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ASSENG/2015/64205
Vol. 1
Issue 157
Quality Assurance and Sustenance in Higher Education
Dibrugarh, Thursday, November 12, 2015
JOBS & CAREERS
Page 8
ET CAPSULES State BJP Diwali greetings Itanagar, Nov 11: Arunachal Pradesh BJP today extended greetings and warm wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of Deepawali, the festival of lights to celebrate victory of good over evil. State BJP in a release wished that this festival of lights be the harbinger of peace, harmony, prosperity and happiness to illuminate everyone’s life. (Bureau)
Road mishap, 1 dead Golaghat, Nov 11: In the Letekujan region, one person is reported to have died in a road accident at 12:30 am last night. As per reports, one person named Bhim Chetri was on his bike bearing number AS05G3781along with Binod Mura. They were on the way to Letekujan Chapari. At one point, the speedy bike lost control and went into a drain by the roadside leading to the spot dead of Binod Mura. Bhim Chetry was taken to Numaligarh Hospital and from there was referred to Jorhat Medical College. (Correspondent)
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22% growth in October's car sales, fastest in 4.5 years
Dancers light up Sydney Harbour Bridge for Diwali
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ULFA leader Anup Chetia handed over to India bdnews24.com New Delhi, Nov 11
A top Assamese separatist leader has been handed over to India by Bangladesh, top Indian officials said. They said Golap Barua alias Anup Chetia, former 'general secretary' of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), has been handed over to Indian officials early on Wednesday. Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, after initially denying knowledge of the handover, said Chetia's handover has been done legally after his prison sentence was over. But it was not clear where the handover took place and how will Chetia be brought back. Contd. on Page 3
ANUP’S UNCERTAIN HOMECOMING But it was not
Chetia's handover
clear where the handover took place and how will Chetia be brought back.
is being closely watched by the ULFA, which is now a divided house. Both the Arabinda Rajkhowa faction, which is now negotiating with the Indian government, and the Paresh Barua faction, which is continuing the separatist campaign, would try drawing Chetia to their fold.
Top Indian home ministry officials said Chetia will be brought to Delhi for questioning but then may be handed over to the Assam police as he has cases against him in that state.
One Indian Golap Barua alias Anup Chetia, former 'general secretary' of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), has been handed over to Indian officials.
intelligence official hinted that he was flown back to Delhi but did not provide details.
The PTI said Chetia was handed over after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally intervened in the matter.
Rebel Cong MLAs hit back at AICC for BJP remark ET Bureau Itanagar, Nov 11
Nabam Tuki praises Grand Alliance leaders Itanagar, Nov 11: Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Nabam Tuki has congratulated the people of Bihar for reposing faith on the Mahagathbandhan (grand and secular alliance) of JD(U), RJD and Congress. In separate letters to Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, AICC president Sonia Gandhi, vice-president Rahul Gandhi and RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Sunday, Tuki praised their leadership in leading the grand alliance to a landslide victory in one of the most challenging elections after 2014. He expressed happiness that the people of Bihar have shown the country that divisive and communal forces, coupled with intolerance, will not be accepted in a secular country like India. "I wish all success for the overall development of Bihar in the days ahead," Tuki said. (Bureau)
Price -
The Eastern Today wishes its readers, agents, advertisers, clients and all a Happy Diwali.
The 21 rebel Congress MLAs from Arunachal Pradesh, camping in New Delhi to protest against chief minister Nabam Tuki's leadership, strongly opposed a statement by Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) accusing them of hobnobbing with BJP. Terming the accusations 'baseless', the rebel MLAs issued a signed statement on Tuesday evening and said, "We are no less loyal to the party discipline than any other Congress legislator or member of APCC. Our
difference with the current CLP leader and chief minister Nabam Tuki for his undemocratic and autocratic way of functioning cannot be construed as anti-party activity," they added. The rebel MLAs claimed that the accusations brought against them were an attempt to divert attention from the contentious issue of Tuki's leadership. Requesting APCC to refrain from 'crushing' intraparty democracy, they said, "We expect APCC and other frontal wings to act in a mature way, in the interests of the party." The rebel MLAs claimed they were demanding a change in leadership to save the state
Summit on child labourers in tea plantation ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 11
Top lawyers, tea planers, bureaucrats and social activists are rubbing their shoulders in Guwahati when the premier north eastern city is hosting a national seminar on the implementation of a vital law by the tea planters. Jointly organized by
National Law University in Assam and the Assam government on November 14 and 15 at the Administrative Staff College in Khanapara, the seminar is expected discuss in detail a slew of measures to protect child rights in the tea plantation industry in the tea rich north eastern state. Contd. on Page 3
from imminent financial crisis and social unrest. On Monday, AICC general secretary and state in-charge V Narayanasamy had warned of strong action against the rebel MLAs after the 21 legislators stayed away from a CLP meeting on Sunday. A statement by APCC said Narayanasamy had sought action against MLAs 'who work at the command of BJP' and grievances should be brought in 'Congress house and not declared to a different house'. The statement added that Congress's central observers 'were satisfied with the progress of the state under the leadership of chief minister Nabam Tuki'.
Meanwhile, the Indian government is expediting its negotiations with the Rajkhowa faction of ULFA ahead of the Assam assembly elections early next year.
Anup Chetia’s anticipated homecoming brings cheer to his native village A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 11
It spelt happiness for the villagers of Jerai Gaon, Chabua after hearing the news of Anup Chetia’s deportation to India from Bangladesh. The wait for nearly two decades for the family members of Ulfa general secretary Anup Chetia finally seems to have come to an end. Contd. on Page 4 Turn to Page 2 for more News on Chetia’s homecoming
ULFA leader Anup Chetia’s father-in-law Maheswar Borgohain and mother-in-law Haradi Borgohain at Demow in Sivsagar district. Pic - UB Photos
Earthen-lamps: An unprofitable trade now
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Manoj Kr. Ojha Doomdooma, Nov 11
Women in Sivasagar light diyas as India celebrate Diwali, the fesitival of lights. Pic - Firuz Ahmed
In retrospect, to promote the business of the Kumhars’, also known as Parits (a caste in India whose traditional occupation is to make earthen pots), Lalu Prasd Yadav as Railway minister had banned plastic cups for serving tea and had allowed earthen made cups popularly known as ‘chukkad’. It is obvious that earthen made items are ecofriendly and pollution free; however, slowly it is turning into an unprofitable business and the young members of the Kumhar family are wandering about in search of an alternative livelihood. As the people are celebrating Deepawali and Kali Puja, the Kali and Lakhi temples are seen to be decorated with Chinese lights and thereby making the earthen lamp sellers lose business. Contd. on Page 4
Markets swarm with Diwali shoppers BYJM condemns police decorate their homes. eco-friendly this season. "There is different feeling "We light candles and atrocities on students during festival. It feels good to earthen lamps and celebrate
ANI Bhopal/Jammu/Kashmir, Nov 11
Markets in Bhopal and Jammu and Kashmir swarmed with people shopping for electric lights, candles, earthern lamps and sweets on the occasion of Diwali. Indians celebrate the festival by lighting lamps, bursting fire crackers and distributing sweets among loved ones. In central Bhopal city, people shopped for items to
come out and buy sweets, candles, lights and we make all these preparations for this occasion," said a resident of central Bhopal city, Manju Sahani. Hindus worship elephant god, Ganesha and goddess of wealth, Lakshmi and perform special prayers on the occasion. Some residents in Jammu and Kashmir state vowed to go
Diwali. This year we will not burn crackers because we want the festival to be eco-friendly where we do not feel like polluting our earth," said a resident, Bindiya, in Jammu city. Legend says millions of lamps were lit when Lord Rama returned after 14 years of exile in forests after defeating Ravana. (ANI)
ET Correspondent Shillong, Nov 11
Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJP Youth Wing) Meghalaya strongly condemned the district administration of West Jaintia Hills District in connection with dealing with college students of Kiang Nongbah
College Jowai in a highhanded manner and demanded medical compensation for all those injured students admitted in the Hospital. In a statement, BJYM President Egenstar Kurkalang said that the students were demanding their genuine rights in the interest and welfare of the students and Contd. on Page 4
Muga Day and Muga Mela on Nov 12-13 ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 11
Muga Day and Muga Mela– cum-exhibition will be held on November 12-13 at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, Guwahati. The event is being organised by Directorate of
Sericulture. The programme includes distribution of grants-in-aid, a daylong interactive session with progressive farmers coming from across the State, a Seminar animated by leading Sericulture Scientists, Contd. on Page 3
Independent MLA demands CBI inquiry into politico-militant nexus ET Correspondent Shillong, Nov 11
An Independent legislator Mr Saleng A Sangma has demanded the central government should direct the CBI or NIA to investigate into the alleged politico-militant nexus in Garo Hills region of
Meghalaya. In a memorandum submitted to Union minister for Home Rajnath Singh, Mr. Saleng said that instead of imposition of AFSPA 1958, the Centre could intervene by ordering a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the politico-militant nexus.
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Contd. on Page 3
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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
PM Modi thanks Bangladesh PM for Anup Chetia handover New Delhi, Nov.11 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday thanked his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina for facilitating the extradition and handover of United Liberation Front of Asom militant and leader Anup Chetia. "PM @narendramodi spoke to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina. He wished PM Hasina on Diwali & thanked her for the help in fighting terrorism," the Prime Minister's office said in a tweet. Earlier, Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju dubbed Chetia's deportation to India as a major breakthrough which would help in cracking many important terror-related cases. "This is a major breakthrough that the Bangladesh Government has decided to hand over ULFA leader Anup Chetia to India. This will lead to cracking of many cases, would like to thank Bangladesh Prime Minister and the government for finally heeding to our demands" Rijiju told ANI here. "This has been a long standing demand of ours that Anup Chetia be handed over to India and lastly it has become a reality. Anup Chetia is a senior leader of ULFA and his custody would mean that we can crack some of important
cases in which investigation is going on," he added. When asked if the investigation would be done by the Central agency, Rijiju said that the case would be investigated by both the central agency and Assam Police. "Because there are many cases against him but most of the cases are northeast based," he added. Responding on a question of Chetia being brought to Delhi for investigation, Rijiju said that it was for the agencies to decide. Anup Chetia, whose original name is Golap Baruah and was also known as Sunil Baruah, Bhaijan or Ahmed, is the General Secretary of ULFA. He is also one of the founder leaders of the group. He was born at Jerai Gaon in Tinsukia district of Assam. Chetia was first arrested in March, 1991 in Assam but was released by then Chief Minister Hiteswar Saikia. On December 21, 1997, he was again arrested in Dhaka under the Foreigners Act and the Passports Act for illegally carrying foreign currencies and a satellite phone. He was sentenced to seven years of imprisonment by a Bangladeshi court and was being held at Kashimpur Jail located on the outskirts of Dhaka. Chetia was charged
with illegally entering Bangladesh using a forged passport; possession of illegal foreign currency from 16 different countries and illegal possession of arms. He was also a wanted by the Assam Police for various cases, including killing, kidnapping and extortion. Since his arrest in Dhaka in 1997, the Indian Government had been asking the
Bangladesh Government to extradite Chetia. Dhaka had earlier refused to entertain New Delhi's request on grounds that the two countries did not have an extradition treaty. After the 15th IndiaBangladesh Home Secretarylevel meeting at Dhaka, Bangladesh Home Affairs Secretary Mozammel Haque Khan had confirmed that
Bangladesh has agreed to hand over Anup Chetia to India, which will send back Nur Hossain, prime accused in a case of seven murders in Narayanganj. Despite the expiry of his prison term, Chetia was in jail under a 2003 High Court directive asking authorities to keep him in safe custody until a decision was taken on his asylum plea. (ANI)
Chetia's deportation a major breakthrough: Rijiju New Delhi, Nov. 11: Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday dubbed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) leader Anup Chetia's deportation to India as a major breakthrough which would help in cracking many important cases. "This is a major breakthrough that the Bangladesh Government has decided to hand over ULFA leader Anup Chetia to India. This will lead to cracking of many cases, would like to thank Bangladesh Prime Minister and the government for finally heeding to our demands" Rijiju told here. "This has been a long standing demand of ours that Anup Chetia be handed over to India and
lastly it has become a reality. Anup Chetia is a senior leader of ULFA and his custody would mean that we can crack some of important cases in which investigation is going on," he added. When asked if the investigation would be done by the Central agency, Rijiju said that the case would be investigated by both the central agency and Assam Police. "Because there are many cases against him but most of the cases are north-east based," he added. Responding on a question of Chetia being brought to Delhi for investigation, Rijiju said that it was for the agencies to decide. Bangladesh has handed over Chetia to India, almost 18
years after his arrest in a passport forgery case. Chetia, a founding member of ULFA and its general secretary, is wanted for murder, abductions and extortion cases in India. He had sought political asylum in Bangladesh thrice in 2005, 2008 and in 2011 after Bangladesh Police arrested him in December 1997. Chetia was subsequently handed seven years of jail terms by two courts for cross-border intrusion, carrying fake passports and illegally keeping foreign currencies. Despite the expiry of his term, Chetia was in jail under a 2003 High Court directive asking authorities to keep him in safe custody until a decision was taken on his asylum plea. (ANI)
Thailand mystery: 2 detainees suspected of insulting monarchy die in custody Bangkok, Nov 11:The commander of Thailand's ruling junta said Tuesday that the military was not responsible for the deaths of two detainees suspected of insulting the monarch - including the crown prince's former personal fortuneteller - who were being held at a controversial army detention site. Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha told reporters that the Thai military was "kind, not cruel" and rejected concerns over possible human rights violations at the detention facility, which is being used to house terrorism suspects and those accused under a draconian law against defaming Thailand's royal family. The Southeast Asian nation has been swirling with questions over the mysterious deaths of the detainees, who were arrested last month on charges that they exploited connections with the monarchy to extort money. Few details of the charges have been released, but authorities said the suspects were accused of skimming funds from a bicycling event held
People from all walks of life greet President Mukherjee on Diwali New Delhi, Nov.11 (ANI): People from all walks of life greeted President Pranab Mukherjee on the occasion of Diwali at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here on Wednesday. Those in attendance offered sweets and greetings to the President on the occasion. Earlier, the President had in a message, said the festival of Diwali should become a 'catalyst for greater unity' within the country. "Let us on this Diwali join forces, help needy and engage in collective efforts to lead nation to greater and greater glory," he said. "May the festival bring joy and prosperity to all sections of our people across the length and breadth of the country," he added. He also urged the countrymen to celebrate the festival in a pollutionfree manner.
Thai policemen escort fortune teller Suriyan Sucharitpolwong, center, better known by the nickname Mor Yong, as he arrives at military court in Bangkok, Thailand, on Oct. 21, 2015. Suriyan died while in custody over the weekend. by Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn in honor of his ailing father, whom he is widely expected to succeed as king. Authorities disclosed Monday that Suriyan Sucharitpolwong, a prominent astrologer who had been one of the prince's advisors, had died over the weekend of natural causes while in custody at a military barracks in Bangkok. The astrologer, better known as Mor Yong, was
one of the organizers of the event but reportedly had a falling out with the prince. Two weeks earlier, another suspect in the investigation, police Maj. Prakrom Warunprapa, died after being found hanging by his shirt in his temporary cell at the barracks. They were among a growing number of people prosecuted for violating the lese-majeste law, which protects the monarchy and carries a
penalty of up to 15 years in prison. It is one of the harshest such laws in the world, say human rights groups, and is being used with growing frequency under the junta that took power in a coup last year. In a country otherwise known for Bangkok's chaos and an almost-anythinggoes tourist industry, Thailand's royal family is a severely protected subject. The topic has become even more sensitive in recent years because the revered 87-year-old king's health is failing and the royals - and the military - want to ensure an orderly succession. Critics of the monarchy including some outspoken Thai academics who have left the country to escape prosecution under lesemajeste - say the investigation renews questions about whether the law is being used to punish anyone who runs afoul of the would-be king. "I find it shocking on many levels, and one is the extent to which the law is being used more than any time in Thailand's modern
h i s t o r y, " s a i d P a v i n Chachavalpongpun, associate professor at the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at Japan's Kyoto University. "If this is about corruption alone, as the authorities say, you can deal with it like a normal case. You don't have to use Article 112," the section of the Thai criminal code that deals with insulting the m o n a r c h y. T h a i n e w s media and websites heavily self-censor when reporting on the royals, but the circumstances of the astrologer Suriyan's death have been the subject of hushed conversations in Bangkok. Corrections officials said Monday that he had died Saturday of "a blood infection," reportedly septicemia, but did not explain why they waited two days to make the announcement. Officials described it as a preexisting condition that deteriorated due to the stress of his arrest and said Suriyan's family did not suspect foul play. (Agencies)
List of hospitals in Dibrugarh with contact details & phone numbers, Assam Aditya Diagnostics & Hospitals Bordoloi Avenue, Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2302219, 2302225
G M Hospital
Shrishti Hospital & Research Centre Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2300024, 2302099
AMC Road, Jalan Nagar Dibrugarh - 786 005
Archana Trauma & Orthopaedics Hospital
Brahmaputra Diagnostics & Hospital
Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2302100, 2302099
Near Indian AirLines City Office Paltan Bazar Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2303476
Assam Medical College
Marwari Arogya Bhawan Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2302872, 2302051
Graham Bazar, A.T. Road Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2322547
Jalan Nagar, Dibrugarh - 786 002 List of Phones numbers: Emergency Room : 0373 - 2300627 Labour Room: 0373 - 2300022 Drug Deaddiction Centre: 0373 - 2302952 Community Medicine: 0373 - 2302994 RIA Centre: 0373 - 2302093
Sanjivani Diagnostic & Hospital
Dr. Pawan Bajaj's Skin Clinic
Aastha Hospital
Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2303448, 2303458, 2301904
Sankardev Hospital Mancotta Road, Chowkidinghee Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2327717, 2327715, 2326960
Paltan Bazar, Opposite Aditya Hospital Dibrugarh
Dr Damani's Nursing Home Near Circuit House, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2300928, 2302873
The idol of Godess Kali at Sarbajanin Kali Puja committee, Zodiac Club, Sitaram road Dibrugarh. Pic - UB Photos
ASTRO FOR YOU You will be quite circumspect throughout the day. Your spirits will soar high as you will be invited to join parties and socialise a bit. You will find the correct balance between work and having fun. This is a bright, rosy day for students and scholars, particular who are engaged in, or are looking forward to higher studies, specializing in a particular professional stream. This a great day for making plans for higher studies abroad. Do not miss this opportunity. Plans made today are likely to materialize. The day also promises to be positive and eventful for employed people. You will be afforded full co-operation by your relatives and friends. You will also be able to provide a solution to their problems by utilising your practical thinking. You will be influenced by your emotions while choosing between multiple alternatives. You need to carefully weigh the pros and cons of any decision you make today. Ganesha advises you to be careful before signing any document. A hard time for share brokers and traders. So be on the guard during deals and transactions. Average time for business. You will pay serious attention to your work. You will feel that you have no option but to work hard. You will not be in the mood for socialising. This is only a temporary phase, hence there is no need to worry. You will be back to your usual gregarious self in no time at all. A day to look inside and contemplate. Find peace and prosperity. Clam up like those oysters and discover the peal within you. A fine helping hand you shall lend today to those who need it. You will be able to spend ample time with your loved ones and may even taken them out for lunch or dinner which will bring you more closer to them. You will even try to please them by showering them with gifts and presents today. It is likely that you shall learn an important lesson in life today. Remember that spite and envy beget enemies. Be advised to display some errors so as to make you seem more human and approachable. You wake up with a smile today. You have a knack of solving problems, which you may use it to the optimum. Be cautious of people around you, as their envious nature may affect your work. Ignore them and keep the optimism alive. Whatever field you are in, your career matters will top your priority list. You will put your personal life on the back burner for a while. This change of places will surely bring you great rewards as your performance will drastically improve and everyone will appreciate your efforts. Credit goes to your family members and well-wishers for believing in you in the toughest of times and supporting you along the way The day begins on high note. You work hard, put your best foot forward and at the end get the final output as per your requirements. Romantic and beautiful, the setting Sun will bring the softer side of your personality to the fore as you will spend the evening with your sweetheart. You will find favourable conditions at work as you co-ordinate with your colleagues and seniors to tackle tough problems. You will be able to get the desirable results for all the effort you put in, in the office. Those engaging in business will be able to make some strong and useful contacts today which will be handy in the future. That you be outgoing today and continue to do so to maintain your profits.
PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights
12-11-15 (THURSDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 6-50 A.M-Dihanaam 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali(Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara(Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Bhajan , Artist-Gargi Bhattacharjee 12-30 P.M-Ghar Jeuti (Women's Programme)-Radio Report on Centenary Celebration of Dibrugarh Jila Mohila Samiti 3-30 P.M-Mishing Geet by Dimbeswar Panging and Party 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani-"Prerona"-A Phone-in Programme on Skill Development 8-00 P.M-Gyanmalini (Sponsored Programme of Directorate of Distance Education, D.U) 9-30 P.M-Ei Maahor Atithi Sd-/H.O.P
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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
House gutted in cracker fire Spl Correspondent Pasighat, Nov 11: In what could be an eye opener for other parents who generally let loose their innocent children using crackers during this festive season of Dewali, a house was completely gutted at Ayeng village (Besok) under Mebo SubDivision, some 14 km from district HQ yesterday. The house of one Nojing Perme, aged about 45 years was burnt down to ashes yesterday
afternoon at around 12.30 pm, after it caught fire reportedly in the wake of their 4 year old son bursting crackers. The kid has said to have thrown the cracker upon the house’s roof after getting it lit. The cracker was given to the kid by a neighbouring uncle to celebrate Diwali who might not have thought that, it would be wrong. During the fire incident, the parents were away selling vegetables at GREF camp temporary
market, Siku Bridge, informed Ayeng Welfare Society (AWS) General Secretary Kaling Lego. According to Lego, the village elders were holding a village meeting at the community hall (Musup) at the time of the incident when they saw smoke emanating from the house, but by the time they reached the house, 70% of the house was already burnt down and nothing could be saved. The fire tender had reached the village
from Pasighat, but by then the house was reduced to ashes, added Lego. On the part of AWS, a sum of Rs. 5000/- was handed over to the aggrieved family as immediate relief, said Lego. The very incident has taught a big and clear lesson to many parents that crackers should not be handed over to kids and use of crackers by children shouldn’t be allowed without the presence of parents.
Nagaon AGP calls upon party MLA to contest upcoming elections N Patnaik Nagaon, Nov 11: Nagaon District AGP has called upon Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, former chief minister and sitting AGP MLA from Barhampur to contest in the next Assembly election from Samaguri Legislative Assembly Constituency. In a meeting held recently in the District office at Nagaon under the presidentship of Hiren Bora, delegates from 23 anchalik committees of Samaguri LAC placed the proposal before the district
committee which was forwarded to the central committee of the party for consideration. It may be mentioned here that in the last Assembly election Mr. Mahanta was defeated by his nearest rival Rockybul Hussain of INC by a margin of about 20,000 votes. In the meeting Mr. Mahanta exuded confidence of forming next government in the state by AGP. Addressing delegates he said in the next election both Congress and BJP will show miserable results and the regional party
Summit on child labourers in tea plantation Contd. from Page 1
To be participated by all relevant stakeholders from Assam along with Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and West Bengal, the conference will develop a shared understanding of the provisions relating to children in The Plantation Labour Act, 1951. The two day event is expected to discuss the issues and challenges faced by key stakeholders in realizing the rights of the child as provided under the PLA, 1951.
will take centre stage. He urged all the dedicated AGP workers to work hard to build confidence among the people about the party. He further said that only AGP can solve myriad problems now facing the state, and in the interest of the state all should work together to strengthen the party. He also rejected the rumour doing the rounds about poll alliance between BJP and AGP. He hinted at AGP fighting the election alone. Speaking at the meeting Mr. Keshab Mahanta,
AGP MLA from Kaliabor LAC and working president of the party called upon party workers not to lose confidence and prepare to wage war against price rise, misrule of the Congress etc. He called upon them to convince the public about good deeds done during the time of party rule in the state. The meeting was attended by Mr. Gunin Hazarika, former minister, Niranjan Bora, Secretary of Nagaon District AGP and others.
Children participated at Go As You Like competition organized by Haari Patty Yuva Sangha on the occasion of Kali Puja and Diwali festival in Tezpur. Pic - UB Photos
ULFA leader Anup Chetia handed over to India Contd. from Page 1
Top Indian home ministry officials said Chetia will be brought to Delhi for questioning but then may be handed over to the Assam police as he has cases against him in that state. One Indian intelligence official hinted that he was flown back to Delhi but did not provide details. The Press Trust of India said Chetia was handed over after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally intervened in the matter.
Chetia has been in jail in Bangladesh for 18 years. He was arrested on Dec 21, 1997 and booked under the Foreigners Act and the Passports Act for illegally carrying foreign currencies and a satellite phone. He was sentenced to seven years of imprisonment by a Bangladeshi court and was being held at Kashimpur Jail in the outskirts of Dhaka. Chetia's handover is being closely watched by the ULFA, which is now a divided house. Both the Arabinda Rajkhowa
CELEBRATING HAPPINESS
Contd. from Page 1
and an exhibitioncum-sale of diversified muga products followed by a fashion show on November 13. A special highlight is
Diwali. So people are celebrating it and are taking dip in the holy water," said a devotee, Gurcharan Singh. In the evening, the Golden Temple will be decorated with electric lights and hundreds of candles. Religious hymns will be sung and crackers will light up the sky to celebrate Diwali. The festival is celebrated every year between the months of October or November. Legend has it that millions of lamps were lit when King Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and after defeating the demon king, Ravana. Diwali is also celebrated in honour of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that Lakshmi showers her blessings upon those homes that are clean and well lit.
the institution of “Dr. S. N. Choudhury Memorial Award” to the best performing Sericulture Official for o u t s t a n d i n g contribution to the development of Sericulture in the State.
Independent MLA demands CBI inquiry into politico-militant nexus Contd. from Page 1
A woman lights diya (earthen lamp) on the occasion of Diwali festival in Mangaldai. Pic-UB Photos
Diwali celebrations bring all faiths together in Kochi Amritsar, Nov. 11 (ANI): Sikh devotees on Wednesday thronged at the Golden Temple in Amritsar to celebrate 'Bandi Chhor Divas, or Prisoners Release Day, to take a dip in the holy water. Bandi Chhor Divas celebrates the release of Sikh's sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind, and 52 other princes from prison in October 1619. After the release, Guru Hargobind arrived in Amritsar in the midst of Hindu festival of lights, Diwali. Since then, the day has been associated with his liberation. Hundreds of devotees were seen taking holy dip in the water and praying for the prosperity of their families. "Today, the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind, liberated 52 prisoners from Gwalior Fort and came to Amritsar with them on
to keep him in safe custody until the government made a decision on his plea seeking political asylum in Bangladesh. The ULFA leader has sought political asylum in Bangladesh thrice in 2005, 2008 and in 2011. ULFA Chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa has told journalists that Chetia should be included in the Centre-ULFA talks. The Indian government is expediting its negotiations with the Rajkhowa faction of ULFA ahead of the Assam assembly elections early next year.
Muga Day and Muga Mela on Nov 12-13
The experts in the conference are set to prepare some recommendations for better implementation and amendment of the Plantation Act, 1951. The chief inspector of plantations along with labour commissioner, chairperson of the from State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, representatives from State Child Protection Society, tea worker leaders NGO workers, tea producers have confirmed their participation in the conference.
Devotees take holy dip at Golden Temple on occasion of 'Bandi Chhor Divas'
faction, which is now negotiating with the Indian government, and the Paresh Barua faction, which is continuing the separatist campaign, would try drawing Chetia to their fold. Chetia is one of the founders of the ULFA which was created in April 1979 to fight for Assam's secession from India. He is also a cousin of the hardliner ULFA military wing chief Paresh Barua. He was kept in jail after completing his prison term in view of a Bangladesh High Court directive in August 2003
Kochi (Kerala), Nov. 11 (ANI): Setting an example of communal harmony, a Christian body in Kochi organised an event to celebrate Diwali yesterday. The event was organised by Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) at their Pastoral Orientation Centre near Kochi. In attendance were heads of all prominent faiths of India including Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism. The programme sought to promote communal harmony in a country as diverse as India at a time when incidents of religious intolerance are on the rise. Local residents too participated in the
event and young children made the most of the programme as they lit earthern lamps and burst crackers together. On the occasion, Father Roby Kanachira said that Diwali was a festival of India and not any particular faith. "We were
organizing this programme just to partake with or join hands with the Indian community where we have this concept that it's a cultural celebration. It's not a celebration of a particular group or any religion, Diwali is the cul-
tural festival of India," said Father Kanachira. Diwali is celebrated with great fervour and gaiety all over India as it marks the return of Hindu god Lord Rama to Ayodhya in northern India after he defeated Ravana, the powerful demon king of Lanka. Legend says millions of lamps were lit when Lord Rama returned after 14 years of exile in forests and after defeating Ravana. Diwali is also celebrated in honour of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that Lakshmi showers her blessings upon those homes that are clean and well lit.
“I feel that no militancy/insurgency would survive without the backing of certain political leaders to further their own vested interests,” said Mr Saleng in a memorandum. Meanwhile, he met the State Home minister Ms Roshan Warjri and submitted the memorandum. Mr Saleng also expressed opposition to the proposed imposition of
AFSPA in Garo hills region. “AFSPA is not the answer to the problem. I think it is high time for the Centre to pull up the Meghalaya government for its inefficiency in tackling the law and order problem.” He said. He said that the recent order passed by the Meghalaya High Court which directed the Centre to consider use of AFSPA in Garo Hills, has come as a big slap on the alleged lethargic functioning of the state government.
Chinese electric lights ruling markets this Diwali as well Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), Nov. 11 (ANI): Residents ofGorakhpur are thronging markets to buy pocket-friendly Chinese lights on the occasion of Diwali. Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to buy 'Made in India' products this Diwali, Chinese products continue to dominate markets in the country. The cost of China-made electric lights ranges from Rs.35 to Rs.400. "We are buying Chinese lights because they are very cheap and good as well. We will use these lights till they work and then think of some other options," said a customer, Prabhat Singh Chauhan. Meanwhile, shopkeepers said the sale of Chinese lights was more this season as compared to last year. "Chinese lights are very cheap. Everywhere LEDs (LightEmitting Diode) are in demand. Thelights this time are much cheaper than last year with a lot of varieties," said s shopkeeper, Hassan Kamal Khan. Diwali is celebrated with great fervor and gaiety all over India as it marks the return of Hindu god Lord Rama to Ayodhya after he defeated Ravana, the powerful demon king of Lanka. Legend says millions of lamps were lit when Lord Rama returned after 14 years of exile in forests and after defeating Ravana. Diwali is also celebrated in honour of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that Lakshmi showers her blessings upon those homes that are clean and well lit.
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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
Negligence towards RTI application by DKD College ET Correspondent Dergaon, Nov 11: It is said that with the implementation of the Right to Information Act, 2005, crime and corruption have been detected helping both the government administration and public alike. Accordingly, an RTI petition dated July 2, 2015 was sent by one
Ripul Kumar Das from Dergaon to the Public Information Office in the Chief Secretary’s office, Government of Assam regarding administrative matters of Dergaon Kamal Dowerah College (DKD) affiliated to Dibrugarh University. Das’s RTI petition included twelve queries. In response
to the RTI petition, the state public information officer of Chief Secretary’s office sent a letter directing the Deputy Secretary to the Government of Assam dated July 7, 2015 to provide information directly to the petitioner. Similarly, as part of the proceedings, the SPIO and Joint Secretary to
Suspected Ulfa (I) cadre arrested from Sapekhati ET Correspondent Sonari, Nov 11: A joint team of army personnel from the Maibela army camp and police apprehended one suspected Ulfa (I) cadre from Sapekhati in upper Assam’s Sivasagar district on Tuesday. The army in a statement said that the suspected ulfa cadre Dimbeswar Konwar (25) was apprehended when he was trying to extort money from a family in Sapekhati. Police also stated that they were searching Konwar on charges of issuing threats, smuggling and extortion. “He had been terrorizing people for quite some time now for money”, a police official said. The suspected ulfa cadre also accepted during preliminary interrogation by the security forces that he used to spread propaganda for ulfa. Konwar hails from Mahmora in Sivasagar district.
the Government of Assam of Higher Secondary Department by his letter No. AHE354/2014/19 dated July 23, 2015 directed the Director of Higher Education Department to provide information directly to the petitioner. In spite of all these official proceedings, neither the DKD College
Teachers condemn police high handedness while dealing with students ET Correspondent Shillong, Nov 11: The teachers’ community of Khasi Jaintia Deficit School Teachers Association (KJDSTA) has condemned the high handedness of police while dealing with students during their agitation at DC office premises at Jowai, in Jaintia Hills on Tuesday. Yesterday around 20 students of Kiang Nangbah Government College in Jowai sustained injury during police lathi charge when they held procession in front of the DC office at Jowai demanding release of eight months of salary of the college staff, operationalisation of hostels, besides upgrading the college facilities. “It is a condemnable act of police atrocity on the students who demanded resolution to genuine issues for the college”, said KJDSTA president, ED Nongsiang while speaking to media persons here in Shillong. The use of tear gas, lathi charge and water on students is not acceptable since they are only students who did not do anything wrong by holding peaceful rally in a democratic manner, said Mr. Nongsiang. “We support their genuine demands and we extend moral support to them”,
Anup Chetia’s anticipated homecoming brings cheer to his native village Contd. from Page 1
The deportation of the Ulfa leader from n e i g h b o u r i n g Bangladesh has rekindled hopes among his kin for an early reunion with him. His family has been anticipating his release since 2009 when there was wide speculation about his likely release from Bangladesh jail. On Wednesday, the news of his hand-over to India came as a Dewali gift for the people of Jerai Gaon and the people started celebrating his homecoming in advance. There was a festive atmosphere at Chetia’s native village Jeraigaon, located at a distance of 40 km from Dibrugarh town. Since morning, the mood was quite upbeat at
his home where presently his 82-year old elder brother Suren Baruah lives with his wife Dibyalata and son Arup. “It is good news that after 18 years he is coming to us. Nobody told me about his homecoming. I have tried my best to bring him to India; at last the Bangladesh government has decided to send him to India. Many times in the past, we used to make elaborate arrangements at our home to welcome Golap (Anup Chetia) but every time we were disappointed. I’ve become old now. Now it his duty to take over the responsibility of the household,” said Suren Baruah, brother of Anup Chetia. Anup Chetia is the cousin of Ulfa (I) commander-in-chief Paresh Baruah and both their families are
neighbours hailing from the same village. Chetia is the youngest among his siblings comprising of 2 brothers and 5 sisters. His parents Seben Baruah and mother Koli Baruah passed away many years back. “We are very happy to hear the news. It brought cheers for all of us that very soon he is coming to the village,’’ said a villager of Jerai Gaon. It may be mentioned that on May 17 last, Chetia’s wife Monica Baruah Chetia and their two children, son Bumoni (22) and daughter Bulbuli (17) arrived in Assam from Dhaka and stayed at Jeraigaon for a couple of days. The Ulfa leader’s wife had at that time mentioned that she has not met her husband lodged in Bangladesh jail for the last 16 years.
authority nor concerned parties have provided information. “I have sent an RTI petition on July 2 last to the PIO in the Chief Secretary’s office to the Government of Assam regarding administration and infrastructure development in DKD College only in the interest of the public,” said Ripul Das.
Monica was married to Chetia on June 30, 1989. Chetia, 64, also known as Golap Baruah was arrested in Bangladesh capital Dhaka on December 21, 1997 for illegal entry into Bangladesh, possession of two forged Bangladeshi passports, an unauthorized satellite phone and illegal foreign currencies of countries like the US, Britain, Thailand, Spain and Belgium. Pro-talk Ulfa leader Mrinal Hazarika meanwhile hailed him as the Nelson Mandela of Assam and his release will provide a new dimension to the ongoing peace process between the Ulfa and the Centre. Phatik Phukan Jeraigaon village headman said that the whole village is eagerly waiting to welcome him.
added KJDSTA President. According to Mr Nongsiang, Kiang Nangbah Government Jowai is under the area of the local MLA who is also the Deputy Chief Minister Dr RC Laloo in charge Education. “The Deputy Chief Minister should take appropriate measures to ensure the deadlock is resolved but it seems he has failed as local MLA and also as Deputy Chief Minister”, Nongsaid said. He said that if the government had taken measures to address the demands of students, the incident would not have happened. Meanwhile, the CSWO also condemned the attack of police on students at Kiang Nangbah Government College, West Jaintia Hills. “The CSWO demands an inquiry into the incident”, said CCWO president Ms Agnes Kharshiing. The CSWO demands that the Government should look into the other legitimate demands of the students of the Kiang Nangbah Government College and to act as a Government should, where people who are stakeholders of the Government, do not have to protest and agitate for any legitimate demand.
of Rs 5500 to 15,000. It would also be provided at 50 per cent concession against market rates to the patients from outside the institute, he added. “We are going to get CT Scan facility also at the institute in the next 15 days,” he said and added that these state of the art latest facilities would also be very beneficial for the MBBS students of the college in their training and research. He claimed that with these facilities this institute would prove to be a blessing for the patients in getting the best possible treatment at minimum cost as most of other facilities were being given free of cost to them.
KUYA intimidates KAAC on reservation issue
Sushanta Roy Diphu, Nov 11: Executive Committee of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council are finding themselves in a tight situation in the wake of the crisis arising out of giving appointments for one thousand posts for which interview was conducted by several government departments under the administrative and financial control of KAAC a few months earlier. Karbi Unemployed Youth Organization (KUYA) a Diphu based organization backed by several other youth and student organizations like All India Karbi National Assembly, Karbi Students’ Association and Karbi Students and Youth Council have been
demanding maximum jobs reserved for the tribal candidates. The united organizations staged a sit in demonstration on 12 days in the month of May and July this year. The robust demonstration of students and youths was temporarily lifted on July 6 at the insistence of KAAC Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang. In a meeting among the CEM, the executive committee and the agitating groups, it was decided that a central recruitment board would be constituted for working out a logical conclusion to the appointment issue. The undecided KAAC authority till date has not constituted any committee which would look into the demands of the
organizations and issue appointment letter to fill up the vacant posts without generating any opposition from the agitating organizations. Yesterday the leaders of All India Karbi National Assembly, Karbi Students’ Association and Karbi Students and Youth Council told the media at a press conference at Diphu that if the council authority fails to constitute the board swiftly to redress their grievance they will launch fresh agitation from November 19. “Three months have passed and the board is yet to be constituted, we will not wait for indefinite period,” said Marlow Timung, General Secretary of Karbi Unemployed Youth Organization.
National Education Day observed
ET Correspondent Teok, Nov 11: The 11th November, the birthday of India’s first Education Minister Abdul Kalam Azad, was observed today as the National Edu-
Magnetic Resonance Imagination 15-T(MRI) facility at BPS govt women medical college Sachin Sehrawat Sonepat, Nov 11: As if it were a Diwali gift for the patients of Haryana from the state government, a Magnetic Resonance Imagination 15T(MRI) facility has been provided at the BPS government women medical college, Khanpur Kalan at a cost of Rs six crore by a Bangalore based company, Health Map Diagnostic. The facility was made operational on trial basis yesterday at the college hospital by the company experts. According to Dr RC Siwach, Director of the college, the MRI facility for this institute’s patients will be available at a cost of Rs 1800 to 6000 against the market rates
Students go through books in one of the stalls of the Jorhat Book Fair. Pic - Nekib Ahmed.
cation Day at East Jorhat Education Block in line with the wishes of Axom Sarva Sikha Abhijan Mission Jorhat district. The National Education Day was held at Hemlai
Jyan Bikash Lower Primary School with a daylong programme. The flag of the function was hoisted by Mrs Purobi Bora Gogoi, president of the School
Managing Committee. The cultural rally was inaugurated by Md Wahidur Hussain senior teacher of the East Jorhat Education Block. The competition event was inaugurated by Mr Palash Jyoti Dutta MIS coordinator of the East Jorhat block. Mr Rupjyoti Kurmi MLA Mariani Constituency and educationist Mr Jayanta Gogoi were present as special guests. Mr Anupom Gogoi coordinator of the programme gave votes of thanks to all. There were more than three hundred students attending the daylong programme. Mr Ashim Baruah District programme officer of the community participation thanked all participates in making the occasion a grand success.
Earthen-lamps: An unprofitable trade now Contd. from Page 1
When asked the people who belong to the Kumhar Community said that the sale of earthen lamps has decreased, with people giving preference to Chinese electronic lights and candles. On the other hand, the price of commodities which are used to make earthen lamps such as soil, colours and woods have increased.
"Now, we have to invest more but the income is less. My younger brother has opened a paan-shop. This vocation is not profitable." Santu of Kumhar Colony here says. At present, a one thousand lamps cost rupees five hundred only. "We rarely manage a profit of hundred rupees by selling 1000 lamps," he adds. It is worth mentioning that hundred families of the Kumhar community have been living at Kumhari Patti,
Doomdooma Town since the last 40 years and their products go to Mahadevpur, Namsai and Roing of Arunachal Pradesh for sale. However, the real profit goes into the pockets of the middlemen. "It is not the Chinese lights but the government’s indifferent attitude toward us that makes our life difficult." A potter, Vaijyanti Devi says. Apparently, their dream to survive through this traditional business will be tested by time.
BYJM condemns police atrocities on students Contd. from Page 1
MRI facility being made operational in BPS government women medical college at Khanpur Kalan on Tuesday.
that they had taken up their movement in a democratic way of agitation which is nothing illegal or irrelevant or their demands unreasonable. “It is a long pending issue that the government could not comply
with the interest and welfare of the student community. But the government turned a deaf ear to their calls and such action on the part of the district authority should not have been taken”, he said. “It is right as student accused that the present government has no money for education but plenty
for other unnecessary expenditures, this is the fact that Meghalaya government has not taken up the responsibility to promote and develop the education system in the state”, said BJYM. He added that the present government always made promises only on paper.
Gadkari pins blame on arithmetic addition for BJP's defeat in Bihar Nagpur, Nov 11: Reiterating that it would not be appropriate to put the blame on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday held the arithmetic addition because of three parties joining hands responsible for the party's dismal show in Bihar. "We lost in Bihar because the three parties came together and the resulting arithmetic addition. We need to increase our votes by 5-7 percent. The BJP has seen many wins and losses. This
Seven Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh: Police Raipur, Nov 11: Seven Maoists have surrendered in insurgency hit Sukma district of Chhattisharh. Four of them were carrying cash rewards on their heads. Police said that the ultras surrendered themselves yesterday claiming that they are disappointed with the Maoist ideology and were frustrated with the kind of life they were leading. "The surrendered Maoists will be rehabilitated as per the policy of state government and necessary assistance will be provided to them," police said. (ANI)
Sub inspector killed by gamblers Kolkata, Nov 11: A subinspector of police in Cooch Behar district was killed and another injured tonight in a clash with gamblers, police officials said. Ranjit Pal and three other personnel of Kotwali police station went to Panisala village in Cooch Behar-I block for routine patrolling on the night of Kali Puja. There they found a gang of gamblers and tried to take action against them at about 9 PM, the officials said. The gamblers threw stones at the police team injuring two of them. When they were brought to a hospital, doctors declared Pal dead on arrival. When contacted, district Superintendent of Police Rajesh Kumar Yadav, said the doctors told him that the injured sub-inspector died of cardiac arrest. However, he admitted that Pal had sustained injury by stones thrown by the gamblers. The other injured constable was hospitalised. No one was arrested till late night. (Agencies)
is not a party of kinfolk. This party never became a party of an individual," he said. "When we lost in four states back-to-back even then we did not hold any individual responsible. Therefore, holding Modi ji and Amit Shah responsible for this (Bihar's debacle) will not be right. It is party's defeat... Wins and losses are not permanent," he added. Gadkari further said that he has suggested the BJP chief to take stringent action against leaders who make unwarranted controversial statements. Lal Krishna Advani and three other BJP
veterans have issued a strong statement on the party'sdefeat in Bihar, demanding a thorough review and criticising its stand on the debacle. "The results of Bihar election show that no lesson has been learnt from fiasco in Delhi," said the statement signed by Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Shanta Kumar and Yashwant Sinha. The BJP top brass, however, issued a counter statement in response, saying they have been 'fortunate' to be led by Advani for decades and welcomed any guidance and suggestion by the senior leaders. (ANI)
BSF holds Diwali fair in Siliguri Siliguri, Nov 11: Offering its hard working personnel a break from their routines, theBorder Security Force (BSF) organised a fair ahead of Diwaliat its Frontier Headquarters in Siliguri, West Bengal. The families of BSF personnel and local residents thronged the fair and took part in various competitions. Both children and elderly were seen enjoying at the various shopping stalls and eateries put up at the fair. Special games were also organised for the children. "The motive behind organising this fair is to make our soldiers and offi-
cials who are deployed at the borders and perform very difficult duties, especially those who stay away from their families, feel good and to reduce the stress in their lives," said Inspector General (IG), North Bengal Frontier, BSF, Kamal Nayan Choubey. The BSF personnel made the most of this opportunity to unwind so much so that a dance performance by them became the highlight of the fair. The performance ended with a thunderous applause from the audience. The fair was also a part of the BSF's ongoing year-long Golden Jubilee celebrations. (ANI)
Veterans rally held Imphal, Nov 11: An exservicemen (veterans) rally was organised for Assam Rifles and Army at Pallel by Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) on Tuesday. According to a statement issued by the PRO of IGAR (S), a large number of ex-servicemen of Assam Rifles, Army and Veer Nari attended the rally. Ex-servicemen have made a stellar role in development of Manipur society. The Sector Commander inaugurated the programme and welcomed the veterans and war widows. During the programme the elderly veterans and war widows were felicitated for their selfless service to the Nation. During the interaction, they were explained about various ex-servicemen rally schedules, pension ben-
efits and their grievances were addressed and they were assured all possible assistance. The ex-servicemen were encouraged to actively participate in such rallies so that they are updated about various facilities initiated for them and are able to draw maximum benefit out of the same. During the meet, various welfare measures to include assistance for setting up exserviceman office at Moreh, handing over of 10 Mile Cafe to ex-serviceman league, preference passes to ex-serviceman and war widows for their move on NH-102 were also extended. The Assam Rifles reaffirmed its continued support to its veterans during the course of the rally. A cultural programme followed by lunch was organised for the veterans, it added. (Agencies)
Sim cards of other NE States used by Garo ultras Tura, Nov 11: Armed militants and criminals in Meghalaya particularly in Garo Hills are using pre-activated SIM cards originating from other NE states like Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura. This was revealed by a senior police official on Tuesday. The matter came to light after the police detained a young man who appeared for the post of jail warder at Tura in West Garo Hills district from whom police seized 60
unauthorised SIM cards, the police official said. While a case was registered against the man identified as Blutcher Sangma, police claimed the the SIM cards were meant to be delivered to the outlawed GNLA. The issue was discussed at a high-level security meeting at Tura chaired by Meghalaya DGP Rajiv Mehta. "We are building a mechanism to contain this menace," said a police official who took part in the
high-level security meet. The performance of each district force in counter-insurgency operations, the number of kidnapping cases, availability of security forces in each district and its effective use were discussed during the meeting. Mehta directed the district police chiefs to prepare "crime maps" indicating "hot spots" in each district that are highly prone to kidnappings and extortions by militants and criminals alike. (Agencies)
BJP State unit seeks for CM intervention in the MNREGA issue Dimapur, Nov 11: Raising the issue of NREGA (later renamed MGNREGA) state BJP sought corrective intervention by the chief minister with the department authorities in the interest of the state and in particular, the grass roots. According to state BJP general secretary and spokesman K. James Vizo, the party had taken serious note of the allocation of funds for MGNREGA schemes where it was pointed out that in 2014, out of 100day wages, the government had released the amount for only for 10 to 14 man days. BJP said that in 2015, wages for only for 3-4 days out of 100 man days were released till
date. Vizo further cited "reliable sources" from the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), where it was learnt that the main reason of fund constraint, was the inability of the state government to contribute the 10% state matching share when the Central ratio share of 90% was readily available. It was only after the intervention of Dr. Silpa, the funds meant of VDBs (Rs. 123 crores) across the State was released. Vizo said MGNREGA had played a vital role in the state's rural sectors- to ensure livelihood security, to provide at least 100 man days of wage employment in a financial year to every
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household, where adult members volunteer undertake unskilled manual work. On the huge amount paid by the state annually as Grant In Aid to the VDBs, Vizo suggested that the amount, could have been utilized as state share of 10% which could be adjusted later if the state was faced with fund constraints. He also reminded that union Finance minister, Arun Jaitley's budget speech committed to support employment through MGNREGA and to ensure that no one who was poor, was left without employment. BJP unit further pointed out that PM Narendra Modi had clarified that MGNREGA would continue with "honour and dignity".
Nitish taunts BJP after veterans criticism Patna, Nov 11: Taking a jibe at the internal conflicts in the BJP post the debacle in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday said the saffron party was now witnessing the wrath of its negative campaigning in the state. Kumar said that the BJP had come up with a very high-profile campaign in the state. "So in this situation when you get opposite results then it is quite natural for them to face problems. I am not a part of the BJP, hence it would not
be right on my part to comment on their internal matters," Kumar said. "But all that I know is that every action has an equal reaction. So, the kind of action the BJP took during campaigns, making it a high profile campaign, they are just facing the reaction now," he added. Nitish also informed the media of a Cabinet meeting on November 14 to recommend the dissolving of the Bihar Assembly. "In the afternoon of the 14th we will hold a meeting of the
Mahagathbandhan leaders, post which we will claim to form the new government. The date of the swearingin-ceremony will be decided after that," he said. The BJP has defended its leadership
from the attack by party veterans over the crushing defeat in Bihar. In a statement last night, the BJP said the healthy precedent of collective responsibility for poll victories and defeats was set by Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Lal Krishna Advani. The statement issued by three Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Venkaiah Naidu and Nitin Gadkari said the party will certainly welcome any guidance and suggestion from senior leaders. The statement
Passport Seva Kendra in Siliguri to open soon Kolkata, Nov 11: Bengal's third Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) is set to open in Siliguri soon to reach out to more passport seekers. This would be of immense help to people in north Bengal, especially residents of Darjeeling district, who have to now travel 600km to Kolkata to submit their passport applications. The other two PSKs are in Kolkata and Behrampore. A PSK also started functioning in Gangtok from September. To reach out to more passport-seekers, the third of Bengal's Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) is coming up at Siliguri shortly. This would prevent passport seekers to travel 600 km from Darjeeling to Kolkata to submit their passport application. Earlier in September, the PSK, Gangtok has started operating. The regional passport office (RPO), Kolkata, will organize a Passport Adalat for settling disputes over pending passports on November 14 and 21 at the PSKs at Kolkata, Behrampore and Gangtok for applications pending more than six months for want of documents. Applicants whose status shows "not-yet-fi-
nalized" can attend the adalats for resolution. These PSKs and passport adalats are mounting pressure on the state police, which has earned notoriety for delays in the verification process. The backlog of passport verification in Bengal often crosses the one lakh figure, making it only next to Maharashtra, sources in the ministry of external affairs said. This is despite the ministry of external affairs offering Rs 100 for each police verification completed within three weeks. In Bengal, according to external affairs ministry sources, the average time taken for police verification till March 31, 2013, was 101 days. It came down to 93 days as on March 31, 2014. Currently, it has improved it a bit to take it to an average
of 74 days. This is too long a period for police verification, way below the national average of 42 days, said an external affairs ministry source. The ministry has urged the state police to replicate the model of Hyderabad Police, which has taken advantage of technology to expedite the process of verification to a great extent. Hyderabad Police has issued tablets to their officers for real-time uploading of the verification report. The GPS-enabled tablets ensure transparency as it can be checked whether the verifying officer visited the applicant's home or not. A tab is given to each of them for uploading the verification report so that it can be checked online almost instantly. The officer only clicks a photograph of
the applicant and uploads it through the tab to prove that he physically visited the applicant's home. The officer fills up a remarks column citing the reason in case he files an adverse report. In Bengal, policemen are expected to do things manually to verify an applicant's home, visit him/ her at his/her address, check the relevant documents and file a report, either mentioning an objection or a no-objection. They brought the reports back to office and someone else uploaded it online and sent to the passport office. If the police verification is clear, the printing of the passport is initiated. In case of an adverse report, the RPO sends a showcause notice to the applicant. (Agencies)
came shortly after Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Yashwant Sinha and Shanta Kumar issued a joint statement saying Bihar results show that no lesson has been learnt from the fiasco in Delhi Assembly elections. The BJP veterans said the principal reason for the defeat in Bihar is the way the party has been emasculated in the last one year. They also targeted party leadership for saying that everyone is responsible for party's defeat. (ANI)
Market linkage program for spices trade in Tripura Agartala, Nov 11: The Spices Board under the Ministry of commerce and Industries has organized a market linkage programme last week at Udaipur of Gomati district of the state. The programme created an ideal platform for interaction among spice growers, traders, registered exporters of the district with the Spices Board and officials of department of Horticulture. The programme was inaugurated by Jiban Chandra Das, Deputy Director (Horticulture), Gomati district and the meeting was presided over by Ratish Malakar, Deputy Director (Horticulture), South Tripura. Dr. Manoj Oommen, Scientist (C), Spices Board in his welcome address highlighted the necessity of such interaction and Spice Boards' role to enhance effectiveness of the trade in this sector. Arunabha Majumdar, Manager, Manimalayar Rubbers (P)Ltd. delivered a key lecture on developing market channels of spices in Tripura. Many exporters like Liza traders, Sonamura expressed their willingness to purchase raw spices like ginger for export to Bangladesh. (agencies)
Arrests made over CJM attack
Kolkata, Nov 11: Police have arrested five students over the alleged manhandling of the CJM, Suri, on Sunday night. On Monday night police picked up five students for their alleged involvement in the case.
Four of them are identified as Dibyendyu Sarkar, Mir Maman, Mir Suman and Asif Hasan. Apart from Sarkar, the three others were decorating the pandal of Meghdoot club when they were picked up. The ar-
rested students study in local colleges. They were produced before the officiating CJM Rishi Kushari, who remanded two of them in police custody for three days. The rest were sent to 14 days' judicial custody.
There was an uproar in Suri town over the arrest. The parents, neighbours and local people demonstrated outside Suri police station and demanded their immediate release. They alleged that police had arrested them to shield the real culprits. Meghdoot club, whose members had allegedly manhandled the CJM is linked to a Trinamul leader. "The police including senior officers cannot say a word against the leader fearing action. Just to please him innocent youths were arrested," said a neighbour. The families of three youths claimed that they were not involved in the incident. They said that they had reached their homes by 9 p.m. while the incident took place after 10 p.m. " Our children are innocent. They were arrested to shield the real culprits," said a parent. State BJP presi-
dent Rahul Sinha said the law and order situation had turned from bad to worse. "In a state where a chief judicial magistrate is not safe then what would happen to ordinary people," he asked, adding the CM is backing the hooligans who virtually run the administration. Sinha said that if the criminals were not curbed the situation would go out of control and " Banerjee will have to pay a very heavy price." Indranil Chatterjee, CJM, was allegedly manhandled by some youths on Sunday night. The youths were asking for puja subscription. They had an argument with Chatterjee's guards and when he came out of the vehicle he was allegedly manhandled. Chatterjee later lodged a complaint with police. Chatterjee alleged that neither senior police officers nor the inspector in charge accepted his phone calls. (Agencies)
Kanglapat renovation contractors race against time, work overtime Imphal, Nov 11: Even as renovation and beautification of Kanglapat is being undertaken on a war footing to meet the deadline for the upcoming Manipur Sangai Festival, organisers of the festival reportedly planning to organise Hiyang Tanaba (traditional boat race) at the moat. PWD Superintending Engineer N Subhash told The Sangai Express that renovation works of western and southern portions of Kanglapat began on September 18 under the joint supervision of Tourism Department and PWD. Informing that the estimated cost of the work is Rs 6 crore, Subhash informed that although the work order was issued to a single contractor, four other sub contractors are working under him by dividing the moat into
five equal portions of 154 metre each to meet the deadline. Informing that they have been working overtime from 6 am to 11 pm, Subhash said that construction of retaining walls has been completed while construction of the concrete walls adjacent to the footpath is also nearing completion. Saying that the muds dug out from the moat are being used for ground levelling inside Kangla fort, Subhash expressed hope that this work would also be completed within a few days as eight pro-cranes, one dozer, four earth excavators and several trucks are being used for the task. Saying that the moat would be dug 6 feet deep from the current depth, Subhash said that fresh water would be pumped into Kanglapat from Imphal river from No-
Kanglapat renovation vember 17 or 18. Different types of annual and perennial flowers would be planted on the banks of the moat to give an appealing look to visitors. On the other hand, sources said that Chief Minister Okram Ibobi has given strict instruction
to contractors and engineers to renovate the moat to last 50 years. It may be mentioned that the moat witnessed its last renovation in 1949. Concerned citizens have opined that constant falling of dry leaves from the trees grown on the
banks of the moat is one of the reasons for the bed of Kanglapat to rise. The remaining western and northern portions of the moat would be renovated after Manipur Sangai Festival, said another source. (agencies)
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Dancers light up Sydney Harbour Bridge for Diwali New Delhi, Nov. 11: The Hindu Council of Australia and Bridge Climb collaborated to host the first ever Diwali celebration atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Tuesday. Five artists from Holiya Dance Group and Sydney Sanskrit School, wearing colourful traditional dance headwear paired with their grey Bridge Climb suits. Performers danced with glowing Dandiya sticks, a prop for one of most popular Indian dances Garba, on a summit stage dressed in bright white lights, with the Sydney Opera House illuminated in the background. The first performance took place 134 meters above the sparking Harbour during twilight, to best display the expressive dance. The classical dance symbolizes devotion to the Gods and prayer for the prosperity of everyone. The second dance, performed after dark as is traditional for Diwali festival cel-
ebrations, is one of the most popular dance forms - Garba. It is loved by the Hindu community world over and danced during the festive seasons. The world-first performance was attended by ten special
guests from the Hindu Council of Australia and OFBJP Australia, including Hindu Council of Australia Chairman, Prof Nihal Agar AM and OFBJP Australia President, Balesh Dhankhar. "We are very happy and
excited to celebrate Diwali, which is most celebrated festival for Hindus in Australia and around the world, on the top of Harbour Bridge. The fusion of colours and lights of Diwali with the views atop Harbour
Bridge has made this celebration very special. I would like to thanks Bridge Climb and whole team who partnered with HCA to organize such an iconic event." Said Prof Nihal Agar AM "The unique combination of
colourful Diwali celebrations combined with stunning views atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge is breathtaking, making it one of the best locations to celebrate this special time. I am sure this will inspire a number of people to come and celebrate Diwali here next year," said Balesh Dhankhar. Guests became a part of the 'Festival of Light' themselves, wearing special Bridge Climb vests fitted with flashing lights, which will also be available for a limited time to Climbers on The Vivid Climb 2016. BridgeClimb was thrilled to be a part of this world-first celebration for a globally renowned festival whilst giving Climbers the opportunity to create unique memories atop one of Australia's best loved icons. It is a further demonstration of Bridge Climb's ongoing commitment to foster partnerships with international markets. (ANI)
Dictatorial tendencies within BJP is to be opposed: Chacko New Delhi, Nov. 11: Congress leader P.C. Chacko on Wednesday welcomed the BJP veterans' criticism of the party's top brass for the crushing defeat in Bihar, saying the dictatorial tendencies within the ruling party is something to be opposed. "The dictatorial tendencies within the BJP is something to be opposed and that opposition has come on a right occasion from the senior-
most leader of the party and it is a welcome statement," he said. Chacko alleged that the BJP wants to downplay the statement and asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in a mood to welcome it. "Modi-Amit Shah company have taken over the party and suppressed all the dissenting voice sidelined all the senior leaders. The discontent within the BJP was so much visible.
Black magic causes divorce, says Imran Khan's ex wife Reham
New Delhi, Nov. 10: Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf's Chairman Imran Khan's former wife Reham Khan has said in a tweet following her divorce that Quran states that Satan taught black magic to separate
So, we were expecting this someday," he said. Chacko further said BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani has paraphrased the decision of the parliamentary board in simple words. "Everybody is responsible means nobody should be held responsible," he added. Advani and three other BJP veterans have issued a strong statement on the party's defeat in Bihar, demanding a thorough review and criticizing its stand on
couples. "The Quran states that the fundamental reason why Iblees (Satan) taught people black magic was in order to cause separation between husband and wife," Reham tweeted. Earlier, reports surfaced that a row over dogs led to the couple's divorce. However, sources close to them have rejected the claim and said it was in fact Reham who used to take care of all the five dogs owned by the couple. Naeemul Haq had confirmed that the couple divorced with mutual consent after ten months of marriage. (ANI)
the debacle. "The results of Bihar election show that no lesson has been learnt from fiasco in Delhi," said the statement signed by Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Shanta Kumar and Yashwant Sinha. The BJP top brass, however, issued a counter statement in response, saying they have been 'fortunate' to be led by Advani for decades and welcomed any guidance and suggestion by the senior leaders. (ANI)
OROP notification a 'Diwali shock' for armed forces: Antony New Delhi, Nov. 11 : Expressing his disappointment at the notification by the government on the One Rank, One Pension (OROP), Congress leader and former Defence Minister AK Antony on Tuesday said the announcement was a far cry from being a 'Diwali gift' and was more of a 'shock' for the Indian Armed Forces. "Totally disappointed as it shows the government is going back from their commitment to the soldiers. They committed in Parliament and outside it as well as during the election time that they will implement OROP but have failed to do so," Antony told. Highlighting another 'disappointment' he added that the new order saying the soldiers who took vol-
untary retirement will not receive OROP was against the basic concept of the Indian Armed Forces. "Our concept has always been to keep our armed forces very young so they can fight wars more effectively. Now after this order, they will naturally try to prolong their service which means the Indian Armed Forces will have older personnel, which is not good," he added. The Congress leader emphasized that during the UPA regime in 2014 their government had issued a categorical order that the ex-servicemen holding the same rank for the same length of service will receive pension, no matter when they retire, which was the main 'principle' of the OROP.
"This is not a Diwali gift but a Diwali shock to the armed forces as the government has gone back on its solemn commitment," Antony said. Slamming Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar for failing to deliver his promises on the One Rank, One Pension (OROP) scheme, the protesting army veterans today warned the former to stop misleading the nation and dared him to meet with their delegation for an open discussion. "Government has not given us the OROP which was assured and the notification issued has seven shortcomings. We are angry and are going to express our fury by retuning our medals from every district and let me inform you that medals have
been pouring in in large numbers from across the nation," Major General (Retd.) Satbir Singh, who is leading the protest, told. Parrikar had said today that while it was the democratic right of exservicemen to protest against the government's version of the OROP but added that they were being 'misguided'. The government had earlier notified the implementation of the OROP scheme that will guarantee equal pension to military personnel retiring at the same rank with the same length of service, regardless of the date of retirement. The notification, however, failed to impress veterans and they are continuing with their agitation and have begun returning their medals. (ANI)
India re-elected to UN Commission on International Trade Law
New York, Nov. 10: India was on Monday reelected to the UN Commission on International Trade Law for another six years term, maintaining its unbeaten track record of winning elections at the world body. The election held in the U.N. General Assembly, means India enjoys a fresh term as UNCITRAL member from 2016 to 2022. UNCITRAL is recognized as the core legal body of the United Nations system in the field of international trade law, the Indian Mission
to the UN said in a statement. A legal body with universal membership specialising in commercial law reform worldwide for over 40 years, UNCITRAL's business is modernization and harmonisation of rules on international business. The UNGA elected 23 members to UNICTRAL for sixyear terms beginning June 27 next year, including Australia, Brazil, Chile, Israel, Iran, Italy, Pakistan, Philippines, Spain, Turkey, the US and Venezuela. (ANI)
Digvijay trains gun on PM after BJP veterans attack New Delhi, Nov. 11: Taking a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress general secretary Digvijay Singh onWednesday asked whether RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat would pay heed to the comments made by BJP veterans post the debacle in Bihar as he has lost his faith in the former. "Will Mohan Bhagwat ji pay attention to the views put forward by the BJP's Margdarshak mandal? He has lost hoped from Modi ji," he tweeted. The BJP has defended its leadership from the attack by party veterans over the crushing defeat in Bihar. In a statement last night, the BJP said the healthy precedent of collective responsibility for poll victories and defeats was set by Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Lal Krishna Advani. The statement issued by three Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Venkaiah Naidu and Nitin Gadkari said the party will certainly welcome any guidance and suggestion from senior leaders. The statement came shortly after Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Yashwant Sinha and Shanta Kumar issued a joint statement saying Bihar results show that no lesson has been learnt from the fiasco in Delhi Assembly elections. The BJP veterans said the principal reason for the defeat in Bihar is the way the party has been emasculated in the last one year. They also targeted party leadership for saying that everyone is responsible for party's defeat. The BJP, which en-
tered the political battle field in Bihar pitching its developmental agenda, could only win 53 seats. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, the party's star campaigners, failed to work their magic on the voters in Bihar. The Mahagathbandhan or Grand Alliance comprising of the Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress won 178 seats in the 243-member house even as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won just 58 seats. The RJD was on top with over 80 percent strike rate, followed by about 70 percent of the JD (U) and the Congress' 65 percent. The winning percentage of the BJP, which put up a worst show in the state in 10 years, was about 33 percent. The people of Bihar imposed their faith in Nitish Kumar yet again, giving him fifth innings as the Chief Minister. In the 2010 assembly polls, the BJP had won 91 out of 102 seats it contested with a strike rate of nearly 90 percent. (ANI)
'Post-2020 finance' fundamental to success of Paris climate pact: Javadekar Paris, Nov. 10: Making an intervention at the closing plenary session of the pre-Conference of the Parties (CoP) 21 at Paris on Tuesday, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar said that though the Paris Agreement has to be ambitious, the ambition should not be 'unrealistic'. He pointed out that that the crucial question of post2020 finance is fundamental to the success of the Paris Agreement.
Javadekar said that pre2020 actions are the key to build trust among parties. He also said that there can be no Action Holiday in the pre-2020 period. He also stressed that the Paris decision on pre-2020 actions should incorporate elements of ambitious mitigation actions by developed countries and enhanced support to the developing countries to enable them to take affirmative climate action. He added that the commitment to provide finance by devel-
oped countries is based on their historical responsibilities and economic capacities. "We are all aware of the enormity of the task that is before us and time is clearly not on our side. We cannot, therefore, afford to complicate Paris and as I have said umpteen number of times, we should keep Paris simple. To us, Paris will be a good beginning, for enhancing our actions under the convention, and there will be life after Paris. We should therefore not try
to solve every issue, including technical details in Paris, but leave it for the following CoPs," Javadekar said. "While Ambition is the key to success of our efforts to combat Climate Change, I would as I have often cautioned, not to be unrealistic in our Ambition. We also need to see Ambition in the context of our developmental imperatives, which is so essential for developing countries," he added. Talking about the crucial question of post-2020 fi-
nance in regards to the climate pact, Javadekar said it was fundamental to the success of the climate pact and has been recognized. "While post-2020 Finance has to be predictable and scaled up from USD 100 Billion onwards, we do not want to see a change in the very paradigm in which finance has been talked about in the Convention. The commitment to provide finance by developed countries is based on their historical re-
sponsibilities and not only on their economic capacities," Javadekar said. However, he added that any attempts to enlarge the donor base by 'countries in a position to do so' or 'countries willing to do so' will not be appropriate. "To us, the enlarging of donor base and shrinking of recipient base will amount to tinkering with the basic rubric of the Convention and that is, clearly, not what we intend to do," he said. (ANI)
DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
NEIGHBOURS
India, China taking advantage of US: Trump Washington, Nov 11: Terming China as "number-one abuser", leading Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has alleged that the Communist nation, along with India, is taking advantage of the US through its economic policies. Trump said China was becoming a "major force" and is now creating problems both economically and through its behaviour in the South China Sea. "If you look at the way China and India and almost everybody takes advantage of the US - China in particular, because they're so good. It's the number-one abuser of this country," Trump said during the fourth debate of the party. "China is a problem, both economically in what they're doing in the South China Sea, I mean, they are becoming a very, very major force," Trump
said. He said that it was through "currency manipulation" that does not even find a mention in almost 6,000page (TPP) agreement that the countries were taking advantage of the US. While several other Republican candidates joined Trump on the China issue, there were no takers for his allegations against India, which was mentioned only once in the debate. "We lose a fortune on trade. The US loses with everybody. We're losing now over USD 500 billion in terms of imbalance with China, USD 75 billion a year imbalance with Japan," Trump said. John Kasich, governor of Ohio, said China did not own the South China Sea. "I give the (US) President some credit for being able to move a naval force in there to let the Chinese know that we're not
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going to put up with it anymore," he said. Russia and president Vladimir Putin too figured prominently during the debate. "What we have to recognize is that Putin is trying to really spread his influence throughout the Middle East. This is going to be his base. And we have to oppose him there in an
effective way," said presidential candidate Ben Carson. "We also must recognise that it's a very complex place. You know, the Chinese are there, as well as the Russians, and you have all kinds of factions there," he said. Jeb Bush said President Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton
both do not believe the US has a leadership role to play. "And we are now paying a price, and it will have a huge impact on the economy of this country if we don't deal with this," he said. He favoured a no fly zone in Syria. "We should have a support for the remnants of the Syrian Free Army, and create safe zones. If you want to deal with the four million refugees that are leaving Syria because of the devastation there, then we ought to create safe zones for them to stay in the region rather than go to Europe. And, that requires American leadership," Bush said. "It is tragic that you see Iraq, and other countries now talking to Russia. It wasn't that long ago that Russia had no influence in the region at all. And, so, the US needs to lead across the board," Bush added. (Agencies)
Suu Kyi repeats history after 25 years
Dhaka HC says lower court can act against corrupt AL lawmaker Naypyidaw, Nov. 11: comfortable absolute maMyanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) is on track for a repeat of its 1990 landslide election victory with results from more than 20 percent of all seats officially declared. Union Election Commission declared a set of results at 3 p.m. that showed that the NLD had won 220 out of 252. The militarybacked Union Solidarity and Development Party was on 17, while five ethnic minority parties totalled 15 seats between them. NLD senior member and party spokesperson U Win Htein told The Myanmar Times that the NLD believed that it had won 82 percent of townships across the country. Considering that 25 percent of unelected parliamentary seats were allocated to the military, the NLD is on track to have a
jority that would secure its candidates for president and one of the two vice president's positions. The military bloc would get the position of the second vice-president. The NLD also accused the government election panel on Tuesday of intentionally delaying results. The surprising accusation by the National League for Democracy adds a worrying twist to what has so far been an amicable election, where the ruling party appeared to be taking its expected loss gracefully. The accusation raises concern about the intentions of the ruling party, which is beholden to the military that had ruled the country with an iron-grip from 1962 until 2011. Since then, the country has been governed by the Union Solidarity Development Party, made up former junta members led by President Thein Sein. (ANI)
Dhaka, Nov.11: The Dhaka High Court has given permission to a lower court to continue trial proceedings against a corrupt Awami League lawmaker. A twojudge bench of the high court said that the case against Abdur Rahman Bodi, who represents the Awami League from the Cox's Bazar-4 constituency, has merit. Bodi has been charged with amassing Taka 6.33 crore in illegal wealth, and also of concealing information about properties worth Taka 3.99 crore. High Court judges Justice Mohammad Emdadul Huq and Justice Muhammad Khurshid Alam Sarkar rejected a petition by the accused filed for scraping the case proceedings. The Special Judge's Court-3 of Dhaka is set to record witness statements on November 18. Bodi is currently out on bail. (ANI)
Pak Army Chief to US State Department issues fresh travel visit US on his own warning for citizens heading to Bangladesh Washington, Nov.11: The United States State Department has issued a fresh travel advisory to its citizens to be cautious and vigilant in that country and about visiting it. "There is reliable information to suggest that terrorist attacks could occur against foreigners in Bangladesh, including against large gatherings
of foreigners," the State Department said in a travel alert that cited the two killings as well as the October 24 bombing of a Sha religious procession. "During 2015 there has been a series of threats and terrorist attacks targeting writers, publishers, and others in the media, including the murder of a US citizen blogger," it
added. "The US government assesses that the terrorist threat remains real and credible, and further attacks are possible." Attacks on foreigners are relatively rare in Bangladesh, despite a rising tide of Islamist violence over the past year that has seen four online critics of religious militancy hacked to death, among them a U.S.
India, Afghanistan to enhance defence ties Pak, Nov 11: Pakistan army chief General Raheel Sharif will visit the US on his own as there was no official invitation either from his American counterpart or the Pentagon, according to defence officials. "Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif will be visiting Washington from November 16 to 19. Sharif is travelling to Washington of his own volition and Department of Defence officials are meeting with General Raheel at his request," a Defence Department official said. Pentagon has received requests for a meeting from Pakistani Embassy here on behalf of General Sharif, the official said on the condition of anonymity. This is one of the rarest of the rare occasions that a Pakistani army chief is visiting the US without any in-
vitation. Defence department official said that there is "no official invitation" for General Sharif to visit the US. "General Sharif requested meetings in Washington and the DoD looks forward to productive discussions related to our bilateral defence relationship. We are working with the Pakistan Embassy here in Washington to develop an appropriate set of meetings with US officials," the official said. According to officials, Sharif has requested for meetings with Defence Secretary Ashton Carter, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and US Army Chief General Mark A Milley. He is also expected to fly down to the Central Command headquarters in Tampa, Florida. "As you might expect, we will dis-
cuss a range of defence and security issues important to both countries such as the security of Afghanistan and the region given the President's recent troop announcement as well as Pakistan's counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts," the Pentagon official said in response to a question. It is learnt that Sharif on his second visit to the US as the top Pakistani commander has also requested for a meeting with Secretary of State John Kerry and several powerful lawmakers. Sharif had met Kerry during his visit to the US last year in the first week of December. Sharif, to the surprise of many, had stayed in the US for an unusually longer period of time, which was initially scheduled for about a week in the second half of November 2014.
Afghanistan, Nov 11: India and Afghanistan held talks on anti-terror cooperation and on enhancing Kabul's defence capabilities amid reports that India is to provide four MI-25 attack helicopters to the country. The talks were held during Afghan National Security Advisor Hanif Atmar's visit to New Delhi on November 89. Atmar, who was here at the invitation of Ajit Doval, held talks with his Indian counterpart. Atmar's visit is reported to be linked to India providing four attack helicopters to Afghanistan to help it fight a growing Taliban insurgency. Atmar also called on Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and attended a discussion at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, according to an External Affairs Ministry statement. In-
dia reiterated its strong commitment and support for a united, sovereign, democratic, stable and prosperous Afghanistan. Atmar conveyed appreciation of his country's leadership, its government and Afghans for reliable and predictable assistance from India, it said. During the visit, the two sides discussed various aspects of
regional security, particularly terrorism which threatens peace and stability of the region. They also discussed ways and means to enhance cooperation between India and Afghanistan to strengthen the latter's defence capabilities for safeguarding its security and combating all forms of terrorism, the statement added.(Agencies)
Vietnam, Philippines to sign pact Vietnam, Nov 11: The Philippines and Vietnam plan to sign an accord next week to elevate their relationship to a strategic level, allowing them to deepen economic ties and maritime cooperation, a Philippine official said yesterday. Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said the accord may be signed on the sidelines of next week's Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Manila in the presence of President Benigno Aquino III and his Vietnamese counterpart. Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang is among 11 heads of state Aquino will meet with one-on-one in Manila, Jose said. Vietnam and the Philippines are
A file picture dated May 11, 2015 shows an aerial view of alleged artificial islands built by China in disputed waters in the South China Sea, west of Palawan, Philippines. Philippines and Vietnam, who are at odds with China over the contested territories, plan to sign an accord next week to elevate their relationship to a strategic level.
among five governments at odds with China over contested territories in the South China Sea. But both have not characterised the proposed alliance as targeting Beijing, which they have strongly criticised for its increasingly aggressive steps to assert its claims in the disputed waters. Jose did not provide details when asked about the proposed accord at a news conference. Last year, Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said such a partnership aimed to improve trade, investment and maritime cooperation, including search and rescue work at sea. Although a plan to sign the pact earlier did not push through due to a need
to clarify some wordings, the proposal for the Southeast Asian neighbours to bolster their ties progressed rapidly. Both governments agreed to convene a joint committee to start talks on a strategic partnership only more than a year ago, Philippine officials said. Aside from China, Vietnam and the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei have also been involved in the disputes, which raged anew last year after China began transforming seven mostly submerged disputed reefs into islands that rival governments feared Beijing would use as military forward bases to reinforce its claims and presence far from the Chinese mainland. (Agencies)
citizen of Bangladeshi origin. A Japanese citizen was shot dead in Bangladesh on October 3 and an Italian aid worker was killed in the same manner in the capital Dhaka on September 28 in attacks claimed by the Islamic State militant group. Asked about the fresh travel alerts, the Daily Star quoted a
spokesperson of the American Embassy in Dhaka, as saying, "the alert does not reflect a new threat. The alert is intended to inform the public of the existing threat, given the increased numbers of foreigners expected to travel in the near future for large-scale public events." (ANI)
MoE introduces Life Jacket Awareness Campaign Bander Seri Begawan, Nov 11: The Ministry of Education (MoE) yesterday launched a life jacket safety awareness campaign for primary schools to stress the importance of its use by those who travel by boats particularly, students and teachers from Kampong Ayer. The launch of the awareness campaign followed a briefing on life jacket safety at the Datu Ahmad Primary School in Kg Lurong Dalam, one of the residential communities at the Water Village. The campaign is organised by the Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) Section under the MoE Administration and Services Department in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications' Marine Department. Event organiser Azman Hj Jamain said that it was also hoped that the briefing would equip students with new knowledge about how to make the best use of a life jacket in the event of a boat accident. Marine Department officer Hj Yusoff Hj Metusin, one of the speakers, said it was important to ensure that one would be wearing a life jacket of the right size as there's always the chance of
slipping out of the vest if it was too big and failure to secure the jacket if too small or tight. "It should not be too small or too big. A good way to check the fit is to lift the jacket when it is being worn - if you lift a jacket you have on and it passes your ears, it is too big," he explained. Meanwhile, a life jacket is too small if someone wearing it is unable to fasten all its buckles, he said. Following this, MoE officer Abdul Aziz Hj Mohamad Ali delivered a comprehensive briefing about the safest ways to get on and off boats. Tips include for students to line up in an orderly fashion before boarding the boat, head down to the boat safely by holding onto the rails. The event ended with a practical session led by Siti Nahriah POKMD DSP Hj Abd Wahab where students learned hands-on how to properly put on and remove life jackets. The life jacket safety awareness campaign continues today and tomorrow, where similar briefings will be held at Kg Saba Darat A Primary School and Tanjung Kindana Primary School respectively. (Agencies)
China to push alternative trade pact at APEC Beijing, Nov 11: China will seek to push its own vision of an Asia-Pacific trade pact at a regional summit next week, senior officials said yesterday, after this month's release of a rival US-led deal that pointedly excludes the Asian giant. Beijing sought to promote the Free Trade Area of the AsiaPacific (FTAAP) at last year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, which it hosted. At the meeting's close, participants endorsed efforts to explore the idea, which was seen as a potential rival to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a 12-nation, Washington-led trade coalition that includes the region's largest economies, except China. Little has been heard of the FTAAP since, while the long-secret text of the TPP was released on Thursday, receiving cheers from global business interests and jeers from labour, environmen-
tal and health groups, which vowed to fight its ratification. The TPP would be the world's biggest free trade area, an attempt to break down barriers to commerce and investment between a dozen countries comprising about 40 per cent of the global economy. China said it would report the findings of a study on FTAAP at next week's APEC summit in the Philippines, to be attended by President Xi Jinping. "We need to actively work for the establishment of FTAAP," Chinese vice commerce minister Wang Shouwen told a briefing, adding that the trade pact would be "a facilitator for regional integration in APEC". If ultimately realised, FTAAP would be the world's largest free trade area, encompassing TPP and other regional frameworks. APEC's 21 members account for more than 50 per cent of global GDP. (Agencies)
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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
Quality Assurance and Sustenance in Higher Education India asks for Kohinoor again Queen Elizabeth II sued over India's Kohinoor diamond It was once the world's largest-known diamond, is worth a reported ÂŁ100m and is currently part of Britain's crown jewels. But India wants it back. And this is why an Indian group comprising of Bollywood stars and businessmen have united to instruct lawyers to begin legal proceedings in London's High Court to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond. Once the world's largest-known diamond, the Koh-i-Noor was given to the reigning Queen of the time by the last ruler of the Sikhs, Duleep Singh, after the British annexed Punjab, The Independent reports. Presently, the diamond is part of Britain's crown jewels and was in the crown worn by the Queen Mother at the coronation of her husband King George VI in 1937 and again at Queen Elizabeth's coronation in 1953. The Indian group, which has called itself the "Mountain of Light" a literal translation of the diamond's name, say that the 105-carat diamond was stolen from its true home in India and are demanding that the UK Government return it. This is not the first time Indians are demanding the United Kingdom to return the Kohinoor diamond. The diamond was, by force, made to be presented to Queen Victoria in 1850, by the Marquess of Dalhousie, the British governor-general of Punjab. A lobby of businessmen and actors with Indian origin, which calls itself the "Mountain of Light" is all set to sue Queen Elizabeth II, demanding the return of the 105-carat stone. David de Souza, co-founder of the Indian leisure group Titos, is helping to fund the new legal action and has instructed British lawyers to begin High Court proceedings, reports Hans India. The Kohinoor is one of the many artifacts taken from India under dubious circumstances. Colonisation did not only rob our people of wealth, it destroyed the country's psyche itself. Surprisingly, Narendra Modi's maiden visit to the United Kingdom as the Prime Minister of the country, during which he will also attend a dinner at the Buckingham Palace with the Queen, will coincide with this lawsuit demanding the return of Kohinoor to India. Keith Vaz, the longest serving MP of Asian origin, had called for the diamond to be returned in November when Modi visits the UK. The Kohinoor is not just a 105-carat stone, but part of our history and culture and should undoubtedly be returned. According to legend, the gem can only be worn by God or women, and whoever wears the jewel will become extremely powerful, but if a man wears it, he will meet an unfortunate end. The jewel was also in the crowns of Queen Alexandra and Queen Mary. It remains in the Queen Mother's crown, which sat atop her coffin at her funeral in 2002. It will indeed be a wonderful moment, if PM Modi finishes his visit and returns to India with the promise of the diamond's return. After the Bihar election debacle, BJP-led NDA government at the center and PM Narendra Modi would gain some brownie points if Kohinoor returns to India. However, the British government in 2013 rejected the demands for the return of Koh-i-Noor, and the British PM David Cameron had said "he did not believe in returnism".
OROP Row Over 2,000 War Veterans Return Medals Hundreds of veterans returned medals to protest against their key demands not being met in a government formula to equalise their pension payouts, deepening a crisis that has virtually pitted millions of exservicemen against the Centre. Retired military personnel relinquished their awards in Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and other parts of the country, terming last week's announcement by the Centre on the one-rank-one-pension (OROP) scheme "diluted" and said they would observe a "black Diwali" to protest the government "reneging" on its assurances. Similarly ex-servicemen from Ambala, Chandigarh, Moga, Jalandhar and Gurdaspur returned their medals today while those from Mumbai, Pune, Vadodara and Bangalore will follow the suit. Whereas people from Mumbai, Pune, Vadodara and Bangalore will return their medals next. As a mark of protest, the medals would be returned to the Centre through the Deputy Commissioners (DC) of the concerned district where the veterans had handed them over. Brig (Retd) Kiran Krishan said those veterans who returned their medals were from various ranks including Major Generals, Subedar Majors, Captains, Sepoys, among other ranks. "In our memorandum to the Prime Minister, which was submitted to the ADC, The veterans are particularly upset about the scheme not being extended to future premature retirees and the proposal to recalculate pensions every five years instead of annually. According to the notification, pensions will be fixed with 2013 as the base year and the plan will be implemented from July 1, 2014. The scheme is aimed at guaranteeing equal pension to military personnel retiring at the same rank with the same length of service, regardless of the date of retirement. While the veterans stepped up their movement, the government appeared in no mood to yield any more ground. Defence Minister Parrikar said that it was not possible to meet all the demands made by the ex-servicemen and the core issue had been resolved. Whereas several veterans have been holding a sitin at Jantar Mantar for over five months in support of their decades-old demand. The retired soldiers say the formula worked out by the Centre amounts to one rank, five pensions. The government has decided to appoint a judicial committee to look into anomalies, if any, arising out of the implementation of the scheme. According to the Centre's calculations, the plan will require an annual payout of Rs 8,000 crore to Rs 10,000 crore. It will be effective from July 1, 2014, with arrears amounting to anywhere between Rs 10,000 crore and Rs 12,000 crore.
Prof. Pranjal Bezborah Quality is one of those elusive words which everyone seems to understand but few are able to articulate. For the same reason, it is necessary to specify its meaning before proceeding further. As a term, it has gained currency in at least two circles - management studies and development studies. In management studies, there are discernible two approaches to quality conceptualization Standard based and clientsatisfaction based. The standard based approach defines quality as compliance with a given standard or approximation to a set standard. Having prevailed from some time, the standard based conceptions of quality has now come under scrutiny for its inadequacies. It is criticized for its self-limiting character in that a given standard on which it depends. This, it is contended, runs counter to the very essence of quality. By its very nature, quality signifies a selftranscending category. It represents a continuous quest for perfection, an infinite pursuit of excellence. A second limitation of the standard based approach is that it represents a provider's view, with little regard for the client's view. Quality is not always what is projected as quality by a provider. It is also that which is regarded as quality by the customer. It is a pity that in most cases it is the provider's construct of quality that is imposed on the customer, with scant consideration for the customer's vision on it. This criticism of the standard based construct of quality paved the way to the emergence of client satisfaction based construct of quality. In this conception of quality, the crucial criterion is client's satisfaction, his vision of quality. Applied to the field of education, for example, it is one thing to look at the quality of education from the provider's perspective, while it is another to view it from the client's perspective that is from the perspective of students, employers and community. These two management conceptions of quality are not antithetical to each other. They are indeed complimentary and should be viewed as such. Turning to the usage of the term quality in development studies, there it is
generally used in terms of quality of life, which in turn is measured by improvement in life chances of people, their enlightened life styles and their access to civil rights and freedoms. As in the management studies, so in the development studies, the term quality is used to connote a move in a positive direction, i.e., from good to better. For present purposes, both the usages of quality, i.e., management and development are equally relevant. The former is relevant for assessing the quality of education as a service and the latter for assessing the implications of education for quality of life. Needless to add that quality education is that which enhances quality of life. The International Commission of Education for Twenty First Century entitled "Learning: the Treasure Within" has identified four pillars of learning Learning to know, Learning to do, Learning to live together and Learning to be. This provides a broad vision statement of quality education. Drawing upon it, quality education may be defined as that which transforms the consciousness of a person and leads him from darkness to light. It does so by instilling the following four capabilities in an efficient, effective and excellent manner: (a) To think logically, analytically, critically and laterally. (b) To make an honourable living, i.e., employability by learning occupational skills and work experience. (c) To realize one's potential for self-development in terms of physical, emotional, intellectual, aesthetic and moral attainment through educational experience. (d) To acquire a discriminatory capability to appreciate and imbibe the emerging values of our times such as concern for ecology, civility, harmony and cultural pluralism. In order to be able to impart quality education, our education system itself has to acquire the following five quality pre-requisites - Quality syllabus, Quality Faculty, Quality teaching and evaluation, Quality research and Quality character. Some of the indicators of quality syllabus are - its regular updating and upgradation, its advanced
theoretical and experimental/empirical thrust, Credibility of content, Interdisciplinary orientation, Sensitivity to emerging intellectual developments and social sensibilities, Relevance for self and social development. Some of the essentials of quality faculty include their -academic and research eminence, intellectual competence as measured by command over the subject, ability to build an argument in a cogent and coherent manner, communicative competence as reflected in clarity of thought and expression and creative competence as signified by reflective character of teaching. Likewise, indicators of quality teaching and evaluation are -teacher-student ratio, modes of teaching - its interactive and participatory character, innovative teaching methods, regularity of classes, sanctity accorded to completion of syllabus, students' keenness to attend classes without compulsion of attendance, positive feedback by students, affectivity in teacher-student relationship, regular and continuous assessment, and mode of evaluation - objectivity, impartiality and transparency in evaluation. In much the same way, measures of quality research are -its evidence of breaking a new ground, generating a paradigm shift, research publications, acknowledgement by way of frequency of citations, awards and honours, and quality of research guidance and projects, etc. Last but not the least, the quality of character and outlook of faculty is as important as is the quality of his/her intellect. In fact, it constitutes the bedrock of quality education. This is so particularly because of the newly recognized role of education as an agency of social change. In this context, the measures of socially relevant quality education are such social sensibilities of faculty as egalitarian, ecological, civil, pluralistic, etc., apart from integrity of character. The growing concern for quality culture in higher education the world over has posed a problem of gigantic proportions for India, which needs to develop both quality and quantity of higher education with better academic and physical infrastructure. This need for quality assurance, evaluation and
sustenance has led the UGC to set up NAAC in 1994 to assess and accredit institutions of higher learning in accordance with national and international norms mooted by International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education. The UGC has made NAAC accreditation mandatory for institutions of higher education linking with financial assistance and academic recognition. NAAC's two-tier system of quality assurance works firstly, through performance evaluation by way of assessment accomplished through a process based on self-study and peer review using defined criteria. Secondly, based on peer review report, NAAC grants accreditation to the institution certifying it at a particular level. Assessment ensures that a self-critical community of academicians, students, support staff and managers are striving and contributing towards continued quality enhancement. Accreditation on the other hand, assures all the stakeholders, the community, academicians, students, employers and other organizations that the institution has clearly defined and educationally appropriate objectives and the required for their achievement. Viewed thus, the philosophy of NAAC is ameliorative and enabling rather than punitive or judgmental. It believes that overall quality of an institution must be the concern of all the stakeholders. This leads to quality assurance as different from quality control, which implies a rejection or substandard. The need for assuring quality must not end with accreditation. The self-study and quality assurance should not be a one-time project to be revived only at the time of the next ac-
creditation. NAAC report on the institution's performance takes into account several criteria as curriculum, qualified staff, research, extension innovative practices, etc. Through an analysis of its strong and weak areas, opportunities and challenges (SWOC) the institution is rated on its performance. The very nature of its report, made available to the institution, should spur the stakeholders to appreciate their strengths, work upon their weaknesses to remove them and strive to seize the opportunities available to them. This requires developing suitable follow up strategies. The follow up strategies should concentrate on the following areas: Developing Strong Areas: The strong areas in a institution such as teaching, research or innovation, etc., identified in the NAAC report should not breed complacency but should boost further development. It should become a motivation for further development. Resetting New Goals: This is required both in areas identified as weak and also to give further impetus for advancement and growth in general. The strategy will involve putting extra effort, resources, both financial and human, into areas needing improvement and those having potential for growth. Goals need to be reset in the light of new challenges and past performance. Such realistic and futuristic goals are necessary for sustenance of quality in institutions. Establishing Monitoring Systems: A system needs to be established to monitor
the activities, functioning and achievements of the institution in a continuous manner. Monitoring should be a regular activity and based on acceptance by all stakeholders. It will be more effective if it has a participatory nature wherein all working towards quality assurance and sustenance participate in monitoring it too. Setting New Targets and Developing Work Plans: Sustenance of quality will require moving with and ahead of the quality achieved. Hence new targets will have to be set up for achievement in the future. New work plans will have to be drawn up keeping these targets in mind. Thus the activity of sustenance will lead to enhancement of quality too, because continued sustenance cumulatively enhances quality. There is a need to develop a quality culture in our institutions. This will require mental infrastructure more than physical infrastructure, because quality depends upon our sincerity of purpose, our vision and conviction to do our duties. The development of such a culture will depend upon the academic leadership of an institution. The leadership must create and environment, which encourages performance. There has to be a transformative leadership capable of translating intentions into actions and actions into quality, a leader who can say that his work is his quality. To conclude I would like to quote Mahatma Gandhi: "We must be the change we wish to see in the world".
The writer is a Professor in the Department of Commerce, Dibrugarh University
BJP's Defeat in Bihar And Shtrughna Sinha
Sir, 'It never rains but it pours' that is what is experienced by the stalwarts of BJP. This is particularly palpable in the wake of the result of the Bihar election. Satrughna Sinha M.P. from Bihar who has been
playing pivotal role in the past few elections in Bihar that to win an election in a particular state sans some ensuring win for BJP. This time, of course, Mr. local heavy weights costs BJP dearly. Sinha not only keeps aloof but embarrasses BJP from time to time by his sarcastical comments. Mr. Yours etc. Sinha now, is openly showing his propensity towards Ashok Bordoloi Nitish Kumar and Lalu Prasad Yadav. His meeting with Nitish Kumar and Lalu Prasad Yadav after the Dibrugarh result is case in point. Apart from Mr. Sinha Mr. R.K.Singh, retired I.A.S. officer, an M.P. of BJP Best Letter from Bihar who, too, is averse to BJP's leadership. The best letter of the month in the Letter to Mr. Singh complains that a BJP ticket for contestthe Editor section will be awarded an amount ing election is sold at a very high price. Disgruntled of Rs 200. So please keep writing. Satrughna Sinha candidly divulged his grievances against BJP leadership without mincing matters. Mr. Sinha lashed out at the BJP leadership accusing the leadership of accommodating some in the union ministry despite their defeat in the last Lok Sabha Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : election. Perhaps Mr. Sinha reminds the Prime The Eastern Today minister Modi that there is no record of Mr. Sinha's Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh-786003 (Assam) Ph: defeat in Bihar in the long annals of BJP. Neverthe0373-2328944 less, except for a short stint during Atal Behari Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com Bajpayees tenure as Prime-minister, Mr. Sinha had been shown no empathy from the party. It implies
DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
Page 9
Job & Career
Grade-IV post vacant in the Directorate of Small Savings, Assam Applications are invited from the intending eligible candidates who are citizens of India for filling up the vacancies as indicated below in the cadre of Peon (Grade-IV) in the Directorate of Small Savings, Assam in the Scale of Pay of Pay Band-1, Rs.4560/ - + Grade Pay of Rs.,1500/- per month plus other allowances as admissible under Rules. NUMBER OF VACANCIES : 2 (TWO) CATEGORY : GENERAL (Un-Reserved) MINIMUM QUALIFICATION : CLASS-VIII AGE : Candidate should not be less than 18 years and more than 38 years of age as on 01-01-2015. The upper age limit is relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST, i.e, upto 43 years. In case of Government servant, the maximum age limit is relaxable upto 45 years inclusive of all age concessions. HOW TO APPLY : A candidate must submit the following documents with his/her application duly filled in the prescribed form of application available in the Part-IX of the Assam Gazette and the envelope sending the application should be superscribed "Application for the Post of Peon (Grade-IV)" on the top right hand corner. The candidate may send his/her application by post to the DIRECTOR OF SMALL SAVINGS, KAR BHAWAN COMPLEX, 5TH FLOOR, GANESHGURI, GUWAHATI-781006,or drop in the box placed in the Directorate within 16-11-2015 along with following documents: (a) 3 copies of recent passport size photographs signed by the candidate (b) one self-addressed pre-stamped(Rs. 5/-) envelope of 18cm X 27cm(approx) (c) Self attested copies of testimonials (d) Self attested copies of Age proof Certificate & valid Employment Exchange Registration Card. CANDIDATES SENDING APPLICATION BY POST SHOULD ENSURE THAT THEIR APPLICATIONS REACH THE OFFICE OF THE DIRECTORATE BY 1611-2015, AFTER WHICH NO APPLICATION WILL BE ACCEPTED. INCOMPLETE APPLICATION IN ANY WAY WILL SUMMARILY BE REJECTED. Candidates with valid application will be called for VIVA-VOCE Test to be conducted as per decisions of the Selection Committee. CANVASSING DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY SHALL DISQUALIFY THE CANDIDATURE. NO TA/DA WILL BE PROVIDED TO THE CANDIDATES APPEARING IN THE VIVA-VOCE TEST. This Advertisement is issued with the concurrence of the Finance(SIU) Department. DIRECTORATE OF SMALL SAVINGS KAR BHAWAN COMPLEX, 5TH FLOOR GANESHGURI :: GUWAHATI-781006.
Applications are invited for the post of Office Asst. at Mangaldai Law College, Assam Applications are invited from qualified candidates for the post of Office Assistant in Mangaldai Law College, having minimum qualification-Graduate with knowledge of Computer & Type writing. Upper age limit- 38 years as on01.11.2015. Respective candidates may apply with all necessary testimonials from HSLC onwards within 7 days from the date of publication. Salary is negotiable.
Prima HR Management Services (P) Ltd. Recruits "Asst. Manager- Accountant" (Location - Guwahati)
Job posts vacant at Tinsukia District Level Laboratory, Digboi & Sadiya Sub-Divisional Level Laboratory, Assam
Name of the Organisation: Prima HR Management Services (P) Ltd Post:: Prima HR Management Services (P) Ltd. Recruits "Asst. Manager- Accountant" (Location - Guwahati) Job Category: Accounting Job Job Location: Guwahati Job Description: Dear Candidates, We have an urgent opening for the position of "Asst. Manager- Accountant" for one of our leading client o Male/Female o Local candidate of Guwahati is preferable o Qualification: B. Com/M.com o Experience: 3-6 years o Salary: 20K - 30K (Per Month) o Job Location: Guwahati Interested candidates can send their updated resume to- prima.hrms@gmail.com "Only shortlisted candidates will be called for interview" You Can Contact: Prima HR Management Services (P) Ltd Mob: 9085013266 Please send your Resumes to:: prima.hrms@gmail.com
Applications are hereby invited from eligible candidates who are Citizen of India for engagement of following personnel purely on Contractual basis at Tinsukia District Level Laboratory, Digboi & Sadiya Sub-Divisional Level Laboratory under the establishment of the Executive Engineer (PHE) Tinsukia Division, Tinsukia. Intending candidates may attend walk-in-interview on 12 /11/2015 from 11.00 A.M. to 4.00 P.M. at Tinsukia (PHE) Division Office, Borguri, Tinsukia along with application in standard form supported by Original certificates & Testimonials and Xerox copies of the same. Terms & Condition : 1. Candidates should come for interview with all Original Certificates & Testimonials. 2. The engagement will be purely on contractual basis and may be terminated at any time without assigning any reason thereof. 3. No.TA/DA will be paid for appearing the interview.
Vacancy at D.D.R. College, Chabua, Dibrugarh, Assam ADVERTISEMENT Applications are invited by the undersigned with all testimonials and Biodata including Permanent Residential Certificate from the candidates for filling up the following two sanctioned posts of Assistant Professor in the Scale of Pay Rs. 15,600-39,100 + AGP 6000/- with other allowances as per rule as admissible from time to time. (A) Assistant Professor, Assamese - 1 (one) Post, Reserved for OBC/MOBC (B) Assistant Professor, Economics - 1 (one) Post, Reserved for STP (P) Candidates must have latest UGC norms and NET/SLET/SET as mandatory required qualification. Candidates who have obtained M.Phill. degree on or before 10.07.2009 may also apply for the posts excluding the candidates obtained M.Phil./Ph.D Degree from off campus centre. However, the candidates having Ph.D. degree in accordance with the UGC (minimum standards and procedure for award of Ph.D. degree) Regulation 2009, shall be exempted from NET/SLET/ SET. Applications must reach the undersigned within 7 days from the date of publication of this advertisement with a Bank Demand Draft, of Rs. 1000/- (Rupees One Thousand only) payable at UBI, Chabua Branch drawn in favour of the Principal, D.D.R. College, Chabua. The candidates must know the local language and should not be more than 38 years of age as on 01/01/2015. Relaxation of age upto 5 years to the SC/ST candidates is admissible. (Dr. B. Barman) Principal D.D.R. College, Chabua Dist. : Dibrugarh, Assam Pin. : 786184
Principal cum Secretary, Mangaldai Law Collage, Mangaldai -784125.
Sd/- Executive Engineer(PHE) Tinsukia Division, Tinsukia.
Various job posts vacant at Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission Society, Guwahati (Assam) Applications are invited for filling up the following positions on contractual basis for skills and placement component (DDU-GKY), under Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission Society. 1. Chief Operating Officer (COO) : 1 (UR) 2. State Project Manager : 1 (UR) 3. Project Manager : 1 (UR) 4. Project Executives : 4 (UR=3, OBC/MOBC=1) 5. Project Assistant : 1 (UR) 6. District Functional Experts : 8 (UR=4, OBC/ MOBC=2, ST(P)=1, SC=1) 7. Block Coordinator : 63 (UR=33, OBC/MOBC=17, ST(P)=6, ST(H)=3, SC=4) Last date of receipt of application: 15/11/2015 For application format, eligibility criteria, age, salary and other terms and conditions, applicants are advised to visit the society's website www.asrlms.in
Sd/- Nitin Khade IAS State Mission Director, Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission Society Nabajyoti Nagar, Siva Nath Gogoi Path, Guwahati, ASSAM-781037
The Eastern Today has taken an initiative to present Questions & Answers to help the aspirants in their competitive exams (SSC, Banks, Insurance, etc.). 1).Which of the following co-operative banks is considered as the first Co-operative Bank in India? a) Amanath Co-operative Bank Ltd b) Anyonya Co-operative Bank c) Greater Bombay Cooperative Bank Ltd d) Abhyudaya Co-operative Bank Ltd Answer: b 2).In India Agricultural Co-operative Banks was started at_________. a) 1929 b) 1950 c) 1904 d) 1980 Answer: c 3).Co-operative Banks in India are registered under__________. i) Banking Laws (CoOperative Societies) Act, 1965 ii) Banking Regulation Act, 1949. iii) Companies Act, 1956. a) Only i) b) i) and ii) c) ii) and iii) d) i), ii) and iii) Answer: a 4).According to the Sarraya Committee, average membership of the society's is______. a) 19 b) 48 c) 25 d) 32 Answer: d 5).Barring which of the following two states, in all states of the country, these societies have unlimited liability? a) Kerala and Karnataka b) Assam and Madhya
Pradesh c) UP and Bihar d) Karnataka and Rajasthan Answer: c 6).Co-Operative Development Bank was set up by__________. a) NABARD b) RBI c) SBI d) Central Government Answer: a 7).Co-Operative Banks in India do not finance rural areas under_______. a) Personal Finance b) Small Scale Unit c) Farming d) Cattle Answer: b 8).Co-Operative Bank in India has a________. a) Four tier system b) Two tier system c) Three tier system d) Five tier system Answer: c 9).Which of the following statements is TRUE about National Federation of State Co-Operative Banks? a) Provides research and consultancy inputs to the member banks b) Promotes and protects the interests of the member banks c) Provides a common forum to the member banks d) All of the above Answer: d 10). The State Co-Operative Bank, being the Apex Bank at the State level______. a) Provides the link between the RBI and the money market on one hand, and the
entire co-operative credit structure on the other b) Acts as the custodian of the surplus resources and the reserves of the Central Co-operative Banks and supplements them by attracting sizeable deposits and by obtaining loans from RBI. c) Operates as balancing centre for the movement of the resources in the entire state d) All of the Above Answer: d 11).The rate of Interest payable on a bank deposit is determined by _________. a) Financial Ministry b) The bank concerned c) Indian Bank's Association d) RBI Answer: b 12).What is the maximum period for which a fixed deposit can be accepted by a Commercial Bank? a) 10 years b) 15 years c) 12 years d) 14 years Answer: a 13).Which of the following instruments cannot be presented for payment in a clearing house? a) Dividends b) Demand draft c) Fixed deposit receipt d) None of these Answer: c 14).An average citizen cannot open a savings account in which of the following? a) Cooperative Bank
b) Post Office c) Commercial Bank d) RBI Answer: d 15).Who among the following cannot open a bank account? a) Person of unsound mind b) A minor c) A blind individual d) An illiterate person Answer: a 16).Which among the following schemes is NOT meant for investment purpose? a) Mutual funds b) Infrastructure bonds c) National Savings certificates d) Letter of Credits Answer: d 17).Savings accounts with zero balance can be opened for_______. a) Employees of IT companies b) Women customers c) Weaker sections of society d) Persons of high net worth Answer: c 18).Systematic Investment plans are related to _________. a) Mutual Funds b) Post office savings schemes c) Life Insurance Companies d) Commercial Banks Answer: a 19).RBI stipulates a healthy mix of CASA in the business figures of banks. What does it denotes? a) Credit and savings aggregate b) Cost Appreciation and selling Analysis
c) Current Account and Savings Account d) Customer Analysis and Savings Pattern Answer: c 20).Banks are authorized to sell which of the following third party products? a) Mutual Funds b) Debit cards c) Gift Cheques d) Term Deposits Answer: a 21).What is the primary functions of Central CoOperative Bank? a) To channelize the flow of funds from the state Co-Operative Banks b) Mobilise the resource in the district for financing its members to the maximum extent possible. c) Both of the above d) None of these Answer: c 22).A Central Co-operative Bank is generally headquartered at_________. a) State capital b) An important town of the district c) Same place which is the headquarter of the district d) None of these Answer: c 23).The Primary credit society____________. a) Is the best agency to inculcate the habit of thrift, self-help and mutual help among its members. b) Is engaged in securing for its members services of various kinds. c) Forms the base of the co-operative credit structure and on its working
depends to a large extent, the soundness of the whole co-operative credit structure. d) None of the above Answer: d 24).The common feature of the agricultural credit societies in the country is that_________. a) Only small and marginal farmers are their members b) The agriculturists are their members c) The persons living in cities and town are their members d) All of these Answer: b 25).How many types of primary agricultural credit societies are there in our country? a) Service Co-Operative b) Other small-size societies c) Large-size societies which include Rural Banks, Agricultural Banks and Credit Unions d) None of these Answer: d 26).The Primary Functions of the service coo p e r a t i v e s are___________. a) Collection of agricultural products for sale through the marketing society b) Supply of agricultural and other production requirements c) Provision of short and medium term credit d) All of these Answer: d 27).The viability of a primary credit society implies? a) To appoint a full-time
paid secretary b) To constitute reserves on the scales considered necessary and to pay a reasonable dividend on capital c) Its ability to setup a regular office of its own d) All of the above Answer: d 28).The weakest link in the co-operative credit system is_________. a) Presence of multiple structure and diverse nature of various types of primary societies b) The non-viability of a large number of primary agricultural credit societies c) Non-availability of published data on their functioning d) None of these Answer: b 29).The general approach to the loaning policies and procedures of Co-operative Banks has been to__________. a) Implement the crop loan system in all its aspects b) Provide a window for marketing of agricultural products c) Allow only long term loans to the farmers extending beyond 20 year for development on land d) All of these
Answer: a 30).Primary (Urban) Co-operative bank is required to classify an asset as non-performing if the interest and/or installment of the principle remain overdue for a period of more than__________. a) 90 days b) 120 days c) 60 days d) 100 days Answer: a 31.) For repayment of loan availed from Banks/ NBFC we come across a term known as EMI. What does it stand for? a) Equated Money Index b) Easy Money Installment c) Equated Monthly Installment d) Equal Monthly Installment e) Equal Minimum Installment Answer: c 32.) Many a times we read in the news paper about CASA deposits of banks. CASA deposits are a) Demand deposits b) Term deposits c) Hybrid deposits d) Recurring deposits e) Special schemes of banks Answer: a
DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
BUSINESS
22% growth in October's car sales, fastest in 4.5 years New Delhi, Nov 11: Car sales grew the fastest in October in the last fourand-a-half years as festive boom, introduction of new models and improved buyer sentiment boosted demand. The car industry has slowly been moving out of a severe slowdown and the improved economic environment and ease in interest rates and fuel prices have aided the recovery. Sales surged 22% in October as companies stocked up ahead of the Diwali festival. A total of 1.9 lakh units were sold in the month against 1.6 lakh units in
October last year, according to numbers released by industry body Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam). The rate of growth is a shade lower than the near 24% that the industry hit in March 2011. This is the 12th consecutive month of growth for the car industry, which had seen a compression of demand in the previous few years due to a lull in economic activity and higher rate of financing. Siam data showed a 21% growth in the sale of SUVs and utility vehicles with October volumes at 58,120
FASTEST CAR SALES ¨ A total of 1.9 lakh units were sold in the month against 1.6 lakh units in October last year.
¨ Siam data showed a
¨ Sales surged 22% in October as companies stocked up ahead of the Diwali festival.
¨ The rate of growth is a shade lower than the near 24% that the industry hit in March 2011.
¨ New models such as
units against 48,105 units in the same month last year. New models such as
Maruti Suzuki's Baleno premium hatch, Ford's Aspire entry sedan, Figo
compact and Hyundai's i20 are fuelling the demand. (Agencies)
¨ Car sales grew the fastest in October in the last four-and-a-half years as festive boom, introduction of new models and improved buyer sentiment boosted demand.
India to urge for lower remittance charges at G20
New Delhi, Nov 11: India will press the G20 to reduce the cost of transaction of remittances as well as reiterate its calls for quota reforms at the International Monetary Fund, the country's Sherpa for the G20 summit said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the Indian delegation to the G20 leaders' summit in Antalya in Turkey later this week where New Delhi will also push for a mechanism under which G20 countries can assist each other to boost global growth. Niti Aayog vice chairman Arvind Panagariya, who is the Sherpa for G20 talks, said transaction cost for remittances have come down due to efforts made by India but the aim would be to bring it to 3% by 2030. India is the largest recipient of remittances and received $70 billion in 2014. "We will again make a very strong pitch that the 2010 reforms be implemented, particularly the quota reforms. Countries which did not ratify such as the
United States should do so," Panagariya said, referring to the demand for reforms at the IMF that developing countries have been pushing for. The G20 comprises the largest and emerging economies, which account for 85% of global gross domestic product and 75% of trade. It comprises the US, the UK, the European Union, India, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy , Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. "The first important issue has to do with development as currently. The second set of issues has to do with inclusive growth within which the leaders would discuss the global economy, employment and investment strategies. The third set of issues financial regulation, international tax, anti-corruption and finally trade and energy," Panagariya told reporters, outlining the agenda that the leaders will discuss during the
two day summit. "Growth has been tepid even though the efforts made under G20 have led to some acceleration. The PM thinks that the G20 should create a mechanism through which countries can assist each other," said Panagariya. Modi said the summit will review the progress on decisions taken at the Brisbane Summit and take up issues of climate change, terrorism, refugees, weak growth in global economy, strategies for growth and employment, investment strategies, trade, energy and financial sector resilience. "Like last year, India's focus on mitigating the menace of black money, tax erosion and bringing greater transparency remains," he said in a series of Facebook posts. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) will also submit a report at the summit with specific recommendation to combat financing of terrorism. (Agencies)
21% growth in the sale of SUVs and utility vehicles with October volumes at 58,120 units against 48,105 units in the same month last year. Maruti Suzuki's Baleno premium hatch, Ford's Aspire entry sedan, Figo compact and Hyundai's i20 are fuelling the demand.
RBI's governor first Indian to be VC of BIS Mumbai, Nov 11: Reserve Bank of India governor Raghuram Rajan has become the first Indian central banker to be appointed as vice-chairman of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) -the bank for central banks. The appointment is expected to give stronger voice to Rajan, who has been repeatedly calling for more coordination among central banks in monetary policy. Rajan was elected to the number two position for a period of three years from November 10, 2015 at a meeting of the BIS board. Rajan had joined the BIS board in December 2013. As vice-chairman, Rajan will work with BIS chairman Jens Weidmann, who is also president of Germany's Bundesbank. Rajan has for long been a critic of central banks in the developed world opening up the monetary sluice gates and flooding emerging markets with capital flows. Rajan once even had a face-off with former chairman of the Federal Reserve Ben Bernanke when he said that powerful central banks should pay attention to how their policies affect other countries. On Tuesday, speaking at Frankfurt, Rajan forecast volatility when the Fed-
tranche of foreign investment, has been completed. Exit will be permitted at any time if project or trunk infrastructure is completed before the lock-in period. Adi Godrej, chairman, Godrej Group, said foreign investment was allowed in large projects, but it can now get foreign investment in smaller projects as well. "For Godrej Properties, we will be open to foreign investment in some of the projects," he said. Solicitor Parimal Shroff, who specializes in real estate, said the minimum restriction of 20,000 sq metres in construction development projects and minimum investment of $5 million had
created obstacles for foreign investors. "Now there is no bar regarding the project size and investment amount," he said. There will also now be no lock-in period for FDI investments into hotels and resorts, hospitals, SEZs, educational institutions, old age homes and NRI investments, Anuj Puri, chairman and country head, JLL India, said. "This will allow for greater and smoother flow of FDI into all these categories. It will encourage developers to get into SEZ assets in a bigger way, and simultaneously allow for greater NRI investments into Indian real estate." Since FDI can now be brought into the
construction sector in any amount and for any size, it will have a huge positive impact on the housing sector, and more so on the affordable segment, which was so far not a beneficiary of FDI in any significant manner, he added. FDI will, however, not be allowed in an entity engaged in real estate business, construction of farm houses and trading in transferable development rights (TDRs). "Real estate business will mean as 'dealing in land and immovable property with a view to earning profit therefrom and does not include development of townships, construction of residential/commercial pre-
12% rise in IndiGo from IPO price on debut Ahmedabad, Nov 11: A weak market notwithstanding, Interglobe Aviation, the company that runs IndiGo airlines, had a blockbuster listing on Tuesday with the stock on BSE surging 12% on its debut and closing 15% higher at Rs 878, compared to its IPO price of Rs 765. At close of trading, the airline had a market capitalization of a little over Rs 31,600 crore, or about $4.8 billion, making it the most valued airline in India, and also more than four times the combined market value of its competitors Jet Airways (Rs 4,788 crore) and Spicejet (Rs 2,907 crore). Although market players said that the stock was
priced at the higher end, it surged on debut on expectation that the airline will be able to perform better than its peers and show strong profits. The Indigo issue, which closed on October 29, had received very strong response from institutions with the QIB portion subscribed nearly 18 times and the high net worth individual (HNI)
part subscribed 3.6 times. Overall the offer was subscribed six times. There were unconfirmed reports that renowned investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala had put in a large bid for it. At Rs 3,018 crore, the Indigo offer was the largest IPO in the country in nearly three years since Bharti Infratel's Rs 4,118-crore offer in December 2012. (Agencies)
FDI up to Rs 5k crore allowed to clear by FIPB eral Reserve raises rates. However, he said that the consequences of the inaction by the Fed would be even more severe."When it happens, there will be volatility. I worry more about the consequences of staying in the ultra accommodative ... world. I think there will be volatility, but I think we have to bear it," he said. Prior to Rajan, former RBI governor Y V Reddy had a key role as chairman of the BIS Asian Consultative Council which comprised all governors of BIS member central banks in the Asia-Pacific region. As an organization of central banks, BIS seeks to bring more predictability and transparency in monetary policy. The framework for regulations that prescribe capital requirement for banks is also prescribed by the BIS. The capital norms are known as Basel norms, named after the location of the BIS headquarters where they were framed. (Agencies)
Smaller realty projects get a boost Kolkata, Nov 11: The Centre has streamlined FDI in real estate, made it more transparent and offered greater flexibility to foreign players to invest in India's property market, as part of a move to further open up the economy. The government on Tuesday removed the minimum restriction of 20,000 sq meters for FDI as also the minimum investment of $5 million in real estate. New rules mandate that a foreign investor will be permitted to exit and repatriate foreign investment before the completion of project under the automatic route. This is after a lock-in period of three years, calculated with reference to each
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mises, roads or bridges, educational institutions, recreational facilities, city and regional level infrastructure, townships. Further, earning of rent/income on lease of the property, not amounting to transfer, will not amount to real estate business," the note said. Also, 100% FDI under automatic route will now be permitted in completed projects for operation and management of townships, malls/shopping complexes and business centres. Though appreciative in principle, Pranay Vakil of Praron Consultants, however, said there is unlikely to be any "windfall effect". (Agencies)
Mumbai, Nov 11: Apple and other "high technology" retailers will no longer be required to compulsorily source 30% of their goods from India to comply with conditions related to single-brand retail, according to the changes in the FDI rules announced by the government on Tuesday. "Today's FDI related reforms will touch 15 sectors & benefit youth. Govt's commitment to development & reforms is unequivocal & unwavering... Today's reforms are another example of emphasis on Minimum Government, Maximum Governance. They will ease, rationalise & simplify processes," Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted. The decision, coming two days after BJP's Bihar poll defeat, is seen as an attempt by the government to show its commitment to reforms and its willingness to open up the economy despite political challenges and hurdles. With its legisla-
tive agenda blocked by the Opposition in Parliament the government is seen to be moving ahead with ex ecutive decisions to boost growth and sustain the momentum that was ushered in by the massive Lok Sabha victory in May 2014. "Reform is always an ongoing process, there is no finishing line as far as reforms are concerned," finance minister Arun Jaitley told reporters. While the rules have been eased and investment limit raised for several sectors, a lot of attention has been paid to making it easier to get clearances. For instance, FIPB has now been allowed to
clear FDI proposals of up to Rs 5,000 crore, compared to Rs 3,000 crore earlier. "The crux of these reforms is to further ease, rationalise and simplify the process of foreign investments in the country and to put more and more FDI proposals on automatic route instead of government route where time and energy of investors is wasted," an official statement said. Similarly, in several cases in the socalled sensitive sectors such as defence and segments of media and ecommerce, the government has done away with the need to seek its approval. (Agencies)
$ 1,000 in gift cards and vouchers to be given to Volkswagen diesel owners Detroit, Nov 11: Owners of 482,000 diesel Volkswagens and Audis in the US are eligible for $ 1,000 in gift cards and vouchers as the automaker strives to placate customers dismayed by an emissions-rigging scandal. VW announced the offer yesterday. The car owners have been in limbo since mid-September, when VW admitted the cars are equipped with software that turns on pollution controls during government tests and turns them off while on the road. VW has yet to unveil a fix for the cars. The US Environmental Protection Agency says the cars, with 2-litre four-cylinder diesel engines, emit 10 to 40 times the allowable amount of harmful nitrogen oxide while being driven. "The problem that most of us suffer from is we're in nevernever land so this at least gives us some compensation until they figure it out," said Bob Rand, a retired judge in Pasadena, California, who says he and his wife have owned at least a dozen new Volkswagens over the years. The USD 500
Visa gift card can be used anywhere, while the USD 500 voucher can be used at a VW dealership for things such as an oil change or new set of tires, or even a down payment on a new car. The offer also includes free roadside assistance for the diesel vehicles for three years. "We are working tirelessly to develop an approved remedy for affected vehicles," said Michael Horn, VW's US CEO, said in a statement. "In the meantime we are providing this goodwill package as a first step towards regaining our customers' trust." Steve Kalafer, chairman of the Flemington Car and Truck Country dealerships in Flemington, New Jersey, said Volkswagen's offer is a welcome first step
after a long silence between the automaker, its customers and its US retailers. Kalafer said he hasn't heard yet from any customers about Volkswagen's offer, but he expects they'll want more from the company to address the many issues raised by the emissions scandal. "They will appreciate the communication, but I imagine that until a real resolution is found that appreciation will be muted," he said. Whatever fix VW designs could wind up hurting performance or perhaps fuel mileage, the two main reasons why people buy diesels. More than 200 class-action lawsuits have been filed in the US against VW alleging that the scandal caused the diesel cars to drop in value. (Agencies)
"It's probably getting to that time, but to be honest I'm just trying to go out there and play each game and enjoy it. Like I've said before, it could be after this game I might just go, I'm done but I'm still enjoying my cricket at the moment and I'm enjoying the challenges,"
DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
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Mitchell Johnson
Sapekhati United club emerge winners Altab Hussain Memorial Football Tourney ET Correspondent S o n a r i , N o v 11 : Sapekhati United Club emerged as the winners of the Altab Hussain Memorial
football tournament defeating Sonari Diamond Club 3-2, which was being played at the Sonari public playground under the ae-
gis of Charaideo District Sports Association. The tournament w a s o rg a n i z e d i n memory of Altab Hussain, a noted
sports organiser of the state. The final was a closely contested one as both teams displayed great skills. The match ended 0-0
at the end of stipulated time. In the penalties, Sapekhati Club edged past Sonari Diamond Club 3-2. Ram Rai of Sapekhati United was
adjudged as the best player of the match while Mansoor Neelbanshi was adjudged as the player of the tournament.
Lottery held for the 1st ever District level Football tournament held ET Correspondent Changlang, Nov 11: The lottery for the first ever District level football tournament to be held in memory of Wangnia Pongte organised by District Sports department and Zaaro football club and sponsored by All Tutsa Welfare Society was held today. 'The Eastern Today' has been roped in as the media partners for the said tournament. A total of 22 teams have joined the tournament. On the inaugural day of the tourna-
ment i.e 14th November, Mr Wayong Khimhun, the DC of Changlang would grace the occasion as the chief guest while Mr Khongman Zongsam would be the guest of honour. There will also be a cultural programme before the kick off of the first match between Watlom Zaaro vs Kantang football club. The organisers have hoped that people from all walks of life will come in large numbers to make the tournament a grand success.
Ashwin returns to top five in ICC Test rankings Younis calls curtains on ODI career
Izumi brace inspires Kolkata to 3-2 ISL win over Blasters Kochi, Nov. 11 (ANI): Defending champions Atletico de Kolkataclaimed a nailbiting 3-2 win overKerala Blasters in the Indian Super League in front of a noisy crowd at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on Tuesday. Nallapan Mohanraj put Kolkata ahead in the 29th minute before Antonio German levelled for the hosts through a clinical penalty finish. Arata Izumi, who came on as a substitute,
Abu Dhabi, Nov. 11 (ANI): Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has announced that he will retire from the one-day international cricket after the opening match against England at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The 37-year-old veteran batsman, who played 264 matches in his 15-year-long career, has scored 7240 till now including seven hundreds and 48 fifties. He is
also the sixth highest rungetters for Pakistan in ODIs. Younis said that he was fortunate to have taken the decision of retirement by his own will from ODI cricket after having retired from T20 cricket already, ESPNcricinfo reported. The Pakistan stalwart had overtaken Javed Miandad as the highest run-scorer for his nation in Tests last month. (ANI)
then put the tourists ahead before German restored parity for a second time. However, Izumi scored his second and decisive goal of the night in injury time as Kolkata kept their chances of making the semi-finals alive with their fourth win in nine matches. Kolkata are currently fourth in the points table while Kerala are languishing down at eighth after nine games. (ANI)
Dubai, Nov. 11 (ANI): India's premier offspinnerRavichandran Ashwin has climbed three places to return to the top five in the latest ICC's rankings for Test bowlers. The 29-year-old bowler's ascendency in the rankings was helped by his stellar performance against South Africa in the opening Test in Mohali, where he
Johnson admits he's nearing retirement Melbourne, Nov. 11 (ANI): Australian pace spearheadMitchell Johnson has admitted that his retirement is nearing but insisted that he is enjoying his cricket at the moment. "I think about it most days I think," Johnson was quoted as saying by
ESPNcricinfo. "It's probably getting to that time, but to be honest I'm just trying to go out there and play each game and enjoy it. Like I've said before, it could be after this game I might just go, I'm done but I'm still enjoying my cricket at the moment and I'm enjoying the chal-
lenges," he said ahead of the second Test against New Zealand in Perth. The 34-year-old left hander had earlier said that he considered calling it quits after four of his closest teammates Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Chris Rogers and Brad Haddin retired from the
Test arena following the team's failure to retain the Ashes series against England. "It's a really good time for Australian cricket with these young guys in the team and I want to be a part of that. As long as I'm performing well and doing my job in the team
then mentally I'm feeling pretty good," Johnson added. Following a thumping 208-run win in the first Test at the Gabba, the Steve Smith-led team will look to seal the threematch series in the second match starting on Friday. (ANI)
Johnson threat looms Saina battles past Sun Yu to reach second round of China Open over Kiwis in Perth Fuzhou, Nov. 11 (ANI): World number two shuttler Saina Nehwal battled past Chinese opponent Sun Yu to reach the second round of the China Open Super Series on Wednesday. The top seed and the defending champion overcame 2220, 21-18 win over Yu in an opening round contest that lasted 49 minutes. Meanwhile, ace shuttler Ajay Jayaram, who retained his Dutch Open title last month, failed to cross the opening hurdle as he went down 21-12, 21-11 to world number one Chen Long.
claimed eight wickets overall. India's left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja has rocketed 10 places to a careerhigh 21st position following match figures of eight for 76 that also earned him the player of the Mohali Test award. Meanwhile, South Africa pace spearhead Dale Steyn continues as the number-one ranked bowler in the Test rankings. (ANI)
Michael Phelps was in `really dark place` post DUI arrest Washington D.C., Nov. 11 (ANI): Michael Phelps has revealed that he was 'in a really dark place' and didn't want to live anymore after his Driving under the Influence (DUI)arrest in 2014. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Phelps' coach Bob Bowman said, "Honestly, I thought, the way he (Michael Phelps) was going, he was going to kill himself." Bowman said Michael did not want to take his own life, but do something like the DUI, but worse, TMZ reports. After the DUI incident, Phelps spent 45 days in rehab in Arizona and believed that he was a changed person. The Olympic gold medalist said that he would not even have a sip of booze, adding that he was leaner than he had ever been before. (ANI)
Windies named unchanged 15-man squad for Oz tour Johannesburg, Nov. 11 (ANI): New Zealand's chances of series-levelling win in the second Test could be dampened if Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Johnson succeeds in replicating his menacing form in Perth. The 34-year-old left-hander is only second behind Glenn McGrath (52) to have
taken most number of wickets at the pacey WACA ground with 42 scalps in his six Test matches. Dubbed as the fastest pitch on the planet, the WACA pitch could pack a punch at the tourists if the lethal combo of Johnson and Mitchell Starc delivers. Reflecting on the pitch, WACA groundskeeper Matt Page admitted
that there would be pace and bounce for the speedsters, insisting that it would be a result-oriented game, Sport24 reported. Following a thumping 208-run win in the first Test at the Gabba, the Steve Smith-led team will look to seal the three-match series in the second match starting on Friday.
Johannesburg, Nov. 11 (ANI): West Indies have announced a 15-man unchanged squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against Australia. Jason Holder will captain his side in the first Test in Hobart on December 10, followed by further Tests in Melbourne (from December 26) and Sydney (January 3). The only change came in the reinstatement of Phil Simmons as the team coach after making a public apology for an outburst over the
squad selected for the ongoing tour of Sri Lanka, Sport24 reported. Simmons was suspended in September after he alleged that he was prohibited from picking allrounders Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard for the limited-overs series against Sri Lanka despite receiving support from chairman of selectors Clive Lloyd. West Indies will aim to salvage some pride in the second Twenty20 on Wednesday after losing both Test and ODI series against Sri Lanka.
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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
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FASCINATING FACTS
A Monkey and Two Cats
¨ Rabbits and parrots can see behind themselves without even moving their heads! ¨ Butterflies taste food by standing on top of it! Their taste receptors are in their feet unlike humans who have most on their tongue. ¨ Most of the dust in your home is actually dead skin! Yuck! ¨ Although the Stegosaurus dinosaur was over 9 metres long, its brain was only the size of a walnut.
¨ Humans get a little taller in space because there is no gravity pulling down on them. ¨ Because of the unusual shape of their legs, kangaroos and emus struggle to walk backwards. ¨ A hippopotamus may seem huge but it can still run faster than a man. ¨ Even if an analog clock is broken, at least it shows the correct time twice a day. ¨ Sneezing with your eyes open is impossible.
CRAFTY CRAFTS Lunch Bag Puppets
Once a cake was stolen by two cats from a house. But they did not want to share it. Each of the cats claimed that it was his earning and that he was not prepared to give a share to the other. When their quarrel reached the climax, a monkey appeared on the scene. He offered himself to solve the dispute. He heard the case and opined that as they were good friends, they
should share the cake equally. And he offered himself to divide the cake into two equal parts for them. Somehow the cats agreed to his suggestion. Then the monkey took and 'divided the cake into two parts. He weighed each of the parts separately, and found that one was heavier than the other. So he gave a good bite to the heavier piece to make it of lesser weight, and
ABRA CA DABRA Lift an Ice Cube with a Piece of String! What You Need: o Glass of water o Ice cube o Piece of string o Salt shaker Instructions: 1. Hand your friend a glass of water with an ice cube floating in it, a piece of string, and a salt shaker, and ask him to lift the ice out of the glass without touching it. Sound impossible? It's not, here's how you do it. 2. When your friend gives up, take the string and lay it across the ice cube.
Sprinkle a dash of salt onto the ice and wait for about a minute. Now, pull the string, and out comes the ice cube! Why? Salt lowers the freezing point of the ice, making it melt. At the same time, the ice tries to take heat away from the string which causes it to freeze to the ice cube. This is why people put salt on icy sidewalks and roads- it melts the ice.
Readers can send articles, poems, sketches, stories, travel experiences, achievements etc to editor.easterntoday@gmail.com or can post to The Eastern Today. T.C Borah Building, First Floor, Near to Sankardeva Hospital, Mancotta Road, Chowkidingee. Dibrugarh, 786001 Assam.
weighed it again. Now he found the other part heavier. So again, he gave a good bite to the heavier piece and put it one the scale. Now it appeared to be of lesser weight. Again, he gave a good bite to the presently heavier piece to make it equal in weight to the other. But none of the two pieces appeared to be perfectly equal in weight. Now the cake was al-
most eaten up by the clever monkey this Way. So the cats wanted the remaining parts back from the monkey. At this, the monkey said that they cannot get them back, because he claims them as remuneration for his service to them. So saying, the monkey swallowed the tuning two small pieces of the cake and jumped high to of a tree, beyond the reach of the cats.
What You Need: ¨ Brown paper lunch bag ¨ Construction paper ¨ Glue ¨ Markers Instructions: 1. Place your paper bag on the table with the fold side up. The fold is where the mouth will be on your puppet. 2. Cut out of construction paper, or draw the features for
LAUGH OUT LOUD A Year 5 teacher was giving her Primary pupils a lesson in developing logical thinking. 'This is the scene', said the teacher. 'A man is standing up in a boat in the middle of a river, fishing. He loses his balance, falls in, and begins splashing and yelling for help. His wife hears the commotion, knows he can't swim, and runs down to the bank. Why the bank?' do you think she ran to A little girl raised her
your puppet. These may include the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, hair, arms, legs, and clothing. If it is a creature, it may even have a tail! 3. If you cut out these features from construction paper, glue them to your paper bag. 4. After the glue is dry, place your hand open and close the in the paper bag, and mouth of your pupuse your fingers to pet.
5. Create more and have your own puppet show!
WHAT AM I ???
hand and asked, 'To draw out all his savings?'
RIDDLES Q: What has a foot but no legs? A: A snail
FIND YOUR PATH
Q: Poor people have it. Rich people need it. If you eat it you die. What is it? A: Nothing Q: What comes down but never goes up? A: Rain Q: I'm tall when I'm young and I'm short when I'm old. What am I? A: A candle
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