate with Kabul at a four-nation meeting this week aimed at reviving the Afghan peace process, an Afghan official said today. Aghanistan, Pakistan, China and the United States are scheduled to meet in Islamabad on Monday to discuss a road map for peace talks. The meeting

will not include the Taliban.

Javid Faisal, deputy spokesman for Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, said Pakistan's list will include Taliban who do and do not want talks with Kabul on ending the 15-year war.Faisal said Pakistan has agreed to cut off financial support to Taliban fighters based in Pakistani cities, includ-

ing Quetta and Peshawar .Insurgents based in Pakistan would not be allowed to resettle in Afghanistan, he added. The agreement would also include "bilateral cooperation on eliminating terrorism," Faisal said."Those who are interested in peace can join the dialogue, but those who wish to continue the fight will be targeted through joint counterterrorism platforms," Faisal said, referring to bilateral agreements.

Faisal said the terms had been agreed to during a visit to Kabul last month

by Pakistan's powerful army chief of staff Gen. Raheel Sharif, though discussions had begun earlier.

Pakistan has consistently denied U.S. and Afghan allegations that it gives financial or mate-

PM pays homage to Bangabandhu on Homecoming Day

rial support to Afghanistan's Taliban.

The CIA has publicly accused Pakistan of supporting the Haqqani group, a Taliban affiliate and U.S.-declared terrorist group.Monday's meeting in Islamabad could revive a process that collapsed last summer after Afghanistan announced that Mullah Mohammad Omar, founder and leader of the Taliban, had died in a Pakistani hospital more than two years ago.The announcement led the Taliban to pull out of the talks after just one meeting hosted by Islamabad.

A subsequent power struggle within the Taliban has raised questions about who would represent the insurgents if and when the talks with Kabul are restarted.

The Taliban have

stepped up attacks since the U.S. and NATO formally ended their combat mission a year ago, and the insurgents are battling local security forces on several fronts.

Last year the Taliban seized the northern city of Kunduz and held it for three days before being driven out by a costly counteroffensive.

In the southern Helmand province, government forces have been struggling to fend off Taliban advances for weeks. The Taliban say they captured a government compound in the strategic Sangin district over the weekend, claims denied by Afghan officials.The Taliban are expected to keep up the fight even if peace talks get off the ground in order to secure territory and leverage in the negotiations. (Agencies)

PM pays homage to Bangabandhu on Homecoming Day

Dhaka, Jan 10:Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has paid tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman by placing wreath at his portrait in front of Bangabandhu Memorial Museum in capital's Dhanmondi area.The prime minister placed wreath at his portrait on the occasion of the Homecoming Day of the great leader today morning.After placing the wreath, the prime minister stood in solemn silence for some time as a mark of profound respect to the memory of Bangabandhu, the architect of independence.

Flanked by central leaders of the party, Sheikh Hasina, also the president of Bangladesh Awami

League placed another wreath at the portrait of Bangabandhu on behalf of her party.Later, the leaders of AL's associate bodies, including Jubo League, Chhatra League, Sramik League, Mohila Awami League, Sechchhasebak League, Jubo Mohila League, Krishak League, Dhaka city AL and other socio-cultural organizations laid wreaths at the portrait of Bangabandhu.

On this day in 1972, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman returned to independent Bangladesh after nine and a half months' of captivity in a Pakistan jail.Since then, the nation is observing the day as the Homecoming Day of Bangabandhu.

(Agencies)

Indian FM here next month for key talks Colombo, Jan 10: Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj is expected to visit Sri Lanka early next month for key talks. Foreign Ministry sources said Swaraj will be in Sri Lanka for discussions on the IndoLanka joint commission.She will also have talks with the Government on the fishermen issue and political developments in the country.Ahead of her visit, Indian Foreign Sec-

retary S. Jaishankar is expected to visit Sri Lanka this week for talks.

Sources said the date for the visit is not confirmed, but he may arrive before January 15.Jaishankar is expected to have brief talks with the Government and also set the groundwork for the Indian Foreign Minister's visit to Sri Lanka next month. (Agencies)

Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj is expected to visit Sri Lanka early next month for key talks

Nepal elected as UNICEF's executive board member

Aftershocks jolts Nepal 9 months after Gorkha earthquake Kathmandu, Jan 10: A mild tremor measuring 4.4 on the Richter Scale jolted eastern Nepal around midnight, in an aftershock of the Gorkha quake that devastated the country nearly nine months ago.According to the National Seismological Centre, the earthquake was recorded at around 11:28 pm with its epicentre in Ramechhap district, 200 km east of Kathmandu.The location lies around 15 kilometres northwest of the district headquarters, Manthali.

The tremor, listed as an aftershock of the

April 25 temblor, was felt nearly nine months after the devastating quake that had its epicentre at Barpak of Gorkha district, 200 km west of Kathmandu.With this, as many as 424 significant aftershocks (of local magnitude 4.0 or above) have followed the devastating earthquake, NSC records show.Around 9,000 people were killed in the earthquake and its powerful May 12 aftershock in Nepal.

Meanwhile, people of Barpak, the epicentre of the April's earthquake, are facing

Aftershocks jolts Nepal

hardships as there was heavy snowfall in the area recently.

Relief materials could not

be sent to the remote area due to shortage of fuel and the people are facing difficulties. (Agencies)

The tremor, listed as an aftershock of the April 25 temblor, was felt nearly nine months after the devastating quake that had its epicentre at Barpak of Gorkha district, 200 km west of Kathmandu.

Nepal's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Durga Prasad Bhattarai was also unanimously elected as vice president to the bureau of the executive board of the UNICEF for 2016

Kathmandu, Jan 10: Nepal was elected as a member of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) executive board on Saturday, representing the group of Asia-Pacific states for the term 2016-2018, government officials said.

Nepal's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Durga Prasad Bhattarai was also unanimously elected as vice president to the bureau of the executive board of the UNICEF for 2016,

representing the Asia-Pacific region, according to officials of the ministry of foreign affairs "With this election, Nepal is availed yet another global stage to contribute to the work of the United Nations, this time in providing strategic guidance to its agency specialising in the children's causes," read a press statement issued by Nepal's Permanent Mission to United Nations in New York on Saturday.

(Agencies)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

Consensual India and Nehru-Patel Debate Road Safety Week The motto: Time for Action The Global status report on road safety 2013 estimates that more than 231 000 people are killed in road traffic crashes in India every year. Approximately half of all deaths on the country's roads are among vulnerable road users - motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists. A heterogeneous traffic mix that includes high-speed vehicles sharing the road space with vulnerable road users as well as unsafe road infrastructure and vehicles that are in poor condition all contribute to the high fatality rates seen on India's roads.

India has the second largest road network in the world with over 3 million km of roads of which 60% are paved. These roads make a vital contribution to the India's economy. On the whole, the facilities for the road users are not up to the mark, leading to a high toll of the death victims. Recently, there is a growing concern over the road crash problem. Also with the advancement of technology, the most developed projects undertaken along with the real estate are the massive road building projects. But while new roads are being built, faster and faster automobiles are being invented in high numbers making road safety a crucial question In India Road safety week is celebrated ever year from 11th of January to the 17th of January (Sunday). Along with the rest of the country, preparations are also taking place to celebrate the 27th Road Safety Week in the city of Guwahati and other parts of Assam. In the city, the Transport department, along with the Kamrup Metro district administration, the District Transport Office (DTO) and Regional Transport Authority (RTA), Traffic Police, District Road Safety Committee, NGOs and other departments will hold a number of programmes. The motto for the Road Safety Week this time is "Road Safety: Time for Action". And during the course of the week, various activities including processions, car rallies, street plays, health check-up camps, drivers' training camps, among others, will be held to bring awareness on the issue of road safety. And the main target of the campaign will be the youth and student segments.

In Indian perspective safety norms have lagged behind the international standards. Moreover, the international companies launch their vehicles on Indian Roads but somehow forget to implant safety measures that are mandatory abroad. To name a few these include: air bags and censors and many more.

It is really unfaithful that the authorities who have been assigned the duty to look after safety norms on Indian roads have not performed up to their marks.

But, enhancing road safety is such a complex task that we all should shoulder the responsibility to achieve success in this field.

Water pollution The problem needs to be tackled soon Assam is endowed with enormous water resources.

The large perennial rivers and other water bodies with rich aquifers speak volumes about vastness of its water resource. Although there is seasonal and regional variation in the availability of water resources, the annual availability of water resources remains almost the same. In the last few decades the use of water has been growing at a fast rate, which is more than twice the rate of the increase of human population. The consumption of water has increased due to the increase of human population as well as diversification of human activities. With the increase of per capita consumption of water in domestic, agricultural and industrial sectors, the potential per capita availability of water has been greatly reduced. Moreover, it may cause the deterioration of water quality to a great extent. The vast potential of the surface water resources of the state is not yet optimally utilized in the state which cannot be considered prudent on the part of the agencies concerned especially in view of the rate of increase of consumption of water in the agricultural sector, industrial sector and in the urban centers. The discharges of untreated domestic wastewater, industrial wastewater, run-off from the agricultural fields and urban sewage water are posing a threat to the water bodies of the state.

Also as per a report of 2013, as many as 18 districts of Assam are prone to several water-borne diseases, corroborated by the fact that arsenic content in ground-water of these districts is found to be beyond the permissible limit (0.05 mg/litre as per WHO norms). The arsenic contamination in the State water ranges from 0.052 mg/litre to 0.996 mg/litre, which is abnormal. The arsenic prone districts include Sonitpur, Lakhimpur, Goalpara, Morigaon, Nagaon, Baska, Nalbari, Barpeta, Hailakandi, Jorhat, Karimganj, Cachar, Golaghat, Darrang, Bongaigaon, Sivasagar, Dhubri and Dhemaji. The World Health Organisation (WHO) report stated that water carrying high levels of arsenic causes many types of cancer including skin, lung and bladder, as well as cardiovascular disease.

The problem of water pollution is rampant in all thickly populated areas. Water does possess a self-cleaning property. The problem intensifies with the addition of pollutants in our water-ways from many sources like wastes from reactors, laboratories, hospitals and fallout from nuclear explosions, domestic wastes from the cities and towns, chemical wastes from factories and industrial units, etc. 90% of water pollution is due to human waste, which gives rise to such diseases as intestinal infection, hookworms, cholera, typhoid, infectious hepatitis, etc. Chemicals like DDT, Parathion, lindane, etc. contribute a great deal to water pollution. To prevent water pollution, the discharge of effluents from the industries as well as the use of DDT should be controlled. All domestic waste should be properly treated before discharging it into the water bodies. Acid rain can be prevented by reducing the emission of oxides of sulphur and nitrogen from power plants, fertilizer plants, etc. The state agencies definitely have their task cut out.

Indrajit Borah Irrespective of the official declaration to observe Sardar Patel's birth anniversary as "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas" or recent "Congress Darshan" article questioning Nehru's decisions on Kashmir contrary to the views of Sardar Patel; the historical Nehru-Patel divide has always been in the vanguard of national debate. The alleged injustice to Patel hypothesizes a better India under his stewardship.

Also, intensifying this debate further, the contemporary Indian politics has been instrumental in projecting an alternative to Nehruvian legacy.

Certainly, beyond fashionable blogs full of quaint brawls over personalities, this historical debate has significant implications on Indian nation-building process.

The Indian National Movement was the haven to the entire ideological spectrum from left to right. Then, after independence, the political leadership had to embark on the nation-building process of inexorably plural post-colonial India. In this process, a broad consensus was achieved phrased as 'Nehruvian Consensus' on Indian vision emanating from the 'tryst with destiny'. In shaping Nehru's idea, socialism was contemplated as integral to democracy.

However, this dual commitment, solely attributing to the unique nature of national movement, was often termed as 'unchartered'. Even Gandhi was apprehensive whether the understanding on 'practicing the science of socialism' was complete. Now, it is prudent to analyze the implications of the seemingly comprehensive character of "Nehruvian Consensus" that reconciled the political alternatives at the time, on post-colonial India.

Could the Congress retain the consensusbuilding character of a mass movement as an electoral political party after independence?

Nehruvian consensus

was politically institutionalized as co-existence of dominant centre and peripheral dissidence. Without alternation by opposition parties, there had to be internalization of political dissidence in the dominant political party.

Therefore, the Congress remained basically a broad-based centrist party in Nehru days, marginalizing the opposition parties both left and right to the extremes.

Then, Socialist Nehru was bound to take the centrist posture to preserve the party unity.

Patel was unquestionably the right-oriented leader differing on the question of class analysis of society. Within the secular framework of India, he argued for private enterprise and the right of property as a fundamental right in the Constitution. Having realized the arduousness of attempting a left-turn, Nehru had no alternative to reconciliatory approach towards political opponents. He was concerned about implementing socialistic programs and introducing land reforms essential to demolish the feudal structure. However, in numerous instances, Nehru's socialist stance remained vague mainly due to inherent political and socio-economic limits to basic social engineering schemes like land reforms. Interestingly, the expansion of domestic rural market was also a parameter to evaluate the land reform process.

With time, Indian parliamentary democracy gradually turned towards 'electoral politics' and missed its role as an instrument for nation building, social change and equity.

Also, there was structural inability to create institutions for implementing envisioned social development programmes. Nehru had to depend entirely on the inherited bureaucracy in spite of its inadequacy to understand the new social development tasks.

Patel was rather not in

favor of sudden discontinuity in the administration in view of re-organization of states and post-partition times. In this connection, it is pertinent to mention that the unique position of the Kashmir issue from other cases of reorganization of states requires a separate debate. Actually, the continuance of colonial administration "designed to serve the simple interests of an occupying power" was attributed to flat transfer of political power, which was decoupled from socioeconomic transformation. The administrative structure remained unreformed and as distant from the people as before. There were major indications of mushrooming political and administrative corruption even during Nehru times. Over the years, it deteriorated further, becoming more inefficient and inaccessible.

In the consensual 'mixed economy' trail, the capital formation through co-existence of public and private sectors was planned actually to encourage the private sector. The indigenous business conglomerates consolidated during the colonial period were also prominent in supporting the planning process in post-colonial India. The indigenous industrialists ratified the 'move to-

wards state capitalism' by a consensus called Bombay Plan in 1944.

Later, the NehruMahalanobis strategy of "growth with equity", was based on the premise that rapid growth can enable higher levels of equity and critical for challenging poverty. But, on obvious reasons, the considerable rise in poverty was accompanied by a high degree of concentration of wealth.

With time, the inwardlooking strategy evolved a complicated license-quota system, which had acquired a vicious iron grip over the Indian economy and became difficult to dismantle. Both industrial licensing and import control strategy left little thrust for indigenous industry to be competitive. Again, the public sector; 'the commanding heights of the economy' emerged as a major source of inefficiency. The restrictive instruments; applied ironically as 'socialist principles of equity' actually promulgated a backward capitalist economy.

Again, there had been growing demand on public exchequer owing to the unique democratic framework in India. Since mid-seventies, the deliberate departure from the fiscal prudence by successive governments was basi-

cally attempt to nullify this growing demand.

This in fact promoted competitive populism in the countenance of the emerging structural imbalance.

Unlike in many totalitarian societies, the change in the consensual discourse in Indian democracy would be a process rather than an event. There were different obstructing forces - lacking fiscal audacity, insensibility towards global reality, vested interest groups and ideological dilemma in this process of delaying economic reforms. Despite East Asian experience, even China opening up its economy in 1978, India delayed considerably in responding to the changing world situation. Finally, the Economic Crisis of late eighties was a politically conducive rationale for structural adjustment and economic reforms in India. Today, the broad consensus on the reform process can be viewed as an analogue of the Nehruvian Consensus just after independence.

However, quintessentially, the same ideological debate adjoining Indian 'unchartered path'; has been continuing, whether in the form of Bhagawati-Sen divergence on economic reforms or any other platform.

The historical precedence of Indian democracy elucidates that the socio-economic formulations in the nationbuilding process contours the consensual political economy irrespective of the ideological affiliation of the leadership. The unchartered "mixed economy" path replicates the complementarities of Nehru-Patel divergence in the macroeconomic reality. Certainly, the Nehruvian consensus was broadening to pursue all possible alternatives that there was little room left for ideological extremism.

Once, Nehru himself molded his steps in to the consensual path, Patel had no other option but to room within it. Undoubtedly, at the dawn of the Indian nation state, it was the Gandhian legacy that could aptly span itself for the co-existence of ideological diversities.

The Nehru-Patel divergence further signifies the 'dualism' of contemporary Indian polity surrounding the politically conducive 'inclusive growth' strategy. Moving forward, to resolve this historical impasse, the Indian democracy has to undergo a stern institutional reform to trade-off between the dual objectives - capitalistic growth and equitable development.

Dibrugarh Traffic Police Sir, We wonder, if a clandestine understanding exists between the Dibrugarh Police and many of the businessmen of the new market. A superficial stroll in and around the market will bring the matter to the fore. We pity the citizens or senior citizens, particularly those pedestrians, who, unable to walk in the foot-path have to come down and walk along the edges of the road. In the edges, too, it goes hard with them as they encounter myriads of four-wheelers and two-wheelers, thanks to the magnanimity shown by the Dibrugarh Police. On one hand, pedestrians find it difficult to move along the foot-path owing to obstructions in the shape of the goods of the businessmen put on the foot-path and difficulty in moving along the edges of the roads for fear of getting knocked down by speeding bikes or four-wheelers, on the other hand. To add salt to the injury, some unscrupulous cyclists keep their cycles on the foot-path, compounding the woes of the pedestrians. Only because of the laxity on the part of the Dibrugarh Police, this state of anarchism prevails in the market. Earlier, we suggested that in the peak hours, the entry of the vehicles should not be allowed in the market at all, but it

fell on the deaf ears. To make matter worse, some so-called nouveau-riche park their vehicles on the roads causing great inconvenience to the Pedestrians, peoples-friendly Police should look into the matter.

Yours etc Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

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

Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh-786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

p O

Page 9

d e How Crowdfunding Is Revolutionising The Way We Give Back To Society

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

When Gissur Simonarson photographed a distraught Syrian refugee selling pens on the streets of Beirut, with his visibly exhausted daughter slumped on his shoulder, he knew immediately he had to do something for this man.

As the image went viral on social media, Simonarson created a fund-raising page for this man on a popular crowdfunding website.

Nearly ÂŁ10,000 were raised in just half an hour.

19 hours later, it had passed ÂŁ33,000, and the figure kept escalating.

Simonarson was no celebrity. He was just an ordinary photographer moved by the plight of a refugee and determined to make a difference in his life. He is not alone.

We see around us, thousands of people, like Simonarson, striving, in their own ways to make a difference by not just contributing to causes they feel passionately

about but mobilizing others to support it as well.

As I read this story, my mind promptly drifted to another man's journey a young 25-year-old airline purser, Rippan Kapur, who back in the 1970s believed in the goodness of people and how each and every one in their own capacity can help the underprivileged.

With a meager Rs50 as a starting fund, he relentlessly worked to urge people to fund for the cause of India's children.

He fuelled life into an organization that not just became a pioneer of individual fundraising methods but continues to be so, long after he is gone, making a sustainable impact in children's lives.

The organization is CRY. We have always believed in the inherent "good" in every individual, the urge to do his or her bit for a social cause. Moreover, the youth is giving us hope that our belief remains strong and will be

carried on through generations to come. Reading about Meera Mehta, a student in Mumbai, who relentlessly used online platforms and her own page to write about an NGO she passionately believed in, reinforces this belief. She urged people to donate for the cause of patients and children in rural India who cannot afford treatment. Meera, all of 15 years, raised 10 lakhs.

In recent times, individual contribution has further evolved to unified individual donors supporting a common cause, thus creating a wave of support. Moreover, social media, with its reach and popularity, has provided an unparalleled platform to garner support for causes, for anybody, anywhere in the world. The unprecedented rise of crowdfunding platforms is a testament to this belief. What seemed to be a new fad within the gamut of social media ini-

Ujjal Chauhan

tiatives has turned out to be one of the most important platforms to create awareness and mobilize people to come together to contribute to a cause. It provides the perfect link between people who would like to raise funds for a cause and for people who feel equally excited by it. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter are further esca-

lating the reach of these websites.

India, too, is no stranger no crowdfunding. According to a report by data and analytics firm Allied Crowds, crowdfunding in Asia's developing countries led the emerging world last quarter with over US$41.1 millionraised. India, interestingly, led the charge by raising US$12.4

million with three Indian cities (New Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai) amongst the top five most active centres. India, they say, raises close to US$2 million a month via crowdfunding.

While international websites like Indiegogo, Kickstarter, Causes, Startsomegood are popular, Indian websites like

Ketto, Bitgiving are also increasingly giving competition to these. The innumerable campaigns for various causes by organizations, more so by individuals substantiates the trend of more people coming up to support causes.

From challenging oneself beyond boundaries to achieve a tough task for a cause to pledging a personal milestone and raising funds while doing so, people are exploring different ways to achieve this.

The story of one of our volunteers, Ujjawal Chauhan, a final year IIT Kharagpur student who undertook what he called the "Madness Project", last year is one such achievement. Undertaking a cross country bicycle ride, he traversed 4 states and covered 2,500 km from Kolkata to Mumbai capturing images of children for whom child labour is a day-to-day reality. As he set out on this personal challenge, Ujjawal helped CRY raise close to Rs

80,000 to ensure 100% enrolment in 12 villages he visited and make them child labour free.

Lately, we have experimented with crowdfunding yet again to raise funds and received tremendous support. Our ongoing campaign 'Get Healthy, Give Healthy', which encourages people to pledge their support for children of the country by raising funds via crowdfunding website Ketto. It requires them to set health targets for themselves and raise money for each milestone all along. It is overwhelming to see how employees, their friends and family are coming forward to support the pledges and donating for the cause of children.

This is undoubtedly one of the most interesting times for fundraising.

Moving over celebrities and fancy events,the power of the individual, while always supreme, has begun to be more gloriously witnessed.

100 E-Bikes To Give The Elderly In India Are Being Made To Live On ?500 A Month. But There's A Bigger Problem Delhiites Free Rides As They Tackle The Odd-Even Plan

I have been referred to as over - the social welfare a saviour on multiple oc- department expressed its casions by a number of inability to clear complete people - friends, and arrears. strangers alike. Until re- Pension schemes under cently, I took social welfare a certain pride Vidhi Agrawal are by no in being able means suffito solve people's prob- cient to help an individual lems, sometimes even an- even achieve a decent ticipating and resolving standard of living - the those. absence of even that Rs. However, problems like a 500 aggravates their probmissing stapler, or non- lems multiple times. They functioning mobile have to borrow money charger are nowhere com- from relatives and parable to the grievances neighbours for their daily of Suwa Devi, a 50-year- sustenance. If and when old widow dependent on pension comes, it gets a meagre sum of Rs. 500 used up in repaying the per month under the debts, and the cycle conWidow Pension Scheme, tinues. According to the who has not been getting government statistics, a her pension since 11 large section of older months. Reason? The per- people in rural India is illitson who filled her sanc- erate, and unemployed. It tion order form misspelled is dependent on the family her address - Ram Rahim for sustenance. The penColony became Ram sion is expected to give Nagar Colony. She has no them some semblance of clue about the status of her dignity. Instead of an inpension, claim, or receipt. crease in the amount of A well-meaning man in the pension tied to the inflaRam Nagar Colony (the tion, what the elderly and/ wrong address) has been or disabled get are delayed able to track her, and is and irregular payments. trying to help her update Rajasthan also takes a lead the correct address in the in providing maximum sanction form. But it's not coverage under social se-

curity pension programs.

The widow, single/divorced women, women (55-75) and men (58-75) get Rs. 500 per month.

Men and women older than 75 years get Rs. 750 per month. Special persons get Rs. 500, and minors Rs. 250 per month. However, the responsibility of the government does not end at enrolling the people under a scheme. It must also take responsibility or fix responsibility of the people involved in the delivery of these beneficial services to the people.

Generally, we become baffled by problems such as increased costs of 3G data services, or low bandwidth internet connections.

But Kadar Khan, a 60-yearold man who limped along gingerly as we entered the Oriental Bank of Commerce in Pali, had a different problem. We were at the bank to find out how to retrieve his misplaced money. Kadar is dependent on a motley sum of Rs. 500 per month which his wife gets under the Old Age pension scheme of the government. For the past 4 months, she has not been

able to claim his pension because the e-Mitra personnel entered wrong bank account number in her sanction order, which was linked to her Bhamashah card.

The parshad (councillor) from his ward, the e-Mitra personnel in his area, and the man at the helpdesk at bank - none of them knew what to do. The logical step is to get the correct account number updated in the system. However, it sounds easier than it really is. Even as the money continues to be credited to the wrong account number, the e-Mitra merely issued an acknowledgement slip, the bank clerk clearly tried to evade the issue, not before declaring that the money must be in some suspense account, and they cannot ascertain if arrears can be claimed. The ward councillor remained elusive as expected.

The point is that everyone in the process declared their helplessness in ensuring that the benefits of the social schemes reached the beneficiary. A solution might be devised in due time; however, at that mo-

ment, nobody, including I, knew how to deal with this - a lamentable information gap that compounds the feeling of helplessness multiple times.

What is worse is the lack of will on behalf of the service staff to solve the people's problems in a genuine manner. Perhaps this is only my perception or illusion, but people entrusted with the implementation responsibility of the schemes at various levels do not even pretend to make attempts to find out how to resolve an issue their confidence in the human will to strive and survive seems unshakeable!

Pali is no different from Jalor, Rajasmand is as plagued with problems as Ajmer. Not surprisingly, everywhere you go, the system takes the blame.

It's the last resort of blames, and complaints.

To get our answers, we have decided to organise a Jawabdehi Yatra. We aim to take the onus of blame away from the system to the individuals. Whose responsibility? Whose accountability? Where does the solution lie?

Developed Nations Might Have Hatched A Plot To Blame All Climate Failures On India

Chandra Bhushan Note: This article has been republished from Down To Earth.

The atmosphere at the climate conference in Paris is full of rumour and intrigue.

Rumours abound of a pincer movement, spearheaded by the US, to trap India and hold it responsible for all failures at Paris.

The first salvo in this direction was by US Secretary

of State John Kerry, when he called India a "challenge" so far as the Paris climate talks were concerned. Now, the western media has taken this "issue" up as a crusade and have begun to routinely term India's position as"divisive"-even without examining what that position is.

Rumours are rife that China will stay with developing countries till the last few days and then China and

the US will come together, along with France, to force a deal upon the rest of the world. Something similar happened at the Lima climate talks last year when the US and China redefined the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR). China is unusually quiet at Paris.

My reading of the situation is that there is a well-laid plan to trap India into a position where India will come across as obstruc-

tionist. Developed countries know India is wedded to the 1992 convention and any major deviation from the convention's principles will attract its disagreement. They will, therefore, try at every step in the next 10 days to propose changes in the convention, just to attract opposition from India. This will, then, be hyped up as a "unilaterally polarising" attitude that has bogged the negotiations down. India will be the "fall guy". Then, in the last few days, the US and China will come together and foist a deal with the support of the French and other European countries.

A promise of money will be made to keep developing countries happy.

Indeed, the money promises have begun to pour in.

Four European countriesGermany, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland-today announced a new US $500 million initiative that will find new ways to create incentives aimed at largescale cuts in greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries to combat climate change. The World Bank Group has worked with the countries to develop the initiative, called the Transformative Carbon

Asset Facility.

Also, 11 countries, including Canada, United Kingdom and the US, have pledged close to $250 million in new money for adaptation support to the most vulnerable countries on the planet into a fund called the Least Developed Countries Fund.

Coming back to the plot; a beginning in this direction has already been made. A few days ago, a one-page non-paper of the US was conveniently "leaked" to the media. A non-paper is not an official position, but a paper that suggests the intention of a country. This non-paper of the US essentially proposes to rewrite the convention. It proposes to eliminate differentiation between developed and developing countries and marginalise the principle of CBDR and equity, replacing it with the concept of "self-differentiation"-as President Obama put it in his Leaders' Plenary speech: "Targets that are set not for each of us, but by each of us" (emphasis added). It makes no firm commitment on finance or technology from the developed countries and proposes a bottom-up, dowhat-you-want climate re-

With CM Kejriwal tweeting "Delhi has done it!‌" within a few hours of his ambitious odd-even plan going live in the capital, reports from the rest of the day suggested that Delhiites indeed took the challenge positively. Reports on air quality, as gathered by the Indian Express, suggested that while there were dips in particulate matter readings at a few air monitoring stations in Delhi, it would be too soon to judge if the plan is actually working.

To make sure there is ease of travel, in another interesting measure, the Delhi government has chosen to provide last mile connectivity by running a free electric scooter service which will be available during the 15day trial period of odd-even formula in the national capital.

The government has been provided with 100 such scooters by private electric vehicle manufacturer - Hero Electric, which will be deployed at Metro stations and prominent destinations like Connaught Place and Delhi Secretariat, said a senior government official.

Delhi PWD minister Satyendra Jain today flagged off a fleet of electric scooters at Secretariat today. He also rode on one of

the scooters on the occasion.

Hero Electric has named their initiative 'Free and Clean Ride', hoping to raise awareness on E-Mobility among commuters as they say it is way more ecofriendly.

With riders of these bikes dressed in special uniforms that are easy to identify, "Commuters can benefit from the free scooter service.

They will be dropped to their destination by a scooter driver who will not charge them anything," added the official from the government.

In view of the large number of private vehicles going off roads due to road rationing as per odd even formula, Delhi government has augmented public transport with

3000 extra buses.

An app has also been launched by the government for hiring autos but the question of last mile connectivity has still not been completely addressed. The government has also launched a helpline number to keep a check on errant auto rickshaw drivers.

The helpline number received 200 complaints on the first day of trial of oddeven formula and 66 auto drivers were challaned, said a senior government official.

So while some commuters complained of the metro being more crowded than usual, the real test, everyone agreed would be on Monday the 4th of January when the office going population comes out.

gime with no special obligations on developed countries to cut emissions.

Most of what this non-paper states goes against India's stand.

India has two choices. Either it can get sucked into this whirlpool of what increasingly looks like a welllaid out plan or it can propound a counter-narrative that will turn the tables on developed countries. I believe India has an opportunity, in Paris, to do exactly that.

It is important for India to get its objective, and the communication of this objective, right. It should clearly communicate the fact that Paris is the last chance to operationalise the principle of equity and CBDR. The fifth assessment report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has clearly put out the number on the amount of carbon dioxide the world can emit to maintain the safety threshold of a temperature increase of less than 2? since the preindustrial era. This carbon space of 1,000-1,400 billion tonnes, which can be emitted from now till 2100, is fast disappearing.

Consider, for instance, the UNFCCC's Synthesis re-

port on the aggregate effect of the intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs). By 2030, if countries do not increase their ambition to reduce emissions, 60-75 percent of the carbon budget will be exhausted. In 2030, the Human Development Index (HDI) of South Asian and most African countries will be less than 0.65. These countries will need carbon budget post-2030 to meet basic development needs like food, shelter, infrastructure and energy.

The Paris climate conference must ensure that this "development space" is made available to developing countries. And this can only happen if, at Paris, countries agree on architecture of fair allocation of carbon budget and fair burden-sharing between countries.

With this objective in mind, India should put counter proposals on the table for the developed countries to oppose. For instance, if developed countries want review and ratcheting-up of mitigation every five years, India should not oppose it.

It should rather put a proposal which will ensure that review and ratcheting-up is done keeping in view the

principle of equity and fair allocation of carbon budget.

India should also support the key demands of least developed countries and small island states. These countries want a financial mechanism to take care of the loss and damage suffered by them due to climate change. They also want that the temperature increase should be limited to 1.5? and not 2?. India should not oppose the 1.5? limit outright; rather, it should say that both 1.5? and 2? should be kept as targets, as done in previous climate conferences.

It is important that India's position reflects both the aspirations and threat of climate change to the developing world. An article written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Financial Times does partially capture this when he says that "the lifestyles of a few must not crowd out opportunities for the many still on the first steps of the development ladder". However, India should strongly reflect the views of the poor in the developing countries who are bearing the brunt of climate change. India should start articulating its position in the interest of the poor of the world and not only its own poor.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

BUSINESS

Travelling by trains might become costlier New Delhi, Jan 10: Passengers may have to pay higher fares following the finance ministry's recent decision to cut gross budgetary support to railways ministry by Rs.12,000 crore, a senior government official said. "The finance ministry has advised us to mobilise our own resources. That can happen if we increase the volume of passengers and freight. For freight, barring coal, the core sector is not so robust with cement, steel and construction sectors performing poorly. We may have to look at the bitter pills of increasing the passenger fares apart from cutting costs," said the official.

"We have taken up the matter with the ministry of finance and hopeful that our budgetary support will be restored," the official added. Last year, till December, the ministry of railways had spent 69 per cent of the budgetary out-

lay of Rs.30,100 crore.

The gross budgetary support constitutes more than 40 per cent of the ministry of railways' total plan outlay of Rs.1,00,011 crore for this financial year. Ministry of Railway officials said the funding cuts may affect ongoing railway projects and the government may consider increasing passenger fares to generate revenues. Recently, the government had increased Tatkal booking charges by up to 33 per cent for travel in sleeper class, AC-III tier, AC-II tier and executive class. The finance ministry informed the Railways that Plan Expenditure in the Revised Estimates for 2015-16 is fixed at Rs. 28,000 crore as opposed to the budgetary support of Rs. 40,000 crore it had been granted, sources said. The finance ministry has cited the slow pace of expenditure by the Railways for the cutback and

Daily DubaiKochi flight to be introduced by AI

Image for representational puropose

Dubai, Jan 10: Air India will introduce daily flight services from Dubai to Kochi from January 11, adhering the long-pending demand of Indians living here, the company has announced. "Air India will be operating Dubai-KochiDubai sector with brand new A320 aircraft with cap of 180 seats," said Melwin D'Silva, Regional Manager Gulf, Middle East and Africa of Air India.

With this, the flight oper-

ating from Sharjah-KochiSharjah would stand withdrawn effective January 11, he said. Air India operates 74 flights per week in and out of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah international airports. Flight AI934 on Dubai-Kochi sector will depart from Dubai at 1330 hours and arrive in Kochi at 1910 hours local time, he said. "On the return leg, AI-933 will depart from Kochi to Dubai at 0935 hours and arrive in Dubai at 1235 hours local time," he said. Air India and Air India Express operates more than 300 flights per week between India and Gulf countries.

Air India is also offering an introductory promotional fare of AED 330 one way and AED 785 return with 30 kg free baggage allowance. (Agencies)

Bhanumurthy appointed as the new COO of Wipro Bengaluru, Jan 10: A few days after the appointment of Abidali Neemuchwala as CEO of India's third largest IT services provider, Wipro has made more changes in its senior leadership structure. It has elevated company veteran Bhanumurthy B. M. as the President and Chief Operating Officer and also appointed another senior leader G. K. Prasanna as the head of a newly formed created unit, Marketing, Innovations and Technology (MIT). These announcements were made by newly appointed CEO Abidali Neemuchwala in an internal mail sent to Wipro employees. According to the company, the changes will be effective from February 1, 2016. With the appointment of a COO, similar to its rival

Infosys, Wipro is planning to unify its service offerings, enhance the company's market visibility and drive delivery innovation. In his new role, Mr. Bhanumurthy will report to CEO Mr. Neemuchuwala and provide leadership to all the service lines (Business Application Services, Global Infrastructure Services, Product Engineering Services, Analytics, Application Management Services and Business Process Services), Service Transformation and Excellence, Global Delivery Enablement and Quality functions. Wipro has also formed a new team Marketing, Innovations and Technology, which will focus on non-linear growth engines, products and platform based services. (Agencies)

also asked the public sector behemoth to meet its revenue expenditure from its revenue receipts. According to official estimates, the ministry of railways had spent Rs.22,204 crore, accounting for over 56 per cent of the total central funds of Rs.40,000 crore till November this year. "We are well on track in meeting our plan expenditure. In fact, till December the early estimates show we have already spent around Rs.27,000 crore. "The expenditure generally picks up in the fourth quarter when we spend around 40 per cent of the total outlay," said a senior railway ministry official.

More than 25 per cent of the railways' gross earnings come from passenger earnings and around 65 per cent from the freight.

Official data showed the core infrastructure sectors contracted by 1.3 per cent in November this

INCREASING PRICE Ø Passengers may have to pay higher fares following the finance ministry's recent decision to cut gross budgetary support to railways ministry by Rs.12,000 crore.

Ø Recently, the govern-

Ø Last year, till December, the ministry of railways had spent 69 per cent of the budgetary outlay of Rs.30,100 crore. The gross budgetary support constitutes more than 40 per cent of the ministry of railways' total plan outlay of Rs.1,00,011 crore for this financial year.

Ø The finance ministry

year against growth of 3.2 per cent in the previous month. "The Railways, at least directionally is on the right track… But movement needs to be a little expedited," Finance Minister, Arun Jaitley, had said. Another railways ministry official said it was way ahead in its

spending till Decemberend. "We had targeted to spend around 55 per cent and we have already spent around 67 per cent of the budgetary support. So the pace of work is alright," the official said. A recent note released by the railways ministry on setting up a Rail Development Author-

ment had increased Tatkal booking charges by up to 33 per cent for travel in sleeper class, AC-III tier, AC-II tier and executive class. informed the Railways that Plan Expenditure in the Revised Estimates for 2015-16 is fixed at Rs. 28,000 crore as opposed to the budgetary support of Rs. 40,000 crore it had been granted.

Ø According to official

trend decline over the past year and has fallen sharply since April in spite of aggressive action from the central bank to boost economic growth, questioning just how solid the economy is," the report said. Respondents saw little hope of a turnaround either, with expectations for the future falling sharply. "The continued decline in consumer sentiment serves as a warning that all is not well in the Indian economy and leads us to question in part the strength of the official GDP data," MNI Indica-

tors Chief Economist Philip Uglow said. "Our data shows clearly that household finances are under significant pressure with the outlook for the job market deteriorating further," he said. The survey further noted that there was significantly less optimistic about the job market over the next 12 months, with the employment outlook Indicator falling 7.4 percent on the month to the lowest level since the start of the survey in November 2012. Moreover, there was a drop in confidence in household finances,

Ø The total share of railways in the total transportation of freight traffic has declined from 89 per cent in 1950-51 to 36 per cent in 2007-08

ity of India mentioned that scope of increasing freight tariff is very less even as the traffic is moving to the road sector. The total share of railways in the total transportation of freight traffic has declined from 89 per cent in 1950-51 to 36 per cent in 2007-08.

(Agencies)

with both current and future measures falling to record lows. Almost 94 percent of respondents said they used the majority of their income on daily expenses, with very little left to save or invest. "Rise in inflation has made matters worse with consumers increasingly dissatisfied with current prices," the survey said. Consumers also revised down their expectations for business conditions and were more downbeat in their perception of the current business environment in December. (Agencies)

Talks to be held by VW chief in Washington on emissions scandal Germany, Jan 10: Volkswagen Chief Executive Matthias Mueller will meet with the top U.S. environmental regulator next week for the highestlevel talks since the German automaker admitted to using software to evade emissions requirements for 5,80,000 U.S. vehicles. Mr. Mueller will meet with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Chief Gina McCarthy recently in Washington, at the request of Volkswagen, agency spokeswoman Laura Allen said. McCarthy told reporters at a forum in Washington that EPA has been holding extensive technical discussions with VW, but declined to predict when a fix would be ready. "At this point, we haven't identified a satisfactory way forward, but those discussions are going to continue," Mr. McCarthy said. "We are really anxious to find a way for that company to get into compliance - and we're not there yet." The

Volkswagen Chief Executive Matthias Mueller.

Source: assets.bwbx.io

meeting will take place about a week after the U.S. Justice Department filed a civil suit against VW seeking up to $48 billion in damages under the Clean Air Act. VW declined to comment on the impending meeting.

Mueller also plans visits to Capitol Hill to meet with lawmakers. VW brand chief Herbert Diess said he was "confident we will find an acceptable solution."

Mr. Diess said fixing older VW cars equipped

with 2.0-litre diesel engines would be more difficult than bringing more recent models into compliance. Some U.S. regulators and lawmakers have said VW may have to buy back older models. Diess did not say whether VW was considering that, but was optimistic an agreement with U.S. regulators would be reached soon. As per recent reports that VW would have to buy back about 115,000 cars in the U.S.

$180 million invested in MakeMyTrip by China's Ctrip

estimates, the ministry of railways had spent Rs.22,204 crore, accounting for over 56 per cent of the total central funds of Rs.40,000 crore till November this year.

2015 recorded low level India consumer confidence: Report New Delhi, Jan 10: Consumer sentiments in India fell for the fourth consecutive month in December to the lowest on record, as consumers reported a further deterioration in their personal finances amid rising inflation, a Deutsche Borse report said. The MNI India Consumer Sentiment Indicator fell 4.6 percent to 108.5 in December from 113.7 in November. While sentiment remains above the 100 level, meaning optimists still outnumber pessimists, it has fallen 9.3 percent over the past year.

"Confidence has been in

PAGE 10

as a result of the emissions scandal. VW expected it would have to either refund the purchase price of a fifth of the diesel vehicles affected or offer a new car at a significant discount. VW declined to confirm the report. Mr. Mueller was named chief executive in September, days after the company's longtime CEO, Martin Winterkorn, resigned.

Mr. Winterkorn stepped down after the EPA disclosed that the automaker had secretly installed software that allowed some 20092015 cars to emit up to 40 times the legally permitted amount of pollutants in real-world driving. VW said the issue affected up to 11 million vehicles worldwide. Mr. Mueller is making his first trip to the U.S. since taking over at VW, visiting the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

(Agencies)

Ctrip.com CEO Liang Jianzhang.Source: www.arabiantravelnews.com

Beijing, Jan 10: Travel website Ctrip.com has invested USD 180 million (about Rs 1,200 crore) in Indian online travel company MakeMyTrip. The deal was conducted in the form of convertible bonds, Ctrip.com said in a statement. "With the investment, we will have a place in the rising online travel market in India," Ctrip.com CEO Liang Jianzhang said. The partnership will benefit both companies, as there are many similarities between China and India's online tourism, state-run Xinhua quoted MakeMyTrip CEO Deep Kalra saying.

Founded in 2000,

MakeMyTrip is the biggest online travel agent in India. Tourism grew by 10 percent in the country last year, according to research company PhocusWright. Online sales rose 16 percent last year. Ctrip.com said the move will make it easier for Chinese tourists to visit India. Over 100 million Chinese tourists visited abroad last year spending billions of dollars. The increasing numbers of Chinese tourists abroad made India and number of countries to woo them with easy visa access.

India has extended the evisa scheme to the Chinese tourists. (Agencies)

Maruti to launch SUV Vitara Brezza next month ANI Mumbai, Jan 10: India's biggest car maker Maruti Suzuki will launch a compact sports utility vehicle Vitara Brezza next month. The global unveil of the small SUV will take place at the Delhi Auto Expo in the first week of February.

The first sketch of Vitara Brezza points to a stylish compact SUV designed to appeal the urban SUV customer, stated a release from the Delhi-based company. Brezza is Italian meaning "fresh breeze". In the words of

the designer: "Balanced proportion supported by square wheel arches, short overhangs, high ground clearance and upright hood gives the vehicle a confident stance. The raising belt and rocker lines, and the roofline that slopes down gently towards the rear give the vehicle a dynamic posture", added the release. The all-new model marks Maruti's entry into the sub Rs 10 lakh segment, which is led by Mahindra & Mahindra, Hyundai, Ford and Renault.

GET READY FOR 'BREZZA' Ø India's biggest car maker Maruti Suzuki will launch a compact sports utility vehicle Vitara Brezza next month. Ø The global unveil of the small SUV will take place at the Delhi Auto Expo in the first week of February. Ø The first sketch of Vitara Brezza points to a stylish compact SUV designed to appeal the urban SUV customer. Ø Brezza is Italian meaning "fresh breeze".

In the words of the designer: "Balanced proportion supported by square wheel arches, short overhangs, high ground clearance and upright hood gives the vehicle a confident stance. Ø The raising belt and rocker lines, and the roofline that slopes down gently towards the rear give the vehicle a dynamic posture. Ø The all-new model marks Maruti's entry into the sub Rs 10 lakh segment, which is led

by Mahindra & Mahindra, Hyundai, Ford and Renault.

Nissan to drive in more cars First Android smartwatch unveiled by Casio New Delhi, Jan 10: Nissan will unveil a new hatchback in the belowRs.four lakh segment in the next few months as the Japanese auto maker prepares for a new growth phase in India with its revamped dealer business and new cars, according to a top official of the company. The new small car under the Datsun brand is expected to be positioned in the Maruti Alto segment. It has been developed under Renault-Nissan alliance's new vehicle architecture CMF-A, a global platform meant to design and develop low budget cars for India and other markets, Gulliaume Sicard, Presi-

dent-Nissan India operations said during the one millionth car roll-out from Renault-Nissan's alliance factory near Chennai.

"We plan to launch this new car before this summer and I would say it will be a segment breaker with a very high level of quality for that segment.

It will also have a good pricing," Gulliaume Sicard said. The CMF-A platform's first small car was Renault Kwid, introduced in September 2015.

The product received tremendous response from customers with over 85,000 bookings in the country. Nissan indicated the new car will not have any 'Kwid' gene in it.

Though the platform is the same, vehicle body and others will be totally different. Till about two years ago, the alliance had spawned some rebadged cars in India. Since sales of such cars didn't meet expectations, it decided not to do any rebadging in the future. Apart from new products under Datsun brand, the company is also planning to roll out new vehicles under Nissan brand, which will be showcased at the Auto Expo next month.

Mr.Sicard said the awareness levels for Nissan and Datsun brands in India had improved after the reorganisation of its dealership business. (Agencies)

Pune, Jan 10: Casio Computer Company has released its first ever smartwatch, the Smart Outdoor Watch WSDF10. It is durable and designed for outdoor activities such as, trekking and mountain biking. The Smart Outdoor is an Android Wear device and users can customize it with apps of their choice.

It can measure altitude, air pressure, as well as sunrise and sunset times.

It is also water resistant up to 50 meters with a compass and accelerometer. The face of the watch is equipped with a

SMART SMARTWATCHES Ø The Smart Outdoor Watch WSD-F10. It is durable and designed for

outdoor activities such as, trekking and mountain biking.

Ø The Smart Outdoor is an Android Wear device and users can customize

it with apps of their choice.

Ø It can measure altitude, air pressure, as well as sunrise and sunset

times. It is also water resistant up to 50 meters with a compass and accelerometer. The face of the watch is equipped with a double-layered LCD screen. One is monochrome and the other color.

Ø In the monochrome watch mode, the battery can last over a month long showing the time. In the color mode, users can display their applications. Ø The Smart Outdoor watch even has an application that enables users to connect the watch to the digital Casio EXILM Outdoor Recording Gear EX-FR100 to control the camera from a distance. Ø Casio's Smart Outdoor Watch will be available in the US in April priced at $500.

double-layered LCD screen. One is monochrome and the other color. In the monochrome watch mode, the battery can last over a month long showing the time. In the color mode, users can display their applications.

The Smart Outdoor watch even has an application that enables users to connect the watch to the digital Casio EXILM Outdoor Recording Gear EX-FR100 to control the camera from a distance.

Casio's Smart Outdoor Watch will be available in the US in April priced at $500. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

Features

PAGE 11

ENVIRONMENT Coal Mining in Nagaland Haunts Flora, Fauna & People Nagaland is blessed with rich natural resources. Of these, coal is one such resource which can uplift the economy of the local people and Nagaland State in general if utilized properly.

Coal deposits are distributed in eight districts of the State. Existence of coal was first known in 1842 though a detailed and comprehensive report of the coal deposits in the State is yet to be brought out, according to a booklet on 'Study of coal mining areas in Nagaland and its impact on environment,' published by Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) in 2015.

In Nagaland, the Department of Geology and

Mining brought out Coal Policy 2006 to achieve the best use of available coal resources through mining, beneficiation and economic utilization, keeping in view the constitutional safeguards provided to the State under Article 371-A of the Constitution with regard to land and its resources.

The most practiced coal mining method in Nagaland is rat-hole mining. In districts like Mon and Longleng, open cast mining is actively practiced too. As of now, the current picture of coal mining (both abandoned sites and ongoing mining activities) in the State is not a pleasant sight as it is done without any proper planning leading

to wastage of coal reserves and causing hazards such a landslide and subsidence in many areas.

"This poses threat to the flora, fauna and the local people living in the vicinity," the booklet stated, adding that "mining may be for a short period of time but the impact caused is long lasting and grievous. Its impact can be seen on air, water and land environment."

The booklet also stated that exposure of underground rocks and mineral releasing toxic gases on reaction with oxygen, water and sunlight caused air pollution which contributes to global warming, climate change etc. Excessive dust from mining interferes with photosyn-

thetic & physiological activities of plants thereby retarding their growth. It also disrupts the air quality leading to many air borne diseases.

The booklet also stated that excavation of large areas also releases many toxic minerals which are harmful to aquatic organisms, especially fish, because of its acidity. It is also reported that people living in the vicinity of mining sites have problems with drinking water because of the presence of high iron content and complaints of water borne diseases like typhoid, jaundice, cholera etc.

The booklet also stated that agriculture, which is a source of livelihood for villagers, is facing haz-

ards as cultivable land has started losing its fertility because of mining activity which removes the top soil and contaminates the land and water with its toxic discharges. These result in uprooting the indigenous people from their native place. Noise and vibration lead to wild animals and birds being driven away from the nearby forests due to blasting and operation of machines.

"These show that blessings can sometimes turn out to be a curse if we fail to utilize them in a proper way," the booklet added.

"Mining must be done in a scientific and sustainable manner without much harm to environment for strengthening the

Source: northeastnews.in

social structure," the booklet stated.

"Coal is one of the major resources of Nagaland and coal mining has been practiced since 18th century. Coal mining requires deforestation and soil excavation thereby leads to disturbance in the forest cover besides water pollution from the leachates," stated Parliamentary Sec-

retary of Industries and Commerce, Amenba Yaden in the preface.

Yaden stated that NPCB has been trying to implement the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 beside other Acts and Rules through consent management and regulating mining activities "so that our resources is utilized with minimum damage to our

environment by following proper Mine Closure Plans." Akangmeren Imchen, scientists B Khriehunuo Rutsa and Lhaihoichoing Singson, both junior research fellows, besides others were instrumental in this project.

Courtesy:Northeasttoday.in

Scientists discover nursery Wreathed Hornbills sighted in Mokokchung ground for sand tiger sharks Scientists and veterinarians working for WCS's New York Aquarium have discovered something noteworthy in the near shore waters of Long Island's Great South Bay: a nursery ground for the sand tiger shark, a fearsome-looking but non-aggressive fish.

The discovery was made by researchers who have collected a wealth of information on sharks in local waters over the past four years through the use of acoustic tags, devices that enable scientists to remotely track marine animals as they swim through their environment.

These data have helped the scientists confirm the existence of the nursery in Great South Bay, one of the rich estuaries found along Long Island's southern shore. Only a handful of sand tiger shark nursery grounds have been identified, one of which is in the waters of Massachusetts.

"The discovery of a shark nursery is fantastic news for local conservationists seeking to learn more about sharks and other species in the New York Bight," said Jon Dohlin, Vice President and Director of WCS's New York Aquarium. "Through field projects and outreach efforts by the New York Aquarium and other organizations, we hope to raise awareness about our local marine environment and the need to manage our natural wonders."

The team received the first indications of a potential nursery ground in Great South Bay in 2011 when one of the scientists received a picture of a dead juvenile sand tiger shark from one of the marinas. Follow-up conversations with local anglers and boaters revealed that people had been catching these small sharks in the bay for years. The scientists then initiated the tagging study using acoustic transmitters in Great South Bay and have been catching and releasing only juvenile sharks since that time. Ten of the 15 were individual sharks tagged this year, and five individuals tagged in previous seasons returned to the same section of the bay, a behavior known as "site fidelity."

Data gathered from the sharks' movements are helping scientists learn more about the migratory behavior of sand tiger sharks and their habitat needs. The discovery

of the Great South Bay shark nursery in particular is important because the sand tiger shark has been heavily depleted by fishing and is listed as a "Species of Concern" by the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service. Fishing for sand tiger sharks has been prohibited in state and federal waters since 1997. The species has a low reproductive rate--a female shark gives birth to only one or two pups every two years--so it will take this sand tiger shark population many years to rebuild. Protecting the nursery will help promote sand tiger shark recovery in the coastal waters of the eastern United States.

"Sand tiger shark pups are not born here but migrate

are eating. More work is being done, including health studies, to address these and other questions. Recreational and commercial fishing for sand tiger sharks is prohibited in Great South Bay and in all state and federal waters.

However, the Great South Bay is not protected and a great deal of boating, recreational fishing, dredging, and other human activities take place there. Outreach to the public, especially anglers, is also underway to help improve the conservation status of sand tiger and other local sharks and rays.

Throughout the 2015 research season (during which 15 juvenile sand tiger sharks were tracked with 18 acoustic receivers in Great South

scape program based out of WCS's New York Aquarium to study and protect sharks and rays in the New York Bight, the region between Long Island's Montauk Point and New Jersey's Cape May that extends out to the continental shelf and over the Hudson Canyon. More than 40 species of sharks and rays are known to occur in these waters.

In addition to the sand tiger study, NY Seascape researchers attached archival satellite tags to two blue sharks in the waters south of Long Island in 2015. These tags will gather data for 6 months before they are scheduled to pop off and begin broadcasting archived location data back to the re-

Source: sciencedaily.com

from down south to spend the summers as juveniles in New York's coastal waters," said Dr. Merry Camhi, Director of the NY Seascape program, WCS's local marine conservation program.

"The acoustically tagged animals in our study will help us better understand where the sharks go, their habitat needs, and how we can better protect them."

The Great South Bay shark nursery provides juvenile sand tiger sharks ranging from several months to five years in age with a place to feed and grow. A nursery also gives juvenile sharks protection from predators, including other sharks. After birth off the southeastern United States (sand tiger sharks give birth to live young as opposed to laying eggs), the juvenile sharks migrate north in the spring and spend the summer in New York waters before returning south in the fall.

There are still many unknowns about the nursery.

Scientists are not sure how much of the bay is used by these sharks, the number of young sharks in the bay each summer, or what the sharks

Bay), Dr. Camhi was assisted

by NY Seascape Research Program Officer Jake LaBelle and New York Aquarium Animal Department Supervisor Hans Walters. WCS Veterinarian Dr. Alisa Newton provided assistance with the tagging process and collected blood samples for baseline health assessments. Also, volunteer anglers provided their expertise, boats, and gear to support this conservation work.

Growing up to 10 feet in length, the sand tiger shark is widely distributed and found in the temperate water and subtropical waters of many of the world's coastlines. Although it is not known how many sand tiger sharks remain, the species is listed as globally "Vulnerable" on the IUCN's Red List of Threatened Species, while populations in parts of Australia and Argentina are classified as "Critically Endangered." The NY Seascape program is collaborating with WCS shark scientists from Argentina to improve the understanding of sand tigers in the Southwest Atlantic, which have been severely depleted by overfishing.

The work is part of an initiative by WCS's NY Sea-

search team. They also tracked three juvenile shortfin mako sharks and one blue shark tagged with near real-time satellite monitoring tags in 2014.

Sharks will be the central focus of Ocean Wonders: Sharks!, a 57,000-squarefoot exhibit building currently under construction at the New York Aquarium. The building will house more than 115 marine species, including sharks, skates, and rays.

It will be a destination for education and conservation programming, with important benefits for the economy of Coney Island, Brooklyn, and all of New York City.

In addition to shark research, the NY Seascape program is launching an initiative to study and protect several species of great whale that migrate through New York waters. Restoring migratory fish habitat in the Bronx River, which runs through the Bronx Zoo, is another program focus. NY Seascape staff are examining the movements of American eels and alewife herring in New York City's last remaining freshwater river.

Courtesy: sciencedaily.com

Wildlife Division, Dimapur informed that the hornbill birds sighted at Tenemtsuyong forest area at Khar village under Mokokchung district of Nagaland are Wreathed Hornbills.

The species of the six hornbill sighted in the densely forested area of Khar village was identified after staff of Dimapur Wildlife Division were deputed to confirm the reported sighting. On January 3, Khar Village Council had reported that six hornbill, in three pairs were sighted in their forest area, after more than three decades. Accordingly, the village council had also served prohibitory orders banning shooting of the birds.

A press statement received from Wildlife Warden, Dimapur Wildlife Division, K Caroline said its forest staff was deputed on duty to Mangkolemba on January 5 for ground observation to confirm the presence of the hornbill birds reportedly sighted by the locals of the area.

Tenemtzuyong forest area along the route to Khar village where the locals had earlier sighted the hornbills. However, the team did not see the birds that day. But reliable information and tail feathers found in the area

of food resource and nesting cavities as their breeding season was approaching near. The topography of the forest area where the hornbills were sighted is virgin forest with steep cliffs, which is known to be the favored haunt of

Source: northeasttoday.in

confirmed their presence and the species of hornbill.

According to Dimapur wildlife division, the whole length of the tail feather retrieved from the area was fully white, which is a distinct identifying characteristic of Wreathed Hornbill from other hornbill species found in Northeast India.

It also observed that the reason for the arrival of was most likely in search

the hornbill birds. Therefore, if proper safety and no disturbance is given to the birds, the return of the hornbills permanently to the area could become a reality," the press statement said.

Further, in line with the effort of the administration of Mangkolemba sub division to ban the locals from hunting, Wildlife Warden, Dimapur has also discouraged the locals from hunting the

hornbills. It also reminded that hornbills fall under Schedule-I of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and persons hunting such animals and birds can be imprisoned up to 7 years with fine of up to Rs 25, 000.

There have been reports that initially more hornbill birds were sighted from the forested area.

One of the birds reportedly was shot down by hunters from an adjoining village on December 30, 2015, Khar Village Council Chairman when contacted said. It is learnt that the carcass of the hornbill was reportedly seized from the hunter and handed over to the Forest department.

ADC Mangkolemba, Wapang Aier said the ban on hunting of hornbill birds has been imposed on the three ranges falling under Mangkolemba sub division namelyChangkikong, Japukong and Tzurangkong which comprises of around 40 villages.

Courtesy: northeasttoday.in

Floating Keibul Lamjao National Park Likely to get World Heritage Site Tag Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP) which is the only floating national park in the world would be nominated among probable World Heritage Sites within the current month.

UNESCO decided to nominate KLNP among probable World Heritage Sites after the Manipur State Government submitted a proposal to the Union Forest and Environment Minister to this end, informed a high ranking official of the State Forest Department. Due consultation has been already done and KLNP would be nominated in the first tentative which would be declared as World Heritage Sites.

Meanwhile, it is reported that Union Forest and Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar would make a direct assessment of KLNP which is 40 sq Kms in area who is arriving in Imphal on a two-day official visit on January 8. spect Dampi Reserved Forest where a sec-

Source: nelive.in

ond home of Sangai is proposed to be developed.

Prakash Javadekar would

cultivators at Sanjenthong Forest office regarding the global climate change. The

Union Minister would also visit Loktak Lake. (Agencies)

cmyk

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, JANUARY 11

PAGE 12

Raonic defeats rusty Federer Yasir Shah set to appeal to win Brisbane International against doping suspension

Brisbane, Jan.10 (ANI): Fourth-seeded Milos Raonic on Sunday displayed sheer brilliance as he defeated top-seeded Roger Federer to clinch the men's singles title of theBrisbane Internationaltournament.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion ultimately suffered a straight 4-6, 4-6 defeat at the hands of the Canadian in a match that lasted for one hour and 26 minutes.

Bale, Real give perfect start to Zidane London, Jan.10 (ANI): Gareth Bale's brilliant hat trick gave Real Madrid's new manager Zinadine Zidane a perfect start as the club demolishedDeportivo La Coruna 5-0 in La Liga.

In the first match since the departure of previous manager Rafael Benitez, Karim Benzema also claimed his 100th league goal for the club with an early opener.

Bale headed the second and found the bottom corner after the break before sealing his treble with another header.

Jubiliant with the team's victory, Zidane said that Gareth could be very happy about what he did as it was not easy to score three goals, the Guardian reported.

He also insisted the player to continue with the form.

The world number three was never in the game, making many unforced errors and showing a rather rusty performance.

The Swiss great, who was bidding for an 89th career title on Pat Rafter Arena, was for the second time in 11 innings defeated by Roanic.

With the win, Raonic has set a strong lead-in to the upcoming Australian Open.

Milos Raonic

Injured Southee out of Pakistan T20s Auckland, Jan.10 (ANI): New Zealand pacer Tim Southee, who has been suffering from a bruising left foot, has been ruled outof the three-match T20 series against Pakistan.

The 27year-old, who suffered the injury during the third ODI against Sri Lanka, was originally hoped he could recover in time for T20s against Pakistan.

But the CT scan has revealed that the injury was slightly more serious.

Confirming the news, New Zealand batting coach Craig Mcmillan said, "It's something that will take a wee while to get right. I'm not exactly sure of the time frame - whether it's two to three weeks - as to where he is at. The plan in place, fingers crossed, is that hopefully he'll be back for the

end of the season - back firing for the Australia series," he was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

The absence of the righthanded pacer, who is seen as the spearhead of the limited overs attack, would be a substantial blow to the line-up.

Meanwhile, Pakistani bats-

man Umar Akmal has been suspended from the first T20 international against New Zealand after the country's cricket board slapped him with a onematch ban for violating the dress code in a domestic match earlier this week.

The first of Pakistan's T20s will be played in Auckland, on January 15.

This is the most bizarre run out ever!

Sydney, Jan.10 (ANI): Somebody needs to tell Adam Zampa that cricket is not a contact sport as the Melbourne Stars bowler was lucky not to lose a few teeth during Saturday's Big Bash clash against Melbourne Renegades.

The leg-spinner was bowling to Renegades batsman Darren Bravo in the 13th over of the match, when the batsman hit the delivery straight back down the pitch.

The ball collided with Peter Nevill's bat, who was standing at the non-striker's end, only to get diverted at the face of Zampa who was trying to field the delivery, Sydney Morning

Herald reported.

After hitting Zampa's nose, the

Umar Akmal suspended from NZ T20 over clothing breach

Karachi, Jan.10 (ANI): Pakistani batsman Umar Akmal has been suspended from the first T20 international against New Zealand after the country's cricket board slapped him with a one-match ban for violating the dress code in a domestic match earlier this week.

According to the Dawn, team manager Intikhab Alam said Umar would not be available for the first T20 to be played in Auckland on January 15.

He said that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had informed them that the 23-

year-old has been banned on violating dress code during the final of the Quaidi-Azam trophy.

The right handed batsman, playing for the domestic team Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, was found to have committed a level one offence by sporting two logos instead of the allowed one on his kit.

It was also reported that Umar, who was warned by PCB match referee Anwar Khan, did not remove the extra logo after which Khan slapped him with a onematch ban. (ANI)

ball bounced directly and knocked the bails off the stumps, dismissing Nevill, who had no time to return back into the crease.

Good for the 23-year-old leggie that he appeared relatively unhurt after being hit in the face, receiving treatment for a bloodied and potentially broken nose.

The incident drew a lot of fans to Twitter to make light of the young spin bowler's unfortunate injury. (ANI) Guptill-Munro squash Lanka in 2nd T20 Eden Park, Jan.10 (ANI): Auckland duo Martin Guptill and Colin Munro on Sunday displayed a six-hitting exhibition to lead New Zealand to a

massive nine-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the second Twenty20.

Chasing a mediocre target of 143, the hosts needed just 10 overs to secure a 2-0 series triumph.

Guptill, who smashed five sixes and six fours in his record innings, scored 63 off 25 balls before being the only wicket to fall at 95-1 in only the seventh over during the run chase.

Munro, the South Africanborn lefty, then came to his own and smashed seven sixes and one four in his unbeaten 50 off 14 balls.

This was the second fastest half-century in international Twenty20 history and the fastest by aNew Zealand batsman.

Earlier, the Lankan batters who were seduced by the short boundaries of the Eden Park, aimed slog after slog at the straight fence, and fell in quick succession.

Angelo Mathews, who showed some resistance with an unbeaten 81, eclipsed his previous best of 58 against England.

Tillakaratne Dilshan with 28 was the only other Sri Lankan to reach double figures as the wickets tumbled.

Grant Elliott was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4 for 22 from his full quota. (ANI)

Karachi, Jan.10 (ANI): Star Pakistani leg-spinner Yasir Shah is all set to appeal against the suspension handed to him by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The 29-year-old has informed the cricket body through the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that he will contest the case.

"We, on behalf of Yasir, have exercised the right of appeal and informed the ICC that he will contest his case," a PCB spokesman was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

He also said that it was the

player's right and he was ready to put up his case before the ICC. The leggie was handed a provisional suspension by the International Cricket Council ( ICC) on Sunday after being charged with an anti-doping rule violation.

The sample Yasir provided in an in-competition test, which was conducted on 13 November 2015, was found to contain the presence of chlortalidone, a Prohibited Substance which appears in Section 5 of the WADA Prohibited List (in the category of Specified Substances).

Yasir Shah

India must win one match against Australia to retain second position Dubai, Jan.10 (ANI): World champion Australia goes on head to head with former World Cup winner India in the five-match ODI series starting in Perth on Tuesday, with its numberone ranking in the ICC ODI Team Championship secured.

Australia (127) leads second-ranked India (114) by 13 points and even if it loses all the five matches of the series, Australia will drop points but will still finish one point ahead of India. In contrast, if India loses all the five matches, then it will slip behind South Africa and will join fourth-ranked New Zealand on 111 points, but will be ranked third when the ratings are calculated beyond the decimal point.

To retain its second place, the 1983 and 2011 world champion needs to win at least one match of the series.

Meanwhile, in the ICC Player Rankings for ODI batsmen, India boasts three batsmen inside the top 10, while Australia only has Glenn Maxwell in 10th po-

sition.

Virat Kohli is the highestranked batsman from either side in second position. He trails number-one ranked AB de Villiers of South Africa by 96 points but is ahead of another South African, Hashim Amla, by 28 points. This means the India Test captain will be aiming to produce solid performances to not only consolidate his second position but to also narrow the gap with the top-ranked de Villiers.

Sixth-ranked Mahendra Singh Dhoni and seventhranked Shikhar Dhawan are separated by just 11 points, which means there can potentially be some changes in the middle of the pack depending on how these two batsmen perform.

Batsmen sitting outside the top 10 and aiming for upward movement include Rohit Sharma (13th), Aaron Finch (14th), George Bailey (15th), Steven Smith (20th), David Warner (23rd), Ajinkya Rahane (28th) and James Faulkner (30th).

In the ICC Player Rankings for ODI Bowlers, India's off-spinner Ravichandran

Ashwin will start as the highest-ranked bowler from either side in the absence of number-one ranked Mitchell Starc.

Ashwin, who is the numberone ranked Test bowler, is in 10th position and will be aiming to return to the top five. However, to make it happen, he will have to produce exceptional performances as he trails South Africa's fifth-ranked Dale Steyn by 42 points.

India fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar is the next highest-ranked bowler to feature in the series. He

Hard for Federer to believe Tomic making it to top 10 Melbourne, Jan. 10 (ANI): Swiss Master Roger Federer, who has now heard Bernard Tomic speaking about his top ten goals for quite some time, will believe the latter making it to the A-listers once he sees it.

The world number three insisted that Tomic has been good in the recent past but top 10 was another story, news.com.au reported.

The top-seed at the Brisbane International offered the Australian a reality check after his strong showing at the tournament.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion said that before speaking so highly, it was good to take it to the next level and then all the people would be able to see that.

Tomic suffered a heart wrench-

ing defeat at the hands of Milos Raonic in the semi-finals of the Brisbane event on Saturday.

Defeating Tomic 7-6 (7-5) 7-6 (7-5), Raonic will now meet Federer in a rematch of last year's decider on Sunday night

at Pat Rafter Arena.

According to Federer, Tomic, who notched his seventh career win over a top 10 player by beating Japanese star Kei Nishikori, will take huge positives away from the Brisbane International.

is in 14th position and 43 points behind Ashwin.

Other bowlers aiming for upward movements include Faulkner (22nd), Ravindra Jadeja (25th), Axar Patel (30th) and Umesh Yadav (37th).

In the ICC Player Rankings for ODI All-Rounders, fourth-ranked Maxwell and fifth-ranked Faulkner will be aiming to gain one place each as they have Sri Lanka's Tillakaratne Dilshan firmly within their sights. The list is headed by Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh.

Djokovic crushes Nadal to clinch Qatar Open title Sydney, Jan.10 (ANI): World number one Novak Djokovic moved ahead for the first time in his long-running rivalry with Rafael Nadalafter he defeated the latter to clinch the Qatar Open title.

The Serbian defeated the Spaniard 6-1, 6-2 in the match that lasted for an hour, to claim his first title of the year, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The 28-year-old continued his recent dominance of the 14time Grand Slam winner with a ninth victory in 10 meetings - the last five in straight sets.

The world number one had dominated 2015, winning three of the year's four grand slams, and he already looks in the groove in the build-up to this month's Australian Open.

(ANI)

Nadal lauds `perfect` Djokovic post Qatar Open Melbourne, Jan.10 (ANI): After suffering defeat at the hands of World number one Novak Djokovic in the title clash of the Qatar Open,Rafael Nadal has delivered the highest praise to the former.

The Serbian defeated the Spaniard 6-1, 6-2 in the

match that lasted for an hour, to claim his first title of the year.

Lavishing praise on the 28-year-old, the world number five said that he played against a player who did everything perfect.

The Spaniard continued saying when he said per-

fect, he was not talking about one thing in particular but everything.

The 14-time Grand Slam champion insisted that he has never seen anybody playing tennis like this ever.

Earlier, Djokovic moved ahead for the first time in his long-running rivalry

with Nadal after he defeated the latter to clinch the Qatar Open title.

The world number one had dominated 2015, winning three of the year's four grand slams, and he already looks in the groove in the build-up to this month's Australian Open. (ANI)

Printed, Published and Owned by NIKH KHOPI and Printed at PEE GEE(India) Ltd., C/O Asomiya Khabar Pulibor, Jorhat-785006 and Published from T.C Borah Building, 1st Floor, Next to Sankardeva Hospital, Mancotta Road, Chowkidingee Dibrugarh-786001, Assam. Email: editor.easterntoday@gmail.com. For advertisement: advt.easterntoday@gmail.com

Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

cmyk

cmyk

Tele : Dibrugarh, 0373-2328944, for circulation contact: 8471896580, Telephone & Fax: 0373-2328944.