12th jan 2016

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Vol. 1

Economics for Everyone Demographic Dividend

Issue 218

Dibrugarh, Tuesday, January 12, 2016

If Passed, This Judgement Could Be A Big Blow To The Rights Of Racial Minorities In The US

Page 8

The state NCP has slammed in its strongest term the allegations leveled by the three MLAs that Nabam Tuki Tuki and his cabinet Minister Tirong Aboh instigated the NSCN (K) to kidnap Shri Pangam Ngandam nephew of MLA Honchun Ngandam of Pangchau-Wakka Assembly Constituency. It in press release sent today to the media cleared that the person who is running the Govt. as Chief Minister for development and peace in the state cannot act as criminal and nobody will believe such allegations by the misguided MLAs namely Tangham Wangham, Gabriel D. Wangsu and Honchun Ngandam. The press release further stated that it is an open secret that present MLAs of Longding District have nexus with the both outfits of NSCN (K) and NSCN (IM). MLAs who are in nexus with insurgent group should not finger at other, otherwise they may be trap by the law of the land,

ET CAPSULES Ten lakh looted by Robbers Golaghat , Jan 11 : A sensational incident took place in Golaghat today when a huge amount of cash was looted in broad daylight . According to sources today the Branch Manager of Assam Gramin Vikash Bank Gomariguri Branch had withdrawn 10 lakh from Golaghat and was on his way to his bank with a colleague . On his way his vehicle was stopped near Garanga Panch Ali by two motorcycle borne youth and they opened fire two rounds to the manager but somehow he escaped unhurt. Then the robbers looted the cash and flee from the spot. Meanwhile the victim has lodged a case at Ghiladhari Police Station. (Correspondent)

One Dead Golaghat, Jan 11 : One Person today died in a road mishap at Padumoni under Golaghat PS. As per the information two persons namely Dwipen Gogoi and Danda Dowerah was on their way in a motorcycle when they met with an accident at Padumoni .

In the accident Dwipen Gogoi died on the spot and Danda Dowerah was brought to KK Civil Hospital in a critical condition. (Correspondent)

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warned the press release signed by the party Vice- President & Spokesperson.

“It is a sorry figure that every attempt of the Dissident MLAs gave them unsuccessful result”, says State NCP President Gicho Kabak. “What not dissident group of Congress and BJP have tried to topple down the Tuki led Govt!” questioned the president. First, the CBI case against Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, then alleged sex scandal and Tarasso firing incident bordering Assam and Arunachal Pradesh against Nabam Rebia, and now this unnecessary and baseless allegation of having militant link.

The State NCP appraised state and central Govt. to follow every movement of MLAs from Longding District through various intelligence agencies so that they could reveal their involvement with the outfits.

The press release also said that instead of blaming game played by the dissident MLAs of Tirap, Changlang and Longding, rather they should cooperate with the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and Minister Tirong Aboh for all round development of “Patkai region”.

State Govt. should try their

Fire averted in Naharlagun by alert locals ET Correspondent Naharlagun, Jan 11

A major fire accident in a government quarter was averted by alert denizens of DSector Naharlagun here today.

The fire was doused much before it could spread to neighboring houses. The fire is said to have broke out from a fireplace that spread quickly and caught fire in piles of dry bam-

boo and wood kept for burning purposes just near the fireplace.

The Naharlagun Firebrigade was quick to response to a call and arrived early at the scene but the denizens doused off the fire much before the arrival of the Firebrigade.

The Firebrigade team though inspected the house to ensure that the fire was completely doused off and everything was safe.

Arunachal BJP demands white paper from the state Home Minister A staff Reporter Itanagar, Jan 11

The Bharatiya Janata Party, Arunachal Pradesh in its extended meeting today at the party headquarter demanded white paper from the state Home Minister in connection with the alleged politicianmilitants nexus.

While apprising the Gov-

best for safe return of kidnapped victim Shri Pangam Ngandam at the earliest. The State NCP appeal to the people of Arunachal Pradesh not to be carried away by the rumors

Actor Farhan Akhtar says his upcoming musical-drama “Rock On!! 2” focuses on the conflict in the North-East region of India. The movie has been majorly shot in Shillong, Meghalaya.

“The film really is about that place, about that culture, it is about the region’s problem. The largest conflict in the movie is the regional conflict… There is a personal issue also but the main is the

ernor of the ongoing political turmoil they have expressed insecurity in the state capital. They have urged the Governor to intervene applying constitutional discretion and wisdom with the promulgation of Article 371 (H) in order to deal with the anticipated Law and order problems following the ongoing Court case in the factional rivalries in the ruling Congress.

monger that Tuki Govt. will be topple by the dissident group.

His Govt. is stable and court judgment will go in favor of Tuki led team because he is in right direction, signed off NCP.

ET Correspondent Diphu January 11

Dr. Himanta Biswa Sharma, the stalwart leader of BJP and chief convener of the party election campaigning team today lambasted the ruling Congress of Assam and the local Congress leaders of Karbi Anglong at a party workers meeting held at Diphu town.

Addressing a mammoth gathering organized by Lumbajong and Langsomapi block unit of BJP Dr. Sharma alleged the Congress of betraying the poor tribal people of this hilly backward region the firebrand leader said that “Congress has doped the people of the hills for last sixty years in the name of giving full autonomy, this party has always stage-managed some gimmick before election by submitting memorandum at Delhi or making luxurious trips to nation’s capital brand naming it as agitation for Autonomous State.

It is due to my personal ef-

regional problem,” Farhan said in an interview.

The 41-year-old “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” star said the movie will promote North-East music, which has a dedicated fan following across the country. “The movie is about rock and this genre is huge in the North-East. There is a band in the region called Somersault, which is a part of the film, there is a song in Khassi. The Noth-East music features seriously in the film.

“I am very happy to do this

(promote North-East music). It is important to bring everything in mainstream. Everybody in the North-East plays an instrument or they sing. You don’t get to see that generally. When we were there, we had music playing 5 or 6 in the morning and no one was complaining. Everyone was enjoying that.”

“Rock On!! 2”, also starring Shraddha Kapoor and Arjun Rampal, is directed by Shujaat Saudagar. The sequel to 2008’s box office success “Rock On!!” will release on November 11.

Arunachal will go for fortnightly clean campaign A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Jan 11

Pradesh Statehood Day celebration on 20th February, 2016.

With the motto and the theme “My city, My pride! I’ll Clean It”, “Clean Arunachal Fortnight” will be observed from 1st February to 13th as a curtain raiser to the much awaited 30 years of Arunachal

Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi said this campaign is aimed at keeping Arunachal Pradesh clean for a healthy environment where each and every citizen of the state is a stakeholder.

A preliminary meeting was convened by Chief Secretary with Commissioner GA, Secretary Finance, Secretary Planning, Secretary Art and Culture, DC Capital, Chief Estate Officer, and representatives of Urban Development and PWD as members in the latter’s office this afternoon. Action plan to materialize the campaign has

Tewari responds to 'jobless' jibe, says has 'more work than MoS' VK Singh

been working out and concerned deputy commissioners will work out the plans for their respective districts.

However, there will be nine zones in Itanagar and four zones in Naharlagun to ensure complete cleanliness drive where every stakeholder will render one hour of social ser-

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Bangladeshis' infiltration is growing, let's defend ourselves from Extinction: Himanta Biswa Sharma to his supporters

“Rock On!! 2” focuses on the conflict in the North-East region of India PTI Mumbai, Jan 11

Pages- 12

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What not dissident group of Congress and BJP have tried to topple down the Tuki led Govt!, First, the CBI case against Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, then alleged sex scandal and Tarasso firing incident bordering Assam and Arunachal Pradesh against Nabam Rebia.

5.00

Increment in Honda car prices

It is the MLAs of Longding district who has link with NCSN and not Nabam Tuki: State NCP ET Bureau Itanagar, Jan 11

Price -

vice in the morning during the fortnight. The students will take part in this campaign within the school and neighborhood.

The state government appeals all the NGOs and citizens to actively participate in this campaign to make it a grand success.

fort special TET examination for Karbi Anglong was held and work for Medical College could be started and all along the local MP Biren Sing Engti preferred to snooze at the parliament. BJP promises fullfledged autonomy for Karbi Anglong including direct funding and separate university and state-of the art infrastructure within 5 years which Congress has failed to deliver in 60 years”.

Pointing at the threat of the Bangladeshi invasion Dr. Sharma mentioned that as of today due to massive infiltration of the Bangladeshi nationals no indigenous community or tribe is in a position to elect a single candidate from their community in at least 35 assembly seats of Assam.

“I call upon you all to unite under the banner of BJP to shape a developed and secure Assam, learn by heart this is our last battle of Saraighat to defend our self from extinction.

BJP opposes acceptance of

Demand for separate Kamtapur state A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 11

The All Koch Rajbongsi Students Union (AKRSU) today staged railway blockades at Basugaon, affecting the movement of trains for few hours.

The protesters demanded a separate Kamtapur state, and including the Koch Rajbonsis as ST status.

Nearly a thousand activists from AKRSU participated in the blockade at Basugaon in Kokrajhar district.

Police resorted to lathicharge to disperse the unruly mob. The student body further threatened that it would continue its stirs more stringently if the demand is not fulfilled.

Bangladeshis and its protector AUDF, we do not want to see Baduraddin Ajmal becoming Chief Minister of Assam, and right now Congress Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi is working hand-in gloves with Baduraddin Ajmal to devastate the indigenous communities of Assam; till today Congress has kept us all dependent through its policy of yarn – blanket and dynastic rule instead of empowering the youths through self-reliance”. Dr. Sharma said.

Uttering astonishment at the assembly of a block level party meeting Dr. Sharma expressed confidence about his party’s performance in the coming election. Taking a dig at two factions of Karbi Students Association and Students and Youth Council for their opposition to his visit he mentioned that these organizations have practically expressed their fright and trepidation by opposing him on some flimsy ground. Nearly one thousand Congress leaders and activists and about 100 HSDC activists joined BJP in today’s meeting.

ATTSA blocks roads in Tinsukia Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Jan 11 All Tea Tribes Students Union on Monday blocked road from Tinsukia to Guijan demanding upgradation of basic facilities provided in the tea estates in the ares. The blockade was from 12 in the afternoon for 2 hours. The students union said that better health facilities, schools, drinking facilities shall be provided to the people working in the tea estates.

Assam Police intensifies alerts ahead assembly polls A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 11 The Assam Police has intensified its move to execute non-bailable warrants ahead of upcoming assembly polls in the state.

Director General of Police (DGP) Mukesh Sahay said that instructions have been given to licensed arms owners to deposit their weapons. Police are reviewing the progress in this regard on daily basis, he said.

Chief Election Commissioner during his recent visit to Guwahati had instructed administration to execute non-bailable warrants and seize illegal arms.

The ongoing political drama in Arunachal Pradesh: Negotiating new nature of citizenship for Chakmas and Hajongs zenship Act. Such becoming is not only a failure in the dialectical sense but also an issue, which can be located in the problematic of ‘assimilation and integration’.

Non-permanent settlement The proposal of ‘non-permanent settlers’ appears to be a vulgar version of ‘economic citizenship’. Seemingly, the issue of Chakmas and Hajongs

has captured significant political attention of the student unions, local bodies as well as of organised politics. In a desperate attempt to nullify the Supreme Court judgement for the conferment of citizenship rights to eligible Chakmas and Hajongs, the AAPSU has urged the state government to pass a Bill declaring the Chakmas and Hajongs as nonpermanent settlers. The North

The white paper published by the Arunachal government and written by Vishnu Sahay, the then Governor addressing the Chief minister of Assam Bimala Prashad Chaliha a letter dated April 10, 1964. The letter states, “It occurred to me that we may get trouble between the Mizos and Chakmas in the Mizo district. These Chakmas would be quite suitable people to go into the Tirap division of NEFA where there is easily found vacant land…

Arunachal Pradesh was earlier known as North East Frontier Agency (NEFA), which was administered by the Ministry of External Affairs through the Assam Governor. The Adviser to the Governor in a separate statement remarked the following to the NEFA officials on April 21, 1965: “Settlement of (these) people in NEFA will also help in developing the pockets that are lying unused and unoccupied… Besides, the presence of stretches of vacant land along the border is strategically not desirable…”

East Student Organization (NESO) urged that it has to be framed within the boundaries of Arunachal Pradesh Forest Act 2014.

Villagers from the Chakma community selling vegetable at Diyun Bazaar.

The Act is in a manner regularising and legalising jhum practices in the state. In other words, there is a pre-re-

quirement of approval by the government of the state before any piece of land is brought under jhum. In this entire process the ‘settlement officer’ acts as a mediator between the government and the people.

Contd. on Page 3

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The National Registry of Citizens (NRC) in Assam and the proposition of ‘non-permanent settlement for the Chakmas and Hajongs’ is an apparent truce for temporary engagement with the sensitive political matters of the respective states. Arunachal Pradesh is without doubt grappled in a political imbroglio where the Deputy Speaker as well as the Chief-Minister of the state was removed in a dramatic fashion.

The Governor, JP Rajkhowa was the prime mover of this drama, performed at a temporary stage. The act on its own violated many constitutional provision including Article 174 and Article 175. On the contrary, the proposal of ‘nonpermanent settlement’ for the Chakmas and Hajongs by the All-Arunachal Pradesh Student Union (AAPSU) and Joint Action Committee on Chakma Hajong Issue Namsai (JACCHIN) finds itself violating Section 5(i)(a) of the Citi-

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

Advt.

Groups demand a National Road Safety train in Haflong Week observed in Darrang ET Correspondent Haflong Jan 11 : Demanding a train from New Haflong and the revival of ‘Heritage line ‘, the People of Dima Hasao from various organizations professionals including journalists submitted a memorandum to the General Manager, N F Railway through the Deputy Commissioner, Dima Hasao Amarendra Barua here today, The memorandum stated appreciating the efforts of Railway to run BG fast passengers train in between Guwahti – Silcha, that the people of Dima Hasao were not at all benefitted in terms of accommodation from the train communication since the train was originating from Silchar or Guwahati .

Though the major portion of Lumding –Silchar BG section falls in Dima Hasao but the people would remain deprived

of train communication.

Moreover, as the BG line has left out the old MG section from Mahur to Harangajao, at least 260 villages of the district badly affected socially and economically as the villagers were solely dependent on the MG rail communication.

Perhaps realizing the sufferings of the people of these area the Railway had sanctioned a project named ‘ Mahur – Harangajao Heritage line’ but even after sanctioning of the project , this was dropped suddenly.

They fervently appealed to introduce a train from New Haflong to Guwahati and vis-à-vis and also to arrange to revive the ‘Mahur – Harangajao heritage line ‘ so that people of Dima Hasao can also avail the rail connectivity with rest of the country.

SITUATION VACANT

ET Correspondent Mangaldai, Jan 11: In connection with the celebration of the 27th edition of the National Road Safety Week , the Darrang District Transport Department conducted a refresher training programme for the drivers and conductors of the commercial passenger vehicles at Bhebarghat public bus terminus here today.

Participating in the programme as the chief guest District Transport Officer, Darrang Pabitra Baisya urged the drivers and conductors to abide by the motor vehicle rules and regulations for the safety of the passengers and passersby and not to take law in their own hands by violating the rules and regulations to invite legal actions.

Speaking on the occasion as a resource person Padma Lochan Hazarika , Motor Vehicle Inspector explained about the factors responsible for a road accident which included mental state of the driver , reckless driving, mechanical status of the vehicle and road condition

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Transport Department holding meeting for Road Safety Week in Darrang on Monday. among others . He pointed out that only a small percentage of accidents have been caused by mechanical disorder , road condition etc but more than eighty percent accidents caused by carelessness of the drivers. He also highlighted the role of the conductors towards the passengers for a safe journey especially for the women , children and the senior citizens. Journalist Mayukh Goswami while speaking on the occasion urged upon the drivers to always avoid liquor, other

intoxicated substances and also mobile phone while driving. Munin Dutta , President , Darrang – Kamrup-Udalguri bus owners’ association also addressed the participants.

Earlier Bapon Kalita , Enforcement Inspector explained the significance of observing the road safety week across the country and pointed out how in each year around 2500 people fall victims of road accidents. The training was attended by about a hundred private commercial drivers

and conductors. It may be mentioned here that prior to this training programme a light motor vehicle awareness rally was taken out across Mangaldai. The rally was flagged off by Suman Chakraborty , Additional Superintendent of Police , Darrang (Head Quarter).

According to the sources in the District Transport Department a free health check up camp for the drivers and conductors have been organized on Tuesday at Kharupetia as part of this weeklong celebration .

Ekal Vidyalaya conference Final publication of Electoral Roll held in Doomdooma ET Correspondent Rangia Jan 11: The Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup who is also the District Election Officer, Kamrup Vinod Seshan through a notification has informed that the Final Electoral Roll for No.48

Boko(SC), 49 Chaygaon, 50 Palashbari &55 Hajo LACs have been prepared and published today. A copy of the said rolls together with the list of supplements have been made availabe for inspection during the office

ABMSU appeals not to join in PM Modi's rally Members of Ekal Vidyalaya at meeting in Doomdooma.

ET Correspondent Doomdooma , Jan 11 : The Doomdooma branch Ekal vidyalaya conference was held on Sunday. The organization works under Ban Bandhu Parishad .In the gathering which was held at Marwari Panchayti Bhawan at the downtown , more than five hundred children took part from 30 different schools .

A cortege procession was taken out in the township which cross through the main roads of Doomdooma . The ceremonial procession was concluded at the meeting spot.

The President of the newly

organized branch Dinesh Goyal hoisted the flag.

Lakhmi Neug of the Manila Samiti Branch lit the earthen lamp before the idol of Bharat Mata .

Secretary Vikash Gupta , Assistant secretary Sanjay Mahto and Sanjib Das , treasurer Sunil Tayal active members Bhawani Mandhania and Ranjay Tanti were felicitated with an Assamese Phulam Gamosa.

While addressing the meet , different orators called for the access of the mission launched by The Ekal

Vidyalaya .They also emphasized to flourish the five maxims of education among children .

The principals of thirty Ekal Vidyalaya , village chiefs , members and students of the Doomdooma branch were present at the conference .

Rajen Tanti and Sunita Tanti anchored the whole program together .

In the ceremonial procession children were seen carrying placards which were composed with slogans such as ' save nature ' 'save tree ' et cetera .

ET Correspondent Rangia Jan 11: All BTC Minority student Union (ABMSU) appeals the religion minority not to attain the ensuing rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi of Jan 19 at Kokrajhar.

Sahabuddin Ali Ahmed president of the organization urges in a press release to the religion minorities of BTAD not to coperate and participate in the meeting.

the Student leader, P M Narendra Modi gave no importance to the sufferings of the non Baro people of BTAD in spite of repeated request.

They also extend their support to the propose BTAD and lower Assam Bandh called by Abro Suraxa Samittee and Sanmilita Janagosthiya Aikya Mancha on Jan 18 and 19 respectively. According to

The BJP govt neglected 78% non Baro people at the time of signing BTC accord the union alleged. The union also criticized the Hagrama led BPF govt for various anomalies and financial irregularities.

The Union submitted several memorandums to PM requesting curtailment of those villages from BTAD where the non Baro populations are majority in number they stated.

48th Annual Convention of Students’ union concludes ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Jan 11: The All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) has reiterated to the demand of creation of separate Bodoland state, which has resolved to intensify more rigorous and series of movement to the cause of statehood.

The 48th annual convention of the students union was concluded at Thuribari Noudari Pwthar, Bijni of Chirang district with three-days colourful programme scheduled on Sunday.

Promod Boro, president of the students union said that the students union has resolved several resolutions on its convention which dominated creation of separate Bodoland state, mission master race, mission total revolution for total change.

Boro has strongly slammed both the governments for delaying solutions of Bodoland issues as ABSU and its allied organizations have been demanding since five decades for the safety, security and protection of the identity, land and resources of the indigenous people.

‘The students union resolved to intensify more rigorous and series of movement on demand of separate state Bodoland’, Boro added.

An open session was also organized on the concluding day with Promod Boro, president of the students union in the chair.

M Kodandaram,Chairman of Joint Action Committee,Telangana graced as chief guest.Kodandaram, in his speech said that creation of new state is to be adopted by centre government to pave way good governance.

‘The demand of separate Bodoland state by ABSU and Bodo organization is genuine demand and rights spirit to protect identity, culture and tradition of the Bodos in the country. The government should create new states across the country as soon possible’, he said.

Zoramthanga,former Chief Minister of Mizoram attending the meeting as appointed speaker opined the need of creation of separate states across the country including Bodoland is need of the hour to make nation a healthy and integrated.

‘Bodoland demand issue is oldest demand in the country that has been going on democratic way.One day Bodoland state will be created as common publics are come forward

to the movement’, Zoramthanga said.

Dr Kameswar Brahma, president of Bodo sahitya sabha inaugurating the open session said that the spirit and steps taking out by the students union to the welfare of students community and social upliftment in the region was appreciated.

Raja Bundela, president of National Federation for New State,ex-MPs Urkhao Gwra Brahma,Sansuma Khunggur Bwiswmuthiary, Bimal Gurung, chief of Gorkha Territorial Administration were prominent guests on the session.

Earlier in the morning, a cultural rally was also carried out to mark the convention, was flagged off by Gobinda Basumatary,former president of the ABSU. The students union in its delegate session opining the need for the safety, security and protection of the identity, land and resources of the indigenous people of the proposed Bodoland area, the students union resolved to intensify more rigorous and series of movement on demand of separate state Bodoland. During the months of January and February, the joint movement group

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will launch massive awareness campaign on Bodoland demand in every village of the proposed area and in the month of May and June the movement group will assemble in the National Highway taking all domestic animals, livestock and agro-based material on demand of Bodoland. A helpline number to be launched for the Bodo students as enquiry and advice in the prospects of career and various professional courses available, besides resolving of organized of Education Expo-2016 from May to June every district committees for the first time (Science Model Competition, Exhibition cum Career Fair) for the Bodo medium students to enhance the Bodo medium education.

He said that students union has resolved to observe the modality of the proposed arrangement of ‘Boro Kochari Autonomous Council and study the modalities before giving any opinion. At the same time ABSU express worry on the Bodo and Tribal unity after formation of the declared council. The nomenclature of the council as “Boro-Kachari” is used to denote the sub-tribe of the Bodos and other Tribal groups of Assam. While all tribal has their own single identity and council of their own, the nomenclature “Boro-

Kachari” is unclear as the declared council will be exclusively for Bodos only. Simultaneously, ABSU demands that the government of Assam must have a discussion taking all the Bodo Nationalist organizations of Assam. The students union resolved to have a dialogue and discussions with all the Bodo Organizations, political and non-political to draw the mechanism to solve the sociopolitical-economic issues of the Bodos.

The students union has resolved to continue to place the demands to the government of Assam and India which included implementation of the Schedule Tribe and Other traditional Forest Dwellers’ (Recognition of Rights) Act, 2006 and early distribution of land pattas to the forest dwelling tribal in Assam,immediate creation of separate Directorate for Bodo Medium Education in Assam, constitute of a committee of “Tribal Belt and Block Survey Committee” by the Assam Government to revisit the protection of the Existing Tribal Belt and Block in Assam as per the Chapter X of Assam Land and Revenue Regulation Act, 1886; immediate distribution of all Bodo medium textbook in LP, UP and High School through SSA & RMSA from present academic year 2016.

hours in the office of the District Election Officer, Kamrup/Electoral Registration Officer concerned/ Circle offices/Kamrup Zila Parishad/Block Dev. Officer concerned and in the Gaon Panchayat offices.

Degree from off campus centre. However, those candidates who are or have been awarded a Ph.D. Degree in accordance with the University Grants Commission (Minimum Standards and Procedure for award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulation, 2009, shall be exempted from the requirement of the minimum eligibility condition of NET/ SLET/ SET for recruitment and appointment of Assistant Professor of the College, in the revised Pay Band + AGP Rs. 15,600 – 31,100+ AGP 6000 with other allowances as per rule as admissible from time to time.

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ASTRO FOR YOU You will be very logical and rational today, as creativity is put on the backburner. The situation at your workplace will be full of challenges, but you will take them head-on. Later, all the stress will be mitigated by the soothing touch of your loved ones.

This one of those ordinary days that, somehow, do not turn out too well.

Unexpected expenses, that could totally upset your budget, cannot be ruled out. Something or the other is likely to give you an uncomfortable stomach upset. You should to take your medicines on time, and exercise moderation and discretion while deciding what and how much you should eat. On no account should you be eating out.

You had better start sharing your feelings with your family today. Also, it’s time to tell your family about your current financial status. It will help you feel better. Your energy levels will soar and you will approach everything with renewed vigour. Your spouse will bring good luck to you. How about a dinner extraordinaire with your loved ones?

Chances are that your inquisitive nature will put in a difficulty. Others will be angry with you for keeping a secret a vital information. Strengthen ties with friends and give up present attitude.

After a long time, it seems as if the stars are aligning to bring something special for you. Call it your field day, but today, everything will go your way.

Expect to get appreciated for your hard work in office. As for the home front, you will get all the support you need from your family members for refurbishing your home. From little tips to personal desires, fulfilling them may involve more expenses than you expect. But it’s all worth it.

Surf’s up as you enjoy an unexpected achievement! But your joy ride today may well be spent in vexing about the problems you have. Expect to gain new money for a new venture. Your business will rise atop the highest wave today.

Ganesha says that you will be able to see a huge change in your personal and social status. This may be due to medium like television or due to your innovative ideas in your work place. People will be praising you and your work today. You will be more interested in the fine arts.

Your energy levels are on an all time high today, as you plan to begin a new business venture. You are determined to give in your best and toil hard till you succeed in your plans. Well, and the day turns out to be fruitful and worthy when you garner compliments and positive feedback about your work from your peers.

The sage within you will take the lead today. You are likely to prescribe yourself to your own medication for peace of mind. Wise and content that you are today, you will spread the message of love around you. All in all, a peaceful day is in store for you today.

People may call you a busy bee, but that you admittedly will be. Work will demand your undivided attention, but the good thing is you will quickly get done with pending work one by one. In fact, you will be left with plenty of time in the evening which you are likely to spend romancing with your sweetheart. In fact, if you are lucky enough, your affair could take a new turn today as a physical relation is on the cards.

The cupid may strike you today. You don’t want make a wrong first impression, so wear something nice and be presentable all the time. Professionally, the day will be favourable for you to make some important decisions. Overall, you are in a happy mood and you will spread the joy around.

A day wherein you will be handling responsibilities on both the home front and at the workplace awaits you. Expect to be involved in home refurbishing projects, where expenses are likely to soar. Appreciation and gratitude will come your way at the end of a hard day’s work.

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

PPC organized free medical cum social Minor raped in Pasighat awareness on drugs at Riga village ET Correspondent Pasighat, Jan 11 : On 1st January 2016 one 17 year old girl was raped by a man near Sibya River at Silluk Village, some 15 KM from Mebo Town, Sub-Divisional Head Quarter when the man took the girl in lieu of buying something for her.

Spl Correspondent Pasighat, Jan 11: The Pasighat Pastoral Church (PPC) under the aegis of Adi Baptist Union (ABU) organized a two day free medical cum social awareness camp on drugs and alcohol on 7th-8th January last at Riga Village under Siang District.

According to the parent of the girl who have also written to Adi Baane Kebang Women Wing East Siang and Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women, Itanagar, copy of which are also made available to this correspondent, rapist one Bharat Pertin from Silluk village, age about 35 years, took the girl to an isolated place near Sibya river in his Tata Mobile vehicle forcefully and raped her. The statement also reads as that, the girl was threatened and was bit-

More than 477 patients right from small children to aged ones were benefited from the camp informed the sources as medical experts like Dr. Nienu, Retired DMO, Dr. Tapi Ering, Retired Pathologist.

Dr. Helen Borang, SMO, Dr. Ome Komut, MO and Dr. Pinom Ering, MO along with the nurses from General Hospital Pasighat like Zeekop Kaye, Phuloni Saring, Gamken Dabi, Nung Lego, Osi Muang and Miki Ratan treated the patients with much care.

Other left over medicines worth Rupees One lac fifty thousand were handed over to the ZPM of the Banggo to be furhter handed over to Sub Center, Riga and PHC Pegi-Bote. Dr. Helen spoke technically and cautiously on Health and Hygiene referring to traditional toilets

Dr. Helen Borang, SMO, Dr. Ome Komut, MO and Dr. Pinom Ering, MO along with the nurses from General Hospital Pasighat like Zeekop Kaye, Phuloni Saring, Gamken Dabi, Nung Lego, Osi Muang and Miki Ratan treated the patients with much care.

(Régum) which are attached to house, demerits of early marriage in village, eating habits including smoked and half roasted meat etc.

While Dr. Tapi spoke at length on demerits of consuming alcohol referring family and married life problems and also demerits caused by use of habitual drugs.

While as a resource person, one Obang Dupak, a Junior Teacher spoke on value of education referring why apple falls from tree, how mobile phone works, how earth revolves around and why not producing educated individuals, learned scientist and officers. In the evening, Rev. Mikim Perme delivered word of God

about loving one another, oneness, and to be peace loving citizen referring John 3: 16 wherein it tells about How God sacrificed His loving son Jesus for the sinners. God love the sinner and heals the sick. Good health gives good citizen.

The program was conducted with the initiation of Mr. Tapon Ering and Mr. Besing

Tatin, President and Secretary respectively of Pasighat Pastorate Circle and with the prayer supports and contributions by like-minders and believers, informed the sources. A social service was also conducted on the second day at community playground where the land was made plain by removing earth and boulders.

Khonsa Dc convenes coordination meeting, urges hods to work with missionary zeal ET Bureau Khonsa, Jan 11 : Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha while addressing a coordination meeting of various line departments convened by him on 11th January in DC's conference hall, Khonsa urged all the government representatives to work in close coordination with a missionary zeal.

While reminding the HoDs

of all the departments including Assam Rifles and CRPF regarding the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Yojana launched in Tirap district, the Deputy Commissioner requested them to open account in the names of their group-D staff by paying the first premium from their side to ensure 100% coverage of group-D and other low-paid staff by the end of January. He as-

sured all possible assistance from his office if some HoDs needed it.

partments to make all arrangements to ensure a grand celebration.

The DC appealed to all the HoDs not to leave station during the conduct of UDC, LDC and Peon written test on 30th January as their services would be required.

While speaking about the ensuing Republic Day celebrations at Khonsa, Jha asked all the concerned de-

He said that Dog Show by the Assam Rifles would be an added attraction this year. He also told the participants that a cleanliness drive would be carried out in the Khonsa Township on 24th January.

On the same day the Deputy Commissioner while inter-

acting with the Officers and Officials of his establishment lamented about the fact that the filing and noting procedures while putting up files were not properly and systematically followed and called for a total overhaul and streamlining of the system. He further asked the senior and experienced Dealing Assistants to impart basic training to the new-comers.

Scientific advisory Two day assessment camp for Committee meeting mental retardation underway at General Hospital held at Yachuli Itanagar, Jan 11: The Scientific advisory Committee meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Yachuli, Lower Subansiri district was held at Bluepine Hotel, Hapoli on 10th and 11th January.

Chairing the meeting ADC shri Nending Chatung stressed on developing demonstration plots wherein farmers will be able to practically view the new methodologies and practices in the agriculture sector and test grow new varieties of seeds before introducing them on large scale. He also felt the need to encourage and assist farmers clubs in all possible ways.

Attending the meeting District Horticulture Officers Shri Komri Murtem, lauded the efforts put in by the progressive farmers of the district and suggested cultivation of kiwis and cardamoms on large commercial scale. For this he felt the need for the farmers and the department to work in total tandem to fill the technical gap.

Dr.Hage Talley, DVO stressed on the need for Subject matter Specialist (SMSs) for veterinary sciences in the district. Dr A.N Tripathy Program Coordinator, KVK earlier presented the over view of KVK activities.

Participating in the meeting award winning progressive farmer Smt.Kago Kampu volunteered her plot for developing it as demonstration field. Another Ponung Ering Angu, Dy. Director ICDS East Siang is closely coordinating the progressive farmer Smt. entire assessment process so as no one is missed out from the district.

Gyati Riniyo also shared her experiences Spl Correspondent and last till tomorrow. skills to them so that they on multiple cropping.

Pasighat, Jan 11: As a Speaking to this could also be streamlined part of Government of In- correspondent about to live a better life, added Later during the techni- dia initiative, Depart- their initiative today, Sheregar. Ponung Ering cal session SMSs pre- ment of Empowerment Genesh Sheregar, Princi- Angu, Dy. Director ICDS sented their achieve- of Persons with Disabili- pal NIMH said that, they East Siang is closely coments and action plan ties, Ministry of Social are expecting more than ordinating the entire asfor 2016-17. Various lo- Justice & Empowerment 150 persons seeing sessment process so as no calized research issues, (Govt. of India), the Na- today’s initial day huge one is missed out from cropping system and tional Institute for the turn up. After these as- the district. She opined cropping sequence was Mentally Handicapped, sessments are done hope that, this initiative discussed in detail.

S e c u n d e r a b a d , within these two days, would bring good imTelangana in collabora- the NIMH team will re- provement to the perThe meeting was also tion with Department of visit Pasighat after a sons with disabilities in attended by Shri Duyu Social Justice and Em- month and will distribute the district who equally Tadu,DTO(Training), powerment & Tribal Af- Teaching Learning Mate- deserves government ADO Smt. Leegang fairs, Govt. of Arunachal rials in free of cost. The care and attention for Ania, Shri Hage Pradesh is organizing village wise Anganwadi which purposes ground Tachang, S.D AIR, pro- two days assessment workers will also be level Anganwadi workgressive farmers and camp for persons with in- trained in the process to ers will also be augfarm women besides of- tellectual disabilities look after and guide the mented with basic skills ficials from various line (Mental Retardation) persons with mental dis- to help and educate the here at General Hospital abilities so as to provide needy persons with disdepartment. (DIPRO) auditorium from today basic knowledge and abilities.

ten on her neck when she protested.

Maternal uncle of the girl pursuing the case further added that, the man came to the house of girl’s party and in the pretext of buying something for them, he asked two of them (victim’s friend) to come with him.

But when the victim entered, the man pushed out the other girl and shut the door of the vehicle and fled far off in the isolated location.

The friend of the victim immediately informed other friends and by the time they managed a bike and followed, she was already raped. The aggrieved uncle of the girl also added that, the rapist had also threatened the father of the girl of dire consequences if he lodges a FIR. However, rap-

ist was arrested as soon as an FIR was registered against him at Pasighat with Pasighat PS Case No. 2/ 2016 U/s 376/506 IPC R/w Sec-6 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.

When contacted, OC Pasighat PS N. Riba informed that, rapist has been arrested following an FIR and put into judicial remand. As the case is registered under POCSO, the identity of the girl is being kept secret, but rapist Bharat Pertin, S/o Pime Pertin, Silluk village is a married man added Riba.

Meanwhile, the parents and relatives of the girl have strongly appealed the concern authority including the Women Commission and ABKWW to give stringent punishment to the rapist.

The ongoing political drama in Arunachal Pradesh: Negotiating new nature of citizenship for Chakmas and Hajongs Contd. from Page 1

This changes the traditional decision making of the jhum practice. The decisions hitherto decided by the community are now overtaken by the state. As per the Act, Article 10 and 11 indirectly implies that the Chakmas and Hajongs will be regulated, controlled and their rights and privileges can be decided by the state. In doing so, the full-fledged implementation of Inner Line Permits (ILP) will be applied to these tribes which itself raises questions to the rationale or logic of ILP. Refuge to marginal ‘citizens’ Treaties that our governments sign can also be potential site for the formation of marginality. Such treaties often come with an absence of human security. Nation-states often follow the national security framework where territories become more important than the people.

The intensity of this national security framework increases in the frontiers of a nation state as compared to its centre. In other words human security, if there ever is in the philosophy of the state, diminishes in the frontiers.

The Indira-Mujib Treaty 1972 was meant to settle the Chakmas in the frontiers areas of North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) now known as Arunachal Pradesh, who were displaced by the Kaptai Dam in Bangladesh. However the prior permission or consent of the local people were not taken into account where the Chakmas were supposed to be rehabilitated. As it was a frontier there was no one to ‘stand up, wake up and clean up’ the decisions that were made. What is clear from this account is that marginal population or marginality itself is not only available when you are not recognised or forgotten by the state. It can also be produced when you are remembered by the state only to forget you. The Chakmas and Hajongs fit into such a description in the most apt manner.

Yet another aspect of marginality comes from fear of numbers from the nearby group formation.

With marginality comes ‘othering’ and ‘alterity’.

Politics of numbers or fear of being outnumbered has been one of the mainstays of student politics starting with the All Assam Student Union (AASU) in Assam.

The spillover was felt in Arunachal where as compared to their counterparts in Assam who were fighting against ‘bangladeshi’, the issue that materialised in Arunachal Pradesh amongst the student unions was the rising population of Chakmas in their state. In a state, where a singular identity did not evolve nor a language, the issue of Chakmas emerged out to be the only issue that unified the distinct geography inhabited by various ‘tribes’.

At the outset, 14,888 Chakmas and 2,000 Hajongs populations were given settlement in Arunachal Pradesh mostly in Tirap district. The white paper published by the Arunachal government and written by Vishnu Sahay, the then Governor addressing the Chief minister of Assam Bimala Prashad Chaliha a letter dated April 10, 1964. The letter states, “It occurred to me that we may get trouble between the Mizos and Chakmas in the Mizo district. These Chakmas would be quite suitable people to go into the Tirap division of NEFA where there is easily found vacant land…”

Arunachal Pradesh was earlier known as North East Frontier Agency (NEFA), which was administered by the Ministry of External Affairs through the Assam Governor. The Adviser to the Governor in a separate statement remarked the following to the NEFA officials on April 21, 1965: “Settlement of (these) people in NEFA will also help in developing the pockets that are lying unused and unoccupied…

Besides, the presence of stretches of vacant land along the border is strategically not desirable…”

Such was the apathy on the part of the administrators and government that it should hardly come as a surprise to anyone. Firstly, it is based on an assumption that the ‘unlettered’ and ‘savage’ people can be bypassed. Such an understanding not only draws from a colonial anthropol-

ogy and race science but sadly such understanding is used by independent state to observe people’s life-world with a narrowest of lens possible. Second, on a Lockean premise settlement became increasingly necessary in the barren frontiers to make the non-economic zones more economic and populated on one hand and the frontiers and its boundaries safer on the other.

There is no denying that the societies who lived in the areas of eastern Arunachal Pradesh were bypassed in making way for the Chakmas through the Treaty.

It is also alleged that the number of Chakmas have significantly increases which is close to a lakh according to the recent data.

But just on this ground the inhumane treatment and rejection of the Supreme Court judgement for granting citizenship to the Chakmas and Hajongs cannot be justified.

It is also well taken that internal conflict within the state has increased as resource sharing and land has shrunk in size due to implementation of the projects such as transasian highways, mega dams, railway lines and so on under the Look East/ Act East Policy, various conservation projects, mining and petroleum exploration.

It is against such backdrop the demands for nonpermanent settlement should be seen and analysed. Hence without addressing these larger phenomena in the state, the perceived notion of the Chakma-Hajong versus rest of the tribes as an ethnic problem is itself problematic. The ongoing registration of the Chakmas and Hajongs for citizenship should be allowed to continue and the provisions for swift implementation of the Supreme Court judgement for the citizenship should be made available. At the same time the state has to be in roads in the context of addressing the larger structural issues to avoid, mitigate and have a peaceful and progressive solution to the age-old problem.

By Suraj Gogoi and Shyamal Chakma (previously published in counterview.org)

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

AASAA protest for ST status The memorandum also drew the attention of the Chief Minister towards a long standing demand for construction of Adivasi Boys and Girls hostel one each at Diphu, Bokajan, Dokmoka and Howraghat. They also demanded that the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) should take proper initiative and provide the necessary required land in this regard.

ET Correspondent Bokajan Jan 11: Around 200 protesters of All Adivasi Student Association of Assam (AASAA) Karbi Anglong district Committee (KADC) today staged a protest in front of SDO(C) office, Bokajan, demanding 'Scheduled Tribe(ST)' Status for the Adivasi peoples of Assam and 'ST(Hills)' status for those residing in the sixth schedule areas as of Karbi Anglong.

Later, the demonstrators submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister through the SDO(C) pressing for the speedy and time bound solution briefing the burning problems of the Adivasis residing in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam.

The memorandum drew the attention of the Chief Minister towards some

Around 200 protesters of All Adivasi Student Association of Assam (AASAA) Karbi Anglong district Committee (KADC) today staged a protest in front of SDO(C) office, Bokajan

mischievous conspiracy to eliminate the Adivasis from Karbi Anglong by illegally encroaching upon their land, which if not checked, would lead to communal unrest in the near future.

The memorandum also stated the equal opportunities be provided to the Adivasis residing in the Karbi Anglong in terms of government appointments, development

schemes, IAY schemes and demanded that the daily wage of the tea labours be raised to Rs 200 with all basic facilities like ration, drinking water, education, health care etc.

AASAA further demanded for a CBI enquiry against Tuliram Ronghang lead Congress-I government of KAAC at mysteriously handing the stranded Lahorijan T.E to Mr Pele Angamy of Kohima, Nagaland and also pressed for the immediate rehabilitation of the staff and labours by establishing a Adivasi Model Village at Lahorijan T.E, the memorandum added.

Cop's last rites performed with full state honour

ET Correspondent Golaghat , Jan 11: The body of officer in Charge of Barpathar Police station in Golaghat Vinod Phangsu who was killed by suspected car lifting gang last night at Chungajan area when he was on duty after car lifter gang around 9.30 pm following a vehicle was today brought to the Police Reserve in Golaghat .

As per the information the suspected car lifters fired on Police vehicle and as a result two bullets hit Vinod Phangso and he died there itself .

In the incident another policeman named Manoj Saikia was too injured.

They were taken to nearby Hospital but due to serious injury transferred to Kushal Konwar Civil Hospital.

Today Vinods body was brought to hospital for

Postmartom and state honour was given to this officer in Police Reserve Bogrijeng in presence of DIG Apurba Jeevan Baruah , top cops of Upper Assam districts and Political leaders including MP Gaurav Gogoi and State Cabinet Minister Bismita Gogoi and local people gathered at the Police Reserve and tribute were paid . The bullets were fired as sign of respect . The Police and District Administration have arranged all necessary measures to give the dead cop with full state honour .

The program was coordinated by Additional SP Numal Mahto .

He said " Vinod Phangsu joined the police force in 2009 and he abled to show his talents in a very short period . For his courage and bravery he was conferred with CM Medal , DGP

Conmendation Medal and several other awards . He was last posted in Barpathar Police Station in Golaghat District as Officer in Charge . He has got many award in his small career of 6 years including CM Medal & DIG Commrlendation Medal.

Also his name has been firwarded to President for Bravery Award . It is matter of il luck for Police administration to loose such an officer"

Last night while he along with his police team were on patrolling a suspicious car was seen by them . When the police team tried to stop the car unidentified miscreants inside the car fired gunshots and in the attack OC Vinod Phangsu got severe bullet injuries and another constable also wounded . Both of them were rushed to local hospital where Phangsu suc-

CM announces 20 lakh for deceased police officer A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 11: Chief Minsiter Tarun Gogoi today announced a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for the kin of Officer-in-Charge of Barpathar Police Station who was killed while on duty.

In a statement Gogoi

cumbed to his injuries .

Today after tribute with full state honour was paid the martyr's body was taken to his native place in Sonapur in Kamrup district for funeral . Meanwhile the

condemned the heinous killing of the OC Vinod Phangso and said that the Government will give an ex-gratia grant of Rs 20 lakh to the Next of the Kin of the deceased.

Gogoi moreover said that the Government will confer CM’s Bravery Award posthumously to late Vinod Phangso.

police are ready to launch massive operation against the culprits.

SP Prithvi Pal Singh said " We will undergo depth operation to find out the culprits

Cong set to wrest tribal council from BJP ahead of Assam assembly polls ANI Guwahati, Jan 11: Three months after wresting control of a tribal council, the BJP is set to lose it to the Congress in an embarrassing development for the saffron party ahead of the assembly elections in Assam.

The BJP formed its tribal council in the northeast after using former militant leader Niranjan Hojai to engineer a split in the Congress-led North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) in October last year. Hojai was made the council head.

The council covers Dima Hasao district, whose headquarters Haflong is 325km southeast of Guwahati.

Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi and Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Ajan Dutta (R) during the Pub Guwahati Constituency Booth Micro Management Program “Gandhi Sabha” at Chandmari in Guwahati on Monday. (PTI)

Last week, the Congress used a similar strategy by letting another ex-rebel Jewel Gorlosa bring 10

members of the council back into the party. The formally rejoined the Congress at the party head-

quarters in Guwahati on Saturday.

“The BJP has been re-

duced to a minority in the 30-member council. We will meet governor PB Acharya on Tuesday to stake claim,” former NCHAC head Debojit Thaosen said.

Gorlosa said the BJP leadership had “too many ideas” about how to run the council. “It was frustrating, and we decided not to take orders from outsiders.”

Of the 30 members in NCHAC, 28 are elected and two nominated. One of them is chosen the chairman, another as the chief executive member and 14 as executive members.

Like an assembly, the party or coalition that has the majority forms the council.

Dr. Gunaram Khanikar contributions will be remembered : CM A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan : Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said that the Government will extend all support for the preservation and development of the Herbal Garden, Training Centre and other

READY FOR MAGH BIHU!

contributions of Dr. Gunaram Khanikar who died recently in recognition to his service.

In a statement, Gogoi said, “Dr. Gunaram Khanikar one of the most credible and rec-

ognized names in herbal medicines has cured several patients from all over the world with his medicines”.

The Regional Research Training Centre on Indian Traditional Treatment set up by Dr. Gunaram Khanikar and

other legacies left behind by him will continue to serve the mankind through herbal treatment, Gogoi added.

a fillip to the works and contributions of D r.

Gunaram Khanikar and look aft e r D r. G u n a r a m Khanikar Foundation Chief Minister Gogoi and Training Centre a l s o s a i d t h a t t h e if the family of the Government is ready D r. K h a n i k a r s o to form a trust to give agrees.

Women making PITHA for the forthcoming Magh Bihu Festival at Duliajan.

Pic - Rafique Uddin Ahmed

Goria Maria demands satellite Council ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Jan 11: The Sadou Asom Goria Maria Deshi Jatiya Parishad demanded a satellite Autonomous Council to make the community development and unity in the state.

The parishad on Sunday organized an awareness meeting at Baruapara LP school ground in Kokrajhar with Sheik Selim Patgiri, president of the Kokrajhar district committee in the chair.

The meeting thoroughly discussed on the various issues and aspects of the community which included keep alive of community identity

Renew license of weapons before March. 31 ET Correspondent Rangia Jan 11: All the license holder of the deadly weapons are hereby directed to renew their license of Pistol, Rifle including other weapons on or before March 31 2016. This is stated by DC Kamrup vide circular no. HMM-11/ 2015/43 . In order to renew the licence one must mention the Date of Birth, Address in full and mobile no. for further communication.

According to the circular after the due date all the licence will be cancelled and the weapons will be treated as illegal.

and safe of rights.

Patgiri, in his speech said that the Goria Maria community in the state is the indigenous community with their own identity and tradition that has been giving status among society.

He has urged the the community should be included into NRC update without any hesitation with Goria Maria identify, include the community into population census, giving of 5% reservation seating Bodoland University, CIT, Bineswar Brahma Engineering College to the student and

peoples of the community, besides appointing a member from the community.

Patgiri has also demanded satellite Autonomous Council in the state to make community well developed and integrated. ' The community should be given good facilities in all fronts of the society that is why creation of satellite autonomous council is required immediately in the state', Patgiri added.

Matinur Rahman, secretary of the parishad, members were present.

New SP in Dima Hasao ET Correspondent Haflong Jan 11: Dr. Dhananjay Parashuram Ghanawat, IPS, took over as the Superintendent of Police Dima Hasao from Dr V. Shivaprasad Ganjala, IPS on January Sunday.

admire because of his efforts to give a facelift in regards to the police institutional infrastructures. As said by the commoners, Dr Ganjala our SP would always be remembered here in Dima Hasao what he has given to us.

Dr. V. Shivaprasad Ganjala, IPS who joined here at Haflong as the SP in 2014 gained popularity and respect among the people of the district by his polite but bold action and also became successful to instill confidence in the minds of common people about the police administration in this trouble stricken district. He gained

Dr Ghanawat the new SP of Dima Hasao while talking to the media on today expressed his happiness to join here in Dima Hasao and assured to maintain good relation with the people of the district. Dr Ghanawat 2010 batch of IPS was posted at Baksa as SP operation before joining in Dima Hasao.

A little star of North East India Dimapur, Jan 11: Some people are just born to make a mark for themselves in life.

However more than luck it is also the attitude towards making a success in any venture takes a lot of grit and determination.

Rightly so, Temsütula Imsong has lately been the talk of social media and has even been mentioned in a speech of the prime minister of India. Little did this young, precocious girl dreamt of carving a niche for herself as a social worker in this competitive world.

Hailing from the humble household of Chungpongsosang and Temjenmongla of Ungma village, district Mokokchung, Nagaland Temsütula Imsong graduated from St. Mary’s College, Shillong with a twoyear diploma in Human Rights from Indian Institute of Human Rights, New Delhi.

She had no idea that an NGO founded by her would thrive and blossom up so much so that it would win accolades recognizing and acknowledging her unique services. Starting off as a beginner she initiated and established Sakaar Sewa Samiti, an NGO which she got registered under Societies Registration Act, 1860, with 21 members.

The NGO aimed at promoting the development of rural community with an active involvement of servicemen, ex-servicemen as well as general public. Since its inception the NGO has been doing commendable service to the community.

Most of their operations and institutions are based in rural

areas with the intention of reducing the out flux of manpower from the villages and the resultant congestion in cities.

This will be achieved by creation of employment opportunities in the villages and thereby simplicity of village life is retained.

Sakaar also aims to encourage the availability of top notch higher education in rural areas by setting up educational institutions which are at par with the best in the country.

Sakaar’s sole aim in every aspect of its functioning would be improving the lives of people and by this they don’t mean the material aspects only, but spiritual and moral aspects as well. The society has its registered office in Ghazipur while Varanasi is the leading unit and a small unit at Ungma, her native village so far. There are altogether 25 dedicated regular volunteers till date.

Members’ contribution and donations from well wishers are the main and the only source of Sakaar.

Some of the awards received

by Temsütula Imsong are “Pride of North East” by Rotary Club Guwahati, “Hurrah” awarded by the Urban Sanitation Magazine, “Radio Mirchi Lady Achiever” award at Varanasi and “Nari Shakti Samman” for Nari Jagaran Magazine.

In recognition of her selfless services she gained a rare opportunity to appear alongside the host Amitabh Bachan, brand ambassador of Swachh Bharat Campaign on the Aaj Ki Raat Hai Zindagi TV show,

which showcased her mission to the nation. A joint venture of British Broadcasting Corporation and Star Plus, the TV show gave a platform where Imsong could share her vision and mission for a clean India.

Upon her message the Big B immediately turned a strong challenge for the audience and viewers that if a little lady, hailing from a far flung corner of India could initiate such a noble venture in the heartland of the country, it certainly was everyone’s duty to follow suit and lend all possible help and moral support. Obviously Big B was right, her efforts may appear small in the eyes of the mighty Indians, but it has indeed been a big achievement for a north-easterner.

We talk too much of politics, depend too much on politics, give too much importance to politics, we see and recognize politics more clearly.

However, no country can survive without doers, no land or its people can develop without selfless contributors; no nation can be built without the sacrifices of its people. Temsutula’s humble efforts and services is definitely a pride for Nagaland in particular and North East India as well. We need more young men and women to follow the role model by actually doing things hand on, so that every little contribution is for the betterment of the society.

Let’s hope and pray that this Little Star of North East India shines for the land and its people of India and North Easterners in particular.

(Agencies )

Malda violence: BJP factfinding team hits out at Mamata for imposing Sec. 144

BJP MP (fact finding committee member) SS Ahluwalia

Malda, Jan. 11: The three-member fact-finding delegation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who were detained here on Monday, lashed out at the state government for denying them entry to the violence-hit area in Kaliachak and asserted that they had come to Malda will the sole purpose of helping the people but failed to do so, as Section 144 had been imposed in the area.

"The District Magistrate told us himself that Section 144 had been imposed due to the law and order situation in the area. We said that we have not come here to destabilise the situation but to help the people.

We want to know the truth," BJP MP (fact finding committee member) SS Ahluwalia told ANI. Stating that the delegation had arrived to find the truth about the situation in Kaliachak, the fact-finding team expressed disappointment at not being allowed to enter the violence-hit area."It is unfortunate what happened in Kaliachak and it's for

that, that our fact-finding team came here but we were not allowed to enter. The act of the West Bengal Government is condemnable. We have assessed what we could in an hour and we will submit our report to the Centre," BJP MP (fact finding committee member) Bhupender Yadav told the media here.

Asserting that the purpose of the BJP delegation was to restore confidence to the people in Kaliachak, Ahluwalia said that they wanted to assure them that nothing similar would happen in the future, but the 'pressure' from the State Government had stopped their endeavours."We came here to console the people and not to instigate them. But the District Magistrate told us that we are public figures and our appearance itself would be a problem. We will brief Amit Shah later about the situation," he added.

The delegation arrived in Malda at 6:15 a.m. in the morning and in a span of three hours returned back to Kolkata.

(ANI)

Manipur governor visits quake-affected Imphal, Jan 11:Manipur Governor V. Shanmuganathan on Sunday visited a hospital and enquired about the health of the victims of the recent earthquake.He distributed sweets and fruits to those injured in the January 4 earthquake who are undergoing treatment at Shija Hospital near Imphal.

"I was in Shillong when the earthquake struck Manipur. I rushed to Imphal on January 9.

I have visited the women's market and listened to the problems and demands of the women vendors. I have promised to look into their demands and I am sure the government will address the same," said Shanmuganathan, who is also governor of Meghalaya."I met some victims of the quake.

Many of them have lost homes. But I am sure they will get new houses with running water and uninterrupted power supply."Official sources said the governor may soon visit the hill district of Tamenglong, where

the epicentre was located.

Meanwhile, women vendors of Kongba Market in Imphal East district blocked roads on Sunday, and no vehicle was allowed to pass.Though traffic was obstructed till evening, police stayed at a safe distance, not wanting to provoke the angry women."The Kongba market which suffered damage is slowly crumbling. The market will collapse any day now. Under these circumstances, we cannot enter and sell consumer items," one woman vendor said .

"We are demanding the immediate demolition of the market complex and construction of a new one. We shall continue (with the agitation) till the government asks the authorities to a c t . " Vo l u n t a r y organisations have started extending a helping hand to the quake victims. A large number of people donated blood on Sunday for victims undergoing treatment in hospitals. (Agencies)

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

Centre to extend all help to protect the brow antlered deer Imphal, Jan 11: Union Minister Prakash Javadekar has said the Centre will extend all help to protect the brow antlered deer whose numbers in the entire world is just 204, according to a 2013 census. Wildlife enthusiasts feel there is an encouraging ray of hope for the survival of the rare deer on the brink of imminent extinction.The union minister for forest, environment and climate change made the announcement as he visited the 40 sq. km Keibul Lamjao National Park, the natural habitat of the brow antlered deer, locally known as Sangai, on Saturday shortly before leaving for Mizoram after a two-day visit to Manipur.

Javadekar said: "As per official information, there are now 90 stags, 86 hinds and 28 fawns. All assistance will be extended for the protection

of this endangered species."There is a slight increase in the deer numbers. There were 180 deer in 2000.Asked if the Centre is thinking in terms of a project on the lines of Project Elephant or Project Rhino, Javedkar said: "Once we get a concrete proposal from the forest department in Manipur, we will chalk out the plan."

Referring to the Manipur government proposal to have the Loktak lake, the largest fresh water lake in eastern India, declared as the world heritage site, he said: "We welcome the plan. However, specific proposal should first come to the Centre."Obliquely referring to localised objections from some sections of the fringe villages, Javedkar said: "The govenment plans are not against any village. We

'Centre to help protect endangered deer in Manipur'

seek cooperation from all sections of people."For generations, the Loktak lake has been the source of livelihood for the people of the fringe villages who catch fish, pluck edible plants, as also for other living beings.From time to time budding politicians instigate the villagers to demand closure of the national park so that it could be converted to paddy

fields.

In view of snatchings of firearms from officials in this insurgency afflicted state, the forest guards, deployed in the lake and the national park area, are not issued firearms. There have been occasions when the frenzied villagers incinerated the personal effects of the skeleton staff of forest department in the national park. They were also man-

handled and taunted.Later, the government stemmed the tide by deploying some Manipur Rifles troopers there. However, the troopers were later recalled as the wildlife wing of the forest department could not pay for the troopers' deployment.

"As there is a shoestring budget, we cannot erect a barbed wire fence, with the result that domesticated cattle enter the national park. In the process, they spead killer diseases among the deer," an official said."As fishing cannot be checked, hundreds of fishermen are daily entering the national park areas, which are part of the Loktak lake, in their country canoes. Some hardcore poachers get lost as they masquerade as fishermen," said wildlife lover Devika L."After slaughtering the deer, they come out with gunny sacks

BJP team turned back from Malda station, TMC lashes out Malda, Jan 11 : A 'factfinding' team of BJP MPs was on Monday stopped from visiting violence-hit Kaliachak by district authorities and turned back from the railway station, intensifying the war of words between the party and ruling Trinamool Congress in poll-bound West Bengal.MPs Bhupendra Yadav, Ram Vilas Vedanti and SS Ahluwalia, the lone BJP member of Parliament from the state, disembarked from Gaur Express at Malda Town station at around 6 AM but were asked by the police and district administration officials to go back as prohibitory orders had been promulgated in Kaliachak.

"This act of West Bengal government is condemnable," Yadav said as the MPs were forced to return by Howrah-bound Shatabdi Express. BJP said its leaders will meet the Union Home Minister to demand setting up of an inquiry into the violence and also approach President Pranab Mukherjee on the issue.

The Trinamool Congress lashed out at BJP, accus-

ing it of trying to make it a communal incident to polarise voters as assembly elections were less than 100 days away in West Bengal and claimed that the saffron party will fare worse then it did in Bihar. Violence had broken out at Kaliachak, about 30 km from here, on December 3 over an alleged remark of a BJP leader.

Protesters had set fire to a police station and damaged vehicles.

The area has been made out of bounds for BJP leaders since the incident.

On January 6, another BJP delegation led by Shamik Bhattacharya, its lone MLA in West Bengal Assembly, was not allowed to visit Kaliachak village.The BJP MPs on Monday stayed in the VIP lounge of the station for nearly three hours where they discussed the issue with senior district officials who turned them back.

"The purpose of the visit was to console the people, to restore their confidence that something like this will not happen in fu-

ture. Due to pressure from the state government, the district administration said that we cannot go there as Section 144 CrPC has been imposed," Ahluwalia said "We are not here to incite or instigate anyone. We are law-abiding citizens and senior MPs but the officials said that we are public figures and our appearance will create problems....the normalcy they have achieved will break down," he said.

The three leaders said they were here to understand the chain of events in Kaliachak that led to the violence. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said there was no communal tension in the area and described the incident as a fallout of an issue between BSF and the local people. Several policemen have been transferred from Kaliachak police station following the incident.

"It is a poor attempt by BJP to make it into a communal insensitive," Trinamool Congress MP Derek O Brien said, adding that it was a "criminal"

incident, which was "tactfully" handled so no one was hurt and 10 persons have been arrested.

He alleged that the BJP was acting in pursuance of its "communally insensitive narrative" as elections were due in April and was using its "social media army" to stoke the Malda fire.

"The opposition, which is known to commualise the situation, is trying to change narrative but when the election results come out in April, it will be clear that people will put their faith in the development agenda of Mamata Banerjee Government," the Trinamool leader said. Asked if he raised with the officials the issues of communal tension and the role of

police, Ahluwalia said that they were informed that the investigation was still on.

"We will give out report to party chief Amit Shah," he said.

Before leaving, the MPs said that the situation must be "really bad" in Kaliachak.

The CPI(M) attacked both the Trinamool Congress and BJP alleging that the two were making the state suffer for their narrow political interests.

While Trinamool has provided "patronage" to some fundamentalist elements within the minority community, BJP was trying to inflame passions, CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat alleged.

(Agencies)

"The purpose of the visit was to console the people, to restore their confidence that something like this will not happen in future. Due to pressure from the state government, the district administration said that we cannot go there as Section 144 CrPC has been imposed,"

filled with venison. Tribal markets in Chandel and Churachandpur districts openly sell deer carcasses.""The poachers had severed and secreted the heads with the tell-tale antlers and in Manipur the authority looks the other way despite frequent exposes in the local media," Devika L. added.

Minister Javadekar said the onerous task should not be left to the forest department of Manipur alone and the need is to associate all sections with the project."The Centre is shortly coming out with an action plan on the protection of the lake, the endangered deer and development of the national park. Since these will help develop ecotourism we seek cooperation from all sections of the people," he said.

(Agencies)

Male passenger arrested for molestation Kolkata, Jan 11 : A male passenger on a Delhibound flight was on Monday off-loaded and arrested at the NSC Bose International airport here for allegedly molesting a woman co-passenger after boarding, an airport police official said. The accused, Sanjay Kando (53), hailing from Gurgaon, on an Indigo flight allegedly misbehaved and molested a woman passenger, seated beside him. The woman complained to the airlines' on board staff, the official said.

Both of them were deplaned by the flight staff and taken to the Airport police station where the victim, a resident of Greater Kailash in New Delhi, registered an FIR. Police arrested Kando on the basis of her complaint and he would be produced in the Barrackpore Chief Judicial Magistrate's court later in the day.

The flight eventually took off with the woman passenger for its destination, airlines official said.

(Agencies)

ULFA-GNLA combine planned W'nagar blast Shillong ,Jan 11: In spite of the denial by GNLA that it had no hand in the lED blast at Williamnagar on Saturday, Meghalaya police has confirmed that itwas the handiwork of the outfit with the assistance from ULFA .A senior police official said on Sunday that police has enough evidence to show the blast was an outcome of the ongoing negotiations and a co-operation between GNLA and antitalks faction of ULFA based in Bangladesh.

Police said that the evidence indicated that there have been talks between GNLA supremo Sohan D. Shira and Deputy Com-

mander in Chief of ULFA Drishti Rajkhowa alias Manoj Rabha.Rajkhowa, the ULFA anti-talks leader based in Bangladesh has a long history of contacts in Garo Hills and is fluent in Garo language.Infact, while he was the Commander of the 109 battalion of ULFA till 2011, he was engaged in a series of violent activities in Garo Hills.According to police, the links between GNLA and ULFA seem to have been renewed last year during Operation Hillstorm when Sohan D. Shira fled Meghalaya and camped in Bangladesh for many months.

" In the renewed talks held three months ago, GNLA had asked for the services of an ULF A cadre named Aprai who is claimed to be an IED making expert.

Some of the GNLA cadres were also sent for training in IED making in the ULF A camps in Bangladesh.

Aprai is said to have strong connections in North Garo Hills district", a police source said.Before Saturday's blast, GNLA had tried to throw a hand grenade at another wine shop in December last year.Due to the presence of police personnel, the militants targeted another nearby shop but the grenade

did not blast.There have been series of attempts thereafter to throw grenades and to plant IEDs at various places, but the same was foiled due to timely intervention of the police.

Police sources pointed out that refusal of the shopkeepers and traders to pay extortion money to GNLA had led to frustration among the top leadership of GNLA who directedGNLA Commanders identified as Jimmy and Megam to carry out the blast in the Williamnagar market during the market day on Saturday.

The East Garo Hills police have identified the

duo, who carried out the blast and a hunt is on to arrest them. A case was also registered by the East Garo Hills police under a series of sections against Sohan and cadres Jimmy, Megam and others.

Sources confirmed that there has been a debate among the senior leaders of GNLA on whether to carry out IED blast on the market day where a number of local Garos and Maharis would be coming for marketing."But, the senior leadership especially Sohan and Jimmy had asserted that time had come to take action against

those who are not paying extortion money whether they are Maharis or nontribals", sources added.More forces the Williamnagar blas t comes almost a month before the slated SAF Games and has serious security implications.

In this context, the state government has asked the Centre for reinforcements for CRPF and COBRA units .A police official said that the entre has promised to provide additional manpower which will result in intensification of operations against GNLA and other militants. (Agencies)

Mizoram celebrating 'Missionary Day'

V. Shanmuganathan

Imphal,Jan 11:'Missionary Day', anniversary of the arrival of two Welsh Christian missionaries, was observed todayand celebrated across the Christian-dominated north eastern state of Mizoram.Government offices and educational

institutions were closed for the day as the state government declared the day as a public holiday.

The local churches of the Baptist Church of Mizoram held prayer and worship services and also organised

Mizoram celebrating 'Missionary Day'

community feasts.Rev. J.H. Lorrain and Rev.F.W. Savidge had arrived in the then Lushai country (Mizoram) by boat from Assam on January 11, 1894 and spread Christianity which resulted in conversion of almost all

the Mizos to the new religion.The Welsh missionaries were responsible for the establishment of the Presbyterian Church in northern part of Mizoram and the Baptist Church in the southern part of the state. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

PAGE 6

Tewari responds to 'jobless' jibe, says has Congress puts onus on 'confused' Govt. as Pak 'more work than MoS' VK Singh New Delhi, Jan. 11: Hitting back at Union minister and former Army chief General VK Singh's 'jobless' jibe, former information and broadcasting minister Manish Tewari on Monday said that by God's grace, he had much more work to do than a Minister of State (MoS).

"Saw @Gen_VKSingh statement on being jobless. Well Minister I know how much work MOS's in GOI have. With God's grace have more work than that," Tewari tweeted. Following the furore over Tewari admitting that the Raisina Hill incident was reported correctly by the Indian Express in 2012, Minister of

State for External Affairs VK Singh, the then Army Chief General, dismissed the Congress leader's statement saying 'he has no work these days'.

"Manish Tewari ji has nothing to do these days.

There is this book of mine, ask him to read it and everything will be clear to him," The retired Army General told reporters here. Singh was referring to his autobiographical book 'Courage and Conviction' where he has criticised various situations in which he was involved, including alleged corruption in the Indian government and the role of Indira Gandhi in Operation Bluestar. Meanwhile,

Pathankot attack: Gurdaspur SP Salwinder Singh at NIA HQ New Delhi, Jan. 11: Punjab Superintendent of Police Salwinder Singh on Monday reached the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Headquarters, where he will be interrogated in connection with the Pathankot airbase terror attack case.

Singh had been summoned by the NIA on Friday to appear before it for detailed interrogation. Singh was allegedly abducted while riding a personal vehicle which was hijacked and

later used by the terrorists on the night of 31st of last month.

He is presently posted as Assistant Commandant of 75th battalion of Punjab Armed Police and was recently shunted as SP (headquarters) of Gurdaspur following allegation of breach of discipline. According to reports, there are contradictions in the SP's statement, due to which his statement is being verified repeatedly. (ANI)

Manish Tewari Tewari remained firm on his stand that the Raisina Hill incident was reported correctly by the Indian Express in 2012 and said that nothing 'needed to be added or subtracted' from

his statement.

"I have nothing more to add or subtract to what I said yesterday," Tewari told reporters on Sunday.

Tewari had earlier brushed aside allegations that a

news item concerning troops' movement published by the Indian Express was 'fake' and said that it was an 'unfortunate but true' story. "At that time, I used to serve in the Standing Committee of Defence. And it's unfortunate, but the story was true. The story was correct. I am not getting into an argument. All I am saying is that to the best of my knowledge that story was correct," said Tewari during a book launch function here. The Indian Express had on April 4, 2012, reported that late on the night of January 16, 2012 (the day then Army Chief General V.K. Singh ap-

proached the Supreme Court on his date of birth issue), central intelligence agencies reported an unexpected (and non-notified) movement by a key military unit from the mechanised infantry based in Hisar (Haryana) as a part of the 33rd Armoured Division (which is a part of 1 Corps, a strike formation based in Mathura and commanded by Lt Gen. A K Singh) in the direction of the capital, 150 km away.

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said the Congress must publically apologise for questioning the integrity of the armed forces. (ANI)

Journal on India, China issues launched at Book Fair New Delhi, Jan 11: In a bid to improve communication and promote ties between India and China, an English magazine that presents Chinese account on relationship with India, has been launched at the World Book Fair. The magazine, 'China-India Dialogue' published by China Pictorial, aims to establish better communication between the two countries with a view to resolve important issues between them.

The Beijing-based publication has attempted to cover issues pertaining to culture, tradition, tourism,

academics, art, air quality etc. Speaking at its launch here last evening, former ambassador to France and Germany T C A Rangachari stressed on the need to enhance the knowledge about China to Indians and hailed the move of China.

"So far as India is concerned the level and our information about China is very, very low. The Chinese know much more about India than we know about China. We need to very significantly enhance our knowledge about China and journals of this kind, since it is in English

would give you some information about China," Rangachari said. The magazine has articles from both Indian as well as Chinese writers, including diplomats and highlights the digital campaign of Prime Minister Narendra Modi government.

The former ambassador emphasised on the need to have more publications and other sources of information about China.

"We should look at not only journals like these but also other publications and other sources of information about China.

There can be no better way to get to know about each other than a journal like this. I am hopeful of bringing an India-China dialogue," he said. The inaugural issue contains a piece by Indian ambassador to China Ashok K Kantha who has written about the India-China Economic Cooperation and prospects of growth.

"As two of the fastest growing major economies in the world on Monday, India and China enjoy special advantages in leveraging digital technology an entrepreneurial culture," Kantha said. (Agencies)

initiates Pathankot attack probe

Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar New Delhi, Jan. 11 : Expressing approval at the formation of a joint investigation team by Pakistan in the Pathankot terror attack, the Congress on Monday put the onus on the Indian Government to take the next step. "If this is true then it is the first step but it is not the last step because we have been through this before. At the time of 26/11 also a special court had been set up but eight years later, we are more or less where we were," Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar told here.

"So in these circumstances, I would like a confirmation to see

whether there is more information. What is more important is the reaction of the Indian government, as there seems to be some confusion there as well," he added. Sources in the Prime Minister's Office said that Nawaz Sharif has asked Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief Aftab Sultan to form a joint investigation team, comprising InterServices Intelligence (ISI) and Military Intelligence (MI), to probe the Pathankot incident. The move came after India shared with Islamabad some evidence of the Pathankot attackers' purported links to Pakistan.

(ANI)

"If this is true then it is the first step but it is not the last step because we have been through this before. At the time of 26/11 also a special court had been set up but eight years later, we are more or less where we were."

BJP pulls up Odd-even scheme US ship detention case: 35 foreign nationals sentenced to prison Mamata Govt. over to continue till Jan. Malda violence 15: Delhi HC

Lawyer RK Kapoor

New Delhi, Jan. 11: In a major win for the Aam Aadmi Party-led government (AAP), the Delhi High Court on Monday said that it will not interfere with the state government's notification on the odd-even formula and that the scheme is to continue till January 15th. The next hearing over the car rationing scheme is scheduled on February 15th.

"The High Court has refused to interfere with the Delhi

Government's notification and they have issued a direction of points. The points will have to be considered by the state government. The rationality of the notification was challenged by us," Lawyer RK Kapoor told the reporters here.

However, the Delhi High Court has also directed the state government to take into account the objections raised by all the petitioners against the scheme. (ANI)

Tuticorin, Jan. 11: A District Court in Tuticorin on Monday sentenced thirty five foreign nationals to five years imprisonment in a case related to the detention of a US ship by the Indian Coast Guard ship 'Naikidevi' on charges of trespassing into Indian waters and possessing weapons in 2013.

Subramanian Adityan- the lawyer of the accused, however, said that they are going to appeal before the Madras High Court against this judgement. "I am not here to criticize the judgment. However we are going to file an appeal before the Madras High Court (Madurai Bench)

Lawyer Subramanian Adityan insighting that this judgment is unlawful. We will file an appeal as early as possible," Adityan told .

"They are entitled to be on a voyage throughout the

world to give protection to the merchant ships and to the passenger ships as an anti piracy vessels. We have produced copies of the licenses and also pro-

duced the original copy later. But the court has come to a conclusion that we have violated the norms by entering into the territorial waters even though we denied it," he added.

The ship, 'Seaman Guard Ohio,' was detained on October 18, 2013, by Indian Coast Guard ship 'Naikidevi' on charges of trespassing into Indian waters and possessing weapons. After arms and ammunition were seized from the vessel, the 10-member crew and 25 guards were arrested by 'Q' Branch police on October 18. The vessel is under guard at V.O. Chidambaranar Port.

(ANI)

'Anarchist' Mamata responsible for Malda rampage

New Delhi, Jan. 11: Holding West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee responsible for the Malda rampage, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Siddharth Nath Singh on Monday hit out at the state govern-

ment for the detention of a three-member fact-finding team of the BJP at the Malda Railway Station.

"On 3rd of January, leaflets got distributed, over a lakh people got collected. The administration does not do anything.

When a three-member delegation of BJP goes to Malda to know what the facts are on the ground, they are detained at the Malda station. It just goes to show the autocratic, the anarchist, and the dictatorship ofMamata Banerjee.her being blind towards the facts," Singh told.

"She wants to cover up and protect her own criminals, who have been involved in smuggling of opium drugs as well as fake currency. The entire Kaliachak rampage is instigated and planned by the state administration," he added. The delegation arrived in Malda at 6:15

Mumbai, Jan 11: Advocating a strong response to the Pathankot terror strike, Shiv Sena on Monday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "tolerance" to such attacks should end.

"Our tolerance to terror attacks is commendable.

But there is a limit. We pray that the tolerance of

Modi to such attacks should end," an editorial in the Shiv Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said.

"The US has pressurised Pakistan on Pathankot issue, and as usual, our ball is in Pakistan's court.

Waiting for what happens next is the only thing in our hands," Sena said. "Terror outfit JeM

has added salt to our injury by claiming that only six terrorists were no match for the Indian army," the Sena said.

Such attacks won't stop till such evils are given a befitting reply, the editorial said.

It will be difficult if India's rulers don't abide by the "Kshatriya

BJP leader Siddharth Nath Singh

a.m. in the morning and in a span of three hours returned back to Kolkata.

"Our purpose was to restore confidence that nothing will happen in future.

But due to the pressure from the state government the District Magistrate said that section144 has been promulgated and we can't go to that area. We were not here to instigate, but to console people.

They said that we are public figures and by our appearance, it will be a problem," committee chairman S.S. Ahluwalia told . The delegation is expected to party president Amit Shah about their detention.

(ANI)

dharma" and tackle the enemies in time, the Sena said.

"Why should there be compulsions in case of India only? Countries like Russia, France, America and England give a strong response to their enemies and do not push the ball in their enemy's court," it said. (Agencies)

Peter Mukerjea's judicial custody extended till Jan. 25 Modi's tolerance to terror should end: Shiv Sena New Delhi, Jan. 11: The judicial custody of former media honcho Peter Mukherjea, who was arrested in connection with the Sheena Bora murder, has been extended till January 25th. On December 28th, a Mumbai Esplanade court had ex-

tended the judicial custody of Peter till January 11.

Mukherjea was arrested on November 19 and his wife Indrani Mukherjee is in prison for allegedly murdering Sheena, who is Indrani's daughter from an earlier relationship. (ANI)

New Delhi, Jan. 11: Justifying the move to send a three-member party committee to Malda to take stock of the ground situation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday launched a blistering attack on the Mamata Banerjee government and alleged that her administration is sleeping and keeping a blind eye to the untoward incidents taking place in the state. Posing five questions to the TMC regime in West Bengal, BJP leader Siddharth Nath Singh said that the Kalechak incident was an issue of national security as per his party.

"This incident happened on January 3 and there were leaflets and publicity materials that were being distributed, they were stroking communal passions and such kind of communal issues were being raised in the publicity materials that were distributed in Malda, Kalechak.

As a government in a secular country, isn't it a responsibility of the state government to stop this kind of circulation which strokes communal passions?" he asked.

He alleged that according to Banerjee, the incident was a reaction to an incident which happened on December 1, 2015. "An unfortunate, condemnable statement coming out from an individual on Mohammed Prophet. But then the question is it happened on December 1, 2015, the reaction happens on January 3. It takes more than 30 days. If there is a communal reaction, it has to be spontaneous. Therefore, it was not a communal reaction, it was a planned action," he said. Singh further accused Banerjee of making a U-turn on the issue of Malda within 24 hours.

"Mamata ji says it is not a big issue and it was between local people of Malda, Kalechak, versus the BSF. The question is that the mob which was of over one lakh people, why didn't they go to the BSF barrack and burn it if it was between the local people? How come the

people who collected were more than one lakh? And why then did they go to the police station?" he asked.

Highlighting a possible fake currency racket emerging from Malda, Singh said it has been widely reported that the NIA had been working to burst a Malda fake currency racket and more than 15 people all over India had been arrested in the recent past and mostly they all are connected to Malda.

"NIA in consultation with the Home Secretary of Bengal, in end 2015 prepared a module to burst this fake currency racket in Malda. And based on this, information was there was there that records were there in the police station of Kalechak which came under attack on January 3," he said. He also pointed out that Malda had become a hub for drug trade because of the ignored opium cultivation.

"In large number, acres after acres, there is farming of opium that is happening in Malda. Isn't your administration, your police aware of it?

Because it is not on a small piece of plot, so why is your administration sleeping and keeping a blind eye? Therefore, this opium farming which leads to drug smuggling across the border, which leads to the fake currency racket which was going to be busted raises enough suspicion that why the police station where all these records were kept was attacked," he added. Expressing concern over national security, Singh added that the BJP has decided that once the three-member delegation returned, a delegation would meet the Home Minister of India with the request to an appropriate agency to look into it. A 'factfinding' team of BJP MPs was on Monday stopped by district authorities from visiting Kaliachak which was hit by violence on December 3, as the political battle between the TMC and BJP over the incident heated up.

(ANI)

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Pak opposes preconditions for Afghan-Taliban peace talks Awami League's Islamabad, Jan 11:Pakistan today said that no precondition should be attached for talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban, as a key meeting of a quadrilateral group involving Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and the US began here aimed at reviving the stalled peace process."It is important that no preconditions are attached to the reconciliation process, as it will create difficulties in bringing Taliban to the negotiating table," PM Nawaz Sharif's Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz said at the meeting. The group was set up last year to facilitate the reconciliation process in the wartorn country.

Pakistan prime minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz.

"The primary objective of the reconciliation process is to create conditions to bring Taliban to the negotiating table and offer them incentives that can persuade them to move away from using violence as a tool for pursuing political goals,"

Iran accuses Saudi Arabia of using 'cleric row' to hurt Syria peace talks Karachi, Jan. 11 : Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif accused Saudi Arabia of using its row with Tehran to derail the peace talks on the Syrian conflict."Saudi Arabia's approach is to create tension intended to negatively affect the Syrian crisis. We will not allow Saudi actions to have a negative impact" Zarif said in a foreign ministry statement.The statement coincided with the UN peace envoy on Syria, Staffan de Mistura's visit to Tehran for talks on Syria.

Tensions have been

on a high between the two nations after Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Iran following a row that began with the Sunni kingdom's execution of a Shia cleric.Saudi Arabia had maintained earlier that severing diplomatic ties with Iran was the first step and it could go further if Tehran does not change its policies.Earlier, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al Jubeir said that his country would talk about taking further actions against Iran with its regional and international allies if it had to. (ANI)

Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif accused Saudi Arabia of using its row with Tehran to derail the peace talks on the Syrian conflict

Jaishankar to embark on two-day visit to Sri Lanka, Maldives New Delhi, Jan. 11: Foreign Secretary S u b r a h m a n y a m Jaishankarwill leave for a two-day visit to Sri Lanka and Maldives on Tuesday.The relationship between India and Sri Lanka is more than 2,500 years old. Both the countries have a legacy of intellectual, cultural, religious and linguistic interaction.In recent years, the relationship has been marked by close contacts at all levels.

Political relations between the two countries have been

marked by high-level exchanges of visits at regular intervals.As close and friendly neighbours, India and Maldives share ethnic, linguistic, cultural, religious and commercial links steeped in antiquity and enjoy cordial and multi-dimensional relations.Bilateral relations have been nurtured and strengthened by regular contacts at all levels. Since establishment of diplomatic relations, almost all Prime Ministers of India visited the Maldives. (ANI)

Aziz said. "It is therefore important that no preconditions are attached to the reconciliation process," Aziz added. "Proper sequencing is required in the negotiating process," he said, adding that "threat of use of military action against the group will

cause hindrances and cannot precede the offer of talks to all groups." He said that it was important to undertake a realistic assessment of the opportunities as well as anticipated obstacles in the process and then develop clarity on how to proceed further.

"I want to reaffirm that Pakistan values its brotherly and neighbourly relations with Afghanistan, and is firmly committed to continue serious efforts for long term peace and stability in Afghanistan," he added. Afghanistan hoped that Pakistan will share a list of insurgents who are ready for peace talks. The first round of talks was held in

July but the process was suspended in the same month after news of Taliban chief Mullah Omar's death was announced. Officials from Pakistan, China and US were present when representatives of the Taliban and the Afghan government met in Murree near Islamabad during the first round.According to officials, the second round may take place towards the end of January if the four nations agreed on the minimum agenda of talks. It is believed that the process of peace in Afghanistan will be testing for all parties due to strong opposition within Afghanistan towards any peace with the Taliban.

(Agencies)

Pakistan today said that no precondition should be attached for talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban, as a key meeting of a quadrilateral group involving Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and the US began aimed at reviving the stalled peace process

Thailand's ailing king treated for lung infection, fever Thailand, Jan 11: Thailand's royal palace has released a vaguely worded health report on the country's 88-year-old king, the world's longest reigning monarch who has been ailing for years, describing what appears to be a new bout of lung infection and occasional fever with rapid breathing.The statement issued late Sunday raised concern about the frail health of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who has spent most of the past six years living in a Bangkok hospital.

The Royal House-

hold Bureau statement said the king had battled a fever for the past two weeks and that tests found "an infection in the lower part of the lungs" and an infection in his blood as well as inflammation in his right knee joint.The king was given oxygen, intravenous antibiotics and other medication, the statement said, adding that "currently, the king's fever has eased but his breathing is occasionally faster than normal, while his pulse and blood pressure are normal."

The statement did not make clear if the lung infection was gone.

Bhumibol, who took the throne in 1946, has faded from public life in recent years due to ill health.The deeply revered king is a constitutional monarch with no formal political role but has been regarded as a stabilizing figure for Thailand, which has experienced political turmoil in recent

years.Many regard him as a father figure and his December 5 birthday is celebrated as Father's Day in Thailand.Worries about the king's health and succession have contributed to the country's political instability. The heir apparent, Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, does not command the same respect and affection as the king."

(Agencies)

King Bhumibol Adulyadej's December 5 birthday is celebrated as Father's Day in Thailand.

grand rally in capital today

A grand rally was held at Paltan Maidan in the capital today

Dhaka, Jan 11:The ruling Awami League Awami League will hold a grand rally in the capital today to mark the Home Coming Day of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on January 10.The rally will be held at the historic Suhrawardy Udyan at 2:30pm while Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will chair the rally.

Awami League General Secretary Syed Ashraful Islam in a press release urged the leaders, activists and supporters of the party and its affiliated bodies to join the rally.Earlier, the Awami League central committee leaders held several joint meetings with leaders of Dhaka City Unit, party's associated bodies and professionals to

make the rally a success.At first the rally was scheduled on January 10 but it was later shifted to January 11 so that it does not coincide with the Akheri Monajat or concluding prayers of B i s h w a Ijtema.Meanwhile, Awami League Joint General Secretary Mahbubul Alam Hanif yesterday said the BNP would very soon split up.He made the remark at a meeting organised

by Sramik League at Bangabandhu Avenue on the occasion of Bangabandhu's Home Coming Day. "There is no doubt that BNP is going to split up. The party will be divided into many parts due to destructive politics of its Chairperson Khaleda Zia and her son," he said.

(Agencies)

Admiral Dhowan Indonesian security forces regrouping to launch more aggressive campaign to hunt arrives in Dhaka for Indian Ocean Naval for the country's most-wanted man Symposium Jakarta, Jan 11 : Indo- ficult to catch than ex- based.Details of how forces increase their fonesian security forces are regrouping to launch a more aggressive campaign to hunt for the country's mostwanted man, police said today, after months of fruitless searching in the jungles of Sulawesi island.President Joko Widodo has made the arrest of Santoso, Indonesia's most highprofile backer of Islamic State, one of his national security priorities and had given security forces until Jan. 9 to arrest him. But Santoso, who has been on the run for more than three years, has proven to be more dif-

pected.

Security forces plan to bring in 500 more policemen and soldiers to reinforce the 1,600 personnel looking for Santoso, who analysts say could be an inspiration for Indonesian militants returning from fighting with Islamic State in the Middle East."There is a new operation called Tinombala that will focus on Poso and the surrounding areas," said Hari Suprapto, spokesman for the Central Sulawesi police, referring to the district where Santoso is believed to be

the military and police would join forces still had to be worked out, he said. Officials at the presidential palace were not available for comment.Determined to capture Santoso, President Joko Widodo in March approved the first major military counter-terrorism operation since the bombing of two Jakarta hotels in 2009.

A blitz by troops, warships and fighter jets weakened Santoso's forces, but he got away and officials believe he still commands up to 40 men.While security

cus on Santoso in Central Sulawesi, analysts have raised alarm over a growing network of Islamic State supporters around the capital, Jakarta.Police over the weekend arrested three people after finding bomb-making equipment at a house near Jakarta, said a police spokesman, Sulistyo Pudjo Hartono.Police said the three were suspected of having links with a group of men arrested across the island of Java last month, who were believed to be planning attacks over the New Year holiday.

(Agencies)

Dhaka, Jan. 10 : Navy ChiefAdmiral R.K. Dhowan arrived yesterday to take part in the 5th Indian Ocean Naval Symposium(IONS).The biennial conference, which will begin today, will be attended by Naval Chiefs of 32 countries, head of many international maritime organizations, experts and academics from the Indian Ocean countries, and also from America, Europe and East Asia.Bangladesh President Mohammed Abdul Hamid will inaugurate the sympo-

sium, which will be held from January 1014.

The event seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean region by providing an open and inclusive forum for discussing the maritime issues across the region, according to its website.The previous editions of the symposium were held in India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), South Africa, and Australia.

(ANI)

Migrant activists abroad call Quake-hit Dhading farmers compensated for dead cattle Jan 11: "My wife, who had taken ous programmes in for support from 'oppression' Kathmandu, Pode Tamang grinned cattle for grazing, luckcollaboration with lo-

Yangon, Jan 11:U San Win, chair of the Kathpone Free Funeral Service in Kuala Lumpur, said more than 1000 Myanmar migrant workers had joined the demonstration against the sentences passed on Ko Win Zaw Tun and Ko Zaw Lin."We had received police permission for the demonstration, but the police revoked the permit as the number of demonstrators grew. We asked for 15 minutes to disperse, but the police started arresting the protestors. I and Ko Tun Aung Kyaw, another activist, asked the police to arrest us instead of the protestors," he said.

U San Win said the aim of the protest was to call international attention to what he termed the injustice of the verdict and the sentence on the two young Myanmar migrant workers, who claimed Thai police, had extracted confessions from them by torture. They later re-

canted the confessions.On December 29, U San Win and U Tun Aung Kyaw were released after a court found them not guilty. But the Malaysian police rearrested them under immigration laws, according to U San Win. After arguments by lawyers, U San Win was released without charge, but U Tun Aung Kyaw, who chairs the Myanmar Migrant Workers Association in Malaysia, still faces possible charges relating to his im-

migration status.U San Win said Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand and Malaysia suffered oppression from those governments because the Myanmar government took no steps to protect their rights. "Myanmar migrant workers in foreign countries are always facing oppression, because our government does not meet its responsibilities.

Migrant workers and their rights need better protection," he said. (Agencies)

A migrant workers' activist has called for greater support from the Myanmar government for workers overseas who, he said, faced "oppression" from foreign governments. The call came as Malaysian police arrested Myanmar demonstrators outside the Thai embassy in Kuala Lumpur on January 7. The demonstrators were protesting against the death sentences handed down to two Myanmar men found guilty of murder and rape in the case of two British holidaymakers in Koh Tao island, Thailand.

awkwardly as he received Rs 43,000 cash compensation from Livestock Minister Shanta Manawi for livestock killed by April 25 earthquake. He looked struggling for words to respond as minister wished him good luck.Tamang received the amount swaddled in envelop, slid it into his long sleeved robe and left. He kept grinning until one of the villagers asked him how much the amount is. "I don't know," he replied in Tamang language.

Forty-eight-year old Tamang, who looked much older than his age, had neither imagined an earthquake nor dreamed of meeting a minister in his life. However, he recalled the day as most horrifying moment of his life."I was in another village," he said, adding,

ily escaped the landslide caused by earthquake, but it swept away buffaloes, an ox and goats."

Kharsa village of Sherthung VDC lies right at the foot of Mt Ganesh, located at two days walking distance from district headquarters. Villagers miraculously escaped death, but all houses collapsed and quake triggered landslide swept away many cattle.Himalayan Health Care, a non-profit organisation, was the first one to reach villages in the northern part of the district to rescue people after the earthquake. The organisation raised funds from various donors to supply goods and health support.Minister Manawi yesterday visited Sherthung to distribute the amount to villagers so that they will be able own cattle again. "The com-

Livestock Minister Shanta Manawi hands over relief amount to people at Sherthung in Dhading on Sunday for cattle killed in earthquake

pensation for cattle killed in the earthquake is a good support for farmers," she said. "Our ministry will also come up with plans to support farmers affected by the earthquake."

According to Phe Dorje Tamang, local coordinator of the organisation, they have allocated Rs 7 million in support for farmers in five most affected DVCs in the district to buy cattle. A total of 242 households from

Sherthung, Tipling, Lapa, Jharlang and Ree VDCs have benefited from the programme.According to lawmaker Dhan Bahadur Ghale, around 400 of 676 dead in the districts were from these five VDCs.The cash aid was made with support from Brother's Brother Foundation, a US based charity. According to Tamang, the charity has helped in health and education sectors as well.The organisation has been running vari-

cal administration.

Chief District Officer Bishwa Prakash Subedi, local development officer and other officials from the district attended the launching programme.

Bharat Budhathoki, liaison officer of the centre, said that they have already signed an agreement with local administration to build 13 health posts and 20 schools in the district. They have already opened 86 kilometre footpath and 11 kilometre road with support from the World Food Programme."We will soon complete paper work to build district hospital," he said.

The organisation has been working in healthcare, education and income generating programmes in the district.(Agencies)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

Economics for Everyone -Demographic Dividend Child Abuse Future of our nation should be saved According to World Health Organisation "Child abuse or maltreatment constitutes all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power". In India almost one third consists of children below 18 years. And out of these 40 percent of are in need of care and protection, which indicates the extent of the problem. Various studies had clearly showed that it is young children in the age group of 5-12 year are at risk of abuse and exploitation most of the times. Child abuse occurs in many different forms, but the outcome is same which involves serious physical or emotional harm. Physical or sexual abuse may be the most striking types of abuse, as it often but unfortunately leave physical evidence behind.

However, emotional abuse and neglect are serious types of child abuse that are often more considered to be subtle and difficult to figure out. The problem of child abuse is a complex one as it has many multiple causes. The causes of understanding of child abuse might be a crucial one in addressing the problem. But it is important to know that "child abuse" means any kind of harm done to a child and does not just mean sexual abuse.

Various report also show that street children, child at work and children in institutional care reports the highest incidence of sexual assault. Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Delhi have the largest number of complaints on Child abuse. Moreover 50% abuses are a close kin to the child or are persons known in a position of trust and responsibility and for this most children did not report the matter to anyone. And from these types of incident the child may become fearful and anxious, suffer nightmares, become depressed or can even run away. Along with this eating and sleeping disorders may occur which can lead to grief reactions, depression, hostility and anger are all common expressions for a victim of child abuse Also the child might develop an impaired ability to judge the trustworthiness of others. Although various experienced educators and social workers have seen all forms of child abuse and at one time or another have undertaken various campaigns to culminate such norms. But parents too should also take initiative in teaching a child to tell immediately about what has happened either to a teacher or caregiver or to the parent itself.

The Ministry on its part has taken various measures such as enabling legislation to establish the National and State Commissions for Protection of Rights of the Child, the Integrated Child Protection Scheme, the draft Offences against Children Bill etc. The Childline Project initiated across India is supported by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) under the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) which operates in 291 cities/districts in 31 States and UTs through its network of over 540 partner organisations across India. In Assam too apart from Childline, The Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has been constituted under Section 17 of the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005 for protection, promotion, development, survival and participation of children.

These are just a few important initiatives taken to ensure protection of children of the country. But clearly, this will not be sufficient towards creating a protective environment for children.

Reign of 15 years Will the emperor be same?

The Congress government in Assam headed by Tarun Gogoi is on its way of completion of five years in its third consecutive term in office with the Chief Minister claiming that it had brought about "major transformation" in different sectors in the past 15 years. With this, Assam also entered its election year with the assembly elections due latest by April this year. The state government has initiated a slew of development schemes and programmes for ensuring all-round development of the state and the welfare of its citizens. Since the day one of assumption of power in 2001, the ruling government has been fine-tuning the administration to make it peopleoriented. Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi listed out the achievements of the Congress government in the last 14 years in the state and as per him the state was in a poor condition before he took charge. The chief minister -- who has been at the helm for three consecutive terms since 2001 has made considerable progress in all sectors after his party assumed office. Few of Gogoi led government achievements are stabilization in the economy, less number of civilians killed, peaceful state, people got employment, state's GDP was Rs.38,313 crore in 2001 compared to Rs.1,62,652 crore at present etc.

During the Congress reign the tax collection rose to Rs 8,177.26 crore from Rs 1,270.33 crore, while excise revenue went up to Rs 665 crore in Financial Year 2015 from Rs 147 crore in Financial Year 2002. Bank deposits by people increased to Rs 76,795 crore in 2013-14 from Rs 10,992 crore in 2001-02. The loans taken by public also rose to Rs 33,763 crore in the last fiscal from Rs 3,663 crore. During the reign of Congress the agricultural production has reached 54.50 tonnes from 38.54 tonnes between 2001 and 2014, while Rs 6,000 crore of agricultural loans were taken in the last fiscal from a negligible amount. It was also made sure by the government that while added thrust was given on augmenting production and in raising the income of all sections of society, there has been significant transformation in infrastructure development, agriculture and allied sectors, education, strengthening surface communication, sports, culture, information technology, power, industries, trade and commerce. The present government took over the reins of power at a most crucial juncture but catapulted the state towards the growth trajectory despite facing various challenge. Undoubtedly one can say that Assam have witnessed some really very good days during the last 14 years. Schemes like Mamoni, Majoni, 108, 104 etc are few helpful initiatives taken by Congress.

But will Congress be able to light the lamp of victory in the coming 2016 Assam Legislative Assembly elections. Or will its lamp be turned off with the wind of change in Assam leadership. Many are of the opinion that Congress rule in Assam will come to end in the coming election as BJP will rise as the ultimate winner. But safer side will be that not to comment anything on this now as no knows what will happen in the future. Tables may turned upside down with the passage of time.

"Enhancing the em- perience and gain the ployability of rural benefit from the higher youth is the key to un- demographic dividend locking India's demo- and there are many studgraphic dividend" - ies which reveal that the President of India Shri future growth of Demographic dividend will be Pranab Mukherjee "India is one of the in the northern states. youngest nations in the Overall, the study estiworld with more than mated that the demo54% of the total popu- graphic dividend added 1 - 1 lation b e l o w Pranjal Kumar Phukan .5% to annual 2 5 years of age"- India's GDP growth in the 1980s Finance Minister Arun and 1990s, and could add Jaitley, in his speech 1.5-2 % from 2001 onduring the presentation ward. Today, India is a of the Union Budget young nation. According to reports, it has 605 mil2015-16.

"Demographic Divi- lion people below the age dend" - phrase comes of 25, while in the age along that captures the group 10-19, poised for imagination of police- higher education, we makers, economists have 225 million. This and experts from vari- means that for the next ous sectors of globe few decades India will since last few years. In have a youthful, dynamic productive India today, that and phrase is "demo- workforce when the rest graphic dividend". 'De- of the world. The Intermographic dividend' has national Labor Organizabecome a much bandied tion (ILO) has predicted phrase in recent years. that by 2020, India will Like "Brand India" a few have 116 million workers years ago the media and in the work-starting age policy circles are bustling bracket of 20 to 24 years. with talk of demographic The office of the Regisdividend, one that could trar General of India and transform our country's Census Commissioner fortunes in the first half released 'single year age data' for the 2011 Cenof the 21st century.

What is India's potential sus, which refers to the demographic dividend number of people at each and how can we harness year of age in the population. The data shows it?

India has been undergo- that India's working age ing substantial demo- population (15-64 years) graphic change since the is now 63.4% of the to1970s. An IMF study tal, as against just short shows that between 1981 of 60% in 2001. The and 2001, the proportion numbers also show that of the population in the the 'dependency ratio' age group 15-59 rose in the ratio of children (0the southern states in- 14) and the elderly (65creased from fifty plus 100) to those in the workpercentage to more than ing age - has shrunk fursixty percentage(Tamil ther to 0.55. According to Nadu from 58.6% to the Census Commis64.4% and in Karnataka sioner "Even as the westfrom 53.9% to 60.4%). ern world is ageing, these According to experts this new numbers show that is one of the reasons for India's population is still the faster growth in these very young. states. Also in the same Demographic transition period, contrast, the pro- (DT) refers to the tranportion stayed almost un- sition from high birth and changed in the major death rates to low birth northern states especially and death rates as a Bihar and UP (from country develops from a 51.5% to 52.1% and from pre-industrial to an indus51.5% to 52.3% respec- trialized economic systively), which is probably tem. This is typically according to some ex- demonstrated through a perts one of the reasons demographic transition why these states experi- model (DTM). The enced low growth rates. theory is based on an inBut experts predict soon terpretation of demothese states will also ex- graphic history devel-

oped in 1929 by the American demographer Warren Thompson (1887-1973).Thompson observed changes, or transitions, in birth and death rates in industrialized societies over the previous 200 years.

During the pre-industrial stage, societies have high birth rates and high death rates.

During the industrial revolution, societies have high birth rates but death rates begin to fall, leading to population growth.

Global Trends According to a earlier study by the United Nations Both the developed and developing countries are experiencing substantial changes in their age structures with potentially important implications for economic growth. The timing of the changes varies, but essentially every country in the world has experienced or will experience a substantial rise in the share of their population concentrated in the working ages. On its face, this development has a direct, favorable effect on per capita income. Given fixed output per worker, labor force participation rates, and unemployment rates, a rise in the share of the working-age population will lead, as a matter of simple algebra, to an increase in output per capita - the first demographic dividend.

Debates and Future challenges Experts caution that those that don't capitalize on the opportunity may in fact be in a weaker position and faced with the problem of a youth bulge - a demographic trend where the proportion of persons aged 15-24 in the population increases significantly compared to other age groups - which paired with limited employment opportunities may contribute to increased poverty, hunger, malnutrition, poorer health, lower educational outcomes, child labor, unsupervised and abandoned children, and rising rates of domestic violence. Experts also caution that, this dividend period is not permanent

rather it lasts approximately two to three decades or more. It is not automatic either and only countries that take advantage of the released resources and use them effectively will receive greater benefits than others.

The degree of benefit gained from the first dividend depends greatly on key features of the economic life cycle. The productivity of young people depends not just on the availability of jobs but on their capacity to take up employment opportunities. In this regard experiences, both positive and negative, during Early Childhood, including those related to Early Childhood Care and Development and overall child well- being can have a strong influence on a country's labor supply, their human capital as well as the number of people dependent on government welfare services later on in life. The timing of childbearing and maternity and paternity policies are also factors which influence individuals' degree of participation in the labor force.

India's Status According to some experts, much is made out of the proportion of youth in India's population and what it could mean for its economy and progress.

According to them, statistics and trends in education and employment within this group do not paint a promising picture.

These experts caution about, the belief that

India's current demographic state where the ratio of the working age population to the dependent population (the children and the elderly) is near its peak, a situation that will last another two to three decades. They feel that having a greater proportion of people in the working age group can mean faster per capita economic growth, but only if their full potential is realized.

There are several reasons for this. One among them is the difficulty in determining if women engaged in housework, particularly in rural India, are doing so under duress, being unable to find a job. Another dilemma lies in deciding if youth, nominally enrolled in educational institutions but still looking for a job, are part of the labor force. Problems also arise in deciding if workers who work in casual jobs for short durations are to be considered among the working or the unemployed. The census, which counts those not working (even part time) but "seeking or available for work", shows up a far higher level of unemployment than both the NSSO and the Labor Bureau sample surveys ( the unemployment numbers are from Census 2011 released in September 2014). Thus according to experts, declining fertility rates have changed the age structure of India's population, resulting in a "bulge" in the work-

ing age-group. This "demographic dividend" has improved the dependency ratio leading to the hypothesis that the bulge in working population will lead to acceleration in growth.

However, recent employment figures indicate that the absorption of the Indian youth into the labor force is not as high as one would expect. This is perhaps due to the poor employability of the workforce, which is severely affected by a deficit in educational attainment and health.

This needs to be remedied in order to take advantage of the opportunity for growth that the demographic dividend is supposed to give India. The above analysis indicates the probable reason for the statements made by the Indian President, Prime Minister and the proposed plan by the finance minister (the government) for skill training and employability of Indians.

(Author is recipient of prestigious Peter F Drucker award for his outstanding contributions in the field of management from University of Swahili- A Fully accredited chartered Government University. He can be contacted at pranjal_xlri@yahoo.com)

Recognition To A Jewel

Sir, A news item published in a section of the Press suggests that a case filed by one M.U. Miznur Rahman Laskar of South MIlanpur against Enamul Haque Laskar, M.L.A sonai and Six other buearucrats including the Deputy commissioner A.R. Sheikh, Cachar District in the court of the District Session Judge for misappropriation of M.L.A. funds for development works raises our eye brows. People of Assam are well acquainted with this man Enamul Haque Laskar, who once

wracked havoc in the Irrigation department by embezzling crores of rupees, meant for implementation of different schemes of irrigation, having been authorized to do so by the Chief-minister. Incidentally, Laskar was an executive officer of the said department. Our Chief-minister deserves a pat on the back for recognizing a 'Jewel'. How can we people forget this man, who could mesmerize the Chief-minister by his magic and was instrumental in getting a congress ticket for the Sonai assembly constituency and could win the election? This man must have possessed the power of hypnotism that he did not have to face any enquiry for all that he did. People of Assam, perhaps, will not be surprised, if a national honour like 'Padmashree' is bestowed on him, at the recommendation of the state government.

ers, adventurous are willing to visit Arunachal by risking 8 hours back breaking road journey from unpredicable of bandhs in six districts from Assam.

Tickets of helicopter service are not available or mostly cancel, also those terrible endemic helicopters crashes killing many Delhi people are having shattering image beating of our state.

I just pray and hope some day in my lifetime, I dream to have airport like Imphal or Aizwal so that I can proudly tell my frIends from Delhi to visit our Arunachal Pradesh by fligh landing proudly and safely with my old friends for our Arunachal festival, Tawang, killey, seppa and ziro festivals etc. It's just my dream!!

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

Yours etc IGP Robin Hibu, IPS, Camp Delhi

A dream Sir, People here at Delhi are asking.....IGP Robin You may have hidden Switzerland in Arunachal, but how can we venture to your place without connectivity i.e airport ? They all flew down to Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, sikkim, Assam jolly well with families to see Sangai, horn bill, kut festivals, came back by air, people here except for some very few research-

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

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

p O

Page 9

d e If Passed, This Judgement Could Be A Big Blow To The Rights Of Racial Minorities In The US

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

The US is waiting on a posal 2. MCRI was a crucial judgment that will citizen's initiative that uphold or dismiss the sought to prohibit affirpractice of affirmative mative action in public action in the institutions Anam Mittra on the basis University of Texas of race, that benefits the African- colour, sex or religion. It American, Hispanic and became a law in NoNative-American races. vember 2006 leading to Whichever side the apex a massive drop in enrollcourt leans on is bound ment of the minority to have ripple effects races (excluding Asians) across the country and in the University of will affect millions of Michigan. Ironically in lives.

2003, the Supreme Court Affirmative Action re- had upheld reservations fers to a policy of the in law school admissions American government in the same university. which is geared towards A close analysis of the greater inclusion of his- arguments put for and torically marginalised against affirmative acsections of the society. tion in the US resonates A recent New York with what we have witTimes (NYT) article nessed in India since the spoke of how the state inception of the Mandal of Michigan has been Commission. coping with the after- Ex-President of the Unimath of the passing of versity of Michigan who the Michigan Civil Rights was present during the Initiative (MCRI), also Supreme Court rulings, popularly known as Pro- Lee Bollinger, asked,

"What is the reality we are trying to address in our society, including in our colleges and universities trying to build diverse student bodies? It really is trying to overcome two centuries of legacies of discrimination and active disempowerment and wealth transfer." The Indian Constitution provides for reservation of backward classes as an effort to empower the communities that have historically suffered unspeakable atrocities and discrimination.

Conversely Justice Antonin Scalia of the US Supreme Court observed that minority students who had poor academic records were better off at "a less advanced school, a slower-track school where they do well."Meanwhile, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. asked, "what unique

perspective does a minority student bring to a physics class?" The motive of rights and empowerment is lost on those who are to deliver judgments forever altering the lives of minority races in the US. Within India too, we spend more

time debating 'merit' and lose sight of what prompted the need for affirmative action in the first place. It is our collective inability to treat them as equal citizens that prevents us from understanding why this is their right

to take and not for us to give.

As many as seven US states have already banned affirmative action in their universities. The NYT article cites areport by Century Foundation which explains how seven out

of 11 flagship universities in these states have adopted practices that have improved or maintained the racial mix in their student bodies. These included-guaranteeing admission for top graduates from each high school in the state, giving priority to lowincome students, improving financial aid packages, stepping up recruitment and eliminating legacy preferences.

However, the Michigan experience with the low-income criterion is to be noted as a warning flag on how counter-productive it can be. Given the much higher number of Whites in the state, using a low-income indicator to enroll students doesn't bode well for the other races as there are many White students from low-income house-

holds who are also making the threshold score for admission.

The US continues to grapple with racial inequality and cannot afford to completely do away with affirmative action unless it can replace it with other solutions that guarantee the rights envisioned in the original provisions.

India needs a positive and efficient overhauling of its reservation system, one that keeps it relevant for those in need of it. Till we wait for the miracle of a fair implementation of schemes to augment enrollment and retention of the reserved classes, the verdict on affirmative action is simple- in the absence of universal access to education, health and employment opportunities, it is the best shot many communities have at a dignified life.

In A World Where Everything Can Book Review: 'An Ideal Be Done Online, Here's What You Wife' is a fun one-time read Pranav Joshi Completely Miss Out On Syed K. Jamal The 21st century is one of global connectedness. Technology has made things easier, but technology alone does not make it a sure thing.

Global connectedness requires specific skills and the right environment. An international education is one great way to be part of that globally minded environment, as well as a means to developing and diffusing it to places where it is most necessary.

When you travel abroad for higher education, you begin to challenge those default settings you have grown up in and raise the bar for your own performance as a global citizen.

There is something special about taking the leap to learn new things, meet new people, and gain a new understand-

ing of the beauty of diversity by becoming a part of, and thereby enriching, that experience for yourself and others.

Learning to competently navigate complex work cultures, understanding different ethical codes, and interacting in challenging intercultural settings are assets required of the 21st-century glo-

bal citizen. The mastery of these skills, in many ways, will allow you to lead a crowd of strangers, and find meaning and comfort in strange places. To forge a higher purpose, to be one and to be many, is now part of daily lived experience. It is no longer merely academic, it is now very real, allowing us to work and to collaborate in the midst of uncertainty and the unknown.

And, most importantly, this global competence means having a sense of humour when approaching situations that may amaze, confuse or upset us.

In the present time, where a complex and intertwined economy is characterized by the growth and success of new ideas such as Uber and Kickstarter, and by millions of searches, and thousands of petitions

for social change which take place entirely online, it seems to have become "uncool" to go out in the "real" world, meet new people, take on new projects, and dirty our hands! But if we limit our transactions and interactions to the online world, we limit ourselves and our potential.

And so, as we strive to act and live life to the best and the fullest, we pursue that idea of global engaged citizenship.

We look for ways to serve others, to make a difference, or, as millions of students have chosen to do, to go abroad to study, and gain a wider understanding of our world.

It is my appeal for you to go out there and learn about our world. See the wonders, confront the problems, find new ways to think about things, and connect with others who may see things from different perspectives. I know that it can seem overwhelming and feel daunting, as we freeze up in fear and confusion when confronted with so many choices to make. It happens to the best of us.

One way to thaw and begin to forge our path

is to take part in opportunities that are more organized. With my background in international education, I often recommend that students take a break to do some studies abroad.

It's a big world out there, and there are so many places to go!

With nearly a million international students

hailing from every corner of the world the US can been seen as a country with a longstanding commitment to educational exchange. There are over 130,000 from India alone. In order to make a more informed decision about which University to apply for, you can attend a US college fairorganized by companies like Linden which has been working with people like you since 1982 to help you meet with campus admissions representatives from many universities across America.

If you've been keeping up with recent news about several students being barred from boarding flights because the universities they had been accepted to certain 'blacklisted' universities, be rest assured that all of the US universities in its fairs are fully accredited, with established histories of welcoming international students on their campuses. Such fairs are a great place to attend specialized sessions on the application process, US education system overview, and study visa. It is also an awesome opportunity to find out about the university programs that you are interested in, available scholarships and financial aid, campus life, and also connect with many alumni networks. You can attend these fairs for free by simply walking into the venue in your city or, to avoid long lines, register online for a quick entry!

It will be a good start.

And, as often happens with good starts, it might just take you in a new and exciting direction to a place you had not yet imagined. Go with it. As long as you travel, grow, and learn to navigate new situations, it will be rewarding.

I wish you a beautiful, crazy and restless life. Go forth and learn!

With gentle doses of humour and appreciable storyline continuity, Grover manages to keep the reader engaged for the most part. This is a book that can be finished in two readings at most, given its short length and simple language.

Book: An Ideal Wife Author: Sanjay Grover Publishing House: Good Times Books Pvt Ltd. Pages: 174 Price: Rs 150 So who wants to utter the phrase 'an ideal wife', in any social context in 2016, especially on social media populated by India's aspiring middle class - and expect not to be attacked with a volley of allegations of sexism?

That's what strikes you when you first read the title of Sanjay Grover's book, 'An Ideal Wife'.

Why would the author choose such a title for a book meant for an urban, English-speaking audience in its 20s and 30s?

As the story unfolds though, you realise (as perhaps you knew subconsciously all along) that the book is not the literary equivalent of an Ekta Kapoor serial.

So what is the story about? An educated, reasonably well-earning young man of 'marriage-

able age' watches as his friends get married one by one. He however, never takes the plunge himself, because he can never find the ideal woman he yearns for. As years go by, he lands a bet with a friend who challenges him to bite the bullet.

But how can our best plans succeed without some divine intervention?

Enter 'Dwarf God', who with his limited powers tries his best to help Sameer get married to a woman he finds ideal.

Given the title and storyline, which is written almost exclusively from a male perspective, a bit of humour and supernatural intervention helps liven up the story.

It prevents Grover's tale from being construed as a run-of-the-mill story written from a man's view of life with undertones of sexism.

Instead, what we get is a free flowing tale with decent comic timing and hilarious supernatural intervention into the affairs of man. Grover has not allowed himself to be encumbered by thoughts of how such a story would be perceived in the age we live in. Instead, he chooses to make the story all about Sameer - whose characterisation is very well drawn out and relatable.

With gentle doses of humour and appreciable storyline continuity, Grover manages to keep the reader engaged for the most part. This is a book that can be finished in two readings, given its short length and simple language.

Storyline continuity however does not necessarily imply consistency. In a few instances, one is left wondering why Grover does not make use of a character trait he himself outlines in one of his characters.

For example, what really happened to the Dwarf God's powers to look into people's past? Except for in one instance, this never really becomes an important tool in Sameer and his friend's journey to find the ideal wife for Sameer.

One also feels that the writer is in a slight hurry. There is a tendency to move from one scene to the next with-

out reflection or emotional investment. While people may relate to Sameer's character and enjoy the free flowing nature of the story, the poignant moments in Sameer's journey should have been better emphasised by pondering over them for a bit.

The story's climax also appears weak, given that the writer uses hyperbole throughout the tale, and that a comical god is one of its central figures. The writer chooses to unveil events in a dramatic fashion throughout the book, but then lets us down at the very end.

So is this a book worth reading? It is a good one time read, best read over a cup of tea and snacks.

It's also been recommended by shaadi.com.

But if you are a stickler for literary genius or a hardcore feminist, this one's not for you.

7 Months On, The Protest At FTII Continues As Gajendra Chauhan Takes Charge The stand-off between students of Film and Television Institute of India and the government, over the appointment of Gajendra Chauhan as the administrative head of the prestigious institution, among other similar appointments continues.

Chauhan was appointed as the chairman of the Governing Council and the president of the FTII Society by the NDA government last year. This led to a 139-day protest by the students who objected to his alleged lack of stature.

On Thursday (7th January), Chauhan took charge of the institute and held a meeting of the Governing Council to which new members including wellknown filmmaker Raju Hirani (of the Munnabhai series of films fame) were appointed.

According to news reports, the students of the institute shouted slogans against Chauhan, who came decked in a turban.

Reports suggested that members belonging to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh-backed Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad were allowed inside the institute to counter the dissenting students and ease Chauhan's entry.

The police arrested 40odd protesting students.

Apart from Chauhan, the students are also opposed to the appointment of some other members of

the Governing Council who have a right-wing background.

In order to placate the students, the government decided to appoint B.P. Singh, producer and director of the hit TV series CID as the chairman of the Academic Council. Singh is a former student of FTII and the government reportedly hopes the students will be amenable

to his appointment.

However, that remains to be seen.

The government is still trying to browbeat the students into accepting Chauhan as their administrative head without seeking a compromise which would be in the interests of everyone.

This does not augur well for our democratic setup. Courtesy: Youth ki Awaaz

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

BUSINESS

Increment in Honda car prices Pune, Jan 11: Honda Cars India has increased prices of its vehicles across models by up to Rs. 10,000. The Japanese automaker has raised prices of entry level car Brio by Rs. 2,000 and is now available at a range between Rs. 4.27 lakh and Rs. 6.85 lakh (all prices exshowroom Delhi). Compact sedan Amaze is costlier by Rs. 3,500 and is tagged at Rs. 5.26 lakh to Rs. 8.56 lakh. The company has increased the price of premium

hatchback Jazz by Rs. 4,800 and the overall cost is between Rs. 5.45 lakh and Rs. 8.73 lakh. Multipurpose vehicle Mobilio and mid-sized sedan City have also become costlier

by Rs. 3,000 each. These are priced from Rs. 6.82 lakh to Rs. 11.95 lakh.

Honda's premium SUV CR-V price has been increased by Rs. 10,000 and is now tagged at Rs. 25.23 lakh. Already, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has raised product prices by up to Rs. 31,500.

Czech carmaker Skoda

has also increased prices of its model range by up to Rs. 33,000 from January 1. Similarly, Tata Motors has also hiked prices of its passenger vehicles by up to Rs. 20,000 without sharing details. Maruti Suzuki and General Motors had said they would hike prices by up to Rs. 20,000 across their different models. Hyundai Motor India had also stated that it would increase prices by up to Rs. 30,000, while Renault, Nissan and BMW had said they would increase prices by up to 3

HIKE IN PRICE Honda Cars India has increased prices of its vehicles across models by up to Rs. 10,000.

Compact sedan Amaze is costlier by Rs. 3,500 and is tagged at Rs. 5.26 lakh to Rs. 8.56 lakh.

The Japanese automaker has raised prices of entry level car Brio by Rs. 2,000 and is now available at a range between Rs. 4.27 lakh and Rs. 6.85 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).

The company has increased the price of premium hatchback Jazz

by Rs. 4,800 and the overall cost is between Rs. 5.45 lakh and Rs. 8.73 lakh.

Multi-purpose vehicle Mobilio and mid-sized sedan City have also become costlier by Rs. 3,000 each.

These are priced from Rs. 6.82 lakh to Rs. 11.95 lakh.

Honda's premium SUV CRV price has been increased

by Rs. 10,000 and is now tagged at Rs. 25.23 lakh.

Already, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has raised product prices by up to Rs. 31,500.

per cent. Mercedes-Benz said it would hike prices by up to 2 per cent. Every

year, carmakers announce at the end of November or December their plans to in-

crease prices of their vehicles by January in the next year. (Agencies)

E-initiative launched Patanjali's noodles will soon overthrow

by OilMin to improve Maggi as top brand: Ramdev LPG customer service Mumbai, Jan 11: Yoga against black money and guru Ramdev on Saturday corruption since the last

Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan.Source: media2.intoday.in Dehradun, Jan 11: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has launched an online initiative to seek suggestions from LPG consumers across the country, which will help in providing efficient and friendly service. Two online discussion forums - Citizen-Friendly Services and Increasing LPG Coverage in the Country have been launched and are available on myGov.in and mylpg.in, an official

press statement said. The initiative is part of steps being taken to observe 2016 as the 'Year of LPG Consumers'. "LPG consumers/ citizens are requested to participate and share their thoughts on the respective forums online.

Valuable suggestions/ comments are welcome and will be considered for improving the customer oriented services related to LPG coverage and delivery," it said. (Agencies)

Rs.8,000 cr investment to be done by Hindustan Zinc Nagpur, Jan 11: Hindustan Zinc Ltd. (HZL) will invest Rs.8,000 crore in the next 35 years as the Vedanta Group firm looks to expand operations and capacity.

The firm aims to take the existing ore production levels of 9.36 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 14 MTPA and finished metal production to 1.10 MTPA from 0.85 MTPA, Hindustan Zinc said in a statement. "As the company celebrates its Golden Jubilee year, it is all set to invest another Rs.8,000 crore in the coming 3-5 years on expansion of its mines and smelting operations," it added. Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal said: "When we acquired HZL as part of government's disinvestment programme in 2002, our focus was to make India self-sufficient in zinc.

"We are very proud that by adopting latest environment friendly technology, large investment in capacity expansions and continuous exploration, HZL is able to increase production five-fold and yet have reserves for another 30 years." HZL, which is celebrating 50 years of existence in 2016, has mines lo-

cated in Agucha, Sindesar Khurd, Zawar, Rajpura Dariba, and Kayad in Rajasthan. Its smelters are located in Dariba, Chanderiya and Debari, also in Rajasthan.

It was formed under an Act of Parliament on January 10, 1966 as an integrated zinclead-silver producing company. In 2002, under the government's disinvestment programme, Hindustan Zinc was acquired by Sterlite, now called Vedanta Ltd. The investment of Rs.12,000 crore in the past years have brought many changes in not just asset optimisation but also building new facilities into the business to give value to the shareholders, the statement said. It produces 474 MW of captive thermal power and 274 MW of wind energy. HZL CEO Sunil Duggal said the firm was exploring new areas where zinc could add value to consumers. "We are exploring the possibilities of galvanizing of car bodies and structures to increase their life-span," he added. The company is also looking to set-up a new fertiliser plant with a capacity to manufacture 0.5 MTPA of Di-Ammonium Phosphate in district Udaipur with an estimated investment of Rs.1,350 crore. (Agencies)

said Patanjali's atta noodles is on course to oust Maggi as the top noodles brand in the country in the next few years, and the 'swadeshi' FMCG company will overtake all multinational firms in the consumer goods space, barring Hindustan Unilever (HUL). "Patanjali atta noodles will soon oust Maggi as the top noodles brand in the country. Currently from about a 100 tonnes, our production of atta noodles will be increased to 300-500 tonnes," Ramdev told reporters at a conference here. "Barring HUL, we will overtake all other multinational companies.

Image for represntational puropose.

These companies are taking money out of the country," he added.

Patanjali, which is slowly capturing bigger share in market by introducing array of products at a lower price, will also divert 100 per cent of its profits towards social service, he said. He added that Patanjali is keeping its production costs low compared with MNCs, in order to keep the product price reasonable. In the

next five to seven years, Patanjali expects to earn profits of Rs 5,000 crore to Rs 10,000 crore, and will divert it to non-profitable causes. Ramdev said that his persistent campaign against black money and corruption over the last five years has created awareness among masses, but it will take time for the government to fulfill the aspirations of the people. "We have been persistently campaigning

Announcement of DA by centre likely to be more late

Image for represntational puropose.

New Delhi, Jan 11: All those central government employees unhappy with the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission on salary hike, may be waiting for the Labour Ministry to announce the All India Consumer Price Index or AICPIN (for Industrial workers) for the month of December in January.

On the basis of AICPIN, government announces the Dearness Allowance( DA) for Central Government employees. The DA is paid to Central Government employees to adjust the cost of living and to protect their Basic Pay on account of inflation. After all its a matter of one's monthly salary hikes! It is not unfair to hope that AICPIN for December is high, resulting in the DA higher than 125%, which the 7th CPC pegged for calculating the minimum

pay determination and the fitment factor for the new pay structure. The government reviews the DA every six months.

The Cabinet, in September, had approved a proposal to hike dearness allowance by 6 percent to 119 percent of the basic pay, effective from July 1, 2015. If the DA announced in January is higher than 125%, government will be compelled to revise the new salaries. Since the 7th PC has already merged the DA with the new pay, government is unlikely to announce DA in January 2016 at all. When the 6th Pay Commission's recommendations were implemented from January 2006 onwards, the DA for the months of January 2006 to June 2006 was not paid. DA was issued only from the month of June 2006. (Agencies)

$18.3 billion to be crossed by Indian Free Basics got fewer 'likes' luxury market by 2016 Mumbai, Jan 11: With increasing brand awareness amongst the Indian youth and purchasing power of the upper class in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, Indian luxury market is expected to cross $18.3 billion by 2016 from the current level of $14.7 billion growing with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 25 per cent, according to a Assocham study. The factors that have fuelled the luxury industry's growth are the rise in disposable income, brand awareness amongst the youth and purchasing power of the upper class in Tier-II & Tier-III cities in India, said D. S. Rawat, Secretary

General, Assocham. The sectors such as five star hotels and fine-dining, electronic gadgets, luxury personal care, and jewellery performed well in 2015 and are expected to grow by 30-35 per cent over the next three years. Big ticket spends such as on luxury cars mainly SUV are likely to continue, growing upwards of 18-20 per cent over the next three years, driven by consumption in smaller towns and cities.

With the luxury market expected to grow at over 25 per cent year-on-year, Private Equity investments (PE) in the luxury segment are expected to increase and support the

enhanced size of the Indian luxury market. The chamber paper segregated the luxury sector into products: apparel and accessories, pens, home décor, watches, wines & spirits and jewellery, services: spas, concierge service, travel & tourism, fine dining and hotels and assets: yachts, fine art, automobiles. The high internet penetration across tier-II and tier-III cities along with high disposable income shall lead to approx.

100 mn transactions on the Internet by 2020. As a result, the luxury consumption is going to increase manifold in the country, according to the study. The size of the High Income

D. S. Rawat, Secretary General, Assocham.Source: www.livemint.com

group consumers continue to enlarge and spend over 40% of their monthly income on some of the world's largest luxury brands whereas the middle income group (MIG) consumers spend 8-10 per cent of income on luxury products. (Agencies)

13.5% growth in 2016 domestic IT, touch Rs 1.91 lakh cr New Delhi, Jan 11: IT spending in the domestic market is expected to grow 13.5 per cent to Rs 1.91 lakh crore this year, says a report. According to research firm Core Quadrant, the domestic IT industry revenue in India is expected to grow to Rs 1.91 lakh crore in 2016, against a spending of Rs 1.68 lakh crore in 2015.

The report is based on inputs from 107 CIOs/ IT heads of large and medium-sized Indian enterprises regarding their

business priorities and IT plans for this year. "After a very sluggish growth in 2013, the lowest since 2002, and a muted recovery in 2014, it was widely expected that a full recovery shall begin in 2015. The domestic IT market performance in 2015 has however been below expectations," Core Quadrant cofounder and Principal Analyst Kapil Dev Singh said. The below expectation performance in 2015 can be attributed

mainly to the slow improvement in the business environment, he added. The spending is, however, expected to gain momentum in 2016.

This will be driven by a broader set of digital initiatives, beyond the limited focus on mobility, cloud, and social media in 2015, the report said.

Analytics/ Big Data and Internet of Things are also likely to be in focus this year, it added. Also, overhauling of the underlying core applications

Microsoft Surface Pro 4 tablet launched in India at Rs 89,990; shipping starts on Jan 14 New Delhi, Jan 11: Technology giant Microsoft recently launched its 'Surface Pro 4' tablet in India at an event in New Delhi.

The device would be sold at starting price of Rs 89,990 and will be exclusively sold via Amazon for the first six months. Shipping begins on January 14 and if you want to book the tablet and get delivery on the same day you will have to book the tablet on on January 14.

5 years. The result is that people are aware of realities. Also, the country got rid of dynasty politics and a man from a humble background, who sold tea for a livelihood became the Prime Minister. But, it will take some time (for the government) to fulfill all the aspirations of the people," he said. Ramdev is also planning to open a chain of schools across the country, based on vediccum-modern education called Acharyakulam, for which he is awaiting government permission. "We will build a self-sustainable model, and every state should have 2 to 3 such educational institutions," he said. (Agencies)

PAGE 10

GADGET FOR FUTURE Ø Technology giant Microsoft recently launched its 'Surface Pro 4' tablet in India at an event in New Delhi. Ø The device would be sold at starting price of Rs 89,990 and will be exclusively sold via Amazon for the first six months. Shipping begins on January 14 and if you want to book the tablet and get delivery on the same day you will have to book the tablet on on January 14. Ø The Surface Pro 4 features a 12.3-inch screen and runs on 6th-generation Intel Core processor. Ø Powered by Windows 10, the device turns into a fully-powered laptop from a tablet while running all desktop software and weighs just 766 grams. Ø It claims to have a 9-hour battery life with storage options starting at 64 GB and expandable up to 128 GB, 256 GB and 500 GB.

The Surface Pro 4 features a 12.3-inch screen and runs on 6thgeneration Intel Core processor. Powered by Windows 10, the device turns into a fully-powered laptop from a tablet while running all desktop software and weighs just 766 grams.

It claims to have a 9hour battery life with storage options starting at 64 GB and expandable up to 128 GB, 256 GB and 500 GB. (Agencies)

and infrastructure to support the breadth of digital initiatives will help boost domestic spending on technology. "The business environment shall improve faster in 2016. Though the pressure on IT spend growth shall continue, the increasing breadth of digital initiatives and the overhaul of applications and infrastructure to support those initiatives shall result in a better performance in 2016," Singh said. (Agencies) Taiwan, Jan 11: Chinese electronics major, Lenovo, will focus on high-end smartphone segment and achieve a balanced mix between online and offline sales in the coming months, a top company official said.

"In smartphones, we have had an amazing success and now, Lenovo brand had got a pull in the smartphone market. Our product strategy is all about a combination of right product and specification with competitive pricing. Going forward, we would start playing more aggressively in the high end segment with Motorola brand," said Rahul Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO, Lenovo India. Presently, most of its smartphone sales is coming from subRs.12,000 handsets. The

California, Jan 11: A majority of respondents in an online survey say they are opposed to Facebook's Free Basics initiative and support net neutrality. The survey by community network LocalCircles of 30,000 people shows 81 per cent of the 14,000 who responded to the question on Free Basics voted against it. About 78 per cent of the 15,000 respondents do not want private players to act as a gateway to the Internet. They want the government to provide free access to the Internet for essential services such as news, emergency alerts and

education, either in partnership with telecom providers or independently. "In addition, the concern that has been repeatedly raised is that providing free open access across the board would lead to misuse of the facility and lead to high usage of services like photos, videos, entertainment (common use cases in social networks) etc. and such usage will not only impact the use of essential services but also have negative social consequences to a population that would be new to the Internet," according to a statement posted on the network's website. (Agencies)

NOT LIKED BY MANY Ø A majority of respondents in an online survey say they are opposed to Facebook's Free Basics initiative and support net neutrality. Ø The survey by community network LocalCircles of 30,000 people shows 81 per cent of the 14,000 who responded to the question on Free Basics voted against it. Ø About 78 per cent of the 15,000 respondents do not want private players to act as a gateway to the Internet.

High-end smartphones to become the main aim of Lenovo company is working on finalising the strategy for right positioning of Lenovo and Motorolo brands in the smartphone market. "Brand strategy is being worked out for better clarity and over two-three months, we should have done that," he added. After an impressive show in online sales, the company is now looking at increasing offline/retail strategy. It expects a good proportion of numbers to come from traditional channels for long term growth and viability. As part of this plan, the company has been trying to introduce smartphones in all its exclusive stores for computers.

It has over 1,000 exclusive retail stores, the largest network for PCs in the country.

Lenovo has been enjoying

a robust growth in smartphones over the past year and trebled its market share to about ten per cent in India. The Indian market has been dominated by Samsung that accounts for about a fourth of the market.

Both Samsung and Lenovo lead in 4G handset sales in the country. 4G handsets account for about 3/4th of Lenovo's smartphone portfolio. Lenovo claims to be selling 30,000-40,000 units every day. Its mobile handset shipments are reported to have grown to eight million units (both Lenovo and Motorola devices) in 2015 as against 4.9 million in 2014. It has unveiled a new handset Vibe K4 Note, which will be available for a flash sale on Amazon from January 19.

(Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

Features

PAGE 11

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE These yoga positions lead to 'eye Vaccine is essential to end HIV/AIDS: Study pressure' in glaucoma patients A new study says there are certain head-down yoga positions that create eye pressure in Glucoma patients. Damage to the optic nerve occurs in glaucoma patients when fluid pressure inside the eye rises. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is the most common known risk factor for glaucomatous damage and, at the current time, the only modifiable one for which treatment has a proven effect on preventing or slowing the progression of the disease.

Dr. Robert Ritch, senior study author said that while he encourages patients to live active and healthy lifestyles, including physical exercise, certain types of activities, including pushups and lifting heavy weights, should be avoided by glaucoma patients due to the risk of increasing IOP and possibly damaging the optic nerve. He fur-

ther feels that this new study will help clinicians advise their patients on the potential risk associated with various yoga positions and other exercises that involve inverted poses.

The research team emphasizes the importance of educating glaucoma patients on all of the risks and benefits of relating to physical exercise and their overall vision health, as well as any other factors

that might impact their glaucoma progression, including diet, lifestyle choices, and other comorbid conditions such as diabetes. This study has been published in PLOS ONE. (ANI)

A new modeling paper has revealed that adding a vaccine to the comprehensive HIV/AIDS response is essential to conclusively end the epidemic. Focused on the low and middle-income countries (LMICs) across Africa and Asia that are home to the vast majority of the world's people living with HIV/ AIDS, the study shows that adding a vaccine could dramatically reduce new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths even if other treatment and prevention tools are extensively scaled up.

The research also demonstrates that an AIDS vaccine would be impactful and cost-effective across a wide range of product characteristics. Higher efficacy, longer-lasting protection, fewer doses, lower vaccine costs and a more effective rollout will increase both health impact and cost-effec-

tiveness.

India Country Director at International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Dr. Rajat Goyal, said this study reaffirms how a safe vaccine could be instrumental in reducing the number of new infections and save millions of lives. This would significantly reduce the treatment costs and even reduce total response costs over time.

Dr. Goyal added it is clear that they must con-

tinue to expedite development of an effective HIV vaccine alongside critical efforts to accelerate and sustain broad and equitable access to effective antiretroviral therapy and new approaches for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

Mitchell Warren, Executive Director, AVAC, said that adding a vaccine to a comprehensiveHIV/ AIDS response will has-

ten the end of the global epidemic and ensure that it won't rebound. He added a safe, effective and affordable AIDS vaccine is an essential complement to the existing treatment and prevention options and this study highlights why accelerated investments are needed for both implementation.

The research is published in the journal PLOS ONE. (ANI)

Best Places to relish momos in NE India Tips to make your bedroom sleep-friendly Moupee Debroy The North Eastern states of India are home to a delectable variety of cuisine but if one has to choose one hot favorite item then the Momo would surely steal the show.

Traditionally the Momo originated in the Kathmandu Valley and Tibet but some of its most sumptuous varieties are found in the North East states of India. Pork, Buffalo meat, Chicken and lamb are the usual fillings while in some places you can get Yak Meat Momos and Yak Cheese Momos too. Momos are usually seasoned with shallots, spring onions, mixed onions, cilantro, ginger and garlic.

Tomato puree and soya sauce are sometimes added as tempering agents. Here is a list of the best places in North East India where you can go and savor momos.

Gangtok Cafe Live and Loud If you are fond if the classic combination of beer and momos or want to try out the latest food trend of vodka soaked momos then the best place to go to is Cafe Live and Loud. Great food and awesome ambience combined with rocking music gives an extra edge to the succulent momos served with delicious chilli dip sauce.

Dynasty Wine & Dine Dynasty Wine and Dine boasts of a good wine cellar with some pretty good international wine brands along with the delicious local liquor. However, what takes the cake here are the soft and filling momos!! Succulent pork, beef and chicken momos served with green mint and red chilly dip are served in nifty cane baskets.

Vegetarians can dig into sumptuous vegetarian momos. On Friday and Saturday nights there are awesome live band performances.

Pub 25 Pub 25 near MG Marg in Gangtok is a place serving awesome momos and a spread of local and international cuisine. This is again one of the best pubs in Gangtok to relax and unwind listening to some great band performances.

Family Restaurants Chopsticks is one of the best

and most reasonably priced restaurants in Gangtok offering a spread of great local food including steaming hot momo with chicken clear soup and fiery red chilli sauce Cafe Culture perched on a small hillock near the Royal Palace in Gangtok serves a mean plate of Momos accompanied by an astounding view. The staff here is friendly enough to share some authentic momo making tips.

Shillong The Capital of Meghalaya also boasts of an amazing repertoire of placing serving yummy Momos. The sauce served here is less fiery than what is eaten in Nagaland and Sikkim. If Pork momo is what you are after then do visit theHotel Broadway near the

looks and a quaint charm of its own. You will get a range of Momos here; pork, beef, chicken and smashed egg momos. You can also try out the Naga beans and lentil momos tempered with mushrooms.

Agartala The Manikya Court The Manikya Court in the capital of Tripura; Agartala is one of the best places where you can have a fine dining experience and savour delectable momos. The Manikya is actually run by the staff who worked with the royal family of Agartala so the place has a definite charm of its own.

The Pork Hut Pork Hut serves the best Pork Momos in the whole of Agartala. There are other pork

Asamese spices and the tomato salsa chutney available with the momos make them special and different from the usual Tibetan Momos that are available. Incredibly delicious vegetarian momos (both steamed and fried variety) are also available.

Only Pork Only Pork is a tiny shop crammed near the Nayantara Supermarket near the 6 Mile Flyover in Guwahati. Despite its unassuming appearance the delectable fare and the down to earth prices attracts a lot of customers to this place. The best item on offer is the round shaped delicious Pork Momo and the creamy broth served here which can warm your heart on a chilly winter morning.

Getting a good night's sleep is vital to your body.

Did you know that your bedroom plays a major role in making you fall asleep? And if you have trouble getting adequate sleep you should try to take a look at how to make things right.

So right from paint colour to bedding to the room temperature, here is a sleep-boosting decorating plan.

Avoid all lights Melatonin, also known as the vampire hormone is called so because it comes out only in darkness. It's the key that starts the engine for sleep, so it's best to avoid bright lights after about 8 p.m. and throughout the night. Block street lights as well as alarm clocks

which emit light.

Use neutral shades of paint Muted, neutral colours like light blue, lilac, soft pink are best for the bedroom since they help you relax as opposed to bright colours, like red. Also

bedding Use cotton sheets which are the most breathable, instead of synthetic ones.

A thin pillow is best for those who sleep on their back or stomach while a thicker pillow is best for side sleepers since it

choose a matte finish instead of high gloss, which reflects light.

Ensure comfortable

keeps your head and spine aligned.

Make it sound proof Drown out all noises like

street nights or a snoring partner with artificial noises, like the sound of falling rain which has lower, steadier frequency. The humming of a fan too works well, or you can try an app like Rain, Rain Sleep Sounds that you can set on a timer.

Maintain ideal temperature Its been proven that people sleep better when it's cool so maintain the ideal room temperature between 18C and 21C. Use scents to relax Lavender, ylang-ylang and vanilla can all help you feel more relaxed?-?and you need to be relaxed before you can sleep. So use these aromas in diffusers or as spray them on your pillow.

Salt water bath: Know its health benefits!

central square. If you are a chicken lover then try out the Momo Ghar near the main market and the famous Shillong Restaurant which draws localities and tourists alike. On weekends it is difficult to find an empty table in these buzzing eateries.

Kohima Heritage Heritage is an old Colonial style eatery in the heart of Kohima and it stands lined with ferns and moss. If you like the ancient gentry look then the Heritage will charm you with its rolling chambers, glittering chandeliers and artistic Naga Paintings.

What will steal your heart however are the delectable selection of Pork and Beef Momos; fried and steamed and sauced.

Chingtsuong The name when translated in Naga dialect means "Come Sit and Eat". This small Bamboo constructed Eatery has minimalistic

exclusives available here like Pork Bharta, lemon pork, Pork Chops and spicy Agartala Pork Curry. Locals say that the Pork momos here are probably one of the best found in India.

Momos and More If you want to savour yummy chicken and pork momos then head off to Momos and More. If you do not arrive by 12 PM then the pork momos are sure to get over. The chicken and minced mutton momos are also delectable.

However, if you are a vegetarian then avoid going to this place as this is a non vegetarian's delight.

Guwahati Momo Ghar The first place which comes to one's mind when it comes to Momo places in Assam is Momo Ghar in Bharalmukh Guwahati. The traditional Asameese Momo filled with stuffing's of pork, beef and minced chicken is readily available. The authentic

Barbeque Easily one of the best family restaurants in Guwahati, Barbeque is a place where you can drop in for a full feast. The best items on offer at this great restaurant are chicken clear soup, delicious steaming hot momos, crispy drums of heaven and glass noodles.

Tawang Tawang is Arunachal Pradesh is a great tourist destination that has unmatched natural beauty.

This is not a bustling city but a tiny hamlet perched on the hills with numerous eateries dotting it. Authentic varieties of Momos are served in these eateries like Soup Momo, C Momo and plain Momos served with spicy Potato Curry. In Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang you will also get to sample the delectable Tibetan Momos like Thaipo and Tingmo. Courtesy: Nelive.in

Why do we bathe? This question may get the eyerolls and bewildered looks it deserves, beause let's face it, the answer is obvious.

Hygiene and cleanliness are the primary purposes for which we take a bath everyday. But is the water you bath with, benefiting you in any way? Again a funny question, you might say, but think about it. What if what you add to your bathing water had positive health effects? No, the answer is not in any disinfectant but in something that you use everyday - in food.

The answer is salt. Mostly used for its healing properties, salt water offers you a wealth of benefits that are good for your health. Yes, bathing with salt water has its own little health benefits that normal water doesn't provide you with.

Following is a list of health benefits that you can get from taking a bath with salt water.

1. Healing and relaxing: Using Himalayan bath salts are known to stimulate circulation, hydrate the skin, increase moisture retention and promote cellular regeneration. Besides, they are also helpful in detoxifying

and healing the skin. Saltwater bathing reduces inflammation of the muscles and joints, relaxes muscles and relieves pain and soreness.

2. Good for skin: Salt-water baths in their natural form possess many minerals and nutrients that help rejuvenate skin. Minerals such as magnesium, calcium, bromide, sodium and potassium get absorbed into the skin pores, cleans-

3. Detoxification: Did you know these bath salts also help detoxify the skin? Well, yes, the warm water opens up skin pores allowing the salt minerals to get absorbed deep into the skin, ensuring complete cleansing.

These salts help draw out the harmful toxins and bacteria absorbed by the skin throughout the day, keeping your skin looking healthy and clear.

4. Youthful glow: Who doesn't

ance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. They make your skin soft and supple. Bath salts achieve this by plumping the skin and balancing the skin moisture. They also give skin that natural glow that is lost in the routine life.

5. Treatment of various problems: Bath salts are not only beneficial for your skin but they also play an important role in treating some serious health conditions like osteoarthritis and tendinitis. In addi-

ing and purifying the surface of the skin, leaving it healthy and glowing.

want to look and feel younger? Use bath salts regularly to decrease the appear-

tion, bath salts are also effective in reducing itchiness and insomnia. (Agencies)

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

PAGE 12 England rope in Croft asspinbowling coach against Proteas ANI Johannesburg: England have appointed former off-spinner Robert Croft as a consulting spin bowling coach to assist their slow bowlers ahead of the upcoming ODI series against South Africa.

ANI London: Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale has expressed disappointment over the sacking of Rafael Benitez as a manager, saying that it was really sad to see him go.

"I had a very good relationship with Rafa, obviously it was a big disappointment to see him

Confirming the news, England's director of cricketAndrew Strauss said Croft has had success at both domestic and international level, adding that his experience would offer a lot to the side, Sport24 reported.

Strauss insisted that the 45-year-old player had worked with England's performance programme and, therefore, he hopes Croft's involvement would prove to be beneficial for the team.

Croft, who appeared in 50 ODIs for his side, would join the coaching team of Trevor Bayliss, Paul Farbrace, Ottis Gibson and Graham Thorpe for a 12-day pe-

Tomic tenders apology over clash with resort staff ANI Johannesburg : Australian tennis professionalBernard Tomic has apologised after his tussle with the hotel staff for using the court near his Gold Coast residence, saying he doesn't want to cause any trouble.

According to Sport24, Tomic, who was looking forward to play in Australian Open, clashed with staff at the RACV Royal Pines resort after they refused his access to the court.

Reflecting on his behavior, the 23-yearold admitted that he got frustrated as his practice was interrupted.

He insisted that there was no excuse for his behavior and, therefore, he was sorry for the incident.

Tomic, who bowed out of the seasonopening Brisbane International tournament after suffering a semi-final defeat at the hands of Milos Raonic, was last year charged by the police for trespassing after holding a party in his local hotel room.

‘Disappointed’ Bale speaks out post Benitez's sacking go," Bale was quoted as saying by goal.com.

Benitez was replaced by former French great Zinedine Zidane after just seven months in charge due to club's recent slump in form in the La Liga.

Zidane's appointment seemed to be in favour of Real as they thrashed

Proteas back capable Van Zyl despite poor form

riod at the start of the series.

England will play a five-

match ODI series against South Africa, starting from February 3 at Chevrolet Park.

ANI Johannesburg : South Africa convener of selectors Linda Zondi has backed his side's struggling opener Stiaan van Zyl ahead of the third Test of the four-match series against England.

Van Zyl had been struggling with his form since the start of the Test series against India. He had scored just 93 runs in his last eight matches at an average of 11.63.

Extending his support to the 28-year-old, Zondi said it was extremely important to back capable players, add-

ing that they would look after his performance in the upcoming Test.

He said that they would decide whether to continue with him or replace him only after the third match.

South Africa are currently trailing 1-0 in the four-match series against England after the second match between the two sides ended in a draw.

The two sides will play their last two matches in Johannesburg (from January 14) and Centurion (from January 22).

Fleming appointed as Pune IPL team coach ANI New Delhi : Former New Zealand skipper Stephen Fleming has been appointed as the head coach of the Pune franchise for the next two seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Confirming the news, head of New Rising group Sanjeev Goenka said that Fleming had been a remarkable player and his appointment would prove beneficial for the team.

"He has been remarkably

team," Goenka was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Earlier, Pune's New Rising and Rajkot's Intex won the bid of the two new franchises for the next two editions of the IPL.

successful as a player in the international arena and I firmly believe that his tech-

The process of choosing two new teams came in the wake of a two-year suspension imposed by the Supreme Court-appointed Justice R.M. Lodha committee on two IPL franchises CSK nical knowhow, persever- and RR after their investiance and organisation skills gation into the 2013 IPL will work wonders for our corruption scandal.

Woakes prefers De Pellegrini eyeing Villiers over Amla quadruple win as Test skipper for Man City ANI Johannesburg : England all-rounder Chris Woakeshas said that temporary South African skipper AB de Villiers has more impact on the team thanHashim Amla, ahead of his first match as a Test captain against England.

Amla, whose leadership received sharp criticism since the start of the England series, had stepped down as Proteas Test skipper shortly after the conclusion of the drawn second Test against England at Newlands.

Talking about the opening match in Kingsmead, Woakes said that Amla doesn't seem to be leading his

side as much as a normal captain would do, Sport24 reported.

The 26-year-old, who was not surprised by Amla stepping down from the post, admitted that although everyone leads the team in their own style, he said that De Villiers seemed to be having more input on certain things than the former skipper during the first two Tests.

England are currently leading 1-0 in the fourmatch series following the second Test against England ended in a draw.

De Villiers will lead South Africa in the last two Tests against England in Johannesburg and Centurion .

ANI Johannesburg: Manchester City managerManuel Pellegrini believes that his side have a winning mentality and can achieve quadruple win this season following his side's brilliant 3-0 win against Norwich in the FA Cup. The Pellegrini-led side remained on the course of success as they booked a place in the semi-finals of the League Cup, were three points off the lead of the Premier League and were in the last 16 of the Champions League and had started well in the FA Cup as well.

Describing the FA cup as a `beautiful` competition, the 62-year-old insisted that their victory against Norwich was the first step towards the success and

that they were planning to beat Everton at home in Premier League.

According to Pellegrini, it was necessary to be involved in every competition until the end if his side want to claim victory, Sport24 reported.

The Chilean said that although it would be difficult to win all the four events, he said that his side would focus on one game at a time.

Deportivo La Coruna 50 in La Liga match.

The 26-year-old, who scored a hat-trick during the match, said, "Things like this happen in football, you're professional and you get on with it and carry on".

Bale further insisted that his side were still in the game and, therefore,

called on his side to fight till the end.

Earlier, the 32-time Spanish Giants failed to take advantage of the lead and slipped four points adrift of local rivals Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga following their 2-2 draw in the tournament clash against Valencia.

Dibrugarh Cricket Coaching in Final Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 11: Dibrugarh Cricket Coaching Centre(A) beat Cricket Club of Sivasagar by 41 runs in the first semifinal of the Simang Arnold Phulari Invitation (under15) Cricket Tournament, organised by Dibrugarh City Cricket Coaching Centre, at Dibrugarh District Sports Association stadium here today.

Opting to bat, Dibrugarh Cricket Cocahing centre(A) scored 139 for 9 in 35 overs. Ankush Mazumdar unbeaten on 56 off 102 balls laced with seven boundaries. Subham

Pandey contributed 15 off 47 balls with three fours and Rashid Afradi scored 14 off 47 balls with two boundaries.

For Cricket Club Of Sivasagar, Anuj Chetia scalped three for 18 in 6 overs. Viki Singh and Pallav Gogoi took two wickets each conceding 12 and 22 runs respectively.

In reply, Cricket Club of Sivsagar were bundled out for 98 in 29.4 overs. Abdul Salam scored 30 off 27 balls with the help of five boundaries and Abhinav Gogoi contributed 17 off 29 balls laced with two

fours. Gugantar Dhar scored 14.

For Dibrugarh Cricket Coaching Centre(A), Mrintunjoy Yadav and Chiranjib Bora picked up three wickets each conceding 8 and 19 runs respectively. Rashid Afradi took two wickets.

Ankush Mazumdar of Dibrugarh Cricket Coaching Centre(A) was adjudged man of the match.

Tomorrow, Dibrugarh Cricket Coaching Centre (B) will play Phoenix cricket Club, Sivasagar in the second semifinal.

Oz series a ‘learning curve’ for youngsters, affirms Dhoni ANI Perth : Indian ODI skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Monday said the forthcoming series against Australia will be a 'learning curve' for the youngsters in the side, adding that it would test the senior players of the team as well.

The 34-year-old said the series against the 'tough' Australian side would provide a lot of exposure to the youngsters.

"As I have said Australian are known to play tough cricket irrespective of where they are competing.

Which means it will give our youngsters, our players who are a part of our side a fair amount of exposure and lot of experience. As I said it will be a very good learning curve for the youngsters and at the same time it will test the seniors who are the part of the side," Dhoni told the media ahead of the first Test.

Talking about his strategy, Dhoni said that his side would focus on one game at a time rather than looking at the series as a whole.

"I feel to start off well is very important. It's important for us to do the small things right. I think it is a bilateral series where lot of new individuals will get a chance. So, it will be very exciting," he added.

Dhoni also expressed his

views on calling rookie pacer Barinder Sran in the ODI squad in place of injured Mohammad Shami.

The skipper said that although Shami's omission was a great loss for the team, it would be good to see how the new players would handle the pressure.

"Shami has been very good for us. If you see the World Cup, he was somebody who bowled really well for us.

He can bowl well with a new ball in the middle overs and also in the depth. It is always good to have such kind of bowlers. It's sad we lost him to an injury. As far as newcomers are concerned, we will definitely feature them in the tournament and also we want to see where they stand," Dhoni said.

Dhoni further insisted that he was not looking at the

series as revenge to their World Cup defeat, but they would try to achieve the maximum.

"You want to compete, you want to win the game because at the end of the day you are representing your country. But at the same time, you have to follow the guidelines that have been followed, spirit of the game.

It starts from small basic things. So, I won't consider the word revenge. But definitely we will like to do well.

We want to get a lot out of this particular series."

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

‘Suspended’ Blatter to appeal against eight-year FIFA ba ANI Johannesburg : Banned FIFA president Sepp Blatter is all set to appeal against his eight-year suspension from all football-related activities.

Confirming the news, Blatter's US-based attor-

ney Richard Cullen said that they would definitely appeal against the ban.

Blatter, along with his U E FA c o u n t e r p a r t Michel Platini, have been serving an eight-year ban from all football-related activities over claims that

the latter had received a ' disloyal payment ' of 1.35 million pounds from the outgoing president in 2011.

The confirmation to file an appeal came after the FIFA's ethics tribunal revealed the reason behind

imposing the ban, thus clearing way for both Blatter and Platini to make an appeal.

According to Sport24, FIFA said that both officials were allowed to lodge an appeal with the FIFA Appeal Committee,

adding that in case it was rejected then the duo could appeal further to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Platini's lawyer Thibaud d'Ales had earlier said that they had received the reason behind the ban

and added that they would analyse them and would launch an appeal against the same.

Platini had also withdrawn his name from the race of becoming the next FIFA president, saying he is dedicating

himself towards getting his name cleared from the controversy.

In addition to lengthy bans, Blatter and Platini were also fined 50,000 and 80,000 Swiss francs respectively.

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