12th oct by THE EASTERN TODAY

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For business, mail at: md.easterntoday@gmail.com GOOD NEWS The Eastern Today in Khonsa For Your Copy: HAKHUN DIAGNOSTICS

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Vol. 1

Issue 130

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Dibrugarh, Monday, October 12, 2015

08730849369/ 08471896580/ 03736-222269

Pages- 12

Consulate General of France pays courtesy call on Assam-Nagaland Governor

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Construction of sinking zone culvert past its completion date

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projects being undertaken by the French Govt. in the state. The Governor told the M. Sayed that they were welcome everywhere in the Northeast and that they should explore the prospects of cooperation in every possible field. He said that the Northeast is a region with 15 languages and around 200 dialects, it is full of culture – dance and music and also abounds in medicinal plants and herbs and that yoga is also well known and very popular. Contd. on Page 4

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ET Correspondent Guwahati, Oct 11

The Consulate General of France in Kolkata, Monsieur Damien Syed paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Assam & Nagaland P. B. Acharya at Raj Bhavan, Guwahati, today. After the exchange of courtesies and felicitations, the Consulate General said that it was his first visit to Assam and that he was fascinated by the beauty of the state. He said that the main purpose of his visit was to inaugurate a sports

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ET Correspondent Itanagar, Oct 11

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despite a crackdown by the local administration only a few days back. According to sources, illicit and country made liquor is openly served at over four locations at Bara bazaar itself, that too, within 100 metres of the Rani Sati mandir. This results in drunken persons gathering

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which is also being seen as a security concern, in particular for women residing in the area. It also leads to brawls very often making it very tough for the residents of the entire locality. Contd. on Page 4

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Paikan under Krishnai police station in Assam today while UB photo photographer Walton Lytan was critically injured in the accident.

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ET Correspondent Shillong, Oct 11

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Cameraman of Khasi channel Peitngor Cable News (PCN) Kenny Warjri was killed in a car accident at

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Opium peddler arrested

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Contd. on Page 4 ○

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Campaigning ends, voters to decide GHADC elections 162 candidates in the fray for 29 seats. As many as 79 independent candidates are among them besides candidates from different parties. Congress would be contesting in all 29 constituencies, NPP (26), UDP (14), BJP (6) while NCP

Campaigning for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) ended Saturday evening with a total of

ANI Mumbai, Oct 11

and GNC in only 4 each. Voting would take place on Monday, October 12 in all the polling stations of five districts of Garo Hills. Contd. on Page 4

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ET Correspondent Shillong, Oct 11

Indrani did not attempt to commit suicide, says IG (Prisons)

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Two highly decomposed dead bodies yet to be recovered

In continuation of their crusade against drugs and IMFL in the district, the Adi Baane Kebang Women Wing East Siang Unit’s Mebo Block Unit ○

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Contd. on Page 3 ○

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and boy of around 10 years were spotted at Balairchar on the bank of Brahmaputra under South Salmara police station of Dhubri district but police have not yet recovered the bodies as of today. The bodies

Kabir Mondal Dhubri, Oct 11

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was found in the possession of the perpetrator. A case has been registered against her at Pasighat PS Case No. 166/15 u/s 20(b)(ii)(B) NDPS Act.

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in support of Mebo Police has arrested one Smti Osu Yirang, W/o Nonong Yirang, a regular opium peddler from Mebo, Romdum Town under Mebo sub-division on Friday evening following a joint raid following which Kapin Kani (opium)

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Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Oct 11

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The arrested woman drug peddler (encircled, left) and the contraband (encircled, right).

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Some fifteen days ago, two highly decomposed bodies of a man aged around 20 years ○

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were spotted floating in the river near the village and due to the receding water of the Brahmaputra, now lying half buried on the bank of the river, Contd. on Page 4 ○

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Contd. on Page 3

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The sick born child care unit in question which was constructed under National Health Mission.

Obama defends TPP trade deal

Key CSOs deliberate on people's common future A series of discussion programmes on the topic 'People's movement for the common future of Manipur' was opened today at Hotel

The international trade regime witnessed a historic moment, with the United States and 11 other Pacific

US President Barack Obama took a dig at China recently as he defended the new TPP Pacific Rim free-trade deal, which excludes Beijing. In

REGION

EDITORIAL

BUSINESS

Imphal here. The discussion programme was jointly organised by the All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO), Committee of Civil Societies Kangleipak (CCSK) and the United Committee Manipur (UCM). Notably.

Rim countries announcing the conclusion of successful negotiations on what has been touted as a mammoth free trade agreement covering more than 40 percent of the global economy.

his weekly address to the nation, Obama said the 12country accord concluded this week after five years of negotiations features the strongest labor and environmental standards in history, which he said will level the field in international trade.

Should India Join the TPP?

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Amid much crisis infesting the District Hospital, yet another discrepancy has come to light in connection with the Sick Born Child Care Unit (SBCCU) which was sanctioned under National Health Mission (NHM). Haphazard construction has been alleged in this connection. The district health authority alleged failure in terms of the design not being in accordance with the laid down norms of the SBCCU

due to which the unit remained unutilized while suspicions of gross embezzlement of funds has been alleged. “In spite of the fact that the unit is unfit to treat the sick new born baby, recently we have referred a child to Dibrugarh who was suffering from both jaundice and breathing problems”, informed Dr S Chai Pul DMO. The DMO claimed that the unit is SPT designed whereas it should be RCC and well-furnished with tiles and AC or heater facilities;

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Bishnu Rana Tezu, 11 Oct

Spl Correspondent Pasighat, Oct 11

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DMO claims scam in Sick Born Shopping mall ‘M Mart’ arrives at Pasighat Child Care Unit’s building Much to the joy of shopaholics across Pasighat Township and its neighbouring region, a new shopping mall M Mart has found its way into this centurion town which was opened by local MLA Kaling Moyong in a formal ceremony here yesterday. While encouraging and appreciating the initiative taken by its proprietor Er. Toi Modi, Moyong during the ceremony said that this shopping mall will give people of Pasighat a good place to shop wherein

better quality goods will be made available for purchase. When asked about his endeavor toward bringing such shopping malls at his home town, Er. Modi told this correspondent that now Pasighat has become a good place to open such shopping centres as people's’ demand for quality/ branded goods have grown these days. Er. Modi who already owns similar such M Marts at Naharlagun shared that he is shortly taking over the Max Mart of Naharlagun also and plans are on to open one more at Aalo. Contd. on Page 3

The Inspector General (Prisons), Bipin Kumar Singh on Saturday clarified that Indrani Mukerjea, the prime accused in the Sheena Bora murder case, did not attempt to commit suicide. “She was taking multi-vitamins, but she had not taken overdose of any medicine. She took the medicine in front of the guard. She did not attempt to commit suicide. There is no evidence of any foul play, sabotage or conspiracy or attempt to commit suicide,” Singh told the media here. Mukerjea was admitted to J.J. hospital in Mumbai in unconscious condition after she complained of ‘uneasiness due to chest pain’ on October 2 at the Byculla prison. She was discharged four days later on October 6. Mukherjea was arrested on August 24 for the murder of Sheena Bora, her daughter from an earlier relationship, in 2012. She has been accused of killing her over a financial dispute, with the help of her ex-husband Sanjeev Khanna and her driver.

AI comes up with new modalities of its holiday packages Agencies New Delhi, Oct 11

Moving a step further in rolling out its holiday packages, slated for launch in December, Air India discussed the modalities of the new offering with some of the partner states. Contd. on Page 4

HOLIDAY PACKAGES REINVENTED ØAshwani Lohani had late last month announced the launch of "Incredible Air India Holiday" packages from December 1, in association with the State Tourism Development corporations.

ØAir India discussed the modalities of the new offering with some of the partner states. ØAirlines globally take the holiday packages route to attract fliers in the highly competitive aviation market.

ØAs part of these offerings, tourists will have the option of choosing from 3-4 packages in each state, covering a wide range of interests like wildlife reserves, religious places, adventure sports and forts and various museums.

cmyk

Dhubri, Oct 11: An IED weighing 10 kg was recovered from the house Palan Rabha of Kharkhari village under Kazigaon police station of Kokrajhar district close to Gauripur town of Dhubri district today in a joint operation by police and army. But security forces had to release Rabha as villagers blocked the road, villagers said. (Correspondent)

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Man released

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Journalist killed in car accident in Paikan, Assam

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Diphu, Oct 11: Chandra Sing Engti, the religious chief of Karbi community popularly known as ‘Katherbura’ or chief of faith in the house of Karbi Monarch Ronghang Rongbong (Capital of Karbi Kingdom) near Hamren, in West Karbi Anglong district passed away yesterday at 4.30 pm. He was 59 years who was a researcher and on a mission to draft the Karbi customary law as chief convener of the committee; he was installed in the post of the religious chief in 2007 and remained in position till his death. Several dignitaries including Tuliram Ronghang Chief Executive Member of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council and Arun Terang president of Karbi Anglong district BJP have expressed grief and sorrow over the untimely demise of Chandra Sing Engti. (Correspondent)

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Karbi religious chief passes away

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Residents of Bara bazaar area, some 400 odd metres away from Tinsukia police station are worried due to open sale of illicit liquor in broad daylight in the area. This is so ○

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Diphu, Oct 11: Two explosive runners identified as Yein Pai and Singhong Konyan were held by E-155 battalion CRPF manning the police check gate on national highway 39, in Bokajan town near Cement Corporation of India factory from a passenger bus bearing No. NL 11-2388 coming from Dimapur. Explosives recovered included 250 gelatin sticks, 600 detonators and 60 meter of fuse wire. Both the persons were handed over to Bokajan police who later arrested them and produced them at Diphu court today. The passenger bus was allowed passage by police after the routine check. (Correspondent)

Followers of Buddhism came together in Arunachal Pradesh recently to celebrate 'Bodh Sanskriti Mahotsav' and sent out a message of peace and harmony. The mist-covered mountains surrounding Dirang Valley in Arunachal Pradesh's West Kameng district woke up to the soothing notes of Buddhist chants and lama dances. The occasion was Bodh-Sanskriti Mahotsav celebrated as part of Centre's plans to organize more Buddhist-centric events to promote the religion circuit tourism to foster stronger ties with South East Asia.

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Explosives recovered, 2 held

ANI Itanagar, Oct 11

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Dibrugarh, Oct 11: The Customs and Central Excise department arrested two drug peddlers at Satsang Vihar Road, Jyotinagar, here today. They have been identified as one Bhaity Ali (Bokul) and Mainul Haque (Tinkunia). From their possession, 500 gm of Brown Sugar worth Rs 10 lacs was seized while a Maruti 800 car bearing No. AS23C 4241 was also seized. (Correspondent)

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Rishu Kalantri Tinsukia, Oct 11

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'Bodh Sanskriti Mahotsav' celebrated with great enthusiasm in Arunachal Pradesh

2 drug peddlers arrested

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Residents concerned over sale of illicit liquor in the heart of Tinsukia

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ET CAPSULES

store near Azara which was also a sports complex. Thereafter, he outlined the various

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The road culvert under construction at Banderdewa area near Itanagar.

Contd. on Page 3

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The local contractor also said the Govt. has not given any advance money to start the work. He said the total amount which is estimated until its completion, is Rs. 3 Crore.

The road culvert which is five meters in length and four meter in width being constructed to join the sinking zone at Banderdewa area was due for completion last month, as per the Chief Engineer, Executive Engineer of the PWD, Government of Arunachal Pradesh. However, the culvert is not even half completed until today. When asked, a local contractor handling the project said it will take another one or two months to complete.

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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

India considers Jordan to be an oasis of peace and progress: Prez

Preparations on for Bezboruah's 152nd birth anniversary celebrations Dalim Phukan Morigaon, Oct 11: Rigorous preparations are going on to hold the 152nd birth anniversary celebrations of S a h i t y a r a t h i Lakhsminath Bezboruah at his birth place, Ahotgurighat in Morigaon district on October 14 under the auspices of Morigaon district unit of Asom Sahitya Sabha in collaboration with Ahotguri Sahitya Sabha. Ajit Sarma, Secretary of Morigaon Zila Sahitya Sabha said in a press release that the birth anniversary of the doyen of Assamese literature will be observed

with a daylong colourful programme at Lakhsminath Bezboruah cultural centre at Ahotgurighat along the banks of the Kopili river. The open meeting to be held on the occasion will be inaugurated by Kanaksen Deka, former President of Asom Sahitya Sabha while Dr. Dhruba Jyoti Bora, President, Asom Sahitya Sabha will be the chief guest on the occasion. Dr. Parag Kumar Thakur, Vice President, Asom Sahitya Sabha and Dr Paramananda Rajbongshi, General Secretary will also address the gathering.

New Delhi, Oct 11: PresidentPranab Mukherjee has said India considers Jordan to be an oasis of peace and progress in the Middle East Region. "India lauds the progressive policies of the King of Jordan and deeply appreciates his humanity in offering refuge to almost one and a half million innocent

41 Meghalaya villages to showcase indigenous foods at Mei Ramew festival ET Correspondent Shillong, Oct 11: As many as 41 villages of Meghalaya were selected to showcase the indigenous food festival International Terra Madre (ITM) or Mei Ramew show food festival to be held from 3rd to 7th November, 2015. As part of the preparations for this mega event, chairman of the North East Show Food and Agrobiodversity Society (NESFAS), Mr. Phrang Roy said that forty one villages of Meghalaya have agreed to be the cohosts of the second ITM 2015 in Meghalaya. The delegates from foreign countries will be visiting those select villages to interact with the villagers on their food habits. In this mega event, around 200 tribes from 52 countries and 500 delegates will be taking part to showcase their food cultures, and other cultural practices.Mr. Roy said, “The aim of the ITM of Slow Food festival is to celebrate the local foods, their value and hygiene. It is also a platform to share ideas and thoughts with people from other countries”. According to Mr Roy, the ITM will be an opportunity for North East India which is situated in the corner of mainland India. The event will be showcasing the cultural experiences among people of different tribes and from abroad. He informed that the event will be presented using different languages including Khasi, Garo, English, Hindi, Portuguese, French, Russian. For three days, the event will be held at NEHU convention centre Shillong and the last day that is on 7th November, it will be held at Sacred Grove at Law Mawphlang which is 25 km from Shillong city. The event will be also showcasing songs, dances, dress, folklores and food systems that evolved through generations of close interaction with nature.

proliferation of organizations and unions in Dimapur, which has more than 200. On Naga political issue, the home minister said prime minister of India had recently assured that it would be solved within a short time but added, solution was in the hands of entire Naga people. GBs 'bridge' between public and government: Patton also urged the GBs to be a "bridge" between public and government since GBs were entrusted with a big responsibility by the people. Extending jubilee's greeting on behalf of chief minister, the home minister urged the GBs to put more effort in reuniting all the "underground brothers", for a peaceful solution. Patton

Today is an ordinary day, it is business as usual, but there will be some progress. You can while away your time doing petty chores. And, while day-dreaming think about that coveted home, as that’s how the first plans materialise. Lady delegates of Sivasagar District Social Welfare organisation being felicitated by Aluk Chandra Rajkhuwa, Sivasagar Urban Child Welfare Committee. Pic - Firuz Ahmed

Sharif's invitation to Geelani designed to influence world audience: Defence Expert New Delhi, Oct 11: Defence expert Major General (Retd.) P.K. Sehgal on Sunday said Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's invitation to separatist leader Syed Ali

Shah Geelani just before his visit to the United States is clearly designed to influence the world audience. "Nawaz Sharif knows that the NSAlevel talks were called off by

opined that everyone had the responsibility of uniting all factions but that GBs ought to shoulder the main responsibility. He also pointed out that as the "red jacket" identified them, the GBs should were them on all occasions while performing their duties. He further encouraged GBs to be vocal while delivering their service in letter and spirit, without fear or favour in line with their motto, "unity, peace and justice" He also assured GBs that he would take up their grievances before the government. Patton said the state government under the dynamic leadership of chief minister, T.R. Zeliang, was committed to address the genuine grievances

of the GBs and take measures for their welfare, despite various constraints. Patton also donated Rs. 2 lakh towards the welfare of the GBs union. Earlier, Patton also unveiled the monolith stone at DC office complex, Dimapur after dedicatory prayer by pastor DABA, Rev. Lima Jamir. Parliamentary secretary irrigation and flood control, Jacob Zhimomi, himself a Head GB, also lauded Patton for gracing the occasion. Jacob urged upon home minister to fulfill the aspiration of the GBs by taking up matter at the assembly. Parliamentary secretaries-- Er. Levi and Y.M. Yollow Konyak also attended the function. (Agencies)

Pakistan because India said separatists have no place. They do not represent the people of India they do not represent the people of Jammu and Kashmir.. They have never dared to fight an election. So, they represent nobody, they are the creation of Pakistan totally aided, abetted and financed by Pakistan," Major General (Retd.) Sehgal told ANI. "This invitation to Hurriyat leader just before his visit to America is clearly designed to influence the world audience. He will say from the roof top there that the NSAlevel talks got called off because of Indian attitude," he added. Sharif has invited the Hurriyat chairman to visit the neighbouring country, through a letter handed over to him by Pakistan's High Commissioner Abdul Basit. The invite assumes significance in the backdrop of toughening of stands by India and Pakistan on Kashmir. The invite also gives an indication that Pakistan is throwing its weight behind the separatist leader. (ANI)

Meghalaya High Court refers dual post case to Division Bench ET Correspondent Shillong, Oct 11: The Single Bench of Meghalaya High Court has referred to the Division Bench on the case of dual post. The Single Bench of Justice TNK Singh passed an order today after hearing the case and fixed the date to be taken up next hearing on 14th October. In his order, the court said on bare perusal of the Prevention of Disqualification (Members of Legislative Assembly of Meghalaya) (Amendment) Act, 2015, it appears that the present MLAs who hold dual posts

preciates his efforts and tireless endeavours within this region and beyond to inculcate tolerance and understanding amongst communities. We believe that it is urgent and imperative for all sides to give up sectarian violence and hatred and, instead, embrace tolerance, humanity and harmonious coexistence," he added. (ANI)

ASTRO FOR YOU

Patton confirms on the illegal activities carried out by NE militants Kohima, Oct 11: Almost all Northeast militants have their illegal camps in Nagaland and carry out illegal activities from their "secret bases in Nagaland" and Nagas of the state get blamed, said Nagaland Home minister, Y. Patton while addressing the silver jubilee celebration of GB's Union Dimapur at IMC hall, Dimapur on Saturday. The home minister referred to recent the capture of four militants belonging to the Dima Hasao National Army (DHNA) from Peren district as a point. Further, Patton also blamed illegal influx of people from outside for creating law and order situation in the state. The home minister also took serious note at the

men, women and children who have been displaced from their homes by the ravages of war," said President Mukherjee, who attended a reception hosted by Anil Trigunayat, Ambassador of India to Jordan, for Indian Community and Jordanian friends of India yesterday in Amman,Jordan. "India ap-

i.e. the post of Chairman, Chief Executive Member and other Executive Member, or ordinary member of a District Council in Autonomous District or any member nominated in District Council are no more protected from disqualification. However, this question is left to the competent authority under Article 192 of the Constitution of India to take appropriate decision in his wisdom as to the disqualification of MLA holding dual posts in view of the said Act. The Court also made clear that pendency of

the present writ petition shall not cause any prejudice or bar the authority under Article 192 of the Constitution of India in taking his decision. The present writ petition also called for decision of other important issues such as to whether or not the persons holding dual posts are disqualified for holding both posts i.e. MLA and Member of the District Council and what will be the effective date of disqualification of the concerned members if they are disqualified and would the said Act i.e. The Prevention of Disquali-

fication (Members of Legislative Assembly of Meghalaya) (Amendment) Act, 2015 be applicable in the present case or not and other issues. “We are of the considered view that such important issues are required to be decided by the Full Bench”, said the justice Singh in his order. It may be mentioned that president of Civil Society of Women Organization (CSWO) Smt Agnes Kharshiing had filed PIL in the High Court pleading for disqualifying those persons who were holding dual posts as MLA/MDC in the State.

List of hospitals in Dibrugarh with contact details & phone numbers, Assam Aditya Diagnostics & Hospitals Bordoloi Avenue, Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2302219, 2302225

G M Hospital

Shrishti Hospital & Research Centre Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2300024, 2302099

AMC Road, Jalan Nagar Dibrugarh - 786 005

Archana Trauma & Orthopaedics Hospital

Brahmaputra Diagnostics & Hospital

Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2302100, 2302099

Near Indian AirLines City Office Paltan Bazar Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2303476

Assam Medical College

Marwari Arogya Bhawan Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2302872, 2302051

Graham Bazar, A.T. Road Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2322547

Jalan Nagar, Dibrugarh - 786 002 List of Phones numbers: Emergency Room : 0373 - 2300627 Labour Room: 0373 - 2300022 Drug Deaddiction Centre: 0373 - 2302952 Community Medicine: 0373 - 2302994 RIA Centre: 0373 - 2302093

Sanjivani Diagnostic & Hospital

Dr. Pawan Bajaj's Skin Clinic

Aastha Hospital

Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2303448, 2303458, 2301904

Sankardev Hospital Mancotta Road, Chowkidinghee Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2327717, 2327715, 2326960

Paltan Bazar, Opposite Aditya Hospital Dibrugarh

Dr Damani's Nursing Home Near Circuit House, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2300928, 2302873

Your thinking is expected to be immensely clear and focused this day. This, therefore is a great day for holding important meetings with colleagues and partners, for resolving vital issues, for entering new tie business tie ups. Knowing what you want as well as how to get it will give you tremendous advantage. Those engaged in joint ventures could have a windfall. This is a very auspicious day. Put it to good use. A fun and frolic filled day awaits you. You will have a lot of fun with your family members, especially children. You will help your children with their work. Marital life will be blissful. Relations with your spouse will be romantic today. A pleasure filled day awaits. You will feel tiredness and weakness but in the office or business you will be relaxed , with less tension. You should be careful to fulfil new responsibilities entrusted to you. You will spend on travel. You will attempt to reschedule your daily routine to be able to make the most of your day. While it is easy to make plans, implementing them and sticking to them depends on your own discipline and determination. You will become more aware about health issues and pay closer attention to your diet. You will spend an enjoyable time with your family. A cocktail of business and pleasure is on the house today. Parties will run till dawn. You will also take the correct route to success by making important decisions. People will stand to gain if they involve you in their do. The higher officials in your work place may be displeased with you and you will face issues with them. Due to this you will feel mentally depressed and down but towards the afternoon you will be able to please them with your impressive work ability. Today is not a good day to try out any new business ventures. It is about time you learn to deal with frustration in a more healthy manner. The right choice is always the hardest to make. Do not let sentiments sway you into hasty choices because they may feel right, but might also be extremely impractical. There may be some strain on your relationship with near and dear ones. Learn to be patient and calm in the face of adversity. You are a social butterfly as you attend a series of parties and events today. You may even bump into old pals and relive good ol’ days. Also, you meet your extended family! It’s time for soiree and merry-making. Mark this date on the calendar as today is going to be one of the most important days of life, the reason being you are going to meet somebody who is will stay with you through out your life. Though it may at some time bore you, but your relationships will keep you busy today. Visits to religious places are on the cards for you. Most of the day you will spend time with your friends and family. You will feel deeply inclined towards development and research, today. Actions speak louder than words, and your efforts and overall growth will speak plenty about your character. Your romantic side will come to the fore today. You will be willing to do anything and everything to bring a bright smile on the face of sweetheart. Enjoy the good times! You will have difficulty in interpreting the behaviour of your life partner today. It is better to bring transparency in your relationship rather than to doubt it. Speak freely about your problems and communicate with your spouse. Business relationships will also face rough weather. Those who work will find a measure of success in their office. It is a day of mixed fortunes and the evening might bring some respite in the form of family time.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights

12-10-15 (MONDAY) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Sponsored Programme-"Sojai Tooloo Jeewanar Path" 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali(Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-00 A.M- Antara(Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 9-20 A.M-Seuji Chora-"Chitrankanar Bishoye Janoo Aahaa"Talk by Biswajit Gogoi 1-10 P.M-Gharjeuti (Women's Programme)-1.Short Story by Gouri Shaikia,2.Self Composed Poem Recitation by Mitali Phukan 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Gonya Raijor Anusthan 7-15 P.M-Chah Chramikar Aasor 7-45 P.M-Juye Poora Soon 8-00 P.M-Ekalabya (Sponsored Programme of KKHSOU) 8-30 P.M-SAARC News Bulletin 9-30 PM-Bhaona-"Baan Bikram Kumor Haran" Sd-/H.O.P

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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

Muklom Elite Society, Changlang District constituted Lomhom Tangha Kharsang, Oct 11: Today, the elite denizens of Muklom community have come together and formed Muklom Elite Society (MES), Changlang District taking under its ambit executive members from across the Miao-Kharsang circles. This sub society will look after the affairs of the MES in Kharsang and Miao circles. There was a long deliberation over the need of the formation of such a group to address the issues faced by an increasingly degrading community where the percentage of school dropouts has risen to such an alarming level that it has become a cause for concern for the elite denizens. The Muklom community is one of the major sub tribes of Tangsa tribe spread across twenty six villages across

the Changlang district with eighteen distinctive family groups. It originally dwelled in the hilly stretch of land under the Patkai range bounded by the Tirap River in the NorthWest, Myanmar border in the East and Lazu circle of Tirap district in the south. The ancestors of Muklom according to some elders through oral tradition were believed to have migrated from Mulom-Nganlom hills in present Myanmar. Therefore the community had been named after the hills as Muklom. The period of migration is yet to be ascertained, though by generation count, it is more than ten. The Muklom tribe resides in Kharsang, Miao, Changlang, Namtok, Kantang and Khimyang circles. The newly constituted sub group of MES will be headed by Mr.

Langhom Tangha as the President, Mr. Longdam Yanchang as the General Secretary, Mr. Munglong Ngemu as Convener and Mr. Lomhom Tangha as publicity and information secretary for smooth functioning of the body. The senior most advisors including Mr. S. Ngemu, Mr. L.Tangha, Mr. C.Changmi were present in the meeting to witness the formation. The newly formed sub elite society will work hard to spread awareness among the Muklom community and will counsel the citizens to strive in the fields of education, social, economic and cultural. The priority would be given to educational and awareness on drugs menace and other social evils prevailing in the society. The body shall maintain its secularism in its true spirit.

Training on handover of T&Ps, cash incentives conducted under NRDWP Khonsa, Oct 11: A oneday training programme on handover of cash incentive along with T&Ps (Tools & Plants) under National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) was held at Conference Hall, Circuit House, Khonsa today to mark the closing programme of weeklong Nationwide Sanitation/ Cleanliness Campaign started on September 25, 2015 till October 11, 2015. Doi Tarak, Consultant, PHE & WS Division, Khonsa highlighted the role of PRI/VWSC in the maintenance of intra village water supply system. He informed that the after handing over of water supply asset, it is the duty of VWSC to shoulder responsible for operation

UPF takes out mass rally seeking protection, security of indigenous people Vinod Singh Silapathar, Oct 10 : In a display of strength and power, and thus stake a claim for influence on the State’s political affairs, the United People’s Front, the newly formed democratic party of the State, today organized a massive mass gathering at the Akajan Tribal High School in Dhemaji district near Silapathar and sought support for their agenda of protection and security of the indigenous people of the State. More than fifty thousand supporters marked their presence on the occasion which was organized under the banner of Sanmilito Gana Shakti, Axom. The heavyweights of the newly formed UPF, Hagrama Mohilary, Chief of BTC, Dr. Jayanta Rongpi, Ex Member of Parliament, Dr. Ronuj Pegu. CEC of Mising Autonomous Council, Biswajit Daimari and Holiram Terang, both members of Rajya Sabha, Tankeswar Rabha, CEC of Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council, Bhubon Pegu, exMLA of Jonai constituency along with various other political leaders of the State were seen on the platform. Ronuj Pegu, CEC of Mising Autonomous Council addressing the gathering said, “The masses have completely lost faith in State and Central government. An individual and his family cannot dwell happily as poverty and insecurity have

Citing the monsoon season, the contractor said that it is very risky and extremely difficult to carry out the work in the rainy season because the flow of

Tirap for operation and gether 80 persons took maintenance of intra vil- part in the programme. lage water supply. Alto- (DIPRO)

water is heavy and it fills up the area and makes the land soft and sinking it even further down. The 40year-old sinking zone is located nearly 25 kilometers from Itanagar towards Assam. It was in August 2 when the Governor and the

officials from the PWD inspected the sinking zone along with the district administration, and the department officials have confirmed the Governor that it will be opened to the public in October. The local contractor also said the

Govt. has not given any advance money to start the work. He said the new culvert is strong and it can withstand any type of soil or water erosion.He said the total amount which is estimated until its completion, is Rs. 3 Crore.

'Bodh Sanskriti Mahotsav' celebrated with great enthusiasm in Arunachal Pradesh gripped their lives. Flood, famine, erosion are on the rise. Lands along with lives, properties and homes have perished within no time while the Congress and BJP led governments have not been able to provide even minimal security to the people. The State government has not provided enough financial authority to the Autonomous Councils and not only farmers but also government officials and even contractors have failed to draw money on account of their hard labour due to negligence on the part of the government.” Addressing the gathering, BTC Chief and President of the UPF Hagrama Mohilary said that the Tarun Gogoi-led Assam government or the Narendra Modi-led Central government have not mitigated the problems, needs and wants

of the people of the State. The newly formed UPF party resolved to fight for the rights and privileges of the people of the State. The UPF will act as a binding political force in the political arena of the State independently and the UPF will play an active role in the decision making process of the State and national affairs with full power, he added. He also demanded each Autonomous Council to be declared Six Scheduled status at the earliest keeping in view the development of these backward tracts. He urged the people irrespective of caste and creed to come out and support the noble cause initiated by the UPF. He also assured that Sanmilito Gana Shakti will win 5 seats in the next 2016 assembly election. Biswajit Daimari, Member

amicably settled, the dispute may drag on into an extended litigation," Barclays said in a report. The government official, however, said any agreement was possible only if RIL had not drawn the gas. "While revenues from the disputed 12 billion cubic metres (20 per cent of output) are indeed $1.6 billion, as media articles suggest, RIL may argue for offsets for capex, royalties, profit petroleum, opex and taxes," Barclays said. Beside, RIL has a 60 per cent stake (in the field). It had in 2011 sold 30 per cent in 22 of its exploration and production blocks, including in KG, to BP. RIL stock on BSE went down 0.31 per cent to 886.35 recently. It is alleged that RIL had drawn 58.7 billion cubic metres of gas from the wells up to March 31, 2015, out of which 11.9 bcm may belong to ONGC. Migration of hydrocarbons is natural in connected fields, unless the parameters are monitored in production wells in the entire area.The Delhi

High Court had last month disposed of an ONGC petition, asking the company to wait for six months for the government to take action on the consultant's report.D&M has hinted at connectivity between G-4 and KG-D6, but has so far not said anything on connectivity with KG-D5, said a person close to the development.RIL has maintained it followed the production sharing contract and drilled all wells within its boundary. According to ONGC, RIL's D6-A5, D6-A9 and D6-A13 wells drilled close to the block boundary may be draining gas from the G-4 field, while the D6-B8 well may be draining gas from DWN-D-1 field of KG-DWN98/2 block. Besides, the fields D-1 and D-3 have already produced their maximum (90 per cent) and are on a decline. RIL has invested around Rs 50,000 crore in development of D1, D3 fields, which went into production in 2009. (Agencies)

of Rajya Sabha said, despite the Congress ruling for consecutive 15 years, there is minimal development in Dhemaji and Lakhimpur district. There is not a single educational institution of higher education, no proper health facilities and the people of these areas have been totally deprived of any kind of developmental activities in the past 15 years despite having minister portfolio in the State and Central government. The people should understand the politics of the Congress and BJP. He urged the people not to ask questions on the ideology of the UPF but come out blindly for the sake of security and development of the people. Jayanta Rongpi in his speech said that the Central government under the leadership of Narendra Modi has not opened free bank account for the sake of the poor people but created account only after their death. His mission on converting black money into white money has failed miserably and nothing noteworthy schemes have been implemented for the benefit of the poor people of the country, he further added.

FIR lodged Kabir Mondal Dhubri, Oct 11: Villagers of Fakirganj area of Dhubri district lodged an FIR today at Fakirganj police station of Dhubri district against the three persons allegedly involved in stealing livestock fodder bags meant for flood affected villages. 43 fodder bags were later seized by the villagers yesterday. Three accused are Sahidur Islam, the president of PamparaChatlapar village panchayat and Joynal Abedin, secretary of the Pampara-Chatlapar gaon panchayat and Phul Chand Ali.

Infrastructure key to development, says PM Modi Mumbai, Oct.11 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that infrastructure is the key to the development of the nation, and congratulated Roads, Highways and Shipping minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for working towards better infrastructure. "In the past 15 months, Gadkari has done

Bunting, Pullong, Hukan and Dadam Gram Panchayat of District

Construction of sinking zone culvert past its completion date Contd. from Page 1

ONGC, RIL stare at long-drawn legal battle Mumbai, Oct 11: Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) might have to amicably settle their dispute with regard to gas flow in the Krishna-Godavari basin to prevent a long-drawn legal battle. However, a government official claimed the stage for negotiations is long over. A draft consultant report prepared by DeGolyer and MacNaughton (D&M), jointly appointed by the firms in July 2014 for a technical evaluation, is likely to establish that the two share a gas reservoir. The firms hold adjoining blocks. The government is expected to take a decision on a penalty on RIL or an agreement between the companies only after a final report from D&M, likely soon. "India's upstream regulator could appoint another panel (after D&M gives its report) to evaluate the financial impact and mitigating measures before making a final decision. This may take up to six months. But unless

and maintenance. He added that T&Ps and cash incentives are being given for judicious utilization for O&M. Lampang Wangsa, Consultant, PHE & WS Division, Khonsa highlighted on how to collect water sample and what parameter to be tested using Field Test Kit (FTK). Jatin Gogoi, Fitter, PHE & WS Division, Khonsa gave demonstration on handling of Dia sets for maintenance of damaged pipes. Druba Talukdar, JE, PHE & WS Division, Khonsa handed over Dia sets, Wrench, FTKs and cash incentive to Chairman of VWSC Kheti, Khela, Tutnyu, Old Kothung, New Kothung, New Painduria, Kapu, Bera, Lainwang, Wathin, Kaimai, Borduria, Old

what was not done in 10 years. He has given new strength and speed to the port and road sectors. The pace brought by Gadkari in the transport sector in commendable. Everyday more than 15 km of road is being made in the country. For development, better infrastructure is a must. When roads are made, money automatically starts flowing. This is the strength

of roads," PM Modi said after laying the foundation stone for two new Metro lines at the MMRDA grounds in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) here. "I would also like to congratulate Devendra Fadnavis for making the DPR (Detailed Project Report) of the Metro within four months. Two sectors-coastal and space - are going to be important this century. Be it space or sea,

we are moving at a quick pace," PM Modi added. Prime Minister Modi is on a day visit to the financial capital Mumbai, where he laid the foundation stone of a fourth container terminal at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) and also of the Dr B. R. Ambedkar memorial on the Indu Mills compound before laying the foundation stone for two new Metro lines.

Contd. from Page 1

Over a thousand people, including Buddhist scholars, art practitioners and lamas flocked to the Dirang stadium to witness one of the grandest religious festivals in the state. Organised by the Central Institute of Himalayan Culture Stud-

ies, the five-day long event was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju. Speaking on the occasion, Rijiju said that government is committed towards development of the state. "I assure you areas including Tezpur, Bhalukpong and Tawang will be developed including the road infrastruc-

ture. It will benefit the local residents. We have started developmental programmes on power transmission and telephone network. We will provide more funds for electricity generation and I assure you that villages will get 24 hours power supply in the days to come," he said. The region holds

enormous significance for Buddhists across the world. The 400-yearold Galden Namgey Lhatse monastery is located in Tawang district and is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries after Potala Palace in Lhasa in Tibet. Tawang is also the birth place of the sixth Dalai Lama.

Opium peddler arrested Contd. from Page 1

Informing about the arrest, ABKWW East Siang President Yalem Taga Burang said that credit for nabbing the drug peddler Yirang goes to the untiring work of its ABKWW Mebo Banggo Block President Nanung Megu and Secretary. Info Oti Tayeng had warned her twice even by taking an undertaking which was signed by his husband. Despite several warnings to shun the illegal business Mrs Yirang contin-

ued to engage in it which led to her arrest, added Burang. The ABKWW also expressed their thankfulness to OC Mebo Tahing Taga for their swift action in nabbing the offender. With the regular effort of ABKWW in the district, visible changes are being seen these days as several seizures of IMFL and other drug products have been done time to time with the help of police and Gaon Buras. Meanwhile in a separate incident recently, the ABK WW Anti Drugs

Committee members led by Momang Jamoh, Yate Jamoh and Omem Gao supported by Mrs Olik Darang anti drugs member from Mirbuk village have nabbed three bike lifters most of whom were minors, informed ABKWW ADC Chairman Joya Tasung Moyong in a release. The bike lifters had lifted two bikes from the house of ABKWW Anti Drugs member last month after which an investigation team was formed which succeeded in cracking the case. A case has been reg-

istered against the bike lifters at the Pasighat PS Case No. 141/15 u/s 379 IPC. Patum Bridge was found at the lifter’s home at Mirbuk village, added Anti drug committee sources. During the interrogation, the boys have said to have confessed to their offence and told that they sold the stolen bike at Rs.6000/7000 to buyers in Assam. According to Joya Tasung Moyong, an woman was involved who masterminded the crime, but she didn’t reveal any name as the matter was under investigation.

DMO claims scam in Sick Born Child Care Unit’s building Contd. from Page 1

unfortunately nothing of the sort is visible in the building which was built attached with the labour room in an unhy-

gienic site. The unit should have been rather in a free from any infection zone and should have been built separately at a clean site. "We cannot use this kind of building and require

a fresh construction", she added. Complaining of poor execution of work, Dr S Nayil DRCHO who has also taken over office in recent times said that the building is not fit to treat

the sick new born child because of poor quality of work. "I was expecting an unit well-furnished RCC to afford better treatment to a sick child; sadly the unit is so", he rued.

Shopping mall ‘M Mart’ arrives at Pasighat Contd. from Page 1

Engineer turned business entrepreneur Toi Modi said that the customers of M Mart buying goods here at Pasighat can exchange their purchased items at Naharlagun and vice versa.

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

Integration of thought is necessary On the Occasion of Tarun Gogoi’s Birthday to understand life: Prof. Amit Kauts Nityananda Pattanayak Nagaon, Oct 11: “Integration of thought is necessary to understand life. Proper education helps to achieve this”, said Prof. Amit Kauts, of MGM College of Education, Jullandhar while delivering the keynote address here on 8th October at Khagen Mahanta Auditorium at the inaugural function of an international seminar on “Holistic Education for a Better World” organized with a three-day long itinerary by the department of education, Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV), Nagaon in collaboration with Commonwealth Council for Educational Administration & Management, Assam Affiliate,

Sadiya organisations form Sadiya Juotho Sangrami Mancho ET Correspondent Sadiya, Oct 11: Various organisations of Sadiya including Sadiya Tai Ahom Yuva Parishad, Sadiya Jill's Deori Students' Union, Sadiya Regional Gurkha Students' Union, Sadiya Regional Mising Students' Union (TMPK), Sadiya District Sonowal Kachari Students' Union, Sadiya Sub Division Chutia Students' Union, Sadiya Regional Tea Tribes Students' Union, Sadiya Regional Muslim Yuva Parishad organised a general meeting at 11 o'clock in connection with their demand to have a local candidate representing them in any political party. In the meeting, dignitaries including Mànjit, Dilip Borah attended and expressed dissatisfaction in this connection saying that since independence till now Sadiya was always neglected by the outsider candidates as they can't feel the pain of the people of Sadiya who are often overwhelmed by the same issues like flood, deplorable condition of road, lack of proper treatment in hospitals, etc. These organisations of Sadiya formed another organisation named Sadiya Juotho Sangrami Mancho with the view to solve the various issues of Sadiya.

H.Q. Canada. Continuing his speech Prof. Kauts observed that poverty, illiteracy, inequality, phenomenal rise of population and erosion of human values had cast its shadow on our life and society. The present education scenario in the country is not encouraging since it has failed on many fronts to address basic problems faced by the youth of the country, and hence holistic education is the need of the hour, he said. It gives holistic life and helps enrichment of our existence on the globe, he added. Dr. Mridul Kumar Hazarika, Vice-Chancellor of Gauhati University attending the function as a chief guest said we should

understand properly the change taking place in and around our society since value perception changes from age to age. A better world can be achieved only through holistic education, he added. Prof. Nilima Bhagawati while speaking on the occasion said about the need to work on the right direction in order to get the desired result. Only holistic education can make it possible, she said. Prof. Kandarpa Kumar Deka, Vice-Chancellor of MSSV also addressed the audience. Earlier Tribeni Saikia, coordinator of the seminar organizing committee welcomed the guests. Dr. Dinamani Thakuria, Academic Registrar of the University

gave vote of thanks. A souvenir was released on the occasion by Dr. Durlova Chamuah, local MLA. More than one hundred fifty papers were presented in the seminar which was divided into six technical sessions. Sessions were on “Holistic Education and Development”, “Competency Based Teaching Approach for 21st Century Learners”, “Skill Based Education and Productive Employment”, “Harmonizing Life Skills and Education”, “Restructuring of Curriculum for Holistic Education” and “Synergizing Science & Spirituality and Others”. Cultural function and Yoga Demonstration were held on the occasion.

Margherita Civil Hospital reels under manpower crunch ET Correspondent Margherita, Oct 11: Margherita Civil Hospital FRU is reeling under manpower crunch, said Dr Kumud Chandra Das, Deputy Superintendent of Margherita Civil Hospital. "We need many doctors, medicine specialists, ENT, orthopaedics, pathologists, gynecologists as we have only five government appointed doctors and 3 National Health Mission(NHM) appointed

doctors with more than 100 patients coming from neighbouring State Arunachal Pradesh and from Greater Margherita constituency region on a daily basis," said Dr Kumud Chandra Das. Dr Kumud Chandra Das claimed they have for the first time successfully operated on a HIV infected patient while they regularly cure all the patients who come to Margherita Civil Hospital. Meanwhile, a ma-

jor problem has erupted at Margherita Civil Hospital that some portion of its land has been encroached upon. In this connection, several land demarcation letter have been submitted to the Margherita Administration but no step has been taken. "If Health Department of Assam sends in more doctors and other needed staff to Margherita Civil Hospital than it be better for us," said Dr Kumud Chandra Das.

PM Modi congratulates newly-elected Nepalese PM New Delhi, Oct. 11 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke to newly-elected Nepalese Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli and congratulated him for his victory. The Prime Minister said that Oli has been elected in democratic and orderly elections, and he is looking forward to working closely with the new regime. "PM @narendramodi spoke to Shri KP Oli and congratulated him on being elected as the PM of Nepal," Prime Minister's Office (PMO) tweeted. Prime Minister expressed the hope and expectation that Oli will carry all sections of the society along, so that there is peace and stability in the country. "We are confident that the Government of Nepal will address the remaining political issues confronting the country in a spirit of dialogue and reconciliation," said the Prime Minister. "We have always stood for peace prosperity and progress of Nepal, which is also in India's interest. India will continue to extend all assistance, in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Nepal, for peace, stability and socio-economic development of the country," said the Prime Minister. Oli, Chairman of the Communist Party of NepalUnified Marxist Leninist, got 338 votes, 39 more than the required 299 to be elected as the Prime Minister. Nepali Congress president Sushil Koirala could secure only 249 votes. A total of 587 members had cast their votes. Meanwhile, former Nepal Prime Minister Sushil Koirala said, "We welcome the new Government.

Sport

Kukistan Youth Club takes Bethal Youth Club to the cleaners 11th CEM’s CUP Carnival 2015

Chief Secretary, V K Pipersenia (left) along with senior officials (right) greet Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on his 82nd Birthday at the latter's official residence at Khanapara in Guwahati on October 11, 2015.

Consulate General of France pays courtesy call on Assam-Nagaland Governor Contd. from Page 1

He also added that fashion designing was an important craft. The Governor also emphasized that visit of French tourists be also encouraged. The Consul General informed that a big project on biodiversity and forest conservation had also been

undertaken in collaboration between the Govt. of France and the Govt. of Assam. The Governor also said that tackling bio-diversity issues and conservation of forests and wildlife were issues of prime importance. The Governor urged that collaboration in fashion designing and ornament making could also be

taken up as France was world famous for both. The Governor also said that they could take up a showroom in Shilpagram, Guwahati and should also visit Shankardev Kalakshetra to witness local performing arts. He added that the possibilities of taking up skill-development schemes after entering into MOUs with

universities should also be looked into. He also said that they should visit the other states of the Northeast and besides other sectors of cooperation, should also look into the possibilities of aiding the sports sector particularly in Manipur as the Manipuri people were exceptionally good in sports.

Residents concerned over sale of illicit liquor in the heart of Tinsukia Contd. from Page 1

On condition of anonymity, a youth residing in that locality told The Eastern Today correspondent that the residents of this area have overcome fear to unite against the people behind this illegal business and submitted a memorandum to the deputy commissioner and excise department. In its wake, a team of officers from excise department along with Tinsukia police came to the area and assured us that they will clear the area of the business of illicit liquor. "One of the persons behind serving illicit liquor was even picked up by police but to our disappointment he was back by the evening", he added. Another lady residing in

the area said that as early as 5:00 in the morning the business of serving of illicit liquor starts and it continues till late into the night making the area unsafe for us. Such places are often visited by people with criminal bent of mind and is also one of the reasons behind the increase in the crime rate of the town, claimed sources. Sources added that serving of illicit liquor is not limited to the Bazar area, but has made huge inroads into Hijuguri, Nauphukri and few other areas of the town. It must be mentioned that sale of liquor without license is a serious offence. Despite the presence of excise department, district administration and police the unabated sale and serving of illicit liquor in the heart of the town has raised several questions.

Journalist killed in car accident in Paikan, Assam Contd. from Page 1

Sources informed that Kenny and Walton were heading towards Tura from Paikan to cover the GHADC elections which is scheduled to be held on Monday. “Both of them met

with this tragic accident after the driver lost control of the vehicle in which they were travelling and hit a huge tree after it skidded off the road at around 2.15 pm,” sources informed. While Walton was sitting with the driver in the front seat of the ve-

hicle, sources said that Kenny was sitting at the back alone when the accident took place. “All the three were rushed to Seven Sister Hospital at Goalpara. The doctor at the hospital declared that Kenny was no more at around 3.05 pm,”

sources said. On the advice of the doctor at Seven Sister Hospital at Goalpara, sources informed that Walton was shifted to GNRC Hospital, Guwahati. It has been learnt that the condition of Walton is stable now.

Campaigning ends, voters to decide GHADC elections ET Correspondent Haflong, Oct 11: In a one-sided affair, Kukistan Youth Club defeated Bethal Youth Club 3-0 in the 11th CEM’s CUP Carnival 2015 to-

day here. Ella of Kukistan Youth Club opened the scoring in the 11th minute before Satmang came up with a brace in the 36th and 50th minutes respectively.

Meanwhile, Kukistan Youth Club’s Thang Gougin was shown the yellow card for unsporting behavior by the match official Elvis Gangte. The match ended

with the scoreline reading 3-0 in favour of Kukistan Youth Club. Tomorrow’s game will be played between Barail FC Vs Ever Green Club; kick off time at 5 pm.

The electioneering is expected to be hectic despite a bandh called by proscribed GNLA from 10 to 12 October in the entire Garo Hills. Around 5.87 lakh voters will decide the fate of 162 candidates in this elections intra-state connectivity on in 788 polling stations. Ofregional routes, which are ficial sources said that out currently served by its sub- of these polling stations, sidiary Alliance Air, to provide tourists seamless transportation within states, Air India said. Alliance Air, AI's regional arm, currently operates ATR-72 planes under the Viability Contd. from Page 1 Gap Funding (VGF) arrangement in the NorthEastern states, Andaman & have become targets of Nicobar Islands, vultures and crows, villagLakshadweep Islands, ers informed.Villagers also Karnataka and Puducherry. informed that they had in-

AI comes up with new modalities of its holiday packages Contd. from Page 1

Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani had late last month announced the launch of "Incredible Air India Holiday" packages from December 1, in association with the State Tourism Development corporations. Airlines globally take the holiday packages route to attract fliers in the highly competitive aviation market. Lohani held a meeting

with the senior officials of tourism department of some states to work out the modalities of the "Incredible Air India Holiday" packages, which would be of the interest for a customer, Air India said in a statement. According to Air India, the two nights/three day packages will be attractively priced and available for direct purchase from the airline's website. Among the states represented at the meeting were Sikkim,

Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir, it said. As part of these offerings, tourists will have the option of choosing from 34 packages in each state, covering a wide range of interests like wildlife reserves, religious places, adventure sports and forts and various museums. At the same time, the national carrier also plans to enhance

Contd. from Page 1

255 are hyper sensitive polling stations while 108 polling stations are sensitive. The elections might turn out to be sensitive after different non-governmental organizations had earlier decided to boycott the elections in protest against inclusion of non-tribals. “It is encouraging that despite the bandh called by banned outfits, shops and people defied it by open-

ing their shops, coming out in the streets”, West Garo Hills district deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi said. Several shops in Tura, Ampati, Williamnagar, Phulbari, Rajabala, Resubelpara, Mahendraganj and Baghmara opened during bandh hours. Earlier, the Meghalaya High Court had directed the government to ensure that public should come out during

bandh and those local taxis, buses which refused to ply should be taken stern action against. Sources said that the election will witness the main fight between the Congress and the NPP. The cooperation between the NPP, UDP and the BJP will perhaps put hurdles for the ruling Congress to come back to majority this time. The result will be declared on October 15.

Two highly decomposed dead bodies yet to be recovered formed the South Salmara Police Station about the bodies spotted on the bank of the river some 15 days ago but police have not recovered the bodies for postmortem. The view of the

bodies was heart wrenching and a gory sight as predators like vultures and crows hovered on the bodies, villagers said.When officerin-charge of South Salmara Police Station was told by

this correspondent today about the bodies lying on the bank of river under his police station, he pleaded ignorance about it, but assured to recover those tomorrow.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

PAGE 5

REGION

Key CSOs deliberate on people's common future Imphal, Oct 11: A series of discussion programmes on the topic 'People's movement for the common future of Manipur' was opened today at Hotel Imphal here. The discussion programme was jointly organised by the All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO), Committee of Civil Societies Kangleipak (CCSK) and the United Committee Manipur (UCM). Notably, the programme was attended by leaders of different communities. UCM president E John-son, AMUCO vicepresident Ph Deban and CCSK secretary general Jitendra N attended the programme as presidium members where Prof A Lokendrajit was also seated on the dais as moderator. Dr Dhanabir Laishram said that unlike other places the larger community is suffering more in Manipur. He categorically stated that parochial or ethnic based agenda would not serve any purpose. Rather all the communities must unite together and work collectively for development of the land. Just as the British rulers did during the colonial period, the Government of India has been scheming to create more and more divi-

A speaker addresses the discussion programme. sions in the North East region. Pointing out that there is no common law which is applicable to all the Northeastern States, Dr Dhanabir asserted that the North East region can never achieve any meaningful progress as long as there is discrimination in governance. Some people have been conspiring relentlessly to keep the people of the land, particularly the hill people under perpetual subjugation. Those elements have been working consistently to create more divisions and build artificial boundaries between different communities. The demands for separate home-

land or State are all guided by narrow, selfish agenda and such ethnic based agenda is not at all feasible in a plural society. The Government of India has no right to re-draw the boundary of Manipur and the State Government should explain in detail the history of Manipur to New Delhi. Political leaders of the State must ensure that the Government of India stops undue and unsolicited interference in the internal matters of Manipur. If they are genuine representatives of the mass, they must understand people's pulse, Dr Dhanabir asserted. Ichel Express Editor

Irengbam Arun asserted it's time to think out of the Constitution of India rather than restricting all the ideas and thoughts within the Constitution. Establishment of associations based on ethnicity or community is rather regressive. Instead, all civil society organisations should have a broader vision for a comprehensive Manipur, Arun said. Senior Advocate Khaidem Mani opined that the conflicts seen between different communities in Manipur could have been averted had there been good governance. At the same time, the Government of India need not inter-

fere in matters which the State Government can handle on its own. Nonetheless, it is crucial to find out all the grievances and aspirations of different communities in order to chalk out a common path. JD-U Manipur general secretary Lien Gangte highlighted the importance of electing capable representatives who can take the State forward. Only those leaders who can see all the people of different communities as one and equal and who can bring good governance should be elected. Lien Gangte asserted. Kuki Mothers' Association president Rose Mangshi Haokip pointed out the framework agreement signed between NSCNIM and Government has only bred more confusion and anxiety among the masses and people did not believe everything what interlocutor RN Ravi said. The State Government should delve into the root causes of the prevailing restive situation in order to work out an amicable solution, she added. Former MU College Development Council Director RK Ranjan asserted that an agenda for uniform development of the hills and the

valley should precede any blueprint for the State's common future. To work out a far-sighted, long term policy for a united Manipur is the need of the hour, he said. E Johnson asserted that the State Government should bear responsibility for 50 per cent of all the unwanted incidents and the crises which took place in Manipur. The State Government cannot function from the perspective of a single community. It should have a broader view encompassing all the communities of Manipur. Ph Deban underscored the need to work out a common formulae in consultation with all leaders of different communities for a united and progressive Manipur. Dr L Somendro asserted that smaller communities of Manipur were protected under monarchy. But creating more and more divisions among different communities became a recurring political game once Manipur was merged into the Indian Union. RK Ranendrajit said that people of Manipur are quite disappointed with the Government of India which claims to be the largest democracy in the world. (Agencies)

TMC backs Missionaries Bihar polls: Grand alliance of Charity's decision to complains to EC over PM Modi's rally at Bhabua stop adoption homes Kolkata, Oct 11: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Sunday welcomed the Missionaries of Charity's decision of discontinuing adoption centers and said that nobody should pressurise them as they are doing good work. TMC spokesperson Derek O'Brien said West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has supported the decision of Sister Prema and Mother Teresa-founded

Missionaries of Charity to stop their adoption centers. "This great country of ours is based on the essence of unity and diversity. They are doing great work the missionary for charity irrespective of caste, creed, religion they are doing good work for free. We just hope that and pray that they are allowed to continue doing the good work in the way they want to do it and nobody should disturb them. We support

the decision of adoption centers. So, no one should pressurise them," Derek told ANI. Mamata had earlier supported the Missionaries of Charity on stopping adoption at their orphanages. Following revision in guidelines on adoption by the Centre, the Missionaries of Charity, had said in a statement yesterday that it had stopped adoption at their orphanages two months ago. (Agencies)

New Delhi, Oct 11: The grand alliance of JD (U), RJD and Congress on Sunday lodged a complaint with the Election Commission over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled rally at Bhabua, Bihar, tomorrow and said that its live telecast would be violation of the Model Code of Conduct. "Prime Minister Modi's (Bhabhua) rally tomorrow is in the same place where polling is scheduled to take place.

On one side, the people will cast their votes and the Prime Minister's rally would be telecast on the other side, which will affect the voters and it would be violation of the Model Code of Conduct," JD (U) leader K.C. Tyagi told ANI. "We met the representatives of the Chief Election Commissioner and briefed them over the Model Code of Conduct's Article 126," he added. Another JD (U) leader Pawan

CPI (Maoist) demote senior leaders over 'love affairs', say seized documents Raipur, Oct 11: The outlawed CPI (Maoist) leadership has demoted some of its senior leaders for "falling in love" with women cadres, according to some documents of rebels seized recently by the police. As per the documents, Gajrala Ashok (42), a prominent member of Dandakarnya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC), has been demoted and given the rank of divisional committee member for falling in love

with a woman leader. DKSZC controls Maoist activities in south Chhattisgarh and bordering area of neighbouring states -- Telangana, Odisha and Maharashtra. "Ashok was demoted and given lower rank following complaints against him for having love affair with a woman cadre, as per the rebel documents," Inspector General of Police (antiNaxal operations) Deepanshu Kabra told the

media. Similarly, another DKSZC member Ingolapu was demoted as divisional committee member while Bejjarapu Kisan, who was a divisional committee member, was made an area committee member for the same reason, the IG said. "The Maoist documents clearly establish that love affairs are considered as misconduct and violation of rules in the Naxal movement, as a result of which several male cadres have

surrendered along with their girlfriend or wife to lead a social life," the IG said. The surrendered couples in their statements have confessed that they were strictly directed not to engage in love, marriage or conceive a child. The cadres were even forced to undergo sterilisation when senior leaders came to know about their affairs or abortion, if they found any female cadre pregnant, he said. The Naxal documents

Jamshedpur, Oct 11: A jawan on duty at Ghatsila jail died of snake bite early today, police said. Nelson Toppo, a SAF jawan on contract, was on duty last night at Ghatsila jail, about 45 km from here, when a poisonous snake bit him, Superintendent of Police (Rural) Shailendra Kumar Sinha said. Toppo's colleagues rushed him to Government-run MGM Hospital here but he died early today. (Agencies)

around the Agartala city. TSECL expected that during festival days, the total power demand will stand at 300 MW and to fulfill the demand TSECL has taken initiatives for additional power supply during puja days from outside the state. On Saturday, the demand during peak hours stood at 230 MW and to maintain the supply a total of 116 MW power was procured from outside the state. About 45 minutes of load shedding was effected to make up for the deficit of 44 MW from requirement. Due to inadequate supply of gas by ONGC, thermal power units of Baramura only managed to produce 30 MW power from its capacity of 42 MW. Similarly, Rukhuia power unit has produced only 37 MW of power from its capacity of 63 MW due to inadequate supply of gas. On

Saturday state's own generation stood at 70 MW and TSECL procured 116 MW power including power from Palatana plant. TSECL sources added that the necessary maintenance of transmission lines have al-

Bhabua (Bihar), Oct 11: Samajwadi Party (SP) supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav on Sunday blamed Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for his party's exit from the grand alliance in Bihar. "When we decided to contest the Bihar polls together, in the beginning Nitish Kumar supported the coalition but when the coalition announcement was to be made, Nitish silently met Rahul and Sonia Gandhi," Mulayam said while addressing a rally here. "We were waiting for him and Lalu said that he (Nitish) must be meeting Congress leaders. When I called him I was told that he is in Delhi and when I met Nitish, he responded, saying he needs to leave for Patna due to an urgent work," he added. "Are they politicians? Is it correct to lie? Is betraying a sign of noble politics?" asked Yadav. Mulayam also attempted to create a divide between Nitish and RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav. "Injustice was done to Lalu Prasad Yadav, he was sentenced a jail for five years. But who was responsible for this punishment. It was this Chief Minister ( Nitish Kumar)," he added. The Samajwadi Party had last month pulled out of the grand alliance, saying it felt humiliated as it was not consulted while deciding seats and would contest the assembly elections in Bihar on its own. (ANI)

Urban Development workshop on zero waste, sanitation

Gangtok, Oct 11: Urban Development department organized a Statelevel workshop on zero waste and sanitation at GMC conference hall on October 5- 7 as part of nation-wide campaign to mark the first anniversary of the launch of Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban). Experts were invited from all parts of India to share knowledge in the field of sanitation, individual household composting and biogas for community, informs a press release. This workshop, aimed at creating master trainers who would further create awareness and bring about behavioural change in a top down approach, was attended by around 40 nominated representatives including sanitation inspectors, supervisors, NGOs and public of different Urban Local Bodies. On the last day of the workshop, a field visit to Martam Waste Management Plant and landfill was also organized, the release informs. (Agencies)

CPM-TMC conflict: Police, leaders injured

have also talked about the issue of cadres falling in love as a cause of concern for the movement which has been facing setback for the past year due to dearth of cadres. "The police keep a vigil on every development within the banned outfit in Bastar. We also try to extend help to cadres who were ill-treated or exploited through several means so as to attract them towards the mainstream," he added. (Agencies)

Jawan TSECL to purchase additional power to dies of ensure load shedding free Durga Puja snake bite Agartala, Oct 11 : In order to ensure load shedding free festival of Durga Puja across Tripura, the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) has made elaborate arrangements to illuminate the state. Considering the present situation of the inadequate supply of gas by ONGC in the power generations units of Tripura, resulting in less generation of power from state's own sources, the TSECL has decided to purchase additional power from outside the state to maintain uninterrupted power supply during puja days. TSECL sources said that the capital city of Agartala will be load shedding free zone before the ensuing festivities of Durga Puja keeping in view the ongoing preparations of community puja organizers and heavy shopping in and

Verma, who was also the part of the delegation, questioned the timing of Prime Minister Modi's rally. "The first phase of Bihar elections is tomorrow. Is it a co-incidence that Prime Minister Modi begins his tour in neighbouring area on the same day?" he added. Congress leader Ajay Maken said that he requested the Election Commission to ban campaigning 48 hours before polling for the first phase. (Agencies)

Mulayam holds Nitish responsible for split in grand alliance

ready been completed for uninterrupted power supply during puja days and TSECL has opened 24hours control room for solving problems in power connections and emergency maintenance. (Agencies)

Kolkata, Oct 11: CPIM leader Khagendra Nath Singha, MLA from Hemtabad, Forward Bloc leader Gokul Roy, an MLA from Karandighi, six CPI-M leaders and four policemen, including inspector-in-charge of Raiganj police station Gautam Chakraborty were injured after a clash broke out between the Trinamul and CPI-M activists at Karnajora in North Dinajpur on Saturday. Miscreants backed by the Trinamul leaders allegedly exploded bombs and open fired indiscriminately in the clash that broke out in front of Raiganj BEd College. At that time election process to form executive committee for running Raiganj central cooperative bank Ltd

was going on. The Trinamul-backed candidates won eight seats of the nine seats. The Left leaders had to leave the election premises due to the ongoing violence and later they blocked the National Highway-34 demanding arrest of miscreants who allegedly attacked them. In protest the Left leaders decided launch a rally in both the North and south Dinajpur on Sunday. North Dinajpur district CPI-M secretary Apurba Paul said: "Trinamul leaders conducted elections after driving our leaders and supporters out by exploding bombs. They have violated democratic rights." District president of Trinamul Congress Amal Acharya alleged the CPI-M sup-

porters came with bow and arrow. "As a result a clash broke out between CPI-M and police," Mr Acharya added. North Dinajpur SP S W Raza refused to comment on this issue. Trinamul Congress Secy General Partha Chatterjee today said that he has asked for a detailed report of the incident from the district president Amal Acharya. "We have seen in the television that the CPM had brought 348 persons who later attacked the police with bow and arrow," Mr Chatterjee said. He further said," We have asked the administration to act accordingly and the party will not interfere in the administration." (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

PM Modi criticized for not making "strong" comments post Dadri lynching New Delhi, Oct 11: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not making a "strong enough" statement in the wake of the Dadri lynching and also censured him for not reacting immediately to the incident. Nitish Kumar criticised Modi on his remarks in the wake of Dadri lynching. The JD(U) leader also flayed Modi for invoking the President's message on tolerance and plurality instead of directly condemning the lynching incident. He said Modi's comments on Thursday on maintaining communal harmony and eradicating poverty were not "strong enough" to allay apprehensions

among the people. Kumar also accused BJP of playing the communal card to divert attention away from the real issues. "The PM should have reacted

Arvind Kejriwal to meet AAP MLAs today, caution them of Asim's episode

New Delhi, Oct 11: After sacking Environment, Food and Supplies Minister Asim Ahmed Khan over graft charges, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is set to caution party MLAs, and their families, against a repeat of the episode. Kejriwal said the MLAs will be reminded of the background of the party, its ideology and how it rose from an anti-corruption movement. He will also send a stern message at the meeting that those erring will not be spared. "Meeting all MLAs, with families, Sunday evening. To remind them why we came in politics. To warn them that Asim Khan epi-

sode should not happen again," Kejriwal tweeted. The meeting with all party MLAs will take place at his Flag Staff Residence. He is also expected to caution family members of MLAs. AAP's Delhi unit secretary Dilip Pandey said, "We can tolerate poverty, insults, but not corruption...MLA meeting is to reiterate this ideology of the party." The formation of AAP has its roots in social activist Anna Hazare's anti-graft crusade movement. Kejriwal had on Friday announced sacking of Khan over an alleged graft case amounting to Rs 6 lakh. (Agencies)

quickly. His statement was not strong enough. Instead of remaining silent, he should have reacted immediately (on the Dadri incident) to allay apprehen-

sions and repose confidence among people," Kumar told to the media. The Prime Minister's statement should have been direct and he should not have invoked the President as it is Modi who is the elected leader of the country, Kumar said even as he wondered why he had made his remark in Bihar rather than at the central level. At an election rally on Friday, Kumar had also accused Modi of using PresidentPranab Mukherjee's statement as an 'alibi' and asked him to show courage to condemn the Dadri lynching incident in 'unequivocal terms'. Kumar had also dared him to a debate. JD(U) is contesting

the upcoming Bihar polls as part of a grand alliance with RJD and Congress, exuded confidence about their victory and asserted that the alliance would remain intact after the elections even as he dismissed suggestions of joining hands with Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM should such a situation arise. Kumar also targeted Modi for his silence on RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's reservation comments and alleged that the prime minister's assertion of focussing on development "sounded hollow" as the Centre had curtailed central allocation to various welfare programmes, including MNREGA. (Agencies)

PAGE 6

Advani lauds Nanaji Deshmukh's contribution to Indian freedom struggle

New Delhi, Oct 11: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) veteran Lal Krishna Advani on Sunday paid his tributes to social activist Nanaji Deshmukh and said that he contributed immensely to the Indian freedom struggle. "I want to congratulate the Prime Minister and the administration for visualizing a programme like this,"

Kasuri's book launch interrupted by Shiv Sena Mumbai, Oct 11 : After ghazal maestro Ghulam Ali, Shiv Sena on Saturday asked management of a city-based convention centre here to call off former Pakistani foreign minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri's book launch function. Citing the neighbouring country's support to terrorism as the reason behind the opposition, the party warned that the function will be disrupted if not cancelled. Sena vibhag pramukh Ashish Chemburkar submitted a letter to director of Nehru Plan-

etarium here, demanding that the event be cancelled and organisers informed accordingly. "The people at Nehru Planetarium where the event is scheduled, told us they will try to cancel it," Chemburkar said. "We have informed them that we will disrupt the event if it is not canceled," he said. The Observer Research Foundation Mumbai, which is organising the event, on Friday approached Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, seeking "adequate security" to Kasuri after cancellation of

Ghulam Ali's concert in the city. Kasuri will launch the book 'Neither a Hawk nor a Dove: An Insider's Account of Pakistan's Foreign Policy', in Mumbai on October 12 at the Hall of Culture, Nehru Centre, Worli. "Our purpose in organising this function is to make our own humble contribution to the much-needed normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan. Kasuri's widely appreciated book shows his strong commitment to peaceful and cooperative ties between our two countries," ORF

Chairman Sudheendra Kulkarni had said. "The launch of the book will be accompanied by a panel discussion, in which the speakers are: A G Noorani, eminent jurist, historian and author; Naseeruddin Shah, renowned film and theatre personality; and Dileep Padgaonkar, eminent journalist and columnist," Kulkarni, who will moderate the talk, had said. During his stay in Mumbai between October 11 and 14, Kasuri, besides attending the book launch function, will also visit Mani Bhavan and Jinnah House "if

India-Spain ties have intensified in recent years: President Mukherjee New Delhi, Oct 11: President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday extended his greetings and felicitations to Spanish King Felipe VI and the people of Spain on the eve of their National Day and said the relations between the two countries have intensified in recent

years. "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, I convey warm greetings and felicitations to Your Majesty and to the people of Spain on the occasion of your National Day," he said in his message to King Felipe VI. President

Mukherjee added that the ties between both sides have expanded to embrace new areas of common interest. "The year 2016 will mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between India and Spain, offering both countries the opportunity to work on realising fully the true

potential of the two countries' partnership," President Mukherjee said. "Please accept, Your Majesty, my best wishes for your personal health and well-being, and for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of Spain" the President said. (ANI)

India planning to buy Russian S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems: Report Delhi, Oct 11: India is planning to acquire newgeneration Russian S400 Triumf air defence missile systems, as per a media report. The Russian air defence missile systems can supposedly destroy incoming hostile aircraft, stealth fighters, missiles and drones. Its range is up to 400 km. According to sources, the defence acquisitions council (DAC), which is

chaired by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, will soon take up the proposal. The proposal for the acquisition has been moved by the IAF. The plan is to purchase around a dozen S-400 long-range systems. The Daily also quoted sources as saying that the project was at an initial stage at present and that if finalised, the S-400 systems will be inducted

over several years. Parrikar is due to visit Russia. Also Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Putin will be holding a summit in Moscow in December. The S-400 reportedly has three kinds of missiles with different capabilities. It is said to fly at supersonic and hypersonic speeds to intercept all kinds of targets at ranges from 120 to 400 km. (Agencies)

Dadri lynching: Shiv Sena mouthpiece PM Modi lays foundation stone of Dr B.R. Ambedkar at Indu Mills Saamna says 'religious tension' being Mumbai, Oct 11: Prime Min- Minister Modi is also sched- lic meeting. Earlier in the day, generated for 'political gain' ister Narendra Modi on Sun- uled to participate in the Prime Minister Modi also laid Mumbai, Oct 11: The Shiv Sena mouthpiece Saamna on Sunday attacked the Centre over theDadri incident, saying that 'a man's death' was being used for nefarious purposes and political gains in the upcoming Bihar polls and also hit out at Uttar Pradesh minister Azam Khan, saying he has misunderstood the very definition of 'secularism'. "Our 'secular' nation is trying to use strategies on how to use Dadri for the Bihar elections. Criticism is rampant that the country is not secular under Prime Minister Modi and that the RSS wants a Hindu nation. But religious

tension is being generated in the country for political gain and such attempts won't be tolerated,? Saamna said. Taking on the Prime Minister, the editorial said that there was communal tension in his own constituency (Varanasi), but no action was being taken to douse the violence. Training guns on Azam Khan, the editorial attacked him for his decision of taking theDadri lynching case to the United Nations. "Azam Khan has misunderstood secularism and has crossed all limits in an effort to spur communal tension in the nation. There are many people like

Advani said while speaking at an event - Loktantra Prahari Abhinandan organised on the occasion 113th birth anniversary of Jayaprakash Narayan at Vigyan Bhavan here. "We have organised this programme today because of the birth anniversary of J P Narayan ji. I also want to mention that Nana Deshmukh, who also worked for RSS and later on went to actively participate in politics for years, shares his birthday today," he added. Advani further said, "Today, he is not with us but the way in which he devoted his entire life in the service of the nation, I can say that he was one of our great leaders who participated in our freedom struggle." (Agencies)

him who are the reasons for a divide in the country. Is he is so concerned about communal case, why is he not raising the deaths of many Hindus in Kashmir and Pakistan", the Shiv Sena mouthpiece added. The editorial ended on an note appealing to the nation saying that India 'should not be divided over a piece of beef'. The Shiv Sena had earlier reiterated their demand for the resignation of Azam Khan, saying that by taking the Dadri lynching case to the United Nations he had betrayed the nation and asserted that India was a safe haven for all Muslims. (Agencies)

day laid the foundation stone of the Dr B. R. Ambedkar memorial at Indu Mills compound here. Prime

foundation laying ceremony for the Metro corridor at the Bandra Kurla Complex after which he will address a pub-

the foundation stone of the fourth container terminal at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) here.(ANI)

possible", he said. Kasuri will also meet veteran movie star Dilip Kumar at his residence. In a letter to Fadnavis, Kulkarni asked the state government to provide adequate and foolproof security to Kasuri during his stay here. Security for Kasuri has become all the more necessary in view of the condemnable episode a few days ago when a concert in Mumbai by Ghulam Ali was called off because of the Shiv Sena's threat to the organisers of the event, he had said. (Agencies)

BoB Forex Scam: CBI Raids 50 More Locations New Delhi, Oct 11: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday raided 50 more locations in connection with Bank of Baroda's north Delhi branch's alleged foreign exchange act violation worth over Rs. 6,000 crores. According to sources, key figures involved in the crime have been identified and the suspects are being interrogated. Most addresses given by firms involved in the case were found to be false. The CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had yesterday conducted a joint raid of a north Delhi branch of the Bank of Baroda. The transfer of the money was made to Hong Kong, as per preliminary investigations between August 1, 2014 and August 12, 2015. It is being alleged that there were 8,667 forex transactions from the Ashok Vihar branch of the bank, prompting a probe. The Congress Party had yesterday questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment on the black money issue, asking him why no FIR had been filed against Bank of Baroda officials illegally transferring a whopping Rs. 6,172 crores in foreign exchange. (ANI)

Handwara encounter: One militant gunned down Srinagar, Oct 11: A militant was killed in North Kashmir's Waderbala Handwara after Army and Special Operations Group of police launched an operation in the area. Army said that last night they received information about the presence of militants in Waderbala area. As army reached the location to launch search operation, militants opened fire on the troops. Army said that so far one militant has been killed.

Officials said that they have information that two to three militants are hiding in the area. The encounter took place in the Hafruda neighborhood where four army men were killed a after militants hiding in the forests attacked the patrol team searching the area. After the killing of four soldiers army had launched a big operation in the area. So far identification of slain militant has not been revealed. (Agencies)

No beef has been exported in last 15 months, says Sushil Modi Patna, Oct 11: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sushil Modion Sunday downplayed the claims made by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over meat exports, saying that there has been no export of beef from India ever since the Narendra Modi led-BJP Government has come into power. "Yesterday, the Bihar Chief Minister made a baseless and false statement on the issue of beef in front of the media. There has a complete ban on the export of beef ever since the Modi Government came into power," Sushil told reporters here. "People like Lalu Yadav and Nitish Kumar are making false statements and raising the issue of beef in the Bihar Elections contrary to our agenda of develop-

ment. There has been no export of beef from India in the last fifteen months," he added. Addressing an election rally at Samastipur on Friday, Nitish claimed that meat exports had substantially increased in Gujarat when Narendra Modi was at the helm of affairs in the state. He said while Gujarat exported 10,600 tonnes of meat in 2003, the quantity rose to 34,990 tonnes in 2013. The Chief Minister also tweeted on Friday that beef exports from the country registered a drastic increase during Modi's first year as the Prime Minister. "Modiji's doublespeak at its best. Beef exports went up by 15.4 percent in his first year as PM, yet he is trying to make beef an issue in Bihar election," he tweeted. (ANI)

Sahitya Akademi must defend writers, says Keki Daruwalla New Delhi, Oct 11: Eminent poet and short story writer Keki Daruwalla on Sunday said it is the Sahitya Akademi's responsibility to defend the writers whose rights are being encroached upon. Daruwalla, who has written to the president of the

Sahitya Akademi lamenting the lack of action after the murder of Kannada scholar and researcher M.M. Kalburgi, said the writers should also raise their voice. "It was the Akademi's duty and absolute responsibility to defend the writers, there

are writers whose rights are being encroached upon. I will also blame the writers for not raising their voice.. Writing a letter and condemning it is not enough, Sahitya Akademi should sit and find the solution," he told ANI. Kalburgi was shot

dead at point-blank range by two unidentified men at his residence in Dharwad on August 30. Meanwhile, Daruwalla also condemned the Dadri lynching incident. "You cannot force them to eat what you want them to eat. Cannot force anyone

to think what you think," he said. Mohammad Akhlaq was beaten to death and his son Danish was critically injured by a mob which barged into their house in Bisada village in Dadri on the night of September 28 following rumours that the family had consumed beef. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

Nepal PM election: Parliament session begins Kathmandu, Oct 11 : Nepal's parliament session has begun where the constituent assembly will elect the country's new Prime Minister today.Krishna Bhakta Pokhrel of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) said, "All the Parliamentmembers are enthusiastic about the election.""We will bring a revolutionary decision", he added.The Madhesbased parties in Nepal are believed to lend their support to Nepali Congress candidate Sushil Koirala in the election. (ANI)

KP Sharma Oli elected as new Prime Minister of Nepal Kathmandu, Oct 11 : Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) CPN-UMLChairman KP Sharma Oli has been elected as the new Prime Minister of Nepal.Oli secured 338 votes out of 598. Earlier reports suggested that Oli was heading towards absolute majority. Madhesi Jan Adhikar Forum Loktantrik party with its 12 Members of Parliament has extended support to Oli. According to The Himalayan Times, Nepali Congress President Sushil Koirala had asked lawmakers supporting Oli to sign on the list on left side of the dais and those supporting Oli to sign on the list on right side of the dais. (ANI)

NEIGHBOURS

PM: Ensure education, shelter for all street children Dhaka, Oct 11: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has asked the ministries of women and children affairs and social welfare to take necessary steps to ensure food, shelter and education for every street children.She gave the directives while inaugurating the World Children Day and Children's Rights Week2015 at Bangladesh Shishu Academy auditorium today."No children would live on the street. The government have the capacity to feed reportedly 34 lakh street children as we have ensured food security for 16 crore people," she said.The prime minister also urged the authorities concerned to ensure admission of every child in the schools of their areas saying it's the right of every child to get admission in the schools of the area where they live in. She asked the official concerned of her office to moni-

tor and coordinate with the ministries in this regard.She reiterated her call not to make education as burden for children but create an atmosphere in the schools and families where they would agree to take lesson on their own and feel encouraged in learning.Sheikh Hasina unequivocally said the government by no means would accept violence on domestic helps and engagement of children in any risky job saying the government would not tolerate any oppression on children.State minister for Women and Children Affairs Meher Afroj Chumki presided over the function organised by Women and Children Affairs (MOWCA). UNICEF country representative Edouard Beigbeder attended the function as special guest.Chairman of Bangladesh Shishu Academy and noted litterateur

Selina Hossain and MOWCA secretary Dr Nasima Begum, two underprivileged children M Hashem and Sanjida Afroz Smriti, who are now in the shelter of children welfare projects of the ministry, also spoke on the occasion.The

Hindus in Pakistan Protest 'Exclusion' From RTI Act Islamabad, Oct 11: Activists from minority Hindu community in Pakistan have staged a protest here against the provincial government of Khyber Pakthunkhwa for allegedly not allowing minorities to access information through the recently enacted Right to Information Act. The members of the All Pakistan Hindu Rights Movements (APHRM) held the demonstration outside the Press Club building here against the alleged exclusion of the minorities from the ambit of the legislation. The minority group's leaders alleged that the KPK government was not giving them their due rights and they are being subjected to "discriminatory attitude". "Prohibiting access to information will weaken minorities and undermine their civic and political rights," APHRM Chairman Haroon Sarab Diyal said.The demonstrators demanded the government to provide correct information to the members of the minority community under the law. (Agencies)

day is being observed in the country as elsewhere in the world with the theme "Shishu Gorbe Desh, Jodi Pai Poribesh" (Children will build the country if they get environment).The prime minister said it's the responsibility of the government to

raise up the children as worthy citizens as they would lead the country in different fronts in future. As well, every children have to know the country's history, culture and heritage."Without knowing the glorious history of country, future gen-

eration would not be inspired to win in the life struggle," she said.Sheikh Hasina said her government is making constant efforts to ensure welfare of the children as it enshrined in the country's constitution, UN Children Rights Charter and the Children Act-1974.She said the United Nations adopted the charter on children rights in 1989, but Bangladesh's Father of the Nation framed the Children Right Act in 1974. In light of the Children Policy-1974, she said the government has framed the Children Policy-2011.The Prime Minister said her government has given special attention to food security and nutrition of every child as well as the nutrition of the mothers which resulted in reducing child and maternal mortality rate.Maternal leave for working women has been allowed for six months so that infants get mother's care for

more time, she said urging all concerned to open daycare centre in every offices both in public and private sector.Laying importance on proper physical and mental growth of the children, the Prime Minister said all children need access to sports and recreational activities. In this regard the Prime Minister laid emphasis on keeping sufficient open space in every flats and residential areas for playing.Urging everybody to take extra care of the autistic children the Prime Minister said her government has a plan to open special counseling in schools for the children suffering from metabolic disorder.Sheikh Hasina urged all to remain careful to check any repetition of the terrorism unleashed by some political parties from January to March 2015 on the countrymen in general and children in particular in the name of politics. (Agencies)

Son of rights lawyer missing in Sri Lanka to be transformed to a smart country, says Myanmar after escaping China Beijing, Oct 11: The 16year-old son of a rights lawyer detained in China's sweeping crackdown on civil society has disappeared in Myanmar after trying to escape to the United States, a rights campaigner involved in the plan said today.Bao Zhuoxuan, also known as Bao Mengmeng, and two men helping him were taken away by local police from a guest house in a Myanmar border town on Tuesday,

Fengsuo Zhou said by phone from San Francisco, citing information from the guest house in Mong La."The plan was for him to travel to Thailand and I would meet him there and help him seek refugee entry into the United States," Zhou said, adding that friends of Bao's family who live in San Francisco want to adopt him."He has expressed his will to study abroad, and eventually study law, like his mother,"

Zhou said.Bao is the son of Wang Yu, a lawyer who disappeared July 9 amid a rounding up of dozens of rights lawyers and social activists in a broad crackdown on civil society in China. Wang has represented people involved in politically sensitive cases and earlier this year was the legal counsel for one of five women's rights activists jailed over a planned event against sexual harassment. Chinese authorities rou-

22 terrorists killed in Pakistan Islamabad, Oct 11: At least 22 terrorists were killed in military airstrikes carried out in Pakistan's North Waziristan region, the media reported today.According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) jets carried out aerial strikes close to the Afghan border on Saturday night.It added that six militant hideouts were also destroyed as a result of strikes.The military said that the air strikes were carried out after credible intelligence reports were received about the presence of terrorists in the vicinity. (Agencies)

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tinely put pressure on activists by targeting their family members. Bao and his father were also detained on the same day by police at Beijing's international airport on their way to Australia, where Bao was to attend high school. Bao was released after two days, but his passport was revoked, Zhou said. His parents are still missing.The two men helping him to leave China were Tang Zhishun, 40, an engineer from Beijing, and Xing Qingxian, 49, a human rights activist in the southwest city of Chengdu, Zhou said."We're really worried now. He's just a 16-year-old boy," said Zhou, who lives in San Francisco. "We know that the intention is to use him as a hostage against his parents, both of them famous human rights defenders, in particular Wang Yu. She has been very courageous, outspoken, one of the best human rights lawyers in China -she was arrested exactly for that. (Agencies)

Megapolis Minister

Colombo, Oct 11: Sri Lanka will be transformed to a smart country with Colombo remaining as the epicenter for economic activities under the newly introduced megapolis concept spanning from Negombo to Beruwela, Megapolis and Western Region Development Minister Champika Ranawaka said.The entire Western Province will be a megapolis area by 2030, which ensures equal opportunities for every citizen, the

minister told a gathering at the launch of the South Asian Regional Flag Ship Report in Sri Lanka at Colombo Hilton last week.The plan is to transform Colombo into a main business, hub he said adding that the region already has well developed infrastructure, which can be easily scaled up to international standards.The urbanization and housing for an estimated two million people will be the aim of the

megapolis initiative, as opposed to the approximately one million now, which will conform to all cultural, social and geographical norms, he disclosed. The plans for Colombo include a marina, a cruise center, a waterfront promenade and housing for an estimated 2 million people.The Minister emphasized the need of protecting the environment, water resources and other needs for the benefit of the society. (Agencies)

Mina stampede: Bangladeshi death toll now 79, 70 missing

Taliban suicide attack targets NATO convoy in Kabul Kabul, Oct 11: A Taliban suicide bomber targeted a NATO convoy in downtown Kabul , triggering a powerful explosion in a rush-hour attack that comes just days after the resurgent militant group overran a key northern city.No casualties were immediately reported from the bombing, which sent a thick plume of smoke rising into the sky, as the Taliban ramp up attacks on government and foreign targets.Security officials cordoned off the area as ambulances with wailing sirens rushed to the scene, which was littered with the mangled wreckage of vehicles."The ex-

plosion occurred in the Joy Shir area of Kabul city. It was a suicide attack targeting a foreign forces convoy," Kabul police spokesman Ebadullah Karimi told media.Interior ministry spokesman Sediq Sediqqi said there was no word so far on any casualties.A NATO spokesman in Kabul confirmed that their convoy came under attack but said the international coalition was still gathering further information.The Taliban were behind the bombing, the group's spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told media."A convoy of foreign forces came under

martyrdom attack by our mujahideen in Joy Shir area of Kabul city. Two of their vehicles were damaged and all aboard the vehicles were killed," he said. The Taliban, toppled from power in a 2001 USled invasion of Afghanistan, are known to exaggerate battlefield claims.The emboldened insurgents have stepped up attacks around Afghanistan since they launched their annual summer offensive in late April.The militants overran the strategic northern city of Kunduz in late September, in their most spectacular victory in 14 years.The capture of the

provincial capital for three days marked a stinging blow for Western-trained Afghan forces, who have largely been fighting on their own since the end of NATO's combat mission in December.The government claims to have wrested back control of the city but sporadic firefights continue with remnant pockets of insurgents as Afghan soldiers, backed by NATO special forces, conduct clearance operations.As fighting spreads in neighbouring Badakhshan, Takhar and Baghlan provinces, concerns are mounting that the seizure of Kunduz was merely the opening gambit in a new, bolder strategy to tighten the insurgency's grip across northern Afghanistan.Most NATO combat troops pulled out of Afghanistan last year but a small contingent focused on training and counterterrorism operations remains, including roughly 10,000 American soldiers.NATO forces are themselves under fire after a US air strike on October 3 pummelled a hospital in Kunduz run by Doctors Without Borders (MSF), killing 12 staff and 10 patients.The medical charity shut down the trauma centre, branding the incident a war crime and demanding an international investigation into the incident, which sparked an avalanche of global condemnation. (Agencies)

Dhaka, Oct 11: The death toll of Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims in Mina stampede climbed to 79 while 70 others are still missing, said Religious Affairs Secretary Chowdhury Md Babul Hassan."As per the updated report received from Bangladesh Consulate General in Jeddah, 79 dead bodies of Bangladeshi pilgrims have so far been found, who had lost their lives in the Mina incident on September 24, 2015," he said while briefing the media at his Secretariat office

today.Some 70 Bangladeshi devotees are still missing, he added. "The injured hajis are being undergoing treatment at Al Noor Hospital, King Abdullah Hospital and Mina Hospital.As of Friday, a new tally shows that the stampede during Hajj in Saudi Arabia's Mina last month killed at least 1,453 people, making it the deadliest event to ever strike the annual pilgrimage.The fresh death toll, compiled by news agency Associated

Press, is 684 higher than Saudi Arabia's official tally of 769 killed and 934 injured in the September 24 disaster. Others include India with 101, Nigeria with 99, Pakistan with 93, Mali with 70, Senegal with 54, Benin with 51, Cameroon with 42, Ethiopia with 31, Sudan with 30, Morocco with 27, Algeria with 25, Ghana with 12, Chad with 11, Kenya with eight and Turkey with three. Hundreds remain missing, according to these countries. (Agencies)

Indian Tamil party leader urges central government to get fishermen released Chennai, Oct 11: A Member of Parliament representing the Tamil Maanila Congress from Tamil Nadu, member of parliament G .K.Vasan on Saturday urged the Central and State governments to take steps to secure the release of 19 fishermen from Nagapattinam arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy.In a statement, the former union minister said that such incidents caused apprehension among fishermen,

who also face loss of livelihood as their boats and nets are damaged by the Sri Lankan Navy."The Centre must ensure that until the talks between fishermen of both the countries come to a conclusion, there is no intrusion by the Sri Lankan Navy," Mr. Vasan said.The Sri Lankan navy on Saturday said it assisted Coast Guard to arrest 19 Indian fishermen in two trawlers for allegedly violating the Interna-

tional Maritime Boundary Line and poaching in Sri Lankan waters.The arrested fishermen and the trawlers were brought to Kankasanthurai and handed over to the officials of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Jaffna) for onward actionThe Tamil Nadu government should impress upon the Centre to ensure that the interests of the State's fishermen are protected, the MP said. (Agencies)

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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

Employment Situation Single most critical problem in NER Made up of eight states and accounting for about 4% of India's population, the northeast region is better known for its separatist movements and incendiary ethnic conflicts. It has 25 Lok Sabha members, 14 of them from Assam, and so, does not draw serious attention from political parties involved in the national sweepstakes. The region receives huge funds from the central government that prop up the local economies. But, simmering under the surface is a question that haunts everybody - what about jobs. Creation of gainful employment opportunities is probably the single most critical problem in NER, because this region still portrays the combined outcome of dominance of subsistence agrarian economies, poor industrial base, lack of infrastructure, significant dependence on public sector employment, political insurgency and violence and gross negligence by the centre and respective state government towards overall development. In spite of rich endowment of natural resources, the region is being lagging behind the rest of the country in terms of various developmental outcomes. According to a National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) there was a dip in India's employment rate that had gone down to 38.6% in 201112 (July-June) from 39.2% in 2009-10. With this unemployment rate had gone up from 2.5% to 2.7%. In the year 2004-05 the employment rate was 42%.Though in terms of percentage it looks small but the actual figures are really daunting. Lack of employment opportunities in entire North East states is a major push factor of migration to other mega cities. Government employment is small percentage of work forces, available to those who have political connection or have money power to bribe. Educated poor, who have no political connections, have no hope for government employment in the region. Census 2011 data released in 2013 has some strange and disturbing trends on jobs in the northeast region. If states were to be ranked by growth in jobs between 2001 and 2011, Tripura and Assam would clock in figure among the top five states with 27% and 26% increases in total number of workers, respectively. But on the flip side, the growth in workers was just 4% in a decade in Mizoram - the lowest among all states. Three states - Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim - were below the national average of 20% growth in workers between the two censuses. It seems that Northeast region has always registered a high percentage of literacy rates, yet the main concern is the employability is low due to lack of required skill for employment.

Plastic impact Hazards of using plastic bags Plastic is one of the chemical materials which poses environmental problem as it is made up of various chemical elements. And therefore it is regarded as a highly contagious material that does not easily degrade in the natural environment after its usage or utility period. As it causes serious damage to environment during its production and disposal process.Plastic in the Environment is regarded to be more an aesthetic nuisance than a hazard, since the material is biologically quite inert. And are used mostly because they are easy and cheap to make and they can last for a long time. Unfortunately these same useful qualities can make a huge pollution problem. Because its persistence in the environment can do a great harm. The United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) 2011 yearbook considers plastic pollution in the ocean to be one of the three greatest emerging environmental problems in the world. Estimates of the number of plastic bags used around the world each year vary in range from 100 million to a trillion according o reports. Since only a small portion of these bags is recycled, many plastic bags are left to enter the waste stream. The bags will likely take about 1,000 years to decompose. Because such a large number of bags are produced and it takes a long time for them to decompose. Also people from rural areas often use plastic bags and bottles on a largescale. Unaware of the harm caused due to plastic, rural people are a contributing factor to pollution. Also wind carry and deposit the plastic from one place to other, littering the land. It also gets stuck on fences, trees and water bodies. Any animal that comes in the vicinity of plastic, might even get tangled and suffocate to death. The maximum damage is done by plastic carry bags. Shops delivering goods in these very bags and the people who insist on having plastic carry bags when they buy goods are too responsible for plastic pollution. Moreover it requires self-discipline to solve this plastic pollution caused by using plastic things in our day today life.Our dependence on the private organization and government will not solve these problems.The use of plastic is a part of human need. Therefore, we have to follow some simple ways to solve this existing problem. So remedial measures can be adopted such as limited usage of plastic carry bags will help the environment free from pollution. Also using glass bottles, cloth and paper bags which are biodegradable and recyclable will reduce plastic pollution to a large extent.

Should India Join the TPP? In the wake of this week's historic agreement, what should India do now? Rachit Ranjan

The international trade regime witnessed a historic moment, with the United States and 11 other Pacific Rim countries announcing the conclusion of successful negotiations on what has been touted as a mammoth free trade agreement covering more than 40 percent of the global economy. Over the course of the past couple of years, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) has been in the news for a variety of reasons that touch on foreign policy maneuvering and provide a teaser of the new age of economic diplomacy that is upon us. In the U.S., opponents of the trade deal have lambasted the Obama administration for conducting the negotiations in secrecy and have consistently advocated against the deal, citing reasons such as a loss of jobs and export revenue. However, the rhetoric that has developed elsewhere is premised on the strategic considerations of the U.S and its traditional allies. Considering the rise of Sinocentrism in Asia and the corresponding diminishment of the sphere of influence enjoyed by U.S. and its traditional allies, the TPP has been perceived as a strategic maneuver, part of Obama's larger pivot to Asia, and has been pursued seemingly to create a set of market access standards that advance the interests of U.S. industries. It is believed that these standards will invariably favor industries in developed countries, as developing countries are yet to reach that level of sophistication in their international trade dealings. A recent study conducted by Peterson Institute's C. Fred Bergsten observed that India's international competitiveness is in shambles. To support this point of view, Bergsten provides India's export data in the manufacturing and services sector, which suggest that it has stagnated for more than three years. The merchandise trade deficit is at an alltime high. The figures certainly suggest weakness. As a forewarning, Bergsten

also points out that India's annual export losses could very well touch $50 billion if China and the rest of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) bloc decide to join the TPP in a second stage. As such, Bergsten makes the case for India to join the TPP, and other plurilateral arrangements that are being pursued under and around the aegis of WTO, claiming that integration would lead to massive export gains and raise India's national income by an estimated 4 percent. Although Bergsten appears very sanguine about the benefits that would accrue through India's integration with TPP and other agreements, it is unclear what sort of compromises India would have to make to achieve this target, particularly in the case of the TPP. Harsha V. Singh, the former DDG of WTO, has very cogently assessed the adverse effects of a successful TPP for India. While observing India's deep integration with global value chains (GVCs), a phenomenon where different stages of production are located in different countries for optimization of the production process, he relies primarily on OECD data, looking at increases in the foreign content of exports in India from 1995 to 2009. India's domestic

value-added content in 1995 was 90 percent, but by 2009 it had fallen to 78 percent, suggesting fragmentation of production and greater integration into global value chains. A successful TPP, he argues, would have three major implications for India. First, a reduction in tariffs among member countries would make such destinations more attractive for inclusion in value chains. Second, the rules of origin under the TPP coupled with the tariff reduction would further favor products from member nations leading to greater inclusion in GVCs. Third, the emergence of technical and other standards, which are more favorable to developed countries, would diminish India's share in GVCs. In addition, there is a possibility of the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) merging with the TPP, which would allow greater market access for products of member countries under developed standards, a potential uniform legal and regulatory framework, and preferential tariff commitments. It must be added here that while India can consider joining the TPP to maintain its position in GVCs, certain terms within the agreement, in light of the leaked IP chapter of TPP, are in direct conflict with India's stated

policies. Further, despite this knowledge, if India decides to join the TPP, it would need to forego several key policy goals, and significantly expedite domestic reforms to meet the standards. A New Trade Order There is awareness in Indian bureaucratic, political, and policymaking circles that the world is moving towards a new trade order and India must respond. This is reflected in the statements of Commerce Ministry officials, the p r i m e m i n i s t e r, t h e president. In fact, the need for a counter strategy has also found mention in the Economic Survey 2014-15. However, the response has either been slow or else marked by a classic case of bureaucratic ambivalence. While efforts have been made in both the Economic Survey and new Foreign Trade Policy for 20152020 in identifying reforms needed to make India a favorable destination for doing business, these reforms have yet to be fully initiated. For example, the Economic Survey 2013-14 found that India must look to trade diversification, build export infrastructure, and focus on useful free trade agreements (FTAs), which can address the inverted duty structure, rationalize export promotion

schemes, and ensure trade facilitation in order to realize her medium term goals. On all these fronts, India's progress has been extremely tardy. India is currently negotiating 10 FTAs. All are at different stages of negotiation, but none are close to being finalized. The Economic Survey 2014-15 highlights the issues identified by Harsha V. Singh and explores the option of integration with TPP, while recognizing that integration may be ambitious, as the terms of the deal remain uncertain. However, judging by the leaked IP chapter, it is clear that the terms as they stand currently contradict India's stated policies. For India to either become party to the TPP or to sustain the shocks caused by its exclusion, the model of reforms must change from aspirational to one based on aggressive action. It would be extremely difficult and economically burdensome for India to expeditiously initiate and execute the reforms that would be expected if it decided to join the TPP. Further, the political climate limits the chances of wider consensus on the need to accelerate the pace of reforms in the labor, export infrastructure, environment, banking and taxation spaces. Thus, reforms would have to be phased,

something that might not be possible if India j o i n e d T P P, e v e n though it is believed that the TPP would allow a 20-year transition period for developing economies. Even assuming that a substantial transition period is allowed and India considers joining t h e T P P, i t c a n b e readily argued that the U.S. and its allies will exert considerable pressure on India to forego certain traditional and principled stances, including food security and the stated intent of not entering into TRIPS Plus arrangements (TRIPS refers to the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights), which would not be in its national interest. On the other hand, through preferential trading arrangements with individual TPP countries, India will be able to exercise greater sovereignty in reaching agreements that allow ample time and space for rolling out these reforms without significantly affecting India's market access in these and other economies as well as its integration in GVCs. In addition to pursuing bilateral trade arrangements, including one with China, India would also be well advised to explore the possibility of hastening efforts to initiate FTA negotiations with the BRICS bloc and Latin American countries in order to fetch optimal gains and enhance its global competitiveness without compromising integral domestic concerns. This is not to suggest that India shouldn't consider taking part in the ongoing negotiations for plurilateral agreements, namely the Environmental Goods Agreement and Trade in Services Agreement, as both are of immense importance to India's business and developmental concerns. Rather, it is to argue that India may still emerge as a trading power through calculated risks and aggressive economic diplomacy, without providing concessions on core beliefs that are firmly entrenched in its national identity.

Nandita Konwar Episode Sir, ACS Nandita Konwar was caught red-handed while accepting bribe of Rs. 12,000.00. An amount of Rs. 1,20,000.00 was sanctioned for giving a face-lift to a road of Durga Sarobar area of which she demanded 10% as bribe. From the news, we understand that MP's fund for development of the constituency is allotted through the Project Director, DRDA. As a project Director, Nandita Konwar fully encashed the opportunity, claiming 10% of the amount to be released. It is also reported that she always has itching palms. There are many Nandita Konwars working in the state government who donot move any file without their palms being greased. Nandita Konwar episode is only a tip in the ice-berg. State government employees are now one of the highly paid ones in India, their salary being higher than their counter parts of West-Bengal. Still, most of the employees' avaracious notion knows no bounds. The entire state machinery right from the minister down to an office peon is sunk deep in the morass of corruption. We wonder, how resourceful our state is to bear the brunt of the heavy salary to be disbursed to the employees,

News paper reports also suggest that the chief-minister has to ensure payment of salary by diverting fund meant for development. Development works in Assam as such have come to a stand still. Still, the employees keep clamouring for more-without any introspection. Yours etc. Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

Best Letter The best letter of the month in the Letter to the Editor section will be awarded an amount of Rs 200. So please keep writing. Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh-786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

When clowns heal Beulah Pereira They say laughter is the best medicine. And this is going from being just a phrase to a reality. A popular concept in the West, medical clowning has recently been introduced in Indian hospitals. The concept came to light through a documentary by Diya Banerjee, who outlined the idea of medical clowning. Banerjee explained the dire need for more people to understand and accept this idea. "As a director of the film, it was my responsibility to show the scope of medical clowning in the context of Indian healthcare system, which is severely stressed and lacking in compassion," says Banerjee. "Therapeutic or medical clowning is a relatively new field in India. It merges the arts and science. Using powerful theatrical, performance-based tools along with professional training, medical clowns can revolutionise the Indian healthcare systems," she continued. Who are medical clowns? In many cultures, there were no hospitals, but the role of the "clown" was and still is vital for the heath of the patient and the village. The clown has had many names and many forms: Jester, Shaman, Naapi, Trickster, Komali. Fif Fernandes, along with her husband Hamesh Boyd, have been working as medical clowns for years. Working in hospitals and healthcare centres as a Therapeutic Medical Clown, they are now working in Komali MeDi Clown Academy. Another person worth noting who is knee-deep in medical clowning is actor and director Ashwath Bhatt. Trained to deal with tense medical situations and environments, Bhatt is currently tied up with CanSupport, a cancer cen-

Move Beyond The Beef Ban, There Are Bigger Dangers Cows In India Are Facing Kunal Bhaskar

tre for kids in Delhi. "It all began when I was in Germany," says Bhatt, who is based in Delhi and professionally trains clowns across the country. "In 2011, I was introduced to the concept of medical clowning. I realised that India would do well with such an idea." Bhatt adds that although many feel this is a brilliant idea, there are a few doctors who are staunchly against it. "They think clowning is a very frivolous job. But this goes one step further: it's not about making patients laugh. It's more about de-stressing the patients and diverting their attention to something other than their disease," he says. Types of medical clowns Fernandes says the type of facility determines the type of clown. In a home for the aged, a familial, caring and compassionate clown will be appropriate as there are no medical interventions. In a village, a traditional Komali, Veduska may be appropriate in keeping with the culture of the village. How it works Medical clowning is a vital component of

healthcare. Medical clowns don't work in a vacuum. They work in sync with doctors and nurses, who brief them about the medical conditions of the patient. "We aren't allowed to visit every patient. If the doctors say it's safe to approach a patient, we go ahead," says Bhatt. Undoubtedly, medical procedures are serious, so balancing it with a little humour will go a long way. Clowning, as Banerjee and Bhatt say, is gravely misunderstood. It's not like a circus, where people are in splits. It's more of a support system to make the medical process easier to deal with. AIIMS and Pondicherry's Aravind Eye Care Hospital have both been supportive and tried to incorporate medical clowning into the medical system. "We need to understand that most diseases are psychosomatic. Research shows laughter helps a great deal in destressing, thus having a positive affect on the patient, both mentally and physically," says Bhatt. The approach towards each patient differs based on the situation. "We usually stick to what is cultur-

ally appropriate. Often, I do not talk, I just start to giggle and this gets contagious. I use very few props and rely mainly on what is in me or within the environment," explains Fernandes. However, if invited to centres like CanSupport and CanKids (in Mumbai), pantomimes, juggling and activities that involve patients are employed. Boyd often plays his harmonica and the rest break into dance, encouraging the patients, families and staff to join in. Treading the fine line With jobs such as these, knowing where to draw the line between emotional attachment and professionalism is important. "When I take off my costume, I'm a different person, but this does not make me indifferent," says Bhatt. Stating that it's human nature to sympathise, it is always good to know where to stop in order to avoid an emotional breakdown. Fernandes adds: "It is important that clowns working in hospitals are trained appropriately to work in a hospital environment and within specific departments".

Page 9

I understand the issue of the beef ban is entirely based on a political agenda which is being played on the name Hindutva. And it has been there since Independence (as a technique crucially identifiable to a right-wing rule), but without doubt lately the issue has acquired central attraction. What amazes me most is the interest of young people like me and our approach towards the issue, especially the ones who follow and believe in Hinduism, which somehow lacks rational comprehension. I believe anyone will agree to the fact thatbeef has been a source of food and nutrition since centuries, not only for Muslims (if we don't consider Hindus in the list at all) but also for other religions and various communities in different parts of India. For example in Kerala, where you can find beef as the most prominent item on any restaurant's menu. And being an Indian, we all cherish the pride of being the world's largest democracy with the most vivid diversity when it comes to food, language, clothing, etc.

Now, if I ask a question which I understand is vital to understand the issue of the beef ban, 'Is beef ban at all important for a shining India?' My response to the question is, 'it is not important at all, rather it is fatal to India's prosperity.' I strongly believe the issue (which is completely based on phony religious beliefs) is being used as a tool to divert the attention of common people from other important issues critical for their as well as India's development and prosperity, at the same time generating being a well-thought-out, strategic, divide and rule policy (to attract Hindus) based on religion, by the present government and its allies. My comprehension is not based on intellectual faรงade, neither aims to generate publicity, perhaps it's an attempt to ask every one of us few questions which is very crucial to understand what sort of developed India we all wish for. An India divided for the sake of religion or a united India where everyone lives in peace and harmony? This question may look familiar and simple, but the answer to it is far to be realized and of

course not as simple as it appears in the question. India, with her vast and most diverse demography has always been an equipped opportunity for political parties to play their divide and rule card, and to some extent, they have succeeded in their attempts. But I still don't see it as their success, but certainly consider it to be a failure for the people (who participated in any possible way) and for this nation. I have been brought up in a Hindu farmers' family, and thus was exposed to such discussions since I was a child. Over the years, I observed that importance of cows has deteriorated even among farmers with the change in the livelihood options. The other reasons include decreasing grazing land capacity in the villages (due to rapidly increasing population) and deteriorating importance of farming as a source of livelihood which is evident by the increasing number of farmer suicides. Now another question which occurs to me is, 'how do we perceive the importance of cows when their natural habitat (village with agriculture as a main source of living) and caretakers it-

self are in danger?" And not much is being done to sustain the environment of cows, which is far more important than merely using them for religion-based politics. I make this statement based on my observation while traveling to most hinterlands spread across various states including Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, etc. in recent 4-5 years. The entire idea of writing this piece is to bring the attention of online readers towards the consequence of such irrational political stunts (if I restrain calling it a policy/strategy) played often for the sake of a vote bank, which has very adversely rooted itself in the long-term impact on the nation, and is nowhere less fatal than an atom bomb. Let us not forget quite a similar strategy used by the British to divide us (leaving India in that state in 1947) however we as a nation are still paying its due even after 65 years. Then we had an advantage of blaming it on the British, but I am afraid to ask, who can be blamed for what is happening today?

strangely contemporary. I grew up understanding Gandhi through others till I discovered a deep wound he carried in his heart. Somewhere in the shadows of the great man lived his son, roaming the streets of India like a beggar. He converted to Islam and became Abdullah Gandhi as a rebellion, then reconverted to Hinduism as a penance, finally drinking himself to death. Mahatma Gandhi could transform the soul of a nation but could not save the soul of his own son," said Feroz Abbas Khan, who directed the Anil Kapoor-produced Gandhi, My Father (2007), a tragic tale narrated from the perspective of his eldest son Harilal Gandhi. Mohandas (2008) directed by cinematographer-director Mazhar Kamran is based on a real-life incident, turned into a novel by Uday Prakash. It narrates how in contemporary India, the values of honesty, integrity and non-violence Gandhi stood for have de-

cayed so much that a young man who tries to live by these principles, is punished instead of rewarded for his goodness. The four things Mohandas has in common with Gandhi are his first name, his honesty, his integrity and his pacifist attitude towards life. Born into a family of a very poor weaver, Mohandas tries to rise above his class with a good education. He becomes the first graduate in his community. He applies for a job at the Oriental Coal Mines in Annupur and is selected. When the call to report does not come, he goes to find out only to be thrown out. When he insists why, they bash him up and tell him that he is not the Mohandas he claims to be and that the real Mohandas has already filled up the vacancy! There are very few true Gandhians alive who still practice and follow Gandhi's ideology of peace, harmony and secularism. This year's release Gour Hari Dastaan - The Free-

dom File is a feature film that illustrates, through a fictionalised account, the real struggle of a Gandhian named Gour Hari Das who still believes in, lives by and practices the teachings and ideology of Gandhi. Gandhi hovers like symbol, a message, a metaphor or as the real person is these films.. "Munnabhai to theek hai, yeh Mahatma Gandhi kaun hai?' ('Munnabhai is fine, but who is this Mahatma Gandhi?') This was a question a chai-wallah boy asked director Rajkumar Hirani when he was told that the crew was shooting for a film named Munnabhai meets Mahatma Gandhi, the original name of the film that was later changed. Have films evolving around Gandhi changed this perception? If it has changed the perspectives of the man on the street even a bit in terms of awareness, we have only Hindi cinema to be grateful to. (Trans World Feature)

The Father through the lens Shoma A. Chatterji For millions of Indian children today, Gandhi is identified with the bald, bespectacled old man whose face appears in the currency note. Within this ambiance of anonymity and ignorance, Hindi cinema has succeeded to some extent in liberating the Father of the Nation from his captive anonymity frozen on rectangular pieces of paper to celebrate the principles he lived by. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, Shoma A. Chatterji looks at films on portrayal of Gandhi and on his ideologies. When Richard Attenborough made Gandhi (1982), no one would have thought Mahatma Gandhi would be a good bet to be played at high stakes in the Bollywood market. But times have changed. So have the average Indian filmmaker's perception about Indian history. Gandhi seems to be omnipresent in many Indian

films in terms of ideology, metaphor and message if not in terms of physical presence. Shyam Benegal's The Making of the Mahatma (1995) brought out the sacrifices a woman must make, albeit with reluctance, when she

is married to a man with a mission. The film essayed a strong portrayal of Gandhi's wife Kasturba (Pallavi Joshi). The personal conflicts between Gandhi and Kasturba often throw up the schism in the marriage, with Kasturba crusading relentlessly for the security and welfare of her sons, and the husband slowly evolving into more of a leader than a husband and father. The film, an Indian-South African co-production, was based on Fatima Meer's The Apprenticeship of a Mahatma. Kamal Hasan's Hey Ram (2000) is described a fictitious series of events that led to the assassination of an intriguing leader Saket Ram who vacillates between his faith in Gandhi and all that he stood for and his hatred for Gandhi he holds responsible for the friction between Hindus

and Muslims that led to the Partition of India. His faith in Gandhi is restored when Gandhi is assassinated. The story unfolds in flashback from the point of view of Saket Ram's grandson. Saiket Ram dies on the seventh anniversary of the destruction of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. Of the films on the Mahatma Hey Ram happens to be the most confusing and ambivalent in approach to the leader through cinema. Jahnu Barua's Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara (2005) presents Gandhi as a concept that is lost on Indians today. It revolves around the India after Gandhi and the failure of the ountrymen to live up to his dreams of patriotism, secularism, integrity and commitment. The film attempts to raise questions on the responsibility of an individual as citizen both for

Gandhi's murder and for the people's subsequent failure to disseminate his ideas and his legacy to contemporary Indians. Recalls Anupam Kher about his pivotal role in the film, "I portrayed a retired professor who lives with his daughter and son in Mumbai. The film opens with his memory fading slowly, considered a 'natural' phenomenon for ageing people. But his dementia leads to another crisis - it brings back memories of a lost past, a trauma where he recalls being accused of having assassinated Mahatma Gandhi. The guilt comes back and as his present memories begin to fade, the past images become sharper. The more his life is whitewashed, the stronger this one memory remains." In the hit film Lage Raho Munnabhai (2006) where Gandhi appears as a motivational ghost in front of the atypical hero Munnabhai. Through his interactions with Gandhiji's ghost, Munnabhai begins to practice Gandhigiri, a colloquial synonym for Gandhism to help ordinary people solve their problems. Gandhi metamorphoses into a symbol of social agenda for the maximum good of the maximum number with Munnabhai becoming the agency. The irony lies in that Gandhi known for his strict adherence to honesty and truth places his faith on the unlettered but well-meaning pathological liar Munnabhai to spread goodness among fellow-humans. "Gandhi has always been compelling, complex and

BUSINESS

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

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Obama defends TPP trade deal India's current account tumbles down

Washington, Oct 11: US President Barack Obama took a dig at China recently as he defended the new TPP Pacific Rim free-trade deal, which excludes Beijing. In his weekly address to the nation, Obama said the 12country accord concluded this week after five years of negotiations features the strongest labor and environmental standards in history, which he said will level the field in interna-

CBI, ED raids Bank of Baroda branches New Delhi, Oct 11: CBI has carried out searches at Bank of Baroda branches in New Delhi, in connection with the alleged Rs 6,100 croreblack money which was transferred to Hong Kong, in collusion with bank officials. Sources said searches were carried out at the bank branches and private properties in connection with the shady remittances. The unusual remittances were spotted in the audit report of the bank, the CBI sources said. Accounts of about 60 companies opened at the Ashok Vihar branch of the bank are under the scanner. The Enforcement Directorate has also registered a case and carried out searches in this connection. (Agencies)

Andhra Pradesh signs MoUs for 8 tourism projects Hyderabad, Oct 11: The Andhra Pradesh government recently signed agreements with private players to take up eight tourism projects with an investment of Rs 1,240 crore. The Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) were signed by Principal Secretary (Tourism) Neerab Kumar in the presence of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. S L World, Mumbai signed an MoU for Rs 800 crore to establish amusement, water world parks at Vijayawada, Tirupati and Visakhapatnam. Sai Priya Beach Resorts signed the pact to establish a beach resort at Rishikonda in Visakhapatnam with an investment of Rs 50 crore, an official release said. "VSNL Estates Private Limited signed an MoU to start five and three star hotels in Vijayawada with an investment of Rs 300 crore. Poli Sunitha signed (pact) to start a wayside restaurant at Kadapa with an outlay of Rs 5 crore. "Bliss Hotels signed an MoU to establish star hotels at Tirupati with an investment of Rs 8 crore," it said. Naidu asked the private companies to complete the projects within a stipulated period as agreed, it added. (Agencies)

tional trade. Once approved by all the signatories, the TPP could be the largest regional trade pact ever. "Without this agreement, competitors that don't share our values, like China, will write the rules of the global economy," Obama said. "They'll keep selling into our markets and try to lure companies over there, meanwhile they're going to keep their markets closed to us," the

president added. Spanning about two-fifths of the global economy, the TPP aims to set the rules for 21st century trade and marks one of Obama's key diplomatic and economic achievements. He hopes it will encourage investment and press China to shape its behavior in commerce, investment and business regulation to TPP standards. But the deal has faced opposition from ac-

tivists, who argue it favors big business over consumers and governments, and US congressional leaders have already expressed reservations even before the details have been released. Hillary Clinton, who as secretary of state under Obama promoted the negotiations aimed at sealing the TPP and is now the Democratic frontrunner in the race for the 2016 presidential election, has come out against it. Clinton said that given what she knows about the deal it falls short of her "high bar" for creating American jobs, raising wages and advancing US national security. Under the deal, 98 percent of tariffs will be eliminated on everything from beef, dairy products, wine, sugar, rice, horticulture and seafood through to manufactured products, resources and energy. Countries involved are the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. (Agencies)

British ICT experts visit India to help tech companies go global (ANI)New Delhi, Oct 10: UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) in India is organising the "Great Tech Week" to bring together leading British and Indian information and communication technology companies across five Indian cities from 12 to 16 October 2015. The events will link Indian ICTcompanies looking for international partners with their British counterparts, presenting the UK's expertise and elaborating they can help Indian companies take their business global by using the UK as a base. The multicity programme will kick off in Hyderabad followed by Mumbai, Bengaluru, New Delhi and Trivandrum. John

Kat, UKTI's sector specialist said, "The Technology sector is one of the UK's largest wealth creators. It has been one of the fastest-growing sectors over the past decade and plays a vital role for every other industrial sector. The UK tech sector contributes 8% to UK GVA and employs 1.2 million people. A significant amount of that innovation is being pioneered in the UK. Great Tech Week will put a spotlight on the UK technology sector and help Indian companies unlock why the UK is the best place to act as a springboard to global markets" she added. Experts from the British High Commission's Science and Innovation teams will also

showcase the UK's successful innovation and incubation models with the aim of encouraging innovation collaboration and new investments from Indian start-ups to the UK. "The UK's software and IT services market is one of the largest in Western Europe, valued at Â£58 billion per year. The UK is renowned for its strength in software development across a wide range of application areas including automotive, financial services, retail and logistics" added John Kat. The Indian companies will also get an opportunity to meet visa experts and immigration solicitors who can advise companies considering setting-up in the UK.

Tax notice served on Nokia India New Delhi, Oct 11: Income Tax department recently said a tax demand notice has been served on Nokia India after it completed an assessment for 2010-11 in August this year in the existing dispute over royalty payments to its parent company. "An assessment order was passed in the case of Nokia India Pvt Ltd for Assessment Year (AY) 2010-11 in August 2015. The tax demand raised by this order was primarily based on issues arising from earlier orders," a tax department statement said.

The tax demand arose from the assessment order passed in August 2015 and it is being considered under the Mutual Agreement Proce-

LEGA TANGLE ¢ Income Tax department recently said a tax demand notice has been served on Nokia India after it completed an assessment for 2010-11 in August this year. ¢ An assessment order was passed in the case of Nokia India Pvt Ltd for Assessment Year (AY) 2010-11 in August 2015. ¢ The tax demand raised by this order was primarily based on issues arising from earlier orders. ¢ The tax demand arose from the assessment order passed in August 2015 and it is being considered under the Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) of the IndiaFinland tax treaty.

dure (MAP) of the IndiaFinland tax treaty. "The demand arising from the assessment order passed in August, along with the demands raised earlier are already being considered under MAP of the India-Finland tax treaty by the Competent Authorities in both countries," it added. Earlier in 2013, the department had slapped a tax notice of Rs 2,000 crore on Nokia's Indian subsidiary for violating the withholding tax norms since 2006 while making royalty payments to the parent company in Finland. (Agencies)

Mercedes, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi join Volkswagen in the diesel emissions scandal row Bengaluru, Oct 11: According to reports, four other car companies have joined Volkswagen in the emissions scandal row. Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Mazda and Mitsubishi's diesel cars have been alleged to emit more pollution than in regulatory tests. Reportedly, Honda models emit six times the regulatory limit of NOx pollution and other models emit 20 times the NOx pollution coming out of their exhaust pipes. NOx pollution is believed to cause premature deaths and has also resulted in increase in health costs. It was revealed that Renault, Nissan, Hyundai, Citroen, Fiat, Volvo and Jeep were also involved in pumping out more NOx than permitted. Data from Emissions Analytics revealed that Mercedes-Benz cars emit 2.2 times more NOx than permitted. Honda, Hyundai and all the other cars' NOx emissions are alleged to be higher on the road than in the EU lab test. According to the reports, Mercedes and Honda said they are supporting a tightening of regulations. In order to help strengthen regulatory and consumer confidence, Honda said they supported

additional testing. An emissions expert at Transport and Environment, Greg Archer told that the new emissions analytics result prove that Volkswagen scandal is just the starting. "What we are seeing here is a diesel-gate that covers many different car models." The only solution according to him is to conduct fresh tests on the road and verify it by an authority which is not biased or paid by the car company. Last month, Volkswagen had been found to have flouted stringent US emission norms, by fitting a defect device that makes the engine function at a reduced capacity, thereby emitting lesser gases when the vehicle determines that it is being inspected. Otherwise in the real world, the defect device will turn off and will function at full capacity for a better performance. Volkswagen had said that nearly 11 million cars worldwide have the defect device. Volkswagen Passenger Cars hds said that about 5 million cars have the cheating device, while Audi admitted that 2.1 million of its cars are affected, and 1.2 million Skodas have the device. (Agencies)

Lima, Oct 11: Finance minister Arun Jaitley recently said the country's current account deficit has come down substantially to around 1.3 per cent of GDP in 2014-15, as against around 4.8 per cent two years earlier. Besides, he said while the country was suffering from double-digit inflation then, this has dipped to a low of 3.7 per cent, an official statement said. In his lead intervention in the plenary session of the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) International Monetary and Finance Committee, he said India is utilizing the regime of lower oil and commodity prices to increase investments in infrastructure and irrigation as well as to undertake comprehensive subsidy rationalization and successfully roll out the world's largest financial inclusion initiative under which around 185 million bank accounts have been

opened. Due to the large number of initiatives underway encompassing multiple areas of intervention and reforms, Jaitley expressed optimism that India would continue to record higher level of growth. He emphasized that the IMF would be constrained in meeting its ob-

ligations if the IMF Quota and governance reforms are not implemented expressing concern at the unprecedented delay in implementation of the 14th General Review of Quotas. Jaitley also said that the global economic outlook outlined by the IMF does not look par-

ticularly encouraging as it has bearing on India's exports. Consisting of 24 members who are finance ministers, central bank governors or others of comparable rank, the IMFC is a key body providing strategic direction to the work and policies of the IMF.(Agencies)

OPTIMISM IN TOUGH TIMES ¢ Finance minister Arun Jaitley recently said the country's current account deficit has come down substantially to around 1.3 per cent of GDP in 201415, as against around 4.8 per cent two years earlier. ¢ He said while the country was suffering from double-digit inflation then, this has dipped to a low of 3.7 per cent. ¢ India is utilizing the regime of lower oil and commodity prices to in-

crease investments in infrastructure and irrigation as well as to undertake comprehensive subsidy ratio-

nalization. ¢ Due to the large number of initiatives underway encompassing multiple areas of intervention and reforms, Jaitley expressed optimism that India would continue to record higher level of growth. ¢ Jaitley also said that the global economic outlook outlined by the IMF does not look particularly encouraging as it has bearing on India's exports.

Coolpad and Amazon India unveil India's first affordable fingerprint scanner smartphone (ANI)New Delhi, Oct 10: Coolpad, a global leader in smart phone manufacturing and integrated wireless data solutions launched its first fingerprint smart phone Coolpad Note 3 on Amazon.in at Rs. 8999. India being one of the key markets for Coolpad, the company announced investment of over $300 million in Manufacturing, R&D and ID design. The company also announced its partnership with Videocon to manufacture smart phones in India and is expected to roll out half a million devices from its facility in Maharashtra. Coolpad will bring in its 20 years of expertise and experience to this venture. The first made in India Coolpad phone will be available in Q1 of next year 2016. The fingerprint sensor which is the key highlight of the device is placed at the back and made by FPC 1025 which supports 360 degrees finger rotation capability, fast response time and industry leading 3D image quality. Coolpad Note 3 will be available in India from October 20, 2015 onwards exclusively on India's largest online marketplace Amazon.in. Coolpad Note 3 is equipped with 5.5 inch HD screen, bundled exclusively for the

Indian market. The device is upgraded with 3GB of RAM along with 16GB of in built storage which supports 4G LTE, 3G and GSM network frequencies along with a dual-SIM slot. It features a 13-megapixel rear-facing camera with LED flash and auto focus alongside a 5-megapixel front-facing camera. Dr. Johnson Luo, V.P. Coolpad Group, said, "India is a very crucial market for Coolpad and we believe that we will learn a lot from our investments in the country which will affect the company and its business globally. The Indian consumer knows his smart phones well and to

develop a successful product that is both robust and technically sound is imperative, however it all boils down to the price of the product and we have decided to modify that too, as it is Coolpad's philosophy to bring affordable technology to all. Noor Patel, Director Categories, Amazon Seller Services Pvt. Ltd, "We are happy to be the partner of choice for "Coolpad" and offer our customers the opportunity to be the first to purchase the "Coolpad Note 3". We are witnessing a significant demand in mid-range smart phone category onAmazon.in and we see

this as a great opportunity to offer customers across India the ease, convenience & joy of shopping for a great product." The "Made in India" Coolpad phones will bring a great value proposition to consumers through an exciting, trendy and futuristic range of products. This exclusive partnership also serves as a testimony of Videocon's and Coolpad's commitment to offer the best quality product. The above partnership is in line with the Government's Vision of "Make in India" and such projects and partnerships will bring big business and employment opportunities in the country.

Ferrari expects to be valued at up to $9.8 bn Milan, Oct 11: Italian luxury carmaker Ferrari expects its US initial public offering to be priced in a range of between $48 and $52 per share, which could value the company at up to $9.8 billion, it said. Parent Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) will sell up to 10 percent of Ferrari in the IPO and will use proceeds to help pay for its own ambitious turnaround plan to boost global sales to 7 million cars by 2018, and compete with rivals such as BMW and Volkswagen. The price range, announced in the IPO prospectus on Friday, may satisfy FCA Chief Executive and Ferrari Chairman Sergio Marchionne, who

has said Ferrari was worth at least 10 billion euros ($11.4 bn). Some analysts had said it could be just over half that. A successful IPO would be particularly important for Marchionne as his attempts to merge FCA with U.S. rival General Motors to share costs of developing cleaner and more "intelligent" vehicles have fallen on deaf ears. In the prospectus filed with the US market regulator, Ferrari said it would offer 17.2 million shares in the IPO, equal to around a 9 percent stake in the sportscar maker. An additional 1.7 million shares may be sold if the greenshoe option is exercised, it added, raising the

size of the total offering to a 10 percent stake. FCA could raise up to $982 million through the offering. Ferrari, famous for luxury vehicles adorned with its "prancing horse" logo and its Formula One racing team, expects to list on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "RACE". Its Wall Street debut is expected in the second half of October, while FCA plans to spin off the whole of Ferrari next year. Marchionne wants Ferrari to be priced as a high-flying luxury goods stock, but analysts have questioned whether the capital intensive business deserves the multiples enjoyed by the likes of Prada and Hermes.

FCA will see its 90 percent stake in Ferrari reduced to 80 percent after the IPO and it plans to distribute that 80 percent stake to its own shareholders next year. Piero Ferrari, vice chairman and son of the founder Enzo, who died in 1988, will retain his 10 percent stake in Ferrari. Ferrari's float will include a loyalty share scheme for long-term investors, set to tighten the grip on the company by Fiat's founding Agnelli family. The Agnellis, through their holding company Exor, and Piero Ferrari together could end up with a voting power of around 50 percent, enabling them to thwart any unwanted takeover bid. Ferrari added in the prospectus that it expects to report revenue of about 720-730 million euros for the three months to Sept. 30, an increase of 9-10 percent from a year earlier. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) is seen rising 19-22 percent to 210215 million euros. UBS is the offer's global coordinator, with BofA Merrill Lynch, Allen & Company, Banco Santander, BNP Paribas, JP Morgan and Mediobanca acting as joint bookrunners. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

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ENVIRONMENT Cacti to be placed among world's most threatened species Wildlife flourishing at Chernobyl

Thirty-one percent of cactus species are threatened with extinction, according to the first comprehensive, global assessment of the species group by IUCN and partners, published in the journal Nature Plants. This places cacti among the most threatened taxonomic groups assessed on The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species -more threatened than mammals and birds. According to the report, cacti are under increasing pressure from human activity, with more than half of the world's 1,480 cactus species used by people. The illegal trade of live plants and seeds for the horticultural industry and private collections, as well as their unsustainable harvesting are the main threats to cacti, affecting 47% of threatened species. "The startling results reflect the vital importance of funding and conducting assessments of the threatened status of all of the species in major groups of plants, such as the cacti," says Kevin Gaston, from the University of Exeter, who co-led the Global Cactus Assessment. "Only by so doing will we gain the overall picture of what is happening to them, at a time when, as evidenced by the cacti, they may be under immense human pressures." "These findings are disturbing," said Inger Andersen, IUCN Director General. "They confirm that the scale of the illegal wildlife trade -- including trade in plants -- is much greater than we had previously thought, and that wildlife trafficking con-

cerns many more species than the charismatic rhinos and elephants which tend to receive global attention. We must urgently step up international efforts to tackle the illegal wildlife trade and strengthen the implementation of the CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, if we want to prevent the further decline of these species." Other threats to cacti include smallholder livestock ranching affecting 31% of threatened species, and smallholder annual agriculture affecting 24% of threatened species. Residential and commercial development, quarrying and aquaculture -- particularly shrimp farming, which expands into cacti's habitats - are also among major

threats faced by these species. Cacti are key components of New World arid ecosystems and are critical to the survival of many animal species. They provide a source of food and water for many species including deer, woodrats, rabbits, coyotes, turkeys, quails, lizards and tortoises, all of which help with cactus seed dispersal in return. Cactus flowers provide nectar to hummingbirds and bats, as well as bees, moths and other insects, which, in turn, pollinate the plants. Cactus species are widely used by people in the horticultural trade, as well as for food and for medicine. Their fruit and highly nutritious stems are an important food source for rural communities. The nutritional value of one cactus

Over 50 Species of butterfly Spotted

More than 50 different species of butterflies have been spotted at Pange Valley in Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh during the second edition of the three-day Ziro Butterfly Meet. The participants photographed rare species of butterflies, like Bhutan Glory, which was also sighted multiple times by all the participants at different locations. It is significant because October is considered too late for butterflies at Ziro considering the weather conditions at this time of the year. The meet, organised by NgunuZiro, saw participants from Nagaland, Assam and Sikkim this year, a release issued by the association stated here recently. Ziro Valley had caught the imagination of the world of the butterfly enthusiasts with the first live photography of the

Kaiser-e-Hind in India during the First Ziro Butterfly Meet last year. Participating in the meet as the resource person, Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi said that the three most sought after butterflies in the world are the Kaiser-e-Hind, Bhutan Glory and Brown Gorgon. Ziro, he said, is unique because all these three valued species have been documented. Nawangla Bhutia, president of the Butterflies and Moths of Sikkim, expressed his desire to work more closely with NgunuZiro in order to promote rare butterflies and conserve habitats in the eastern Himalayas. Samrat Sengupta, a wildlife biologist, shared some basic tips of photographing butterflies. Other participants included Palash Goswami, a conservationist and mountaineer, of Seven Look from Assam and Ngulljolal

Khongsai of Bombay Natural History Society. NgunuZiro is a non-governmental organization based at Ziro working for a sustainable future of the place as well as the society. The Ziro Butterfly Meet has been started as a part of its initiative to create awareness among the local people about the rich biodiversity of the place and the need to conserve them. The event also serves to fulfill its objective of promoting the concept of responsible tourism in the state. Some members of NgunuZiro are participating in the NorthEast Butterfly Meet, scheduled at Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam later this month. The next edition of the North-East Butterfly Meet is likely to be held at Ziro next year, the release added. (Agencies)

stem of Opuntia ficus-indica -- a 'prickly pear' cactus popular in Mexico, where it is known as 'nopal' -- is often compared to that of a beef steak, and the roots of species such as A r i o c a r p u s kotschoubeyanus which is listed as Near Threatened, are used as antiinflammatories. Trade in cactus species occurs at national and international levels and is often illegal, with 86% of threatened cacti used in horticulture taken from wild populations. European and Asian collectors are the biggest contributors to the illegal cactus trade. Specimens taken from the wild are particularly sought after due to their rarity. "The results of this assessment come as a shock to us," says Barbara

Goettsch, lead author of the study and Co-Chair of IUCN's Cactus and Succulent Plant Specialist Group. "We did not expect cacti to be so highly threatened and for illegal trade to be such an important driver of their decline. Their loss could have far-reaching consequences for the diversity and ecology of arid lands and for local communities dependent on wild-harvested fruit and stems." "This study highlights the need for better and more sustainable management of cactus populations within range countries. With the current human population growth, these plants cannot sustain such high levels of collection and habitat loss." The illegal trade in cacti has been reduced to a certain extent by the inclusion,

since 1975, of most cactus species on CITES appendices and through the increased availability of plants grown from seed on the international market. However, the threat of collection prevails, especially in countries where the implementation of CITES has only recently been enforced. For example, the onceabundant Echinopsis pampana, endemic to the puna desert of Peru, has been collected illegally for the ornamental plant trade at such high rates that at least 50% of the population has disappeared in the last 15 years. Its loss is irreversible as the areas that were once populated by the species have since undergone land use change for housing purposes. The species is now listed as Endangered. Cacti are renowned for their diverse forms and beautiful flowers. They are endemic to New World arid lands except for one species, Rhipsalis baccifera, which is also found in southern Africa, Madagascar and Sri Lanka. Hotspots for threatened cactus species include arid areas of Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Uruguay. These areas are perceived as uncharismatic and unimportant, even though they are rich in biodiversity, hence arid-land species like cacti are often overlooked in conservation planning. The report's authors highlight the need to broaden arid land protected area coverage and raise awareness about the importance of sustainable collection of cacti from the wild in order to better conserve the species. Courtesy: Science Daily

A team of international researchers has discovered abundant wildlife population at Chernobyl, the site of the 1986 nuclear accident that released radioactive particles into the environment and forced a massive evacuation. Abundant with moose, roe deer, wild boar and wolves, the disaster site in Ukraine looks more like a nature preserve than a disaster zone - nearly 30 years after the world's largest nuclear accident, the researchers reported. Previous studies in the 1,621-square-mile Chernobyl Exclusion Zone showed evidence of major radiation effects and significantly reduced populations of wildlife. For the first time since the Chernobyl accident, researchers have longterm census data that reveal thriving wildlife populations in the zone. "Our data are a testament to the resiliency of wildlife when freed from direct human pressures such as habitat loss, fragmentation and persecution," said study co-author James Beasley, assistant professor of wildlife ecology at University of Georgia Savannah River Ecology Laboratory in Aiken, South Carolina, US. "The multiyear data clearly show that a multitude of wildlife species are abundant throughout the zone, regardless of the level of radiation contamination," Beasley noted. "This does not mean radiation is good for wildlife, just that the effects of human habitation, including hunting, farming and forestry, are a lot worse," team coordinator Jim Smith, professor of environmental science at the University of Portsmouth in Britain explained. The number of moose, roe deer, red deer and wild boar living in the zone are similar to numbers in nearby uncontaminated nature reserves in the region, the results showed. The census data on wolves in the area indicated they are seven times greater in number than those living in the nearby reserves. Aerial census data collected from 198796 revealed rising numbers of moose, roe deer and wild boar in the zone. The findings appeared in the journal Current Biology. (Agencies)

Fragile Eastern Himalayan region includes hundreds of new species A sneezing monkey, a walking fish and a jewellike snake are just some of a biological treasure trove of over 200 new species discovered in the Eastern Himalayas in recent years, according to a new report by WWF. The report, Hidden Himalayas: Asia's Wonderland released on World Habitat Day maps out scores of new species found by scientists from various organizations including 133 plants, 39 invertebrates, 26 fish, 10 amphibians, one reptile, one bird and one mammal. The volume and diversity of discoveries, 211 in total between 2009 and 2014, highlight the region as one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth; the discoveries listed equating to an average of 34 new species discovered annually for the past six years. "I am excited that the region -- home to a staggering number of species including some of the most charismatic fauna -- continues to surprise the world with the nature and pace of species discovery," said Ravi Singh, CEO of WWFIndia and Chair of the WWF Living Himalayas Initiative. Some of the most striking discoveries include a vibrant blue dwarf 'walking' snakehead fish, which can breathe atmospheric air and survive on land for up to four days, although moving in a manner much clumsier than a slithering

snake. The report details an unfortunate monkey whose upturned nose leads to a sneeze every time the rain falls, and a living gem -the bejeweled lance-headed pit viper, which could pass as a carefully crafted piece of jewellery. The report also underscores the dire threats facing the vibrant ecosystems across a region spanning Bhutan, north-east India, Nepal, north Myanmar and the southern parts of Tibet. The report found that as a consequence of development, only 25% of the original habitats in the region remain intact and hundreds of species that live in the Eastern Himalayas are considered globally threatened. The

region is currently facing a wide range of threats and pressures, with climate change by far the most serious. Population growth, deforestation, overgrazing, poaching, the wildlife trade, mining, pollution and hydropower development have all contributed to the pressures on the fragile ecosystems in the region, the report says. "The challenge is to preserve our threatened ecosystems before these species, and others yet unknown are lost," said Sami Tornikoski leader of the WWF Living Himalayas Initiative. "The Eastern Himalayas is at a crossroads. Governments can decide whether to follow the current path

towards fragile economies that do not fully account for environmental impacts, or take an alternative path towards greener, more sustainable economic development," said Tornikoski. The stakes are high as the Himalayas are home to at least 10,000 plant species, 300 mammal species, 977 bird species, 176 reptiles, 105 amphibians and 269 types of freshwater fish. In addition to this, between 1998 and 2008 in the Eastern Himalayas, at least 354 new species were discovered. In a bid to protect the region's rich diversity of flora and fauna, WWF is actively involved in supporting the countries of the Eastern Himalayas' progress to-

wards green economies that value ecosystems and the services they provide to the millions of people in the region. Located in one of the most ecologically fragile regions on Earth, the WWF Living Himalayas Initiative urges a strong regional collaboration to ensure that people in this region, live within the ecological means and remain within the boundaries of one planet. WWF continues to develop and support programmes in the region that help secure a brighter future for the region's people and biodiversity, including its rich array of species -- those that we already know and those still waiting to be discovered. (Agencies)

cmyk

QUOTE - "Thanks to all my fans. My next fight will be October 30 in Harrow, enjoy it. It's new for me but I've been working hard. It's going well, I want to win! That's just the beginning."

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

RNIASSENG00425/TC

Vijender Singh

India hold Kiwis to 1-1 draw to clinch Hockey Test series ANI Christchurch: The Indian men's hockey team won the four-match Test series 2-1 after playing out a 1-1 draw against New Zealand in Christchurch on Sunday. The first quarter of the game witnessed a series of attacks coming in from the Indian side who dominated the entire session. Without wasting much time, Sardar Singh broke into the hosts defence from the right flank but unluckily his attack was stopped by New Zealand's Alex Shaw. In the 11th minute India was awarded with a penalty corner but Rupinder Pal Singh's effort went off the target. New Zealand started putting some pressure on the Indian defence with a

long pass from Blair Tarrant and which Nic Woods found himself in a goal scoring position but an alert Indian defence blocked his attack. Dying moments of the first quarter saw Akashdeep Singh

get a chance to open the account but his attempt went wide of the post. The score line remained 0-0 as the first quarter saw no goals from either side. In the second quarter of the match, the Black Sticks

dominated the early part with attack from left side of the pitch which earned them a penalty corner, but PR Sreejesh beautifully saved the ball. This was followed by India's counter attack as they broke through the Kiwi defence. However they could not break the deadlock. Going into the quarter, both the teams tried to find the opening goal but could not find a way through. Finally in the 41st minute, the game saw the first goal of the game coming from the stick of Nick Ross, who collected the pass from Steve Edwards and finished calmly to give New Zealand a 1-0 lead over India. India replied immediately in the 43rd minute with a goal

Mirza-Hingis clinch China Open women's doubles title

from SV Sunil through a field effort as he successfully opened the Indian account from the left side of the post, which concluded the third quarter at 1-1. The last quarter started with equal zeal as New Zealand got a great chance to take the lead in the early minutes with Simon Child running into the Indian defence but a vigilant Indian defence blocked the attack without any damage. Riding on series of attacks, New Zealand earned a penalty corner in the 54th minute of the match but PR Sreejesh, diving to his left brilliantly saved the ball. As the scores were equaled, India kept the possession in the dying moments of the game and ensured that the game ended 1-1.

Mexico clinch CONCACAF Cup with 3-2 win over United States Agencies Pasadena: Mexico won a pulsating CONCACAF Cup playoff match against the United States 3-2 in extra time at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium to book their place in the next Confederations Cup. It was their first victory against the U.S. since they clinched the 2011 Gold Cup final played at the same venue, and earned them bragging rights in what has become an intense football rivalry over the past two decades. With a highenergy game tied 1-1 at halftime and also after full time on an unseasonably hot evening, forward Oribe Peralta broke the deadlock in the 96th minute with a powerful right-footed shot off a low cross from defender Paul Aguilar. Mexico appeared to have victory as-

sured with their greater composure on the ball but 12 minutes later they were stunned when forward Bobby Wood equalised for

the U.S. after latching on to an exquisite through ball from defender DeAndre Yedlin. Aguilar scored the decisive goal in

Chongkham HS School thrash Chongkham Rebels 6-0 9th Chongkham Champions Running Trophy

ET Correspondent Chongkham, Oct 11: Chongkham Higher Secondary School thrashed Chongkham Rebels 6-0 in a match of the 9th Chongkham Champions Running Trophy which is played at the Chongkham mini stadium, here. The tournament is organised by the Chongkham Youth Welfare Association and

the Chongkham army camp Is helping the organisers in publicity of the event which has already become a very popular tournament of the locality. In today's match, Ajay Gurung came up with a superb performance and scored a hatrick. He scored the goals in the 21st, 28th and 60th minute. He was also adjudged as the player of the

match for his wonderful play. Budhiman, Onseng Mein and Jeong Hopak scored once each. In yesterday's match, DFC, Namsai edged out Dumba Youth Club 2-1. Chow Silanam Namchoom was adjudged as the player of the match. Tomorrow, Gunanagar SC will play against 2nd Mile, Namsai in a second round match.

kick. Mexico's win ended a six-match winless run against the U.S. featuring three losses and three draws and earned them a spot at the 2017 Confederations Cup, an eight-nation event to be held in Russia as a prelude to the 2018 World Cup. "I feel very happy for everything that the boys did," interim Mexico coach Richard Ferretti said after the match. "It's a result that we earned, for what they (the players) did and what they were looking for. In the time, the 120 minutes, we did a bit more to deserve the (decisive) goal. We won and we deserved it," added Ferretti, who will be replaced by Juan Carlos Osorio as coach after Tuesday's friendly against Panama.

ANI Beijing: Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza and her Swiss partner Martina Hingis maintained their scintillating run by clinching their eighth women's doubles title of the year at the China Open. The top seeded IndoSwiss pair bounced back brilliantly from their firstset defeat to claim a 6-7 (911), 6-1, 10-8 win over the Taiwanese pair of Chan Hao-ching and Chan Yungjan in the summit clash that lasted one hour and 40 minutes. Mirza and Hingis have won eight women's doubles titles this year, including two Grand Slam titles at Wimbledon and the US Open, since joining forces in March.

Mumbai City hold Kerala Blasters to frustrating goalless draw in ISL ANI Kochi: Kerala Blasters FC failed to claim their second consecutive victory as they were held to a frustrating goalless draw against Mumbai City FC in their Indian Super League (ISL) clash here at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Kerala had certainly dominated the second-half of the game, but failed to convert any of their decent chances into goals as they were held by the tourist's defenders. Meanwhile, Mumbai also continued to make good moves but didn't man-

age to smack any goal. With the draw, Kerala is currently at the third spot on the league table with four points, while Mumbai are sixth with zero

points. Kerala will next lock horns with Atletico de Kolkata in their ISL clash at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata on October 13.

Vijender KOs opponent in pro boxing debut

Root tips England to claim historic Test win over Pakistan in UAE

breathtaking fashion in the 118th minute with a thunderous volley after the ball had bounced clear of the U.S. goal following a free

Agencies Machester: Star Indian boxer Vijender Singh made a smashing professional debut by knocking out Britain's Sonny Whiting in the middleweight category ruthlessly demolishing the man, who promised to put him through hell at the Manchester Arena. Vijender won the contest with a few seconds left in the third of the four-round bout via Technical Knockout, pushing Whiting literally on to the ropes and smacking him with a combination of jabs and uppercuts before the referee stepped in to stop the contest. Strolling in confidently to the beats of Punjabi song, the 29-year-old hardly looked a debutant as he got down to business against Whiting. In fact, it was Whiting, who looked timid and unsure of what to do against the clinical Indian. Nimblefooted and precise, Vijender used his long reach to full advantage against his 26-yearold rival, who is himself merely four-bouts old in the pro circuit. "Thanks to all my fans. My next fight will be October 30 in Harrow, enjoy it.

It's new for me but I've been working hard. It's going well, I want to win! That's just the beginning," said the Haryanalad after a resounding start to his pro career. Vijender treaded cautiously to start with, taking a measure of Whiting in the opening three minutes. However, that did not stop him from landing a few clean jabs to clinch the initiative. The Indian grew in confidence in the second round against the erratic Whiting,

whose attacking strategy went haywire with every passing second. Vijender, on the other hand, was a picture of composure despite the home fans loudly cheering for the local favourite. Moving quite literally like a butterfly, India's first Olympic and World Championships medallist stung quite hard, smashing through his opponent's defences with the razor-sharp accuracy. The Brit struggled to match Vijender's ability to shift gears within

seconds and had himself tied up in knots while trying to counter-attack. It all fell apart for him in the third round when Vijender cornered him on the ropes and let loose a flurry of punches which stopped only after the referee stepped to rescue Whiting. In the end, the soft-spoken Indian had a faint smile on his face and had his arm lifted in celebration as he lived up to the pre-bout promise of speaking only through punches.

Digboi Press Club organises one-day prize money football tournament Laxman Sharma Digboi, Oct 11: A one day prize money football tournament which was organised by Digboi Press Club here at the historic Jubilee Playground Digboi

concluded today here. The 18 different teams from various locations of undivided Dibrugarh district participated in the tournament played out on a knock-out basis. The tour-

nament which attracted significant number of sports fans witnessed a tough battle among the ambitious teams throughout. Meanwhile, in the final, the Hollangbai Tea team and

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Sri Krishna Tea team both of Digboi fought for the Championship till the final stages. Following a neck to neck contest, finally team Hollangabi Tea emerged victorious overcoming the

rival Sri Krishna team 2-0. The winners bagged a prize worth Rs 15000 along with the champions trophy while the prize was given away by Ashok Sharma Zilla Parishad Member and so-

cial worker while the runners-up trophy along with money worth Rs 7000 was given away by Anurag Siring Phukon during the prize distribution ceremony. Meanwhile, man of the

tournament was awarded to Arun Urang of team Hollangabi and man of the match and best goalkeeper were awarded to Baikhuntha Moran and Arun Urang respectively of team Hollangabi.

ANI Dubai: England vicecaptain Joe Root believes that his side can upset the odds to become the first nation ever to beat Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates starting on Tuesday. Pakistan will start the three-match series as favourites, while the Alastair Cook-led side will attempt to avenge the 0-3 loss suffered on their last tour in the UAE. The 24-year-old batsman said that England have proven that they possess the capability to pull off big upset over the last six months, pointing to their

3-2 Ashes win over Australia. Root, who had ascended to numero uno position in Tests following a stellar run in the prestigious tournament, insisted that he was determined to make big contribution in the series, adding that he would be pleased to be part of a team to beat Pakistan for the first time in the UAE.

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