13th feb

facebook.com/easterntoday

@easterntoday

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

cmyk

cmyk

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

ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Issue 247

WANCHO'S LOG DRUM AT THE EXHIBITION ON CULTURAL HERITAGE AT BHOPAL Page 3

ET CAPSULES Treasury Office Naharlagun shifted Naharlagun, Feb12: The T r e a s u r y Office,Naharlagun has shifted and started functioning from the earmarked office and location at D-Sector, Directorate of Audit and Pension Complex, Naharlagun with effect from February 3, 2016 with existing software TAS. This was informed for the interest of the General Public by the Treasury Officer, Naharlagun.

Governor Officer Order Itanagar Feb 12: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has issued an office order that during the absence of Shri GS Patnaik, Advisor (FPD) or Shri BD Sharma, Advisor (H&P) from Headquarters at Itanagar on leave or official tour or otherwise, the Advisor present at Headquarters will look after the works or files etc. of the other Advisor away from Headquarters.

The order has been issued in the interest of public service, so the files or works are expedited and not kept in halt for want of approval from concerned Advisor.

Road Accident Claims 3 Lives in Golaghat Golaghat, Feb12: A major road accident claimed 3 lives and critically injured one in Golaghat. According to the report an Alto car bearing no. AS 05 G- 1423 was coming from Sarupathar to Golaghat last night carrying four personal. Suddenly the car lost its control near Nambor Reserve Forest and hit a tree. In the accident two government employees named Bishon Basumatari and Pintu Thakur got killed on the spot while another person named Probin Baraik was dead on the way to the hospital. The driver of the Alto car Dulu Bora got severe injuries and was taken to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital in a critical condition. This accident created a wave of mourn in Golaghat.

Dibrugarh, Saturday, February 13, 2016

RIVER SIDE DWELLERS COMPLAIN OF ARMY CREATING PROBLEMS OVER THEIR LAND Page 4

Not even a meter of Jungle has been cleared by any contractors or firms despite of the release of 1.34 crores compensated against the pre-construction activities for double lanning of Kanubari to Longding Section of NH-52BTrans Arunachal Highway, reveals group of associations comprising Lawnu Block Public Forum, All Russa Students Union, Rujen Students’ Union, Kanubari Youth Association and Wancho Students’ Union.

The associations in a meeting

on 12 February 2016 at kanubari decided to write to the Governor, Chief Secretary, Director, Deputy Commissioner Longding and the concern HOD to demands investigation into the alleged misused of public fund compensated under Trans-Arunachal highway.

The associations stated that information obtained through RTI from the Executive Engineer-CUM-PIO, department of Power and Electrical Division Deomali exposed that the Department has used Thirty Four Lakhs Thirty Thousands Five Hundred Five Rupees (Rs. 34, 30,505) against jungle clearance though as per departmen-

tal detail estimate the amount for the same work is just Seven Lakhs Rupees (Rs. 7 Lakhs).

The associations questioned the concern department as to why no contractor or firms has done the work as mentioned in the work order in spite of the bills released against various firms.

The group of associations alleged that more than 95% of fund has been misused by the department of power, Kanubari compensated by the National Highway towards pre-construction activities for double lanning of Kanubari to Longding section of NH-52B

Page 10

(47.21KM) Trans- Arunachal Highway under (AP) package Road and Highway (S.H: Shifting of HT & LT pole i/c S/S in between Kanubari to Longding).

The group mentioned that they have appealed several times to the higher authority requesting them to implement the work properly however everytime their request falls into deaf ear. When contact by this daily to the Superintending Engineer (HQs)-cum- PIO, Eastern Electrical Zone, Department of Power- Itanagar, he refused to say anything and instead said that he is not the current SE.

Arunachal Governor reviews Budget Estimate, allocates funds for Hospitals and Colleges ET Bureau Itanagar, Feb 12

The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa convened a meeting to review the Revised Estimate 2015-16 and Budget Estimate for 2016-17 at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 12th February 2016. Advisors to Governor, Shri GS Patnaik and Shri BD Sharma, Chief Secretary Shri Ramesh Negi, Principal Secretary Finance Shri Satya Gopal, Secretary Finance Shri BM Mishra, Secretary Planning Shri Sonam Chombay and Senior Officers of Finance and Planning Departments attended the meeting.

The State annual development agenda for 2015-16 is

HOSPITALS Ramakrishna Mission Hospital, Itanagar 5 cr Tomo Riba State Hospital, Naharlagun 1 Cr District Hospitals of Ziro, Tezu and Pasighat

1 Cr Each

COLLEGES Dera Natung College, Itanagar 1 Cr Indira Gandhi College Tezu 1 Cr Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat 1 Cr Seed fund to set up college at Tawang 10 Lac

DE-ADDICTION & REHABILITATION CENTRES Wakro Tezu Roing Khonsa Changlang Longding

}

5 Lac Each

JAILS Expansion of Jails 1

Cr Set up of Juveniles 15 Lac

PWD

5814.24 Cr and Revised Estimate is Rs 4893.43 Cr. Fiscal consolidation is the priority of the state government. The number of very important decisions were taken in the meeting which include Rs 5.00 (Five) Crore for Ramakrishna Mission Hospital, Itanagar for setting up of Intensive Care Units (ICU) and other ancillary requirements, Rs 1.00 (One) Crore each to Tomo Riba State Hospital, Naharlagun and District Hospitals of Ziro, Tezu and Pasighat to procure medical equipments such as ECG machines, ventilators, defibrillators, oxygen concentrators etc.

To purchase JCB and dumper 1 Cr Contd. on Page 3

After Congress, BJP toes same line to woo tea voters before elections A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb 12 After the seasoned politicians of the Congress, it seems that the BJP too have started to toe the line of the Congress to woo the tea garden voters before the elections by promising them better health care facilities, which had been a very old demand of the organizations related to the community.

In a bid to woo the tea voters, union health and family welfare minister J.P.Nadda today ‘unveiled an old project’ which promises to

provide better health care facilities for not the people residing inside the garden but also its vicinity.

“There are a total number of 793 registered tea gardens in Assam and out of that 527 have hospitals; the rest 266 do not have.

Through the implementation of the new scheme, we will upgrade the existing hospitals with drugs and diagnostics. We will also arrange for referral transport so that the critical patients can be ferried to better hospitals”, the minister said while interacting with media persons at the conference hall of the additional circuit house, here.

He also said that the new project will be implemented after the centre receives the project reports from the state government. When, ‘The Eastern Today’ pointed out that a similar project which was implemented by the government by signing MoUs with tea gardens failed to improve the health scenario as expected, the union minister said that this time the project will have a vigilance committee headed by the concerning MPs of the area. “Funds will have to be approved through the vigilance committee. We will ensure better implementation of the project this time”, the minister said. Even is

5.00

ITC LIKELY TO ENTER FROZEN SHRIMP SEGMENT

Department of Power, Kanubari misused funds meant for TAH, alleges Orgs A Staff Reporter Kanubari, Feb 12

Price -

union minister Sarbananda Sonowal refused to agree that the announcement made by the minister to provide better health care facilities to the tea garden community is related to the ensuing polls, Nadda’s announcement has drawn sharp reaction from several quarters.

The All Assam Tea Tribes Students Association (ATTSA) appealed to the political parties to stop playing politics with the tea community. “The project looks very good on paper, but how far it will be implemented is the million dollar question here”, an ATTSA leader said.

Pages- 12 CONDEMN 'WITCH-HUNTING' BY POLICE, RSS IN CAMPUS: JNU STUDENT UNION VP Page 6

Its’ raining projects in Dibrugarh; after Sonowal’s twin sports project union health minister lays foundation stone of 150 crore super specialty block at AMCH A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb 12

As days of the state assembly elections draws near, it’s raining projects in upper Assam’s Dibrugarh! After union sports minister set the ball rolling with the laying of the foundation stone of two ambitious projects in Dibrugarh on Thursday, union minister of health and family welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda followed him up by laying the foundation stone of a 150 crores super specialty block at Assam Medical College and Hospitals (AMCH), here.

The project will be implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana. The proposed block will consists super specialties’ viz. Neurology, Neuro-surgery, cardiology, cardio Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Cardio Cathelab, Pediatric surgery and Urology.

There will be five operation theatres, 192 beds and 62 Intensive care unit (ICU) beds in the block. Addressing media persons at the conference hall of the additional circuit house,

Nadda (right) addressing the media in Dibrugarh. ET Photo

here, Nadda said that the Centre will do whatever is possible to improve and strengthen the infrastructure of the historic AMCH. “We are waiting a clearance from the state government to set up an ultra modern hospital like AIIMS in Guwahati. In all we are building 10 such hospitals across the country and one in Guwahati for the benefit of the people of Assam and NE”, the minister said.

The minister also added that the new block at AMCH will be completed within two years.

He also said that four district hospitals of Assam would be upgraded as Medical Colleges.

“We have taken a project of 189 crore against each hospital and for the four existing district hospital viz.

North Lakhimpur, Dhubri, Nagaon and Diphu,’’ Nadda said. He added 22 crore was already released by the government for the four hospital and the rest amount would be released in the second phase.

“For the project we need 5 acre of land and in Diphu we have got only 3 acre of land and we are trying if we get the remaining land our project will be come up soon,’’ he said.

Apart from the union minister, union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Dibrugarh MP Rameshwar Teli, Jorhat MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, Dibrugarh MLA Prashanta Phukan and Dibrugarh Deputy Commissioner M.S Manivannan was present during the press meet.

National Chamber of Commerce demands immediate opening of Tinsukia's Bye Pass A Staff Reporter Tinsukia, Feb 12

The National Chamber of Commerce today demanded the immediate opening of the Tinsukia's Bye Pass, the proposed project which was going on for several years today. "With the absent of a Bye-Pass the busy Tinsukia Town has to see long traffic Jams every whole day on the road. “All the vehicles, especially the trucks and other commercial vehicles, that have nothing to do in the town, pass through the town to reach to the other side", said Bajrang Lal, President of NCC in a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, Tinsukia.

"The matter has gone even

out of the hands of the traffic department, who don’t have any place left to divert the traffic”, the letter complained.

Tinsukia’s Bye-Pass project which is said to be the major element for rapid development is seems fantasy for the public now. The opening of the Bye-Pass should have started long back, but due to one reason or the other, it is being delayed. The people of Tinsukia have been waiting for the completion of the project for a long time.

But, gradually they have started losing the hope.

National Chamber of Commerce complained that kids nowadays spend more

time on roads then school, without any food and water for hours are in great danger due to rapid increasing of vehicular problem. Medical Patients, who should have reached hospitals, are instead waiting for the traffic jams to be cleared, with all the relative anxious and apprehensive.

Bajrang Lal said that if Central and State Government together decide to do something in the state, then there is nothing that can stop a project, and that too one which is being supported by the people themselves. He requested the Government to look the matter as early as possible before people start losing their hope on the government machinery.

It’s festival time in Arunachal Pradesh

Ollos of Tirap celebrates Worang Festival at Lazu while Singphos observe Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi in Bordumsa The annual Worang festival of the Ollos of Tirap district was celebrated on February 12 at Lazu with great enthusiasm and gaiety.

Addressing the gathering of festival revelers, local MLA Tirong Aboh extended his Worang greetings and said that festivals foster love, peace, happiness and joy, adding that politics had no role to play during festivals. He also told the people that he would support the celebration of Worang festival every year in whatever way he could.

cmyk

Aboh appealed to the

Local MLA and minister Tirong Aboh shakes a leg with girls in traditional attire during the festival

The MLA appreciated the dancers from Hachik in Myanmar for their wonderful cultural performance. In appreciation, the MLA also distributed 300 blankets as Worang gift to the gathering and dance troupes that had arrived from different villages.

Contd. on Page 3

Indrajit Tingwa Bordumsa Feb 12

The four day ethno cultural festival Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi of the Singphos began today here at the Singpho Heritage Centre, Bordumsa. Duwa Bisa Latnong, one of the Singpho Chiefs unfurled the festival flag which was followed by the flag song and firing of 32 gunshots marking the beginning of the thirty two edition of the fest. In his address the Bisa Chief wished all Singpho bethrens around the world peace and prosperity.

Thereafter the Thunghkring Manau (Traditional Dance) was performed around the Manau Shadungs (the ceremonial and sacred set of pillars).

Singpho community leaders during the flag hositing ceremony

Later in the evening the Kumrum Manau(Get Together Dance) was also performed.

Thirty one members of the Kuki delegation including cultural troupe arrived last night

and today101 delegates from Kachin State from the Union of Myanmar have arrived. The delegation was accorded a warm welcome by the celebration committee. Singpho delegates from different parts of

Assam and Arunachal Pradesh have been ouring in throughout the day. More delegates and visitors are expected to turn up in the ensuing days.

The attractions have been the dances around the Manau shadungs and the food stalls which have been put up by groups offering exquisite Singpho delicacies.

Hectic preparations are also being undertaken by the local administration in collaboration with the celebration committee to accord a befitting reception to Union MoS Kiren Rijiju who will grace the festival as the chief guest on his maiden visit here.

Ninong Ering,MP East Arunachal will also accompany the MoS and grace the festival as the Guest of Honour.

cmyk

people to zealously guard their rich legacies handed down to them by their ancestors and urged upon the villagers to shun opium cultivation and addiction, and suggested cultivating cash crops like large cardamom. He also asked the youth to engage in agriculture and horticulture activities for sustainable and permanent economic stability.

Nivedita N Manpoong Lazu, Feb 12

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

ASTRO FOR YOU Aries You probably have a big circle of friends, and though most of them may be casual friends, they may sometimes prove to be favourable. They may help you overcome some dejections. It will also help you figure out the importance of the role friends can play.

Taurus You are, consequently, likely to feel suspicious, uncertain and insecure about everything, particularly people. It's even possible that you may even suspect the feelings and intentions of those who are close to you. An uneasy anxiety and excitement will prevail at home. This is not going to be a particularly pleasant day for you. Act sensibly, carefully.

Gemini You will be seized by a desire to go on a trip with friends and family. This trip may have been some time in the planning as well. The day will be filled with fun and frolic and entertainment. Marital life will be blissful as well.

Cancer Today will be as boring and uneventful as it gets. It will be just another day at office, and an equally simple day at home. There will not be any low points, but no high points either.

Leo You will need to keep from being agitated today. Let your spouse or business partner take critical decisions if you aren't in the right frame of mind. Decisions you take today may have to be rethought of later. Important meetings will proceed smoothly, but you will not be able to commit to any final conclusions or contracts.

Virgo Pay due attention to your innate feelings. A small tour may be in the offing. You will get along famously with people today. Your loved ones will receive your sincere feelings and emotions. Work your magic to improve relationships more.

Libra All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy! You don't want to be Jack, now, do you?

It's high time you took a break from your busy work schedule. Go on a vacation to recharge your batteries. There are chances that evening could bring with it some hurtful remarks from loves ones.

Scorpio You are likely to get overboard with your ambitions and be loud-mouthed. But do not to be too forceful or severe lest you end up tarnishing your image. It is best to stay clear of conflicts in the larger scheme of things.

Sagittarius Conversation and interaction with like-minded people is going to make your day.

Shooting ideas, brainstorming and casual discussions may enlighten you today. Those around you will enjoy your company.

Capricorn Lack of confidence may leave you glum in the first half of the day, and to add to it, you will be loaded with work that you may have taken up from company other than the one employing you full time. The sullen mood will turn jovial by evening, and you can expect to have a good time socialising with friends and relatives.

Aquarius Today, you will decide to clean up the pile of files on the desk at work. Also, you will do everything that it requires to lighten the burden. Plan out your career wisely and set targets for the future.

Pisces Your business associates will marvel at your business acumen, and will respect the insights you provide for them to work with. Meanwhile, you will be busy spending quality time with your family and showing them how much they mean to you today.

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 13-2-16 (SATURDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Highlights of 12th South Asian Games 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-30 P.M-Hindi Film Songs 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 3-10 P.M-Selfie From North East 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-45 P.M-DaakPakhili 8-00 P.M-Ekalabya(Sponsored Programme of KK Handique State Open University) 9-30 P.M-Radio Serial 10.00 P.M-Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P

PAGE 2

With the resignation of BJP CEM, North Cachar Hills Autonomous District Council came under Congress ET Correspondent Tezpur, Feb 12 : With as-

sembly polls around the corner, the BJP on Thursday suffered a blow when lost the control over North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council to Congress.

The control over the NC Hills changed hands as Chief Executive Member Niranjan Hojai resigned from his post thereby facilitating the takeover of the council by Congress.

Hojai, who had joined the saffron party last year. His resignation came only a day after the BJP president

Amit Shah said that his party will oust the ruling Congress in the assembly elections.

Hojoi stepped down from his post just hours before a no-confidence motion was scheduled to be brought in against him.

The BJP had formed the government in the NC Hills under Hojoi last year after 10 out of 16 Congress members switched allegiance.

However, within three months these members returned back to Congress

Thaosen files nomination for CEM

fold leaving the BJP-led government in minority.

The other hill district autonomous council – Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council – is already con-

trolled by Congress, while the Bodoland Territorial Council is under control of Bodo People’s Front, which recently left the Congress-led alliance to join hands with the BJP.

Chief Minister Tarun distributes land patta to forest dwellers in ET Correspondent Tezpur, Feb 12 : Turning the long cherished dream of land right in Forest areas by the indigenous tribal people living in the north belt in Sonitpur District into a reality state’s chief minister Tarun Gogoi today distributed land pattas to those who have been living in the concerned areas over the years in a public meeting held at Chardwar in Sonitpur district. The chief minister addressing a public rally declared that in the next three months the entire long pending dispute over

the providing of land pattas to the occupants of the belt under the forest right act 2006 after the re-examination of the matter. The chief minister as a token distributed land pattas to fourteen people of Chardwar area and reiterating his recent announcement of development projects for the Bodos Gogoi said that the Bodo language will be made associate official language in the state, a cultural research centre in memory of UN Brahma will be set up in Gwuahati, and a high level

observation committee will be formed taking retired tribal judges for the observation of the encroachment in tribal belt and Block areas in the state. Claiming his developmental work for the Bodos during the last fifteen years of Congress rule in the state he also stated that Bodos are with the Congress as apart from congress no any parties try to feel the woe of the very community which often goes unheard.

Meanwhile, hailing Gogoi’s positive steps towards the Bodos the All Bodo Stu-

dents Union said that parties which give priority to the issues of the Bodo community, ABSU and the Bodo people will extend their support in the forth-coming assembly poll. On the otherhand, the ABSU also demanded an ITI at Batachipur area, an UPSC coaching centre at Gohpur, DIET at Biswanath with the appointment of Boro teacher for the training of Boro medium school teachers and a Dairy Farming project within Chardwar and Batachipur area in Sonitpur District.

AASU burn effigy of CM and Education Minister ET Correspondent Rangia ,Feb. 12: All Assam Student Union Rangia Unit burn the effigy of CM Tarun Gogoi and education Minister Sarat Barkataky at Rangia Highway chawak today They blocked the NH 31 as the state government failed to supply the school books to the students .

Hementa Das Secretary of Rangia sub division AASU alleged that after 40 days of New education year the government failed to provide the school books to the students as a result students of different classes suffering badly.

They also demanded to supply the books immediately otherwise they would start agitation against state government.

DC urges to deposit arms ET Correspondent Rangia, Feb 12: DC Kamrup Vinod seshan passed an order for all individuals who posses Arms to deposit them in earliest before election. According to the district administration in view of the ensuing Assembly poll 2016 in Assam and to make it free and fare the district administration, Kamrup has taken a flurry activities. As a part of this the DC Kamrup Vinod Seshan and in pursuance of the instruction of the Election Commission of India passed this order. He also requested the private arms holder to obtain deposit receipt from the nearest police station.

134th Martyrs day of Veer Sambudhan Phonglo observed at Haflong ET Correspondent, Haflong Feb 12 : The 134th Martyrs day of Veer Sambudhan Phonglo, organised by the Dimasa Students' Union was observed here at Haflong in befitting way in presence of huge gathering on Friday.

The Day's programme began with the offering of floral tribune to the statue of Veer Sambudhan Phonglo by dignitaries like Brig S. Viswasrao, commander, 22 sector, senior citizens,

youths and students. This was followed by garlanding of the statue by Sri J. N Bathari and others.

Speaking on the occasion Sri Kailen Daolagupu, President, Jadikhe Nasho Hosom (JNH) said though we have achieved freedom from British but we the people of Dima Hasao yet to achieve the freedom since the Assam 134th Martyrs day of Veer Sambudhan Phonglo Government has been observed at Haflong neglecting the district of Dima Hasao in every sphere of life. Though ery possibility for the de- gence from Assam Govthe district is having ev- velopment but the negli- ernment has pushed the

people to be backwards.

Sri Dethang Naiding while stressing importance of observing the day said we should follow the footprints of Veer Phonglo for the development of society.

A procession from the Statue of Veer Sambudhan was also taken out to the Cultural Institute Hall where competitions like drawing, painting, eassay writing, photography, extempore speech among the students.

NE Islamic jor sanmilan gets underway at Nalbari Ramen Kalita Nalbari, Feb 12 : More than a lakh people belonging to the Muslim community of North East State today took part in the Jumma Namaz held in the North East Islamic Jor Sanmilan got underway at Haripur-Bausiyapara in Nalbari district from today.

The Jumma Namaj was conducted by Moulana Ajam Bhai ,a religious leader of Hajarat Nijamuddin Banglewale masjid in New Delhi.While addressing the people just before the namaj he said the incidents of violence is globally rising only due to the

AASU Stage protest in Naharkatiya ET Correspondent Naharkatia, Feb. 12: Naharkatia AASU unit today stage dharna against failure of the state government in solving of various problems in Naharkatia.

AASU activies today marched from Naharkatia H.S.School and stage dharna near Naharkatia Circle office demanding solving of the problems face by the people of Naharkatia and surrounding areas. It may be mentioned that their main demands were uninterrupted supply of books to the students of ninth and

AASU Stage protest in Naharkatiya. Pic - ET Photo

tenth, a 100 bedded hospital in Naharkatia, to finish the drainage system at the earliest and to improve the conditions of roads in and around Naharkatia, solving of erosion of Naharkatia.

They also burnt the effigy of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and education minister Sarat Borkakoty against their total failure in sloving the problems faced by the peoples of Naharktia.

AJYCP Naharkatia unit too joined the dharna programe.

Later, they submitted a memorandum to the circle officer of Naharkatia.

NE Islamic jor sanmilan gets underway at Nalbari

people failed to follow called upon the people the philosophy of to acquire knowledge and respect to the seHajarat Muhammad. niors to create a peaceHe further said that ful atmosphere.In the there is a relevance of three-day sanmilan six Islamic religious edu- religious leaders from Hajarat cation to get rid from the N i z a m u d d i n the ongoing violence.

Banglewale masjid will Bhai said that we get- deliver religious lecting the message of tures to the followers. world brotherhood from the Islam.He On February 14 the

Sanmilan Will come to an end with a common prayer and mass nikah.It may be mentioned here that over one lakh devotees from Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Sikkim along with the state took part in the three-day Jor Sanmilan organized by the Nalbari Tablig Zamat.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

PAGE 3

Wildlife Trust of India sponsors rice Wancho's Log drum at the exhibition distribution for flood affected victims on Cultural heritage at Bhopal

Wildlife Trust of India sponsors rice distribution for flood affected victims Pasighat, Feb 12: DFO W/ L T Mize and his staff recently distributed 90 bags of rice to flood-affected residents of Mer village in presence of Mebo ADC Yemling Tayeng.

One of the bordering villages of Daying Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary, Mer village was badly affected by flood water last year.

The fund for the rice distribution has been sponsored

by Wildlife Trust of India which was initiated by Sunil Karyong to build confidence and mutual trust between the local community and the sanctuary authority.

rivers, streams and too much interference to the environment by humans.

DFO Mize explained to the victims that natural calamities like flood and drought are caused due to the deforestation, killing of wildlife, poisoning of aquatic life in

The gaon burrahs and Panchayat leaders also participated in the distribution and assured to cooperate with the sanctuary authorities.

The villagers also thanked the Wildlife Trust of India for sponsoring the assistance.

Org demands assessment of disaster preparedness A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 12 : The All Arunachal Pradesh Disaster Management Relief O r g a n i s a t i o n (AAPDMRO), in a memorandum to the state governor today asked for initiating action to create awareness on natural and manmade disasters.

In a three-point memorandum submitted to the Governor’s Secretariat, the

AAPDMRO requested the governor to direct the disaster management department, deputy commissioners of all districts, gas agencies and fire departments to create awareness on fire prevention, awareness on natural calamities like earthquake, flood, landslide, drought, epidemics, along with safety tips.

It also requested allocation of sufficient funds to the fire

service authority of the state to establish fire stations at important places like ADC, EAC and CO headquarters to avoid large scale fire mishaps.

Further, the organization claimed that the concerned authority that provides relief to victims do not provide immediate financial assistance to the fire victims and urged on the governor to look into the matter for a quick fix.

Bhopal, Feb 12 : Artists of the Wancho community from Arunachal Pradesh arrived at Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS) Bhopal at the exhibition of cultural heritage where they will construct their traditional Wancho Ham (dwelling house). They also have brought their Kham (log drum) from Senua Village in Longding District of Arunachal Pradesh. Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya has established Heritage Window Exhibition based on Cultural Heritage of India at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Shamshabad, Madhya Pradesh.

Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya

ministration, police and NGOs, informed ABK WW East Siang President Yalem Taga Burang.today.

There are several such under aged children who are engaged as child labour in many pri-

vate establishments like garages, informed sources. Five boys were rescued yesterday while three more were rescued in today’s extensive drive. The rescued boys, all under 14 years of age were handed back over to

The log drum was inaugurated by Director Professor S K Chaudhuri in presence of several people in an open air veethi as a part of the open-air exhibition in the campus on February 11 last.

The programme started with artists arriving from the tribal habitat area of IGRMS singing and dancing. After reaching the inaugural spot they sang a song locally called kham pai tsai (Kham means log

Wancho's Log drum at the exhibition on Cultural heritage at Bhopal drum, Pai means to lift and Tsai means song). They seek permission from God through squirrels, birds and insects. They first tell the squirrels and birds that the tree which they use to play, take rest, and eat fruits from is being taken away from them for an important purpose, and request them not

Arunachal NCP blames Governor of creating the current crisis in the state Warns him not to stop developmental process at any cost ET Bureau Itanagar, Feb 12 : The state Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) today blames the Governor, JP Rajkhowa that the present political turmoil in the state was created

8 boys rescued under Operation Smile-II

Spl Correspondent Pasighat, Feb 12 : In total of 8 boys has been rescued from various garage spread across township here under Operation Smile-II drive of which was carried out by ad-

(IGRMS) or National Museum of Humankind or Museum of Man is an anthropology museum located in Bhopal, India, to present an integrated story of the evolution of man and culture with special reference to India.

their parents and ensured for their education under Right to Education. Due to growing trafficking of children, this is a noble effort on the part of Govt. of India to save to under privileged children who are used as domestic and other help like garages without paying them, just getting their services by feeding them.

ABKWW East Siang President Yalem Taga Burang said that, it’s a noble effort and all need to coordinate and help sending such under privileged children to schools so that our district, state and the country become free from poverty one day.

him and therefore he should be more careful that such situation does not occur again. In a press release, Party President Gicho Kabak accused the Governor of power hungry and that since he has got what he wants he should rule the state smoothly without affecting the developmental process, he said.

NCP warns the Governor that the people will revolt if any developmental work initiated by the Tuki Government stops.

The party urged Governor J P Rajkhowa to allow continuation of all the policies and programmes of the state government without any discrimination.

The State NCP observed that after imposition of President Rule tourist inflow to Arunachal Pradesh and business of twin city of capital complex, Itanagar has declined due to fear psychosis develop in the minds of the people.

Clean Arunachal campaign intensified

Paramilitary forces deployed in the capital should be properly directed not to harass innocent people while performing their duty, NCP urged.

The Supreme Court observed that Act of Governor proponing Assembly session from 14th January 2016 to 16th December 2015 was totally unconstitutional. So NCP view that Supreme Court judgment will go in favour of petitioners Nabam Rebia to uphold the constitution of India.

The State NCP foresee that Tuki led Congress Govt. will be re-stall in Arunachal Pradesh.

pound and front side road by filling the potholes.

While putting his hands together in the clean drive, CCF Tago said that, his office is joining in the statewide campaign to keep surroundings clean and under the drive; we are also filling the potholes of the front side road which is lying unrepaired from

long. The cleanliness drive will continue till tomorrow and every corner of the CCF Office premises will be ensured free of dirt. On the part of Tabang Jamoh, Divisional Forest Officer, Pasighat Division who joined in the clean drive in the later stage has urged every HoDs of the district through a circu-

lar to collect tree saplings from Pasighat Range Office to plant more trees under the drive.

In the meantime, the activists of Women Against Social Evil (WASE) has also conducted an extensive cleanliness drive along Pane Korong at market area by cleaning

all the wastes thrown there in the rivulets.

Omem Ering, President and Joya Tasung Moyong, Gen. Secretary WASE informed that, this stream of Pane Korong was full of dirt and needed cleanliness due to which our WASE team took up the pain to clean it as a part of Clean and Green Arunachal.

To conclude the inaugural function, the artists played all available traditional musical instrument bai, kongkang, mingkham,ooli besides kham in two different rhythms.

Directorate of Sports clarifies on reports of ill-management of CM’s Trophy Rainfall was not decided by the department: Director of Sports A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 12: The Directorate of Sports has issued a clarification countering the reports that the department has failed in providing basic essentials to players that have arrived at Itanagar from across the state to participate in the Chief Minister’s Trophy on Football and Volleyball.

Claiming that the report only sheds light on the negative aspects, the Directorate maintained that there have been improvements in the tournament since it began two years earlier and expressed their disappointment that those developments were not highlighted.

On report of handful spectators to witness the tournament, the director in his clarification letter said that, the department on its part has given full justice to the announcing of the arrival of the event in advance through media, and “if there were only a handful of spectators, we leave that to decide on the individual’s interest”.

On the tents provided in place of proper accommodation to the female players, the department said that the tent accom-

modations have been used for the past two editions as well and that the department cannot be blamed for the rain that seeps into the tents when it rains as it is an act of nature and “the rainfall was not decided by the department” Citing that health and hygiene is an important factor to a sportsman, the Directorate assured that it provided packaged drinking water to players. On the female players sharing bathrooms with male players, the Directorate of Sports claimed that the participants increase each year and there is a necessity of adjustment.

The department while admitting that there is some truth to the shortcomings highlighted, said that it would try on its part for more improvement.

The clarification has come after reports were made on February 11 last that players of the Chief Minister’s Trophy on Football and Volleyball were being denied proper accommodations, and proper water and food facilities, which is expected of a state level tournament.

Arunachal Governor reviews Budget Estimate, allocates funds for Hospitals and Colleges Contd. from Page 1

Striving for quality higher education in the State, it was also decided to provide Rs 1.00 (One) Crore to Dera Natung College, Itanagar, Indira Gandhi College Tezu and Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat for purchase of better table and benches for the students. The fund will be placed with the college management committee.

Expressing concern on drug addiction in the State, it was decided to set up deaddiction and rehabilitation centres in Wakro, Tezu, Roing, Khonsa, Changlang

Spl/Correspondent Pasighat, Feb 12: In a bit to keep surroundings clean under Clean Arunachal Campaign with the theme “My city, My pride”, the Chief Conservator of Forest, Central Arunachal Circle Office led by CCF Millo Tago and DCF Boken Pao held a cleanliness drive at its office com-

to mind the process of taking away the tree. They ask similar questions through the song to the insects and birds that are host to the tree. At the end, the artist welcomes the log drum and tells it that they will find a safe place for it when they reach the village.

Resource person Nokkai

Wangsaham briefed on the song and the importance of Kham in the Wancho society. He said that the log drum may seem like nothing more than a piece of roughly carved wood, but informed that it is multifunctional object. “The kham is an emergency bell, it is used to announce death of male member(s), for construction of road and bridges, hunting and fishing. The kham is also played for amusement during Lauden festival playing /beating of log drum”.

and Longding. Rs 5 (Five) lakhs will be given as seed money for each centre to the Deputy Commissioners to start the work and rest amount will be given in the next financial year.

a college be set up in Tawang and for this, Rs 10.00 (Ten) lakhs will be given to Education Department to prepare a DPR along with identification of appropriate land in Tawang.

The meeting also decided that Rs 1.00 (One) Cr has been earmarked for expansion of Jails to decongest jails in the state. Also Rs 15.00 (Fifteen) lakhs will be given to Home Department for setting up of Juvenile homes in Pasighat, Itanagar and Dirang in the first phase to start with.

Anticipating road blocks etc. during rainy season due to landslides, Rs 1.00 (One) Crore will be provided to PWD (Highways) to purchase JCB and dumper to immediately clear any landslide in the Capital Complex areas.

Keeping in view of the absence of college in remote Tawang, the Governor, who visited the District last year has instructed that

The Governor also instructed that a corpus fund called Governor`s Relief Fund may be created to help those needing urgent medical help.

Ollos of Tirap celebrates Worang Festival at Lazu while Singphos observe Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi in Bordumsa Contd. from Page 1

Speaking as guest of honour, Tirap ZPC Chawang Lowang urged the people to preserve their rich traditional culture for posterity. He said that culture and religion were two different entities and must not be allowed to clash. He further said

that no celebration would surpass Worang for the Ollos in terms of importance, grandeur and significance.

Earlier, secretary of the Worang celebration committee Jenlong Rantu threw light on the significance of Worang festival.

The guests also wit-

nessed the rituals performed at the makeshift Paang.

Attractive folk dance performances by dancers from various villages, including Hachik village from Myanmar, electrifying performance by K for Kekho and community feast marked the daylong celebrations.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

PAGE 4

Army held Medical camp River side dwellers complain of army Army busts NDFB (S) camp in deep jungle

creating problems over their land

Army held Medical camp. Pic - ET Photo ET Correspondent Naharkatia, Feb. 12: As a part of operation Sabhavana DAO division of Naharani organised a free medical facility at Tingkhong Tea estate covering Tingkhong, Rajgarh,Tenali Tea estate and nearby areas . Over 300 of people enrolled themselves to avail medical fa-

cility; army doctors contributed their free service. Free check-up and medicine were provided to the people of the area. The team of doctors also educated the villagers on health and hygine and first aid life saving skills which was welcome by the people of the area.

Vidya Vihar Students Shines in Quiz ET Correspondent Golaghat, Feb 12: The continuous competitions in Golaghat Festival is in lime light these days and even the town people are found busy participating in the same. A competition of Quiz was organized yesterday with two categories of junior and senior. The contestants in junior section wereRajnewton Bora and Jyotishman Gogoi, Anubrat Bora and Rahul Gogoi, Anwesha Gogoi and Dubani Sonowal who stood first, second and third rank respectively. On the other hand the participants of senior category were-

Ankuran Sarma and Bhushan Dutta, Arpan Dutta and Sangeet Patangia, Rashimul Haque and Nitish Pareek respectively stood in first, second and third rank.

Amit Nagori & D.J Bordoloi were chaired as the Quiz master of the competition.

The students of Sri Satya Sai Vidhya Vihar were regarded as the best participants in both senior and junior category. Apart from this, the function also had Flower Decoration Competition and Fashion Show Competition where the participants were seen in large numbers.

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb. 12: Cantonment Ward Jana Kalyan Action Committee today demanded land pattas for the people of Ward No 22, Paltan Bazar of Jalan Nagar area of Dibrugarh. The committee alleged that political party giving false promises to the people every year.” Before election they came seeking votes and tell us that if they came to power they will solve the issue and provide land pattas but after election is over they forget their commitment they have done before election,’’ alleged the committee members. “234 families are living in the area even before the India Independence but till now they haven't got the land pattas. The people has face the threat of erosion from the Brahmaputra river everywhere and till now the government has not taken any step,’’ alleged the committee. The people are living on 78 bighas 3 kottah and 3 luca land since independence.

The committee alleged that the army has created problem for the residence of that area by entering in their houses any time without prior permission. “If the central government can give land to Bangladeshi, why they neglect us?,’’ questioned Dilip Singh, Working president of Cantonment Ward Jana Kalyan Action Committee.

“We have talked to Anna Hazare about the matter and he assured us of help by organizing movements,’’ Singh said.

"Six month ago we have met the Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh who assured us of help but till now we haven't received any information or letter from the Ministry's side. In the meeting with him he assured that the matter will be informed to you by your MP Rameshwar Teli,’’ lamented Singh.

Sunu Das, President of Cantonment Ward Jana Kalyan

he said.

The Chief Minister underscored the need for introduction of superfast daily express trains with limited stops outside Assam from Dibrugarh/ Guwahati to Mumbai/ Pune in the West, Vellore/Chennai/, Bangalore, Trivandrum/ Kochi in the South, Amritsar/ Jammu in the North. “Moreover, a Shatabdi Train from Silchar to Guwahati and a Rajdhani Express from Silchar to New Delhi are required to be introduced to cater to the needs of the people of Barak Valley. The North East Express which originates from Guwahati may be extended to Silchar,” he said in the letter.

Gogoi requested Prabhu to enhance the speed of trains which originate from Tinsukia/ Dibrugarh and travel

Gogoi interacts with sportspersons through Google Hangout

Coconut Tree Climbers are eligible for accident insurance

ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Feb 12: The Lakhimpur District body of All Assam student Union administered strong protest against the non-availability of text-books to the students of the class IX and X of the State. It is to be noted that the Education Department of the Govt. of Assam is unable to supply the textbooks despite forty days of the academic session had passed. The angry public of the organisation burnt the effigies of Chief Minister

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 12 : Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Thursday evening interacted with a number of sportspersons through Google Hangout on sports infrastructure development in the State.

Tarun Gogoi and Education Minister Sarat Borkataky at the mid-floor of North Lakhimpur town today.

The Organisation slammed the negligence on the part of the State Government towards the student fraternity with regard to the issue.

Many AASU personal were present along with District Secretary of the organisation, Pulin Konwar, North Lakhimpur Regional body's Secretary, Dhan Moni Dutta.

ways new ideas and concepts. The Government will always be the facilitator of new games. The players will also have to work towards promoting these games. I personally take interest in sports and I think introduction of new games and promoDuring the interaction, tion of the same would Chief Minister Gogoi be a great thing.” said that the Government would take up new Gogoi also stressed on initiatives to promote the need of physical games like Mixed Mar- education during the intial Arts, Rubik's Cube teraction. Answering a etc. and develop infra- question of Soumitra structure for the same. Banerjee, cricketer, Replying to a question Gogoi said, “To take up of Kabyaneel Talukdar, sports and physical eduWorld Champion in cation not only as a Rubik’s cube in blind- hobby, but also as a fold category, Chief dedicated profession, Minister Tarun Gogoi we have constituted the said, “I feel, the more Lakshmibai Institute of we promote new games Physical Education. in the State the better it This is the second of its would be. Changes are kind in the country. The taking place every- aim of constituting this where. There will be al- institute is to involve a

Ammamuddin Ahmed, Secretary of Cantonment Ward Jana Kalyan Action Committee said that within ten days our demand were not met then we would intensify our movement. “The political parties are playing vote bank politics with us. If our demand were not met then we will not vote for any party in this year election,’’ Ahmed said.

The operation was launched on 10 February by Army and Assam police, was a major success and resulted in successful busting of NDFB(S) militant camp.

The camp was being used to train and provide logistic support to the active cadres of the NDFB(S). Two

persons were also apprehended from the camp location.

The destruction of the NDFB(S) camp goes a long way in reducing the menace of this unlawful organization from the district of Udalguri and will help in bringing peace and normalcy in the region.

'Nari Jagaran Somity' demands State BJP to prioritise female candidate for MLA in Nowboicha LAC: Putali Kayasthya's name proposed in Press Conference ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; Feb 12: The Nowboicha Constituency Committee of Nari Jagaran Somity raised strong demand for the last time to prioritise female candidate for MLA in No 12 Nowboicha Legislative Assembly Constituency in the forthcoming State Assembly Election. Addressing a Press Conference today Vice President of the body, Renu Borah, Secretary-in-Charge Purnima Borah, Adviser Bandana Goswami, Member Rina Borah, Krishna Borah declared this in North Lakhimpur Press Club. They expressed that several

organisations, viz Nowboicha Anchalik Briddha Pensioner Kalyan Somity, Nowboich Anchalik Daridra Kalyan Somity, Samaj Kalyan Somity, Bidhava aru Bikalanga Pension Hitadhikari Kalyan Somity, Abibahita Baideu Santha etc. extended their support to the demand. Proposals with regard to it were sent to State BJP President Sarbananda Sonowal in December and January last and a delegation of the organisation informed about the demand to him along with the designators of State BJP. The organisation raised this demand through an an-

other Press Conference some days ago.

It is note worthy that the organisation projected the name of Putali Kayasthya, a popular female social activist whose name is proposed and resolved in the 'Nari Jagaran Samaroh' held in the Gana Bhawan of Laluk on January 28 last. "We request to prioritise educated, popular, daring social activist Putali Kayastha from BJP as a candidate for Nowboicha LAC. Otherwise, we will initiate alternative attempt centering her"-stated the President and the Secretary in the Press Conference.

Assam CM Tarun Gogoi urges union railway minister for double tracking of railway line from Guwahati to Tinsukia A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 12 : Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi requested Minister for Railways Suresh Prabhu for inclusion of double tracking of railway lines from Guwahati to Tinsukia for better, safer and faster links with the rest of the country in his forthcoming Railway Budget 201617.

In a letter to the Minister for Railways today, Chief Minister Gogoi said the double tracking of railway lines from Guwahati to Tinsukia and expediting the ongoing doubling of the Railway line stretch between New Bongaigaon and Kamakhya (Guwahati) are critical for growth and development of Assam and the region as a whole. “The Railway track in the State also needs to be electrified,”

Lakhimpur AASU burns the effigies of CM and Education Minister of Assam

Action Committee complained that the Paltan Bazar camp came to them and told that the land on which they are living before Independence belongs to them. “Since 1950, we are living in the plot of land and during the 1950's flood the then Prime Minister Jahawarlal Nehru visited the flood affected area and told our ancestors to stay here,’’ Das said.

The committee said before two months ago they have filed a RTI to know the actual possession of land, we came to know from the RTI that the land do not belongs to the Army, Das said.

ET Correspondent Rangia Feb 12: Based on intelligence of NDFB (S) terrorists holed up deep in the jungles of Rowta Reserve Forest North of Mazbat town bordering Arunachal Pradesh, a 48 hour long jt Search and Destroy mission was conducted by the Army and Udalguri Police.

large number of boys and girls in sports and physical education for a healthy and productive State.”

While talking about development of sports infrastructure in rural areas of the state, Gogoi said that the State Government has established “Rajiv Gandhi Sports Complex” in every block of the State. Replying to a question posed by Ranjan Deka, Gogoi said, “Sports should not be limited to the cities only. I emphasize on sports to make people competitive, disciplined, productive, and at the same time to promote team spirit, friendship and sportsmanship. This is the crying need of the hour to build a developed, cohesive and harmonious society.”

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 12 : Coconut Tree Climbers are eligible for accident insurance under Kera Suraksha Insurance scheme from Coconut Development Board. The sum insured under this scheme is Rs.2 lakhs, and is being implemented through M/s Oriental Insurance Company Ltd, Divisional Office, Tripunithura, Ernakulam, Kerala. All the trainees under FOCT training programme and Neera Technician training programme are covered under the scheme for one year from the first day of their training. Traditional coconut tree climbers can also avail benefit under this scheme. Application form duly filled in, countersigned by Agriculture Officer/Panchayath President/Mandal Pradhan/ CPF office bearers/ CPC Directors along with a demand draft for Rs.17/-, drawn in favour of M/s. Oriental Insurance Company Ltd., payable at Ernakulam, needs to be sent to Chairman, Coconut Development Board, Kera Bhavan, Kochi -682 011, Kerala. Period of insurance is one year, on expiry of which, the same needs to be renewed for ensuring continued benefits under the scheme. Application form, Claim form and other details are available in Coconut Development Board website

across the eastern and southern parts of the country right up to Kanyakumari. “The speed of the long distance trains has to be increased to reduce travel time. Further, quality of travel experience in these trains pertaining to scheduling, safety, passenger facilities, hygiene, food, etc may also be improved upon,” Gogoi said.

The Chief Minister called for adequate security arrangement in all trains running from Assam to avert untoward incidents.

Gogoi requested Prabhu to expedite the construction work of the muchdelayed Bogibeel Railcum-Road Bridge. “As the Bogibeel Bridge is critical for connectivity between North and South Banks of Brahmaputra

linking many important towns and growth centres with some remote areas of Assam and Arunachal, the construction work of this bridge which is inordinately delayed needs to be expedited,” he said.

The Chief Minister requested the Minister for Railways for a parallel bridge augmenting the existing Saraighat Bridge. “Due to the increasing goods traffic flow into the State, the existing Saraighat Rail Bridge, which is very old, needs to be augmented with another parallel bridge. While a parallel road bridge is under construction at Saraighat, a parallel rail bridge should also be provided there,” he added.

Gogoi pleaded with Prabhu for a railway line from Silghat to Balipara via Tezpur with a Rail-

way bridge over the Brahmaputra. “This proposed railway line is relevant from strategic point of view as it will connect the important defence establishments at Tezpur and Arunachal with South Assam,” he said.

The Chief Minister requested for modernisation and development of Guwahati Railway Station in view of the increasing number of passengers. Moreover, Gogoi called for upgradation of Kamakhya Railway Station to cater to the ever increasing volume of pilgrims.

Gogoi pleaded for a separate zone for the North Eastern Frontier Railways ‘as it would enable Indian Railways to respond to the problems

and requirements of the North East better’.

The Chief Minister underscored the need for upgradation of the New Bongaigaon Railway Workshop to an Integrated Coach Factory and Production Unit.

Gogoi called for introduction of a special train to showcase the rich and varied culture of Assam and its natural beauty.

Gogoi pleaded with Prabhu for introduction of a system of confessional fare to poor students of Assam travelling to Delhi and other metros to pursue higher studies.

“Since Railway is the only lifeline for the poor students of Assam to travel to Delhi and other metros for pursuing higher studies, Railways may introduce a system of confessional fare to such students,” he said in the letter.

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated with much fanfare A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 12 : Ganesh Chaturthi – the occasion to pay obeisance to lord Ganesha, was celebrated with much fanfare and religious fervour in different parts of Guwahati along with rest of the State and the country.

The Ganesh temples in different parts of the city witnessed long queues of the devotees, who came to offer puja and

seek his blessings for better health and prosperity and also for removing obstacles of life.

premises much ahead of the Chaturthi.

The city was also enveloped in festive spirit, specially around the Ganesh temples of 9th Mile, Latasil, Ganeshguri, Sarania Hills and other temples including Kamakhya and Sukreswar. Prachin Ganesh Mandir on Sarania Hills started nam prasanga in the temple

Festive atmosphere prevailed around Latasil and Ganeshguri temples as well where a large number of devotees gathered for the darshan. To cater to the needs of the faithful devotees, a number of flower and puja item shops were set up along the Latasil playground. Devo-

Gogoi urges Centre for permanent Governor A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 12 : Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to appoint a permanent Governor in the State.

"I urge the Prime Minister once again to appoint a permanent Governor for Assam as early as possible as Nagaland Governor Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya is holding additional charge of Assam for more than a year," he said.

Gogoi said that it is unfortunate that an acting

Governor is running the affairs in an important State like Assam. “He (Acharya) is just an acting Governor. No permanent Governor has been appointed so far for a long time and that too for an important State like Assam. By doing this, the Central Government is doing grave injustice to Assam,” he added.

The Chief Minister said that if the Prime Minister does not heed to his plea for a permanent Governor soon, he would take up the matter with the President of India.

tees lit earthen lamps and incense sticks to please the deity and offered flowers and sweets. Ganesh puja was also observed in different localities where colourful pandals were set up and clay idols of Ganapati were installed and worshipped followed by distribution of prasad. Various cultural programmes and competition of devotional songs and mantra chanting were also organised.

Chief of BJP-run NCHAC quits before no-trust motion Haflong, Feb 12: In a blow to BJP in pollbound Assam, Chief Executive Member of the party-run North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) Niranjan Hojai Thursday resigned from his post. Hojai submitted his resignation letter to the Chairman of the NCHAC just before the commencement of a session that was to take up the no-confidence motion against him.

All Congress Members of Autonomous Council (MACs) were present in today's session, but BJP MACs were absent.

The no-confidence motion was required follow-

ing a political deadlock as the Hojai-led Council has been reduced to a minority and faced challenge from Congress.

Hojai had been elected as the new CEM in Dima Hasao district on October 24 last year ending a two week-long deadlock in the Council when Congress MACs had joined the BJP. But recently some of the MACs went back to Congress and the Hojai led council became minority.

The NCHAC has 30 MACs, of whom 28 are elected and two are nominated members from the Bengali and Nepali community.(Agencies)

Rs 10 cr sanctioned as immediate relief earthquake victims of Manipur

Chief Secretary Oinam Nabakishore said Rs 4 lakhs had been provided to the Deputy Commissioners concerned for each victim Imphal, Feb 12: The Manipur government on Wednesday sanctioned Rs 10 crore as immediate relief for the January 4 earthquake which led to loss of ten lives. Chief Secretary Oinam Nabakishore said Rs 4 lakhs had been provided to the Deputy Commissioners concerned for each victim. Out of the 120 persons injured, many were given assistance, he said.

All DCs were also instructed to immediately provide Rs one lakh in the hill districts to those whose houses were completely destroyed. In the valley district Rs 90,000 will be provided, he said.

Nabakishore appealed to all victime, to provide details of losses to the concerned DC so that a final report can be prepared. So far complete information for government buildings had been received. Altogether 416 government buildings were damaged, including

247 schools, he confirmed.

The total number of houses damaged of private individuals were 3218. The Chief Secretary said the government had sought report of an entire village shifting. Villagers of Kabui Khullen Part I, Tamenglong district-the epicentre-had vacated their houses as cracks appeared in the middle of their houses and there is a strong possibility of the entire village being washed away due to rain.

The CS said the government will provide help to the villagers in settling up in a new area.The 6.8 Richter scale quake which damaged the Imphal market complex and other market areas, had led to a serious crisis. All women vendors in the women's market complex had started sitting in the buildings which were declared unsafe as there is no alternative. The CS said Rs 2 crores had been sanctioned for construction of temporary market.

The Planning and Development Authority (PDA) and Department of Urban and Housing (MAHUD) will take up the work to construct temporary market sheds, he added.

Nabakishore also appealed to all to strictly adhere to the building by laws . He further said damages were reported from the Nepali Basti, Senapati district where houses were not properly constructed.

(Agencies)

Nagaland: CFMG Chairman accused of intent to obstruct peace process Dimapur, Feb 12: The NSCN (IM) has accused Chairman of Cease Fire Monitoring Group (CFMG), Lt Gen (retd) NK Singh of making a last ditch attempt to derail the peace process between the NSCN (IM) and Government of India and abrogate the ceasefire.

"The CFMG chairman is trying his level best and making a last ditch effort to sabotage the peace talks and abrogate the ceasefire for his own vested motives", alleged Kraibo Chawang, the Convenor of Cease Fire Monitoring Cell (CFMC) of the NSCN (IM) at a press briefing held Wednesday evening at the CFMC office.

Chawang said that while GoI representatives and NSCN (IM) leaders are in hectic parleys in Delhi and are putting all efforts to hammer a solution to the protracted Naga political issue, at the ground level there are anti-forces at work. "I have already written to the GoI to recall the CFMG chairman. If GoI is serious on the peace process, he should be immediately recalled", Chawang said. He pointed out that right after NK Singh took over as CFMG Chairman, the latter has been creating problems in order to derail the peace process.

The CFMC convenor said it was because Singh claimed ceasefire (CF) was confined only to Nagaland state and denied the fact that CF was without territorial that resulted in loss of lives (both civilians and security personnel) earlier in Ukhrul district.

In March 2015 too, Singh created a serious problem by allowing the Assam Rifles to go to Beisempuikhan village to distribute solar lamp. On their way to the village, the AR personnel crossed the NSCN (IM) Camp Hebron in full combat gears resulting in a stand-off between the AR personnel and NSCN (IM) cadres, Chawang

informed. He also said though the issue of the Mukalimi designated camp in Zunheboto district was resolved, the CFMG chairman was still officially opposing it.

Chawang further alleged that the latest stand-off between the NSCN (IM) and security forces in Mon district was the handiwork of the CFMG chairman. He said the NSCN (IM) have two official designated camps in Mon district, namely at Nokyan and Pongkong.

However, the NSCN (IM) cadres were not occupying the two camps but had set up camp in the deep jungles near Neitong village (adjacent to Nokyan) to check "ULFA, NSCN (K), UNLF and PLA", he said.

Chawang said the CFMG chairman ordered the NSCN (IM) cadres to vacate Neitong and troops from the 33 Assam Rifles and Territorial Army were rushed to the area on February 7 resulting in a standoff between the NSCN (IM) cadres and security forces. The CFMC convenor informed that the security forces also resorted to groupings of villagers of Jaboka and Neitong, the men and womenfolk confined in separate camps and not allowed to work or go to their fields for three days.

"Since Sunday last the security forces surrounded our camp. I contacted the IGAR, CFMG staff and even the Brigadier General Staff officers of 3 Corps," he said and added that after much consultation, the stand-off was eased and the Indian security forces agreed to withdraw from the area. The NSCN (IM) cadres have also temporarily moved out from the camp, Chawang informed.

"We appreciate the good gestures of the Indian Army authorities to put off the standoff. But there is a big but, who created the problem" Chawang asked. (Agencies)

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Centre keen on developing Food Processing Industry in NE Kohima, Feb 12: The Centre is keen on developing Food Processing Industries in the North East, Union Minister of State for Food Processing Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti said on Friday.

Based primarily on agriculture, the region can achieve growth through agriculture related industries as abundant resources were available

for growth, the minister said in her message read out in absentia at the inaugural function of a conference on "Mainstreaming the North East Region" here.

Food Processing Industries is an integral part of the 'Make in India' campaign, the minister said.

The goal of growth can be achieved through agriculture dependent processing industries, she

Processing Industries should be developed with the support of local technologies so that local people get employment while business and trade will grow enhancing the income of the people, she said.

The Centre is keen on developing Food Processing Industries in the North East

said, adding that these lished with low capital. industries can be estab- Infrastructure and Food

The MoS also requested the experts and industry players attending the conference to discuss and deliberate

No decision on burying ''tribal martyrs": JAC , JPO Imphal, Feb 12: The Joint Action Committee (JAC) against 'anti-tribal Bills' has clarified that neither the JAC nor the JPO has taken any decision or given consent to bury the nine 'tribal martyrs.' Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in Chura-chandpur town area against the backdrop of '24 hours general strike' called by various organisations of the district to allegedly oppose the decision to bury the nine bodies tomorrow.

In a statement, the JAC said that the decision to

bury the nine 'tribal martyrs' was announced in a sitting convened by the UPF and KNO on Feb 9.

There was no agenda put forth in the meeting for discussion nor were the JAC and JPO given any chance to voice their opinion.

The JAC reiterated that it, absolutely has no intention of taking any drastic decisions regarding the movement as well as the burial of the nine 'tribal martyrs' without consulting the public as they move forward in the

people-driven movement.

At the same time, the Zomi Re-Unification Organisation (ZRO) today said that it could not agree to the proposed burial date fixed 'without any discussion.' In a statement, the ZRO said that a joint meeting of UPF and KNO was held at Imphal on Feb 7. In the meeting, it was discussed and resolved that a consultative meeting with the JAC, JPO, Inpis and all stakeholders be called on Feb 9. The spirit of the meeting was that the people be consulted and their opinions

be taken as to whether they are ready to give a decent burial to the 'martyrs.'

Accordingly, a joint meeting was held at KKL complex on Feb 9, it said. In the meeting, there was no discussion and opinions of other stake-holders were not heard. "PS Haokip, president of KNO suddenly fixed and dictated the date for the burial ceremony of our martyrs," it said while adding, "the ZRO cannot and would not accept such dictation."

"The ZRO wants that

there shall be mutual consensus to hold the last rites of our martyrs," it said.

The 24 hours general strike is reportedly called

by Facebook, WhatsApp groups and students to protest the decision to bury the nine 'martyrs.'

District Magistrate of Ccpur has, in an order issued today, detailed magisterial duty to five executive magistrates to maintain law and order in connection with the '24 hours general strike' to ensure that no untoward incident occurs during the general strike.(Agencies)

Cabinet decision draws flak Imphal, Feb 11: Strongly denouncing the Cabinet decision to rename Thangting sub-division as 'Kangvai' sub-division, the Khousabung Sub-Division Demand Com-mittee (KSDDC) has urged the Chief Minister to review the Cabinet decision and rename the sub-division as 'Khousa-bung' sub-division as per the wish of the people of the area.

KSDDC has submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister today requesting him to review the Cabinet decision.

It said that the 'common interest' and democratic voice of different ethnic communities concerned have been ignored and democratic prin- ciples have been overlooked by the State Cabinet.

Meanwhile, addressing

cept for one particular community, have conveyed their preference to locate the subdivisional headquarters at Khousabung village, which is also a District Council Constituency (DCC) headquarters.

The Khousabung Sub-Division Demand Committee (KSDDC) has urged the Chief Minister to review the Cabinet decision reporters today at Manipur Press Club, Ng Sang, spokes-person of KSDDC said that majority of the people covered by the new sub-division have already conveyed their wish to locate the sub-divisional headquarters at Khou- sabung. And they want it to be renamed as Khousabung if the need

so arises.

He said that there are around 125 villages, inhabited by different ethnic tribal communities including Aimol, Chiru, Chothe, Gangte, Kom, Rongmei, Thadou, Vaiphei, etc, in the new subdivision circle. More than 100 village chiefs of different tribal communities, ex-

However, against the common aspiration and humble prayers of the people covered by the new subdivision, the Cabinet has given its approval to rename Thangting Subdivision as 'Kangvai Subdivision,' giving little regard to the democratic voice of the people. This is nothing but 'rap of democracy' he said. Kangvai is located just about 8 kms from Churachandpur district headquarters and there is no need at all to locate a subdivisional headquarters

there, Ng Sang said.

He warned that the KSDDC will be compelled to launch intense forms of agitation in collaboration with like-minded civil society organisations if the Government fails to review its 'biased decision' within a week's time. At the same time, locals of Khousabung area today staged a sit-in at Khousabung village to denounce the Cabinet decision to rename Thangting subdivision as Kangvai.

They demanded that the same to renamed as Khousabung subdivision.

The protesters said that Khousabung is the most centrally located place of the area covered by the new subdivision.

They demanded that the Govt stop playing communal politics. (Agencies)

Folk festival held to promote Manipur’s Zeliangrong Tribe Imphal, Feb. 12 (ANI): A village in Manipur recently organised a cultural festival to promote and preserve the indigenous culture of the state’s Zeliangrong Tribe.

The 11th Zelianrong Folk Festival was held at Sangaiprou Kabui village with the theme of unity, peace and solidarity.

Zelianagrong artists showcased their rich culture, including some of their popular folk dances.

The Society for the Promotion of Community Tasks (SPCT) organised the event that included the participa-

tion of cultural troupes of Sangaiprou, Ireng, Zeme and Inpui.

The traditional tribal drum beating was the cultural highlight. Performers also demonstrated an age-old custom of creating fire with the help of bamboo.

“It is the biggest Zeliangrong Tribe festival and is organised every year.

It is very good for the wellbeing of our tribe,” said Heizalung, a local The tribal people also set up stalls selling handicrafts items like neck pieces, headgears and other ornaments.

“I’m very happy and very excited because this is the second time that I’m participating in this event,” said Majaru, a participant.

“I’m very happy to be part of this festival and I feel proud to be a Zeliangrong tribe,” said another participant, Babina.

Zeliangrong people are one of the major indigenous Mongoloid communities living at the tri-junction of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland.

The term "Zeliangrong" refers to the Zeme, Liangmai and Rongmei Naga tribes combined together.The

Zeliangrong are the apex tribe of the said sub-tribes.

The descendants of Hoi of Makuilongdi (Makhel) were divided and were made peripheral appendages to three political entities - Manipur, Naga Hills (Nagaland) and the North Cachar District of Assam.

The Zeliangrongs number around 450,000, according to 2011 census, though their population may actually number around 500,000 in the three states of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland.

tural entity. Racially they are of Southern Mongoloid stock and linguistically Tibeto-Burman.

They can be found in an approximately 12,000 square kilometer area stretching from the North Cachar Hills of Assam; Peren District of Nagaland; Tamenglong District, Sardar Hills of Senapati District, northern part Henglep subdivision of Churachanpur District, Jiribam subdivision of Imphal District, Imphal Valley and Silchar Town and its adjoining slopes in Manipur.

The Zeliangrong can be classified as an ethno-cul-

Tripura fast emerging as honey-producing state Agartala, Feb. 12 (ANI): A honey processing centre, which has been set up by Tripura Khadi and Village Industries Board, is playing a vital role to tap the state’s potential in making honey.

Tripura is fast emerging as a honey producing destination. It also generates employment for many.

The honey processing unit was established in 2015 by Khadi and Village Industries Board. The unit is now

equipped with latest processing machineries to improve the quality of the product.

Recently, Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Giriraj Singh visited the honey processing unit and announced support to natural products.

The government is laying stress on training more farmers to start bee-keeping to increase the honey production.

“We have trained around 2,000 people for beekeeping in various villages. This year, our target is to train another 700 farmers. We have noticed high enthusiasm among trainees in various blocks and panchayats because this can be a very good income source for either educated or any illiterate person and it does not need much extra effort,” said Gouri Das, Chairperson, Tripura Khadi and Village Industries Board.

“We mainly collect honey from the bee keepers and do processing. There are around 400 bee keepers.

After processing the honey we also do marketing for the product. I oversee the entire processing work in the unit,” said Netai Debbarma, the in-charge of Honey Processing Centre.

“Here we maintain the quality of the honey. There is huge demand of honey but

the number of bee keepers is less as compared to the demand. Therefore, Khadi Board is trying to increase the number of bee keepers by organizing various training programmes and gradually it is increasing,” said Subhankar Bhowmik, Chemist-cum-Quality Controller.

The honey produced in Tripura has medicinal properties. Bees collect honey from various flowers beside teak, rubber and other trees.

on opportunities and possibilities for establishing new industries in North East Region so that this region can develop.

During the conference, experts and industry players from different parts of the country will deliberate on problems faced by the region towards progress and development.

(Agencies)

Arms smuggler arrested from Munger in Bihar Munger, Feb 12: An alleged arms smuggler was arrested with 24 automatic pistols in his possession from Jamalpur police station area in the district . The police acted on a tip off and Mohammad Monu was arrested from the taxi stand area, Superintendent of Police Varun Kumar said. Two dozen automatic pistols, an ATM card and a driving license were recovered from Monu, a resident of Hazratganj locality of Munger town. During questioning, Monu said he had been working as an arms carrier for one Mohammad Mahtab, a resident of Maksudpur in the district, who has set up a factory in Malda district of West Bengal for manufacturing arms illegally, the SP said.(Agencies)

GNLA ready for talks, truce Tura, Feb 12: The banned GNLA has announced that it is willing to sit for talks with the government and prepared to declare a unilateral ceasefire but, at the same time, reiterated that an interlocutor must be appointed who would hold direct parlays with their jailed chairman Champion R Sangma.

Breaking its silence on the peace talks, the publicity secretary of the banned outfit Gantong Ch Marak announced his group's willingness to sit for dialogue. He, however, raised a question as to who would mediate between them and the government.

"There cannot be talks without interlocutor appointed by the government. Question is who is going to mediate between the GNLA and Govt?"

GNLA publicity secretary asked and added that talks would have to take place only with their chairman, Champion R Sangma alias Pakchara, who is currently lodged in Shillong jail.

Meanwhile, the state government has asked both GNLA and HNLC to abjure violence if they are serious about holding peace talks. Reacting to reports on the appointment of interlocutors for HNLC and also on sending feelers to GNLA, the state government in a statement on Thursday said that it was open for dialogue with the proscribed organizations and other militant groups provided they "abjure the path of violence, desist from anti-national (activities such as calling of bandhs on national days of importance and stop all criminal activities such as extortions, kidnappings, killing of innocent civilians, and others".

According to the government, these pre-conditions are necessary to ensure positive participation in any peace process by the state and central Governments and create an atmosphere which would be conducive for appointment of interlocutors.

"Needless to say, the appointment of interlocutors to facilitate the peace process will be a natural corollary to the above conditions in the overall interest of maintaining peace and tranquility in the State", the government said.(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

PAGE 6

Condemn 'witch-hunting' by police, RSS in campus: JNU Student Union VP New Delhi, Feb. 12: Following the arrest of Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union President over a protest against the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, the varsity has released a statement accusing the police of going on a 'witch-hunt' to round up students of false charges.

"JNUSU President, Comrade Kanhaiyya has been arrested. Police are doing rounds of the campus and mindlessly witch-hunting activists.

RSS is running campaigns to shut down JNU. Media has successfully demonized and witch-hunted us, despite the fact that no JNU student ever raised any unprincipled slogan. In fact, we stopped these slogans that called for India's di-

vision and destruction.

You know why? Because we don't believe in politics of division and destruction. We believe in uniting people," the statement by the JNUSU Vice President Shahla Rashid said.

She asserted in her statement that in return for uniting people across the country, they were being rewarded with certificates of "anti-national activity" from 'people who are not a least bit 'pained by these slogans, but are enjoying these slogans and mobilising people on it'.

"Why weren't they mobilising when we fought together for fellowships? Why weren't they campaigning when a fellow student was forced to commit suicide? Where were they,

Snowfall hampers operations at Srinagar Airport Srinagar, Feb. 12: The flight operations at the Srinagar Airport were hampered this morning due to fresh snowfall in the region.

Several flights, including one Indigo Airlines flight and one Jet Airways flight, were delayed leaving the passengers stranded at the airport.

Many areas in the higher reaches of Kashmir, including Gulmarg and Pahalgam, received fresh snowfall while the plains

of the Valley experienced rains yesterday.

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been closed for traffic in view of snowfall at Jawahar tunnel. On Wednesday, Gulmarg reportedly witnessed a minimum temperature of minus 4.5 degree Celsius and was coldest in the valley.

Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 5.3 degree Celsius during the day while the minimum was recorded at 1.3 degree. (ANI)

Missing Snapdeal employee returns: What we know so far Ghaziabad, Feb. 12: With the police trying to gather information as to what happened to Snapdeal employee Dipti Sarna, who was missing for 30 hours from Ghaziabad, the developments have been gradual but steady. Dipti Sarna was reported missing around 9 p.m. on Wednesday by her parents after she did not return home from work.

Snapdeal founder Kunal Bahl said the organisation was working with the Ghaziabad Police to locate her. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav had said the case is a big priority for the state police.

A manhunt was launched with almost 200 police personnel scanning through the area trying to find Dipti's whereabouts.

Ghaziabad Senior Superintendent of Police Dharmendra Singh said that she took a shared auto and after it broke down, she moved to another shared auto where there were two men and a woman in the vehicle. After a while, the auto took an unusual turn and when Dipti started to raise her voice, the men in the auto threatened the other female passenger at knifepoint to leave the auto.

Dipti was then blindfolded and taken to the Rajnagar

Extension area and from there she was taken to an undisclosed location in a drive that lasted almost three hours. Dipti told the police that she was not harmed in anyway by her alleged abductors throughout the night and that she was also fed by them. The next morning, she was left at a railway station blindfolded after which she managed to board a train.

Throughout the ordeal, her captors did not speak to her and she could not make out their profiles as she was blindfolded. Dipti, who was exhausted after her ordeal, managed to identify Narela station, which came after a couple of stops from her boarding point. She managed to convince a fellow passenger to make a phone call where she called up her father, asking him to pick her up from the New Delhi railway station. After she got down at the station, she managed to call her father again from a PCO. Dipti's father has maintained that the intentions of her alleged abductors were to harm her but they could not execute their plan due to pressure from the media and police.

Dipti is still recuperating from her ordeal. The police will interrogate her thoroughly once she recovers.

(ANI)

Snapdeal employee Dipti Sarna

JNUSU Vice President Shahla Rashid when there masses of this country were fighting for freedom from imperialism? They were seeking apologies from and alliances with their British masters. They observe 26 January as Black Day because they do not believe in the Constitution of this country. They

want Manusmriti as the Constitution of this country," the statement read.

Rashid goes on to accuse the police of targeting and witch-hunting them they way PhD scholar Rohith Vemula was.

"They want us to hang ourselves like Rohith did. But we want to re-

mind them, every dead Rohith will further intensify the students' movement and people's unity," she said.Earlier, Home Minister Rajnath Singh asserted that strict action will be taken against the demonstrators and said that 'anti-national' elements will not be tolerated.

"When someone is in the country and raises antinational statements, raising questions on India's unity, diversity and sovereignty then they won't be forgiven. What happened in JNU was unfortunate and for that, I have already given the necessary instructions to the Delhi Police Commissioner," Rajnath told .

Promising firm action against the demonstrators, he reiterated that anti-national statements

cannot be forgiven. "You can't raise anti-national statements while you stay in India," he added.

The Delhi Police had also registered a case of sedition against the JNU students who had agitated against the hanging of Guru following complaints by Bharatiya Janata Party MP Maheish Girri and RSS's student front Akhil Bharatiya Vidhyarthi Parishad. Marking the death anniversary of Guru, a group of students on Tuesday held an event on the campus and shouted slogans against government for hanging him, despite varsity administration having cancelled the permission following a complaint by ABVP members, who termed the activity as "anti-national". (ANI)

Gandhis exempted from appearance in National Herald case New Delhi, Feb.12: In a major relief to Congress president Sonia Gandhi and party vice-president Rahul Gandhi, the Supreme Court on Friday exempted them from personal appearance in the National Herald case.

"We are not happy with what the Delhi High Court said in its judgement," said an apex court bench of Justices J.S. Khehar and C. Nagappan. The apex court also said that the Delhi High Court judge has drawn a conclusion which can affect the trial.

BJP leader Subramanian Swamy, who had filed a caveat in the apex court to pre-empt any ex-parte order on appeals likely to be filed by the Gandhis in this case, told the media that it is a total defeat of the Congress Party in the fight against corruption. "From the beginning the main case was the quashing of the High Court order, they were defeated in that. Now, whether they are to be

called everyday or not, it is a minor matter, it is a total defeat of the Congress Party in the fight against corruption," Swamy said.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who is the lawyer for the Gandhis in this case, expressed his delight with the apex court's observation and said that his clients were not running away and cooperating in the matter.

"The matter was just heard by the honourable court and there are three or four elements of vital importance. The first is that every inference and conclusion in the order of the High Court has been rendered non- operative by the apex court," Singhvi said.

"Every point which we have argued here in the High Court is left open to us to argue again at the stage of framing charges.

No point is concluded or precluded on the charge stage which is yet an intermediate stage," he added. Singhvi further

said despite opposition, there has been full exemption granted by the apex court.

"Let me make it very clear that from day one, the accused did not refuse to come to the trial court. We were present at the very first hearing before the trial court. We wanted to participate. So, we asked for no more now but for exemption and we have got it," he added.

The Gandhis had moved the apex court earlier this month, appealing against an order that asked them to appear in a Delhi trial court on February 20. On June 26, last year, the trial court issued summons to them on Swamy's allegations of 'cheating' in the acquisition of Associated Journals Ltd (AJL) by Young India Ltd (YIL) -a firm in which Sonia and Rahul own 38 percent stakes each.

The Delhi High Court had in December 2015 re-

jected their plea and directed them to appear before the trial court. The case relates to the Indian National Congress granting an interest-free loan of Rs. 90.25 crore (USD 13 million) to Associated Journals Limited (AJL), owner of the National Herald newspaper which was established by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1938.

It was alleged that the loan was either not repaid or repaid in cash, which is in violation of Section 269T of the Income Tax Act, 1961. A closely held company, Young Indian, was incorporated in November 2010 with a capital of Rs.5 lakh (USD 7,400) and it acquired almost all the shareholding of AJL and all its properties (alleged to be worth Rs.5000 crores (USD 740 million).

The Congress leaders have accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP Government of 'political vendetta' in the National Herald case. (ANI)

BJP asks Opposition to 'construct idols of terrorists and offer prayers' New Delhi, Feb.12: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday hit back at the Opposition for targeting the ruling dispensation post David Headley's claim on Ishrat Jahan, saying the so called nationalist parties should construct the idols of terrorists in their party offices and offer prayers in front of them.

"The political parties, who love such terrorists, should construct their idols in their party offices and offer prayers in front of them every day," BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told.

"It is only these people, who call India an intolerant nation. It is only these people, who are calling fidayeen Ishrat Jahan a martyr and also called Afzal Guru a great figure," he added.

He also said that the Op-

BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi position, which is targeting the BJP, should be asked to put forth their views on tolerance and intolerance. "Tolerance is not hailing the terrorists and calling the nationalists as anti-national. The entire sequence of events is extremely unfortunate," Naqvi said.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had yesterday sought an apology from the opposition par-

ties for levelling false allegations against the BJP. "You must have heard what David Headley has just said in the court that Ishrat Jahan was a suicide bomber. Ishrat Jahan regarding whom many accusations were levelled against our leader. Tell me, will the accusing political parties now apologise to the nation for trying to fool the people?" he said while addressing

a rally in Trivandrum.

Ishrat's lawyer Vrinda Grover had yesterday said that Headley's version was not an evidence as per the Indian law as he was given a 'multiple choice question' by a 'Padma Shri' lawyer Ujjwal Nikam. Ishrat's mother Shamima Kausar had also expressed her disappointment over Headley's claim.

"I feel there is a conspiracy to defame my daughter in order to save someone. Who would know it better than a mother that how good her daughter was? My daughter was a very nice and kind person, and could not kill anyone," Kausar told . "It's a conspiracy to defame my daughter, who was killed in a fake encounter. She was murdered," she added. (ANI)

Citizens to pay homage to Siachen braveheart in Hubli Hubli, Feb. 12: The body of Siachen braveheart Lance Naik Hanamanthappa Koppad will arrive at Hubli in Karnataka today where citizens will pay their respects to him, before his remains are taken to his village in Dharwad for last rites.

The district administration has made preparations for people to pay

their final respects to Koppad at the Nehru Stadium in Hubli and later at Betadur Government High School after 11.30 am. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will also be present for the last rites of Koppad at his village in Betadur, in Dharwar.

Hanamanthappa, who was miraculously found

alive after remaining buried under huge mass of snow for six days at the Siachen Glacier, passed away at Army's Research and Referral Hospital at 11.45 a.m. on Thursday.

Devastated with the demise of Lance Naik Hanamanthappa Koppad, who passed away at Army's Research and Referral Hospital here this

morning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was proud that martyrs like the Siachen braveheart served India.

"He leaves us sad and devastated. RIP Lance Naik Hanumanthappa.

The soldier in you remains immortal. Proud that martyrs like you served India," Prime Minister Modi tweeted. (ANI)

RSS worker murder: CPM leader surrenders, sent to judicial custody

RSS worker Kathiroor Manoj, was on Friday sent to a month's judicial custody after he surrendered before the district sessions court

Kannur, Feb. 12: Kerala Communist Party of IndiaMarxist (CPI-M) Kannur district secretary P. Jayarajan, who is an accused in the murder of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) worker Kathiroor Manoj, was on Friday sent to a month's judicial custody after he surrendered before the district sessions court at Thalassery.

The development comes in wake of Kerala High Court's rejection of the anticipatory bail plea submitted by Jayarajan in the murder case, after which he surrendered before the court.

The CPM leader was booked by the CBI for

conspiracy, under section 18 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), in the murder of Manoj.

The CBI had earlier claimed that Jayarajan, the 25th accused in the murder of RSS leader Manoj, is the brain behind the case.

A division bench comprising Justice K.T. Sanakaran and Justice K.P. Jyothindranath asked the CBI to produce the case diary and mark the relevant portions showing the role of Jayarajan, if any, in the case. Manoj, a district functionary of RSS, was hacked to death at Kathiroor in Kannur district on September 1, 2014 allegedly by a group of CPM workers. (ANI)

Afzal Guru row: FIR registered against agitators in Press Club New Delhi, Feb.12: The Delhi Police on Friday registered an FIR against unknown people on a complaint filed by the Press Club management against the organisers of the event where slogans were raised in favour of 2001 Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru.

The complaint in this regard was filed at the Parliament Street Police Station. Days after the outrage over a group of left-leaning students in Jawaharlal Nehru University organising a meet to mourn the hanging of Guru, another commemorative meet-

ing was held at the Press Club of India in Delhi on Wednesday where anti-India slogans were raised.

The Press Club management had yesterday issued a showcause notice to the members, who had booked the conference hall for the event.

The Delhi Police had earlier registered a case of sedition against the JNU students, who had agitated against Guru's hanging following complaints by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Maheish Girri and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidhyarthi Parishad (ABVP) members. (ANI)

Day 5: David Headley's deposition underway

David Coleman Headley's deposition over the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack entered its fifth day

Mumbai, Feb. 12: David Coleman Headley's deposition over the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack entered its fifth day on Friday.

The deposition which is happening via video conferencing began today as special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam arrived at Mumbai court. On the fourth day of the deposition, Headley made sensational revelations, in which he took the name of Ishrat Jahan, who was killed in an alleged 'fake encounter' and said that he was informed by Muzammil Bhatt about a botched operation in Gujarat because of a female suicide bomber.

"David Headley has made many sensational revelations. The first revelation was made when we asked him how many wings does Lashkar have. He replied that Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi

is the operation commander.

Hafiz Saeed is the founder.

He also named finance wing, women wing and a naval wing. We further asked him who the head of the women wing was, to which he said that Abu Hunja's mother was the head of the wing," special Public Prosecutor in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack case, Ujjwal Nikam told the media here.

During the last three days of deposition, Headley revealed several names in Pakistani Army and the ISI who are working closely with terror outfits Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jamat-ul-Dawa (JuD) to carry out attacks in India.

He informed about the ISI giving moral, financial and military support to the LeT and gave a detailed plan of modus operandi behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

World powers agrees 'cessation of hostilities' in Syria: Kerry

United States Secretary of State John Kerry Karachi, Feb.12: United States Secretary of State John Kerry has said that the world powers have agreed on an ambitious plan to cease hostilities in war wrecked Syria within a week and dramatically ramp up humanitarian access at talks in Munich aimed at ending the fiveyear war.

The working group of 17 countries meeting agreed 'to implement a nationwide cessation of hostilities to begin in a target of one week's time'. The International Syria Support Group also agreed 'to accelerate and expand the delivery of humanitarian aid beginning immediately'.

'Sustained delivery will begin this week, first to the areas where it is most urgently needed and then to all the people in need throughout the country, particularly in the besieged and hard to reach areas,' added Kerry.

He also said peace talks between rebels and the Syrian government would resume in Geneva 'as soon as possible'. They were derailed earlier this month as the regime began bombarding the key rebel city of Aleppo with support from Russian bombers and Iranian fighters, triggering an exodus of over 50,000 refugees. (ANI)

Lankan girl receives Australian visa after minister intervenes Sirilanka, Feb 12: The Sri Lankan girl who made headlines after being refused a temporary visa because she has Down syndrome would be allowed to live in Australia, after Immigration Minister Peter Dutton intervened in her case. The 9year-old Eliza Fonseka had also found an unexpected ally in former Australian cricket captain Greg Chappell, who advocated for her to be granted the visa. "I'm very excited for Eliza, I'm very excited for the family," said Chappell, who was approached to help Eliza's family by her father, a cricket coach. "I think in this case compassion has won out." Chappell said it was the first time he had been involved in an immi-

gration issue. "Probably in this particular style, yes, but through the years I've been approached to support a few things and where I thought it worthy, I've been more than happy to support the cause," he said. "I thought it was a very worthy cause."

Eliza's parents want to work in a Christian crisis centre in remote Western Australia. The Immigration Department last year issued them a temporary work visa but Eliza was not granted a visa because the Immigration Department said she was considered to be a "significant cost to the Australian community in the areas of health care". That decision caused outrage in disability advocacy circles.

(Agencies)

Bacha Khan University to reopen on Monday

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Indonesia bans 'gay' emojis on messaging apps Jakarta, Feb 12: In the latest crackdown on gay rights in Indonesia, the government has demanded all instant messaging apps to remove same-sex emoticons or face a ban in the Muslimmajority country.

The emojis -- which are available on the popular apps LINE and Whatsapp as well as Facebook and Twitter -- depict same-sex couples holding hands and the rainbow flag, commonly used to symbolise the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

"Such contents are not al-

lowed in Indonesia based on our cultural law and the religious norms and the operators must respect that," Ismail Cawidu, spokesman for the Communication and Information Ministry said. He said of particular concern was that the colourful emojis and stickers could appeal to children.

"Those things might be considered normal in some Western countries, while in Indonesia it's practically impossible," he said.

Cawidu said the ministry had contacted all companies that used such con-

emojis from online stores and issued an apology.

"LINE regrets the incidents of some stickers which are considered sensitive by many people," the messaging app said in a statement. "We ask for your understanding because at the moment we are working on this issue to remove the stickers."

The government has demanded all instant messaging apps to remove same-sex emoticons or face a ban in the Muslimmajority country

tent, including Twitter and Facebook, and failure to comply with the request to remove the emojis could

lead to the apps being banned in Indonesia.

LINE Indonesia has already removed its gay

'S Korea, US could begin missile shield talks next week' More work left to Seoul, Feb 12: South Korea could begin detailed discussions with Washington on bringing in an advanced US missile defence system opposed by China as early as next week, a senior official said on Friday.

The two allies are setting up a joint task force to look into the rollout of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence System (THAAD), which would be deployed as a counter to North Korea's growing missile threat.

"The task force will be able to start discussing details concerning the THAAD deployment as

early as next week," the senior official told journalists. On the agenda are issues like location, costsharing, environmental protection and a timeline for installation.

The THAAD system fires anti-ballistic missiles into the sky to smash into enemy missiles either inside or outside the Earth's atmosphere during their final flight phase. The interceptor missiles carry no warheads, instead relying on kinetic energy to destroy their targets.

South Korea and the United States announced

their intention to start discussions on THAAD's deployment last Sunday, just hours after North Korea launched a longrange rocket that both condemned as a disguised ballistic missile test. The Pentagon has since stressed that it would like the system to be deployed in South Korea "as quickly as possible."

China and Russia argue that it would undermine stability and could trigger an arms race in a delicately balanced region, with Beijing voicing its "deep concern" over the deployment. China is

South Korea's most important trade partner and -in deference to Beijing's sensitivities on the issue -South Korea had previously declined to formally discuss bringing in THAAD. But North Korea's continued testing -and Beijing's resistance to imposing harsh sanctions on Pyongyang triggered a change in Seoul's stance. There is already a THAAD battery stationed in Guam and the other key US ally in the region, Japan, is also considering taking on the system.(Agencies)

'Al-Qaeda can regenerate in Af-Pak border region' Afghanistan , Feb12: Al-Qaeda can regenerate in border regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan while the Islamic State is emerging as a competitor to some of the existing terror groups in the wartorn country, the CIA has warned.

"We're concerned that AlQaeda can regenerate in that Afghan-Pak border region, which is why we need to maintain the intelligence collection as well as working with our Afghan and Pak partners," CIA Director John Brennan told members of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence early this week.

There are about 100 or so Al-Qaeda members in the eastern parts of Afghanistan. The Al-

CIA Director John Brennan

Qaeda leaders there have joined hands with some of the other militant organisations in the area, including the Taliban, he said.

"So they continue to apply their trade on the ground inside Afghanistan," Brennan said.

Responding to a question from Senator Dianne Feinstein,

Brennan said ISIS has been able to take advantage of some elements within the Taliban that have been disenchanted with the organisation.

"So ISIL is seen as a threat certainly by Afghan officials when I've travelled over to Afghanistan just two months ago. One of the

real concerns they had that ISIL is planting the flag in different parts of Afghanistan and they are now being seen as a competitor to some of the existing militant and terrorist organisations there," he said.

"ISIL probably has several hundred members or so inside Afghanistan, I would estimate.

And it is distributed.

They have had some setbacks there as they have gone up against some of the other militant organisations. But it is a concern," he said.

"Just like we see these various franchises growing in places like Indonesia or Nigeria, Somalia, Yemen, Libya, we see the same thing in South Asia," he added.(Agencies)

Series of small explosions in Karachi leave residents panicked Family members of students stands outside Bacha Khan University

Charsadda, Feb 12: The Bacha Khan University (BKU), which has remained closed owing to security reasons after terrorists killed 21 students and professors in an attack last month, is set to reopen on Monday, Feb 15.

BKU spokesperson Saeed Khan on Friday said the university's security committee, after a thorough review, cleared the varsity for resumption of academic activities. But students and staff will not use university transport, he added.

Charsadda District Police Officer Sohail Khan also said security clearance had been given to BKU, adding that eight

policemen will be stationed on the university premises and a mobile van will be deployed outside.

Two female university employees will also be tasked with keeping an eye on female students, he said.On Feb 1, BKU spokesman Saeed Khan had announced that the varsity administration rejected the Khyber P a k h t u n k h w a government's inquiry report on the attack, which had called for removal of the university's vice chancellor and security in-charge, adding that the institution will remain closed until provision of a d e q u a t e security.(Agencies)

While homosexuality is not illegal in Indonesia, the topic remains a controversial subject.In January, the University of Indonesia told a support group providing sex education and counselling for LGBT

students that they did not have permission to hold meetings on campus. And last year Aceh, the only province in Indonesia which implements sharia law, introduced caning as a punishment for gay sex.

Prominent gay activist Hartoyo said the move to ban the emojis was symptomatic of a wider crackdown on LGBT rights.

"This is just the latest in a series of incidents that have happened recently," he said. "The government has let this ignorance go on for far too long and it has put our nation in danger." (Agencies)

Karachi, Feb12: Three small explosions within two hours in different parts of Karachi on Friday left residents panicked. A policeman was injured when a homemade grenade was hurled at a police station in the Gulshan-i-Iqbal area, a police spokesman said. Unidentified assailants on a motorbike lobbed a homemade grenade at the Mobina Town police station on Main Abul Hassan Isafahani Road, partially damaging a wall of the building and a car belonging to the Head Moharir of the police station, a police spokesman said.

The suspects fled after the attack. Constable Asif Ali Lashari, who was on duty at the time,

suffered a minor injury and was admitted to a hospital for treatment. A heavy contingent of police and Rangers reached the site of the attack on the Mobina Town police station and the road was temporarily closed to traffic, as reported.

A similar explosion near a bus stand in the Karimabad area did not cause any casualties, Senior Superintendent Police District Central Muqadas Haider said.

The Karachi Police Media Cell, however, said the hand grenade was hurled at APWA College for girls in Karimabad, the boundary wall of which was damaged.

A third homemade explosive device was lobbed by unidentified

A police officer stands on guard near the Mobina Town police station

individuals about 15-20 feet away from a school in North Nazimabad Block-A, police said. A 16-year-old boy passing by at the time of the attack received minor injuries. He was discharged from the hospital after treatment. Television footage showed panicked parents reach the school to collect their children following the incident.

Chief Minister (CM) Qaim Ali Shah took notice of the incident and ordered a report into the incident, CM spokesman said. Within the past month, Rangers checkposts have been targeted twice by homemade grenades. SSP Haider said the motive of a similar attack earlier this week may be to "create fear and spread chaos".(Agencies)

be done in Karachi operation: DG ISPR

Director General Lt Gen Asim Bajwa Karachi, Feb 12: Boasting the successes and statistics regarding the Rangers-led Karachi operation, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Asim Bajwa said on Friday that more work needed to be done to completely rid the metropolis of violence and terrorism. Addressing a press conference here, Lt Gen Bajwa said the Karachi operation was commenced in Sept 2013 at a time when criminality, targeted killing and kidnapping for ransom were at their peak in the city. During the operation, he said, over 12,000 people were arrested in

more than 7,000 raids conducted by Rangers, out of which 6,000 people were handed over to police. The biggest terrorist groups operating in Karachi are Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) which conducted attacks in the city in collusion with the Tehreek-i-Taliban (TTP) Pakistan, Bajwa said. He said all the terror outfits are trying to consolidate and conduct attacks in the city. A pool of terrorists utilised by all the terrorist groups, including 94 hardcore terrorists, was arrested. Some 26 of these terrorists carried head money, he said. (Agencies)

FM seeks approval to pay Sobitha Thera's hospital Singapore, Feb 12: A supplementary estimate was presented to Parliament yesterday to seek its approval to spend a sum of Rs 17.2 million to settle the outstanding bills for the emergency medical treatment of the late Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Nayaka Thera in Singapore.

This amount is to be spent by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sought the approval of the House to spend Rs 18.8 million to purchase flag cars for the Sri Lankan missions in Brussels and Kuwait, and Rs 9.1 million to pur-

chase official vehicles for the Sri Lankan missions in Geneva and Chennai.

Approval of the House was sought to spend Rs 12.2 billion -- pay for the helicopters procured under a Russian Credit Line in 2013. This payment is to be made by the Sri Lanka Air Force. Approval of the House was also sought for extra money to provide relief to the people as well. These included Rs. 500 million for the production of the nutritional packages given to expectant mothers, and Rs. 40 million for providing retirement benefits for the parliament staff.(Agencies)

Russian PM says Arabs intervention in Syria could spark 'new world war' Kabul, Feb.12: Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has warned that if Arab forces entered the Syrian war they could spark a 'new world war' and has urged forceasefire talks instead.

When asked about proposals by some Arab countries to enter the conflict under a US command, Medvedev said, 'that would be bad decision because ground offensives usually lead to wars becoming permanent'.

Dmitry Medvedev said that the Americans and Arabic partners must think hard about this that do they really want a permanent war. Medvedev further added that in the Arabic world everyone is

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev fighting against everyone, everything is far more complicated and could take years or decades to resolve. 'All sides must be forced to the negotiating table instead of sparking a new world war' said Medvedev. (ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Swach Bharat Mission Slowly losing its way

According to our Prime Minister, a clean India would be the best tribute India could pay to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150 birth anniversary in 2019.

This was our PM's prime agenda behind launching the Swachh Bharat Mission. On 2nd October 2014, Swachh Bharat Mission was launched throughout length and breadth of the country as a national movement.

While leading the mass movement for cleanliness, the Prime Minister exhorted people to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi's dream of a clean and hygienic India. Even Bollywood celebrities to television actors came forward and actively joined the initiative.

Noted personalities like Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Kailash Kher, Priyanka Chopra and entire cast and crew of SAB TV show 'Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah' lend a hand to Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Numerous sportspersons like Sachin Tendulkar, Sania Mirza, Saina Nehwal and Mary Kom's contribution the clean India drive have been commendable. As part of plans to build 110 million toilets across India between 2014 and 2019.

The underlying presumption is India has a large number of poor people who cannot afford to construct a toilet, and there is thus a need for government intervention.

But now it is very unfortunate on our part to see the Swach Bharat Mission slowly losing its steam towards achieving the mission for which it was actually propounded.

A year and a half down the line and little has changed.

In spite of the government

constructing 8 million toilets in 2015, worldwide, India still has the highest number of people defecating in the open, around 600 million. Ranking the preference for having a toilet against 20 other consumer durables - cot, watch, mattress, chair, bicycle, table, electric fan, television, pressure cooker, radio, motorcycle, water pump, mobile telephone, sewing machine, refrigerator, tractor, animal drawn cart, thresher, and computer - toilets ranked a lowly 12 out of 21. Examining National Family and Health Survey (NFHS3) data from India we find evidence about statelevel variance in the use of toilets. The NFHS-3 survey interviewed 109,041 households spreading across 28 states in India. The likelihood of households in the Northeast Indian states of Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura and Meghalaya, and the southern state of Kerala using a toilet facility is much higher than that of a household in Delhi (the reference state in our analysis). In fact, in Kerala communities like the Nairs and Ezhavas, and in Meghalaya the Khasi, Jaintias, and the Garo tribes (comprising a majority of the population) practice matriarchy, where women have power in activities relating to allocation, exchange and production. This can also explain the greater prevalence of toilet users in these states. In contrast, households from Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu are less likely to use toilets in comparison to a household from Delhi.Millions of people across the country have been day after day joining the cleanliness initiatives of the government departments, NGOs and local community centres to make India clean. But will joining the initiative bring in success for the mission.

Controlling price rise When will the Government get a grip over it Today, India is facing many problems - the problem of corruption, the problem of unemployment, the problem of illiteracy, the problem of population, so on and so forth. The problem of rising prices is one of the most important problems that Indian is facing now. Resolving this problem would constitute a two-fold solution in terms of checking the rising prices and, if possible, to bring the prices down. It seems that Narendra Modi led BJP government is playing with the feelings of the common man.

It was not much earlier when the petrol price was cut down by 50 per cent but again recently petrol and diesel prices were raised again. Not to say about the price of the pulses whose prices have reached the heights of the sky. As per a Assocham report also said that price of rice may also increase. The economists are of the opinion that growing economy of the country has given rise to the rising prices and that such an economy causes inflation. In times of inflation, purchasing power runs ahead of purchasable goods. In other words, in a growing country, the supply of money increases at once but the supply of goods takes time to increase. Again the population has increased. This has further increased inflation.

Meanwhile, because of growing population, the current level so corruption is increasing.

Rising prices encourage hoarding, profiteering, blackmarketing and corruption. They discourage export. They cause devaluation of currency. Lastly, they seriously disrupt equitable distribution of wealth. The problem is very dangerous. It needs measures - both short and long term, to be adopted. These measures include an appeal mixed with threat to the sellers, raids on go downs and other hoards of grains, seizing of black money, a cut down by Rs 400 crores in central expenditure, increase in bank rates to 5%, opening of fair price shops, rationing of provisions, imports of food-grains from foreign countries, curbing of unproductive expenditure by the Government, readjustment in the scale of pay and emphasising on small plants. The short term measure will help the government to hold the price-line. The long term measures will help the government to withdraw the huge amount of money pumped into circulation during the last year.

The Indian government should at least control prices of the commodities which are of daily use. Rice, pulses, milk, etc. are the basic food components of any Indian household. Prices of such things should be within the limits.

The emerging Bangladesh China India MyanmarEconomic Corridor and its opportunities- Part II Priority areas of BCIM In order to enhance regional connectivity, the member nations decided to build multi-modal transport-road, rail, water ways and air ways, infrastructure. They also underscored the need of cooperation in energy and power sectors to tap local resources. Moreover, the development of telecommunication network along the corridor was emphasized. In an effort to facilitate intra-regional investment, the member nations agreed to broaden the participation of both public and private sectors.

To improve the livelihood of people and reduce poverty along the corridor, the member nations sought cooperation in agriculture and environment-friendly industries to create a basis for sustainable development. They agreed to boost exchanges and cooperation in areas such as education, science and technology, culture, healthcare, sports as well as human resource development.

Furthermore, infrastructure facilities would be upgraded and the tourism potential of the region would be explored to create BCIM tourism circle.

There are huge possibilities for the development of tourism in the BCIM region which is endowed with rich bio-diversity and beautiful landscapes especially in Myanmar and

Yunnan province of China.

Ecotourism will grow once physical connectivity is established among the member nations.

The schemes envisaged under the BCIM-EC would increase cross-border movement of goods, services and people. To ensure that no country assumes the role of a big brother, the four nations pledged that the modus operandi of the corridor will be "the principles of mutual trust and respect, mutual interest, equitable sharing of mutual benefits". The BCIM members also intend to address some of the pressing problems like cross-border criminal activities and illegal immigration by broadening inter-country cooperation and harmonization of border policies.

Agenda of the upcoming meeting In their bid to strengthen physical connectivity, all the member nations are presently engaged in identifying realistic and achievable infrastructure projects. Each country will present a joint study report outlining concrete projects and financing mechanism in the upcoming meeting. Based on country reports, a Joint Group Summary Report will be prepared and submitted to all the four governments. The report will be focusing on actionable areas and concrete

projects to materialize the the proposed BCIM-EC goals envisaged under the could "change the geoBCIM. political map in Asia and Subsequently, the projects the world". would be prioritized for G e o g r a p h i c a l l y , implementation by the Bangladesh is in an advanBCIM nations through tageous position as it partcould neract as ships, Dr. Rupak Bhattacharjee a maand j o r if necessary, with the as- gateway for the landsistance of international fi- locked regions of both Innancial institutions. The dia and China. The seven member nations are hope- North Eastern states of Inful that a BCIM Frame- dia lack direct access to work Agreement will be sea routes and Bangladesh inked paving the way for may provide transit facilian institutional shape to ties to these states for usthe BCIM-EC. ing the Chittagong port.

Similarly, Yunnan province Prospects of the BCIM of China is a hinterland and The idea of BCIM is to trade is carried out through promote regional connec- South China Sea which is tivity and economic coop- nearly 2000 km away. eration between the land- Both the countries could locked frontier regions of use the Chittagong port if China and India. China's seamless multi-modal conYunnan province is par- nectivity is developed by ticularly underdeveloped. upgrading transport infraThe proposed economic structure. In such a scecorridor is designed to pro- nario, Bangladesh will be vide sea access to its able to earn huge revenue south-western provinces. from service charge.

The Chinese policy analysts have described it as BCIM-EC could usher in the policy shift from "con- a new era of tinental to maritime econo- interconnectedness in the mies". Following the region. Once the corridor launching of "Gateway becomes fully operational, Strategy" in 2009, Yunnan it is likely to emerge as the has been made gateway to largest free trade zone of Southeast and South Asia. the world by combining China has already devised the ASEAN Free Trade a long-term strategy to Area, ASEAN-China Free develop multiple networks Trade Area and ASEANof road, rail and air con- India Free Trade Area. A nection to link Yunnan major driving force behind with the neighbouring China's initiatives to build countries. Beijing says that the economic corridor is

the opportunity for its companies to procure infrastructure building contracts.

Some economic analysts maintain that the proposed corridor offers equally lucrative investment opportunities for the Indian companies to obtain infrastructural contracts in Bangladesh and Myanmar.

According to a study by Research Information System for Developing Countries in India, the total trade potential of BCIM-EC is estimated to be $132 billion.

The North Eastern states of India are showing keen interest in the BCIM initiative. A few workshops and conclaves have already been held in the region to explore ways of boosting trade and economic cooperation between North East and BCIM countries.

The Indian experts underscored the need to study the export potential of North East and match that with the demand conditions in markets like Bangladesh, Myanmar and China. They observed that the region's backwardness could be addressed better through trans-national connectivity, economic integration and cross-border cooperation.

All the four nations have agreed to build a "thriving economic belt that will promote common economic development of ar-

eas along the border". The least developed countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar stand to benefit considerably by augmenting sub-regional cooperation envisioned in the BCIM-EC. It offers both the countries an extra opportunity to integrate their markets with the booming economies of India and China.

However, a key concern has been the persistence of uneven intra-BCIM trade which is dominated by India and China. Generally speaking, intra-regional trade has remained insignificant over the years.

Greater cooperation among BCIM countries would inevitably create new opportunities for Bangladesh and Myanmar to expand their exports to the region in a substantial manner.

A number of regional forums across the world have been successful in implementing the idea of economic corridor by building multi-modal transport networks, special economic zones, industrial parks, export processing zones and commercial hubs and facilitating wide range of economic activities along the corridor. It remains to be seen how the four member nations respond with follow up actions to make the sub-regional initiative a grand success.

Concluded

India's Growing Naval Might India's latest International Fleet Review highlights the growing importance of the maritime sphere for New Delhi.

The Indian Navy under- India will be hosting the lined its growing prowess first-ever Global Maritime at the International Fleet Summit in April. He made Review (IFR) 2016 last it clear that the Indian week. Though it was Ocean region remains his largely a ceremonial in- government's priority spection of naval warships given India's 1,200 island by the Indian president, it territories, and its huge exclusive ecoprovided nomic zone of an oppor- Harsh V. Pant 2.4 million sq tunity to the Indian Navy to show- km. He further underlined case its might and rapidly the Indian Ocean region's expanding capabilities. It role "as a strategic bridge was in 2001 that an event with the nations in our imof such a scale was last mediate and extended held in India and since maritime neighborhood." then the Indian Navy's Underlining the need for a participating contingent "modern and multi-dimenhas only grown bigger, sional Navy," Modi stressed with 75 frontline ships that India would continue and submarines in atten- to actively pursue and prodance, in addition to 24 mote its geopolitical, straships and delegations tegic, and economic interfrom over 50 nations in- ests on the seas, in particucluding Australia, lar the Indian Ocean.

Bangladesh, Brazil, China, The Indian Navy has France, Indonesia, Iran, emerged as an indispensMaldives, the United King- able tool of Indian diplodom and the United States. macy in recent years, makFlagging the threat of sea- ing it imperative for Indian borne terror and piracy as policy-makers and naval two key challenges to thinkers to think anew maritime security and un- about the role of the derlining the need to re- nation's naval forces in Inspect freedom of naviga- dian strategy. Despite a tion against the backdrop general understanding of South China Sea dis- among Indian political pute, Indian Prime Minis- elites that it was the littoral ter Narendra Modi de- dominance by the Euroclared during the IFR that pean powers that led to

clusive economic zone, and island territories. The Indian Navy would eventually like to emerge as a world-class blue-water force, equipped to meet regional challenges, and threats and to safeguard India's maritime interests.

India needs a blue water navy not only to meet naval threats from China and Pakistan, but also to exploit its strategic location at the center of the Indian Ocean as well as to protect its extensive exclusive economic zone.

Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. Source: nhsf their colonial ascendancy in the Indian heartland, the focus on land frontiers led to the dominance of the Indian Army in the national security discourse.

Until the end of the Cold War, the maritime dimension of India's security did not figure adequately in the national consciousness.

Indian policy-makers did not perceive the advantage of building up the nation's maritime sinews

as the country remained concerned with the north and north-western frontiers after partition rather than with her sea frontiers.

Yet despite the Indian Navy's marginalization and the preoccupation of policymakers with safeguarding the integrity of nation's land frontiers, the Indian Navy was largely successful in maintaining a credible naval force in the region.

Today, the Indian Navy's

original local sea control and shore defense orientation, which largely focused on preserving the integrity of Indian coastal waters from regional threats, has given way to a more ambitious naval posture. India's naval policy is geared toward ensuring the freedom of navigation for shipping and safety of sea lines of communication as well as to safeguard its interests in contiguous waters, ex-

Whither the State Congress

Source: newsworldindia

Sir, The Politicians, particularly those from the ruling dispensation of the state stoop to abysmal low to please (read bribe) the voters by distributing Yarn, Mosquito net, blanket, tractor and power-tiller. The entire exercise smacks of farce and of bad-taste.

Guwahati High court, in a verdict bans distribution of the said items. The congress, on every front cuts a sorry figure. The congress in Assam now is in a shambles. The Chief-minister meanwhile, makes himself unpopular by his arrogant statements. The party shows unusual alacrity in addressing grievances of the people as assembly election is fast approaching. Tarun Gogoiled congress government of Assam is so badly steeped in corruption at this point of time that the BJP is emerging as the sole alternative. But things are so elusive and uncertain that nothing can be predicted till

the result of the election. When Dr. Mon Mohan Singh had been elected on several occasions on Rajya Sabha ticket from Assam, no body raised any objection as he had been a person with an impeccable personality who contributed much to Assam. but when the congress High command imposed Sanjay Singh, who had a tainted past and who already proved to be a fairweather-friend of Assam, the congress started incurring displeasure with the people of Assam. Above all people are hard nut to crack, one cannot feel their pulse, who cannot be befooled by presenting largesse. The idealism of the Nehruvian era is a thing of the past.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

There's a long tradition in India of viewing the maritime dimension of security as central to nation's strategic priorities. With India's economic rise, New Delhi is trying to bring that focus back, making its navy integral to national grand strategy.

While China remains a significant worry, the bigger problem remains one of introducing organizational changes and doctrinal evolution. How India manages these issues will be significant not only for the Indian Navy's future but also for the rise of India as a credible global military power.

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

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

p O

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Page 9

ed

Why it is much better to watch Doordarshan than the predictable 'saas-bahu' soaps on TV Year-ender television pro- mid-year stock-take. It gramming has a set for- listed Gangaa, Uttran, mat of look-backs on the Balika Vadhu, Udaan and year gone by, TV Service Wali Bahu. I do programmes gone by, the think the piece was overbest and the worst. celebrating, but hey, Sometimes these look- when Ekta Kapoor has backs extend into the brought benchmarks to first quarter of the new the basement level, these year as well. serials did In fact, doing stand out! y e a r - e n d Biraj Swain Then there wraps in the was a long renew year is now the new search on The Alternative normal. For someone ad- by Nalanda Tambe and dicted to news, soaps are Nidhi Shendurnikar Tere not exactly my forte but on the missing working the need to fit in during women on Indian TV holidays and family get- soaps. They lamented the togethers (yes, I have over-presence of kitchen such relatives too, who politics and domestication do watch soaps!) also of women. Again, a midmeans brushing up on TV year review article. While the first was a celebration, soaps and plot-lines.

So, when I was research- the second was a rant, ing with this very desper- but both listed soaps of ate and superficial private TV channels only. agenda, I came across That's when I completely some very interesting ar- abandoned the original ticles on the serials in the agenda of my search for general entertainment cat- soaps to binge-watch on egories that seem to have YouTube to blend in with caught the media critics' vacuous family getfancy. One was a Times togethers and started of India piece by Mani wondering what hapMahesh Arora very pened to the Doordarshan grandly head-lined, 5 TV (DD) soaps. Where are serials that broke stereo- the review articles on DD types and educated India. soaps? Or has DD comIt is important to mention pletely abandoned soaps here that it was not a as a programming genre? year-ender wrap but a This question became

even more pertinent given that the BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) ratings have started including small town viewers and rural viewers also. DD has been the undisputed topper there. In fact, so surprising was its lead that once the audience counts were rationalised, none less than All India Bakchod gave a shout out to them on their second episode of On Air with AIB. Voila, persistence pays and I finally found a DD serials' review article on the world wide web! And it was on the India Today platform no less! Well, not exactly a review, it was more of a nostalgia piece by Shruti Kapoor on 15 Doordarshan serials that we would love to watch again. It excludes Tamas but includes Dekh Bhai Dekh! Well, credit where credit is due, the author does say that her bias might have been apparent in the list even though she tried to be neutral. Fair point! And this piece is dated August.

Seriously, where are the media commentaries, reviews of DD serials? The Media Foundation did a

Image for representational purpose only. Source: kanigas study in 2015,When The Dish Knocked Down The Antenna, where they examined the changing viewership patterns amongst the low-income populations in five states when digitisation started.

Their study did not praise DD or public broadcasters (the opinion is divided whether the DD group of channels can be called public broadcasters in the strict sense of the term like the BBC since it is not exactly independent, it reports to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting). A very well cir-

culated study but even this study has not triggered media articles on DD programming!

The Media Foundation's study does talk about the unmet information needs of DD viewers. That brings me to a serial which really seems to address this particular shortcoming of DD programming with really powerful content. Main Kuch Bhi Kar Sakti Hoon, into its second season, broadcast on DD every weekend, is power-packed with information but it is done through some very inter-

esting and relatable storytelling.

It is the journey of Dr. Sneha Mathur, a Mumbaibased doctor who has personal and professional commitments and a strong conscience. The serial shows her navigating through work and life, family and society, ideals and reality and in the process encountering deeprooted societal problems, from female foeticide, dowry, gender discrimination to compromised medical practitioners, villages caught in a time warp and patriarchy in all

its forms. And since it has some engaging story-telling, everyday relatable characters and is full of fact-checked content, it is high on practical information too. It takes on the issue of planned families in the most aesthetic way!

Highly recommended!

I also recommend it because it spares us the absurdities of most TV soaps from the Ekta Kapoor factory of TV soap making, such as: 1. Irrational, untimely, mostly pointless, generation leaps 2. Garish make-up and over-the-top costumes that make acting a weightlifting exercise 3. Probability (rather certainty!) of the story line moving less than a single column inch in one whole episode 4. Pointless new characters to prolong the end of the serial 5. Ear shattering background scores at over 85 decibels 6. The not-so-fine art of loud acting I could go on and on, but you get the drift! Suffice it to say, watching Main Kuch Bhi Kar Sakti Hoon would be a break from regressive, predictable

'Saas-Bahu' soaps that Indian TV is brimming with!

That it has the very amiable Farhan Akhtar as the Sutradhaar/narrator, could be a bonus (or not!). The very talented Feroz Abbas Khan, of Tumhari Amrita fame, as its director and creator may help you gauge how far it would be from the run-of-the-mill 'Saas Bahu' sagas.

As for the audience, Main Kuch Bhi Kar Sakti Hoon had 58 million viewers and 6,00,000 people engaged as direct audience as per the beta site Indian Television in the first season itself. Now those are numbers that should definitely get the Indian media critics writing more on the serial, and more on programming in Doordarshan generally.

For that, we need to start watching DD programmes. Seems like the 'aam janta' is watching. It's about time media commentators did too!

And who knows, we might just come across pleasant surprises like Main Kuch Bhi Kar Sakti Hoon!

Main Kuch Bhi Kar Sakti Hoon is broadcast on Doordarshan every Saturday and Sunday at 7.30pm.

Sting operations: How Effects of television: From Donald ethical are they? and Mickey to Shin Chan

"There are only two Does it stop in the course forces that can carry light of his office hours; is it to all the corners of the justified to venture into his globe‌ the sun in the private sphere as well to heavens and the Associ- 'nail the evidence'? Just ated Press down here," because he is a public sersaid Mark Twain. vant, does that grant acInvestigative journalists cess to his private life to, today seem to have taken of course in the name of this statement to a whole 'public interest'? Questions new level. Indeed, sting remain. operations This apart, Oviya Govindan have beeven the come the fundamental logic behind most favored tool for such media trials seems journalists, the recent debatable and several perspate of such operations, tinent questions have especially the 'string of come up. Each of these string operations' by views is worth considerTehelka bear witness to ing. this fact.

The method used in any Dubbed the fourth estate entrapment is to undertake or the fourth pillar of de- decoy tactics and try to mocracy, media has taken induce the person to comupon itself the right to carry out operations that are carefully scripted to apprehend defaulters as they take the bait offered.

In an era of sensational reporting, news channels have a field day covering the expose in the name of working in the interest of the public. The public too, deprived of transparency about the working of public servants in office, save the lone RTI act, are ever willing to absorb the news they are fed.

The question that looms in the background however is whether such methods amount to deliberate entrapment and are an invasion of privacy; or are they justified?

Most sting operations are carried out against public servants in the system.

Media Houses claim that they are in such cases, acting out of interest for Truth and Justice. They argue that in cases where the whole society is at stake, like corruption, cash for votes, et cetera, they are justified in carrying out deliberate operations, as this is probably the only way the defaulters can be caught red handed. That too in a situation where there is conscious concealment of information, there seems to be no better way than this. In fact, in the police department this is a time tested method to nab criminals.

However in the hands of media, this power raises serious questions of privacy. Assuming it is alright to cover the actions of a public servant, one wonders to what extent such coverage is warranted.

merits in the cases like the Delhi School Teacher case where a sting operation falsely framed a teacher of exploiting and harassing students. Cases such as these victimize the innocent and leave them traumatized for life.

The poor teacher had to face the wrath of the mob before it was uncovered that the report was false.

It is also worth considering that had there not been voice recorders and cam corders, wouldn't reporters have come up with other ways to achieve the same. Are they even considering all other possible ways to extract information before jumping up to assume the role of

Image for representational purpose only. Source: vakilnol

mit the offence; thereby trapping him 'red handed'.

Doesn't this amount to deliberately inducing the person concerned to commit a crime?

If this is indeed a case of encouraging a wrong doing, is it not unethical, ask many critics. One probable answer to them might be that most cases of media sting operations are undertaken only when there have already been reported instances of deliberate concealment of information.

When this is the case, there seems to be some justification allowed.

However as one columnist in The Hinduargues, extending this argument, how long can it be before governments and authorities commit excesses by placing general public under surveillance. 'Public Interest' can be a powerful tool in the hands of the unworthy. No wonder Samuel Johnson said 'Patriotism is the last refuge of the scoundrel'.

This argument has its

Sleuths?

Media has assumed the all powerful role of controlling and regulating the democracy, but is not beyond faults itself. As Dan Brown writes in his thriller 'Digital Fortress', Who will guard the guards is the question we need to ask.

Motivation for news channels quite naturally comes not just out of the need to give people the Truth. Sometimes, news is just what the media creates; and a market driven sector like any other, media is also liable to get carried away in the clamor for primacy in providing 'The News'.

Remember the Pierce Brosnan starrer, 'Tomorrow never dies'? We don't have a suave Mr. Bond to save the world from media conspiracies‌ Hope lies only in rational thought and acting without violating our ethical codes of conduct. I believe in Captain Planet, "THE POWER IS YOURS"!!!

Television, which was talk of cartoons today. once a luxury, has now Today there is a plethora become a necessity. Just of channels which offer a a decade and a half back, large variety of animated only a handful privileged entertainment to the young families could afford a tele- generation. Some of these vision set, but today Direct shows are Doremon, Shin to Home Chan, Ninja services are Shreya Arora Hatori, Oggy available in and the Cockmost of roaches, etc, therural areas of our coun- on channels like Hungama, try also.

Nick, Disney Channel and T.V was initially used for many more. attaining knowledge but Unfortunately these shows today it is most commonly have started spoiling the used for recreational pur- children more than educatposes. Whether it is the old ing them. The manner in or the young generation, which the famous cartoon everybody uses this gad- character Shin Chan get for entertainment. speaks with his mother is The adults can differenti- often unacceptable to the ate between the wrong and parents. These shows the right on their own but have very little value addithe younger generation has tion to growing minds of to be told. The problem the children. which most of the parents Approximately two out of are facing today is the ad- ten children would want to verse effect oftelevision switch to discovery chanon children. nel when they are watchUnlike the previous years ing Hungama. Unfortua few shows like Tom & nately with the growth in Jerry, Mickey Mouse, modernization parents are Aladin, etc on Cartoon no longer able to give Network or Sony enter- enough time to their chiltainment channel do not dren and thus there is very have a monopoly when we little parental control on the

Image for representational purpose only. Source: ecx.images television viewing habits of the children.

Not just cartoons but since the children have the access to the TV, they watch movies and soap operas which are actually not made for them. Small minds have now become corrupted. They know

things which are not meant for their age. Their minds are growing at a rapid pace but unfortunately they are not channelized in the right direction.

It would be wrong to say that T.V is the only reason for this change in the

little brains, there are a lot more things which add on but yes this is one of the major culprits. It is very important for the parents to manage their time and also their child's schedule in such a manner that he/ she makes the most of their childhood.

Coke Studio: The Perfect Chord Pakistan and Coca-Cola definitely hit a melodious note when they came up with their television series, 'Coke Studio'. The show was incepted on June 8, 2008 and now is in the third season and it has been on a high ever since it began. This show airs live performances by renowned as well as up-

coming artists. Their hall rary music. of fame boasts of names What is revolutionary like Atif Aslam, Ali Azmat about the show is that all and Ali Zafar amongst the songs are available many others. The pro- online on their website for gram showcases the Pa- free downloads. This is an kistani musiexcellent cians in all their Jubin Mehta way to boost glory. The muyoung talent sic is diversified and is a and make them more visperfect fusion of classi- ible. When the question of cal, folk and contempo- revenue arises, it has been

A live performance of Coke Studio in progress. Source: quirkybyte

noticed that making albums available online may augment the sales.

This theory has been supported by the famous writer Paulo Coelho who himself had made his books available online. To his publishers' dismay, the sales of the print version had risen after making available the online copy for free!

shows, 'The fake reality shows'. None of the singers from these programs have been able to make a mark on the bigger platform. Leaving that aside; none of them even manage to knock on our mental mindscapes doors except maybe Abhijeet Sawant (him being the first of the lot).

Well, it might not work for the music industry but upcoming artists would not mind a few of their works being circulated in this way. India should definitely take a lesson from this and come out of the delusion that has been created by the plethora of reality shows that have been scourging Indian television ever since Indian Idol- Season 1. These shows in place of promoting new talent, have been promoting melodrama and have themselves led into the making of a new genre of

Maybe this decadence can be stopped if we can get rid of the SMS menace that seems to be the root cause of this problem. If for once we can stop competing and just appreciate the beauty of music without marring its magic, maybe we can truly bring out what we've been aiming for. When singers start singing for the joy they derive out of it and stop going out to every nook and corner begging for votes that is when the true spirit will rise and music will be the ultimate winner. Hail music!

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

BUSINESS

ITC likely to enter frozen shrimp segment Kolkata, Feb 12: ITC is targeting the frozen shrimp segment to expand its branded food portfolio, Chairman Y. C. Deveshwar said. Talking to reporters after unveiling three green field projects, Mr. Deveshwar said the plan could be taken forward if the company had more land at its integrated consumer goods manufacturing facility in Uluberia in Howrah District. "While we are exporting shrimps now, we could become a branded player in the frozen shrimp market, taking West Bengal shrimps all over India," he said. "We are targeting a Rs.one-lakh crore turnover from newFMCG business. We need to enter new categories.. it cannot be done only

Car-makers hit by Javadekar Mumbai, Feb 12: Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar hit out at carmakers for their criticism of Delhi's air pollution and said he never thought of a car as a "cleaning machine."

"Carmakers are making some crazy statements... I never thought of a car not emitting carbon but being a cleaning machine. I never thought about it. If somebody is going crazy I can't help it," Mr. Javadekar said, while speaking at an Assocham event on smart cities. He was referring to Jaguar Land Rover CEO Ralph Speth's comments on Sunday that the air sucked in by the company's latest technology cars was dirtier than what they emit on Delhi roads. "The latest EU (Euro) VI regulation schemes have got technical features, which can clean the air in Delhi. These kind of vehicles drive like a hoover...

The air they suck in is far dirtier than the air which comes out of it," Mr. Speth told. Mercedes-Benz India MD and CEO Roland Folger told last week that switching to petrol vehicles was no solution to pollution as it emits higher CO2 levels than diesel. "…We know from our experience in Europe that by switching from diesel to petrol you are increasing CO2 levels. Petrol cars by definition have roughly 25 per cent higher CO2 levels," Mr. Folger had said.

(Agencies)

ITC DREAMS OF EXPANSION ITC is targeting the frozen shrimp segment to expand its branded food portfolio.

ITC has set this target for 2025-30, planning to emerge as the top FMCG company.

Mr. Deveshwar said the plan could be taken forward if the company had more land at its integrated consumer goods manufacturing facility in Uluberia in Howrah District.

While pointing out that ITC was experimenting with cultivation of a moisture-resistant wheat strain for West Bengal, its home state, the company had taken a 'leap of faith.'

through the existing business," Mr. Deveshwar said. ITC has set this target for 2025-30, planning to emerge as the top FMCG company.

Rs. 20,000 crore. Earlier, he urged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for some additional land (around 40 acre) for setting up a cold chain and frozen food facilities at Uluberia where it will commission by May 2016 a four-lakh square

ITC's non-cigarette business now stands at over

Mumbai, Feb 12: Adani Realty, the privately-held arm of the $10-billion Adani Group, has entered the commercial property space in Mumbai with a project in Bandra Kurla Complex. Termed 'Inspire by Adani', the project is spread across eight lakh sq ft of builtup area, said a company statement. "The value of eight lakh square feet, going by the current rate of Rs 27,000 per square feet, would be Rs 2,150 crore. The BKC area fetches a monthly rent of around Rs 225 to Rs 300 per sq ft," Ajay Munot, CEO, Adani Realty, told. The structure will address the needs of all types of corporate houses looking for small, medium or large offices. 'Inspire by Adani' will have a gold certification from the Indian Green Building Council under the LEED India Core and Shell rating system. "The project promises to provide one of the best working environments for employees," Mr Munot added.

(Agencies)

Vodafone begins its 4G ride in Mumbai Mumbai, Feb 12: Telecom major Vodafone India launched its 4G services in Mumbai after it had recently launched the services in Delhi-NCR, Kerala, Karnataka and Kolkata, bringing it on par with Bharti Airtel who already launched its 4G services pan-India. The telecom operator acquired 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) standard spectrum in mentioned cities in the February 2014 auctions.

These circles together contribute close to 50% of its total data revenue, making it the largest data revenue market for the firm.

Its 4G network will cover prominent business and residential corridors of western suburbs and southern Mumbai in a phased manner. The rollout will be completed across the city and New Mumbai by next month.

The telecom giant will retain the 3G pricing till the completion of 4G network across Mumbai and New Mumbai. On being asked if the price offer was an introductory offer, Sunil Sood, managing director and CEO of Vodafone India said, "We do not know whether it is part of introductory offer, but for the moment up to March 31, the price will the same as

Wipro to purchase HealthPlan Services Mumbai, Feb 12: Wipro said it will acquire Health Plan Services for $460 million (about Rs.3,150 crore), a move that will help the country's thirdlargest software services firm strengthen its position in the U.S. health insurance market. Wipro to acquire Health Plan Services from Water Street Healthcare Partners, a strategic investor focused exclusively on the health care industry, the Indian software major said. As part of the agreement, Wipro will acquire 100 per cent of HealthPlan Services' shares for a purchase consideration of $460 million, according to a company statement.

Headquartered in Florida, U.S., Health Plan is a leading independent technology and Business Process as a Service (BPaaS) provider in the U.S. health insurance market.

HealthPlan Services employs over 2,000 associates. It offers technology platforms to health insurance companies (payers).

It connects its payer clients to over 40 public exchanges and over 150 private exchanges in the U.S. "By partnering with HealthPlan Services, Wipro gains the competitive, first-mover advan-

feet facility for making atta (wheat flour), biscuits and snacks. He said industrial land was lying unutilised close by. "We could scale up tomorrow.. planning a frozen food or a fruit juice line," Mr. Deveshwar said.

Ms. Banerjee also laid the foundation stone for a larger unit for making noodles and potato chips.

The two initiatives would entail Rs.3,000 crore investment, Mr. Deveshwar said. While pointing out that ITC was experimenting with cultivation of a moisture-resistant wheat strain for West Bengal, its home state, he said the company had taken a 'leap of faith.' He also said the state government could show case these projects for attracting investors.

(Agencies)

Adani Realty ventures into commercial property

A MAJOR MOVE FOR WIPRO Wipro said it will acquire Health Plan Services for $460 million which is about Rs.3,150 crore.

The move will help the country's third-largest software services firm strengthen its position in the U.S. health insurance market.

Wipro to acquire Health Plan Services from Water Street Healthcare Partners, a strategic investor focused exclusively on the health care industry.

Wipro will acquire 100 per cent of Health Plan Services' shares for a purchase consideration of $460 million, according to a company statement.

By partnering with HealthPlan Services, Wipro gains the competitive, first-mover advantage in the high growth public and private exchange space.

tage in the high growth public and private exchange space for individual, group and ancillary markets. (Agencies)

Image for representational purpose. Source: livemint

3G. Anybody with existing 3G service can upgrade to 4G." Despite Mumbai being a one of the most important markets for all telecom players, Vodafone launched the service only after introducing it in four cities. The launch was delayed as the company was testing the pulse of the market and consumer ex-

perience. Vodafone has also clarified its stand on Net neutrality issue. "We believe very strongly in neutral Net, the decision of choice should be in customer's hand. But at the same time we want Net equality also which is defined by service rules. We strongly believe that you cannot discriminate be-

tween the players providing the same service. It is unfair," said Sood. According to the company, Vodafone India has nine million customers in Mumbai with a smart phone penetration of 60%.

Its 4G offering is built on the 1,800 MHz band which has better propagation capabilities compared to the 2,300 MHz on which Airtel and Reliance Jio will launch their services. The company has invested Rs 7,500 crore on its network in Mumbai. Vodafone is offering data packs starting from Rs 25 to large packs of 20 GB to data sharks.

In comparison, Airtel has 4G services in over 300 towns across India. While Jio, a unit of Reliance Industries, is expected to launch its offerings by April 2016.

It launched its 4G services exclusively for its employees in December 2015 on trial basis. (Agencies)

IndiaMART launches 'India Ki Khoj' to celebrate spirit of entrepreneurship ANI New Delhi, Feb 12: IndiaMART, the front-runner of the cause of entrepreneurial fervor in the country, is now set to seal its position as the enabler of business growth with its new brand campaign - 'India ki Khoj'. The campaign that features Irrfan Khan will establish IndiaMART's value proposition of a business facilitator of India, by being the platform that powers the 'Khoj' for growth, success, ambitions and legacy. "It feels great to be associated with this brand and its campaigns that have been inspirational to millions of entrepreneurs as well as the buyers in fulfilling their needs, be it business or personal. Through this campaign, I am sure that it will generate a strong im-

cilities of Hexagon - Switzerland and the U.S. has one each. Vice president and country manager Navaneet Mishra said that the headcount of the unit is 1,000 and there are plans to raise this by 200 in about two and a half years.

Apart from those engaged in the R&D operation in the city, the company has a sales network of about 250 people spread across the country. The Hyderabad centre came into the Hexagon AB fold as part of its acquisition of engineering and software company Intergraph Corporation for $2.13 billion in July

2010, a release said.

President of Hexagon (Safety & Infrastructure) Steven Cost said Hyderabad is an integral part of Hexagon AB's global R&D and delivery network. On future expansion of HCCI operations and infrastructure, he said: "As business dictates, we will grow it."

Hexagon, whose software serves as the core of the Dial 100 programme of Madhya Pradesh's government's emergency response services, sees lot of opportunities emerging from India' ambitious smart city programme.

(Agencies)

Logo of IndiaMART. Source: aninews pact and encourage enterprising people across the country to come forward and put their ideas into action," said Irrfan Khan, India's critically and globally acclaimed Cine Star.

IndiaMART has built itself as the definitive market place for millions of Indians who come searching for other businesses to do business with. The campaign moves a step ahead by connecting entrepreneurs to their role models, who they idolize. The idea

is aptly voiced by IndiaMART's brand ambassador, Irrfan Khan, capturing budding entrepreneurs and their dreams in a short 30 seconds story.

"India's economic prosperity is fuelled by millions of small and medium sized entrepreneurs.

We give them the platform to grow and act as an enabler that they can trust.

Through this campaign, we will be celebrating the spirit of enterprises found across the length and breadth of India," said Vice President, IndiaMART Sumit Bedi. "Thus, we have summed it up as 'Khoj', for everything that they are looking for in life.

We don't just connect markets with opportunity; we connect individuals with their ambitions," added Sumit.

Indian economy to grow by 7.6% Mumbai, Feb 12: The economic growth is robust despite turmoil on global financial markets, a finance ministry official said, reiterating the official forecast that the economy would grow by 7.6 per cent in the year to March.

"The world is in turmoil," Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das told a news briefing on the economy that will set the stage for the annual budget on February 29. Mr. Das described growth by Asia's third-largest economy as "robust" and said it was driven by

manufacturing. India will link the interest paid to millions of small savers in a $137-billion federal deposit scheme to market rates that will be revised every quarter, Mr. Das said. Cutting the small savings rate could save the government an estimated $700 million a year. But the move is likely to irk small savers and could be unpopular politically, particularly in rural areas where few banks have branches. Mr. Das said the rates, previously adjusted annually, would be tweaked for shorter-term

Image for representational purpose. Source: s3.india deposits and be aligned to government securities of comparable maturity.

Rates on two social security schemes will not be changed, Mr. Das said.

(Agencies)

PepsiCo, Coke 150-180ml versions likely to be launched

1,200-seater facility office opens in Hyderabad Hyderabad, Feb 12: Hexagon Capability Centre India (HCCI), a research and development unit of Hexagon AB, has opened a 1,200-seater office in Hyderabad. Announcing this, the IT firm said the HCCI will relocate operations at its four offices in the city to the new facility in Hi-Tec city. The facility houses Hexagon's Product R&D and services teams working on integrated technologies in the areas of aerospace, agriculture, automotive infrastructure, construction, mining, power, safety, surveying and security. It is one of the three major R&D fa-

PAGE 10

PepsiCo and Coca-Cola cans. Source: static.dnaindia

Mumbai, Feb 12: PepsiCo and Coca-Cola will look to introduce miniature size versions of their cola drinks in order to boost consumption at a time when consumers are cutting back due to health concerns. The two companies are set for a fresh cola war as they introduce these mini cans and PET bottles (150-180 ml). These miniature products will be made available in multi-packs and pushed through online marketplaces to attract customers and boost consumption, according to the report of a leading

news agency. Vipul Prakash, Vice President (beverages category) at PepsiCo India in the report said that there are times when consumers look for bite-sized pack and that new packaging creates a lot of excitement around the product. He further added that when they had introduced 'My can' and other slim packaging, it had set a precedent in the market. The new 150ml cans from Pepsi and the diet version will be launched at a price of Rs 15. They will also look to introduce multipacks. Mini versions of other cola drinks under its wing such as Mirinda and Moutain Dew may be launched later. CocoCola, on the other hand, is planning to launch a slightly larger version at 180ml for cans and 300ml for PET bottles, said the report. It is expected to be launched at a price of Rs 20 each. The

minitures will be introduced for its entire portfolio of cola drinks which include Coke Zero, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Sprite, Fanta and Limca.

The current prices for the cola drinks include Rs 12 for a 200ml of the glass bottle version, Rs 15 for the 300ml glass bottle version and Rs 35 for the 600ml PET bottle. While the new miniature versions will have low prices, the consumers will end up paying more per ml, said the report.

This is due to the pricepackaging architecture which has been used successfully in other markets globally where consumption has been decreasing and price-hikes have not worked well. These cola giants are expected to market these products heavily in smaller towns where lower price points have helped push sales volumes. (Agencies)

Modi to launch smart card for unorganised workers New Delhi, Feb 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon launch a smart card scheme for over 40 crore unorganised workers in the country to provide them various social security benefits like insurance and pension.

"Within one month Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch smart card called UWIN (Unorganised Workers' Identification Number) card. We had sought time

from the Prime Minister for launching it for over 40 crore workers in the country," Labour Minister Bandaru Dattatreya told reporters at launch of Global Network Operations Centre (g-NOC) of EPFO here.

The minister said that through the UWIN card, government wants to provide social security to all those people who are not covered either by Employees' Provident

PM Narendra Modi. Source: s3.india

Fund Organisation (EPFO) or Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC). He said that the UWIN card will be a chip-based instrument to provide benefit to these workers and their family under Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), Atal Pension Yojana, Aam Admi Bima Yojana (AABY), Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana.

The minister said that the

entire task of issuing smart cards to all informal sector workers would take at least two years time and government will issue 10 crore such cards in the first phase. Asked about Centre's plan to invest funds lying in dormant EPF accounts, the minister said, "We are custodian of the workers' money.

The worker can come and claim his or her funds. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Features

Page 11

WOMEN’S Homemade Masks To Make Your Skin Glow!

If you want to brighten your complexion, there's no need to spend a bomb every time on getting a facial done at a salon.

You can make your very own face mask at home!

Using the raw ingredients from your kitchen, you can make a mask that will not only make your skin healthy, but also give it a natural radiant look. To help you make your own favourite mask, we've complied a list of 6 easy homemade face masks that will help brighten dull skin in a jiffy.

1. Tender Coconut And Gooey Honey Mask Raw honey and fresh coconut oil are two ingredients you need to make this amazing face mask.

Honey as a beauty ingredient can do wonders for your skin! It contains nutrients, hydroxyl acid and healing enzymes, which reduce blemishes, brighten skin tone and repair damaged skin. On

the other hand, coconut oil is famous for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties that help reduce any signs of aging.

It also improves your skin's texture and does a fine job of giving it a natural glow. How awesome is that, right?!

Step 1 - In a bowl, pour 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of raw honey.

Step 2 - Using a spoon, blend both ingredients well.

Step 3 - Apply the mask carefully on your face and leave it to dry for 510 minutes.

Step 4 - Wash it off with lukewarm water.

2. Fresh Aloe Vera, Turmeric Powder And Rosewater Mask Do you want your skin to look younger, brighter and feel hydrated? If so, then you've got to try to make a face mask using aloe vera, turmeric and rosewater. While the aloe

vera makes your skin soft and hydrates it, the turmeric and rosewater help making your skin look radiant and young.

Step 1 - In a round container, add 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel, 2 teaspoons of rosewater and 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder.

Step 2 - Mix all these ingredients well till it becomes a thick paste.

Step 3 - Apply it on your face and let it sit for about 25-30 minutes.

Step 4 - Wash it off with regular water.

3. Yummy Papaya And Unflavoured Yoghurt Mask Papaya contains an enzyme called "papain", which is responsible for brightening skin tone. It's also known to remove tan, dark patches and fine lines. When it comes to healing and brightening skin, yoghurt does a fantastic job too! When you merge these two ingredi-

ents together, you're left with a fabulous face mask.

Step 1 - Cut the papaya into tiny cubes, and toss the pieces into a mixer.

Step 2 - Add a tablespoon of yoghurt after.

Step 3 - Turn the mixer on to make a paste out of the two ingredients.

Step 4 - Apply the fresh mix on your face and leave it to dry for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5 - Wash it off with chilled water.

4. Healthy Orange Juice And Turmeric Mask There's more to an orange than just being a citrus fruit. It has beauty properties too! Interestingly, it contains vitamin E that makes skin healthy and clear. It also acts as a natural bleaching agent to brighten up skin tone.

Making a face mask out of orange juice and turmeric powder is something you won't regret!

Step 1 - Add 2 table-

spoons of orange juice and ½ tablespoon of turmeric powder into a bowl.

Step 2 - Mix both ingredients well and apply it to your skin.

Step 3 - Let it stay on overnight and don't forget to wash it off first thing in the morning.

5. Gram Flour, Milk And Honey Mask Gram flour, milk and honey are all natural exfoliants that help control oil and clear dead skin cells. The mask does a great job at supplying your skin with nutrients, hydrating it and giving it a natural glow.

Step 1 - In a container, add a teaspoon of gram flour, half a cup of milk and a scoop of honey.

(Optional - dash of lemon juice) Step 2 - Make a paste out of all these ingredients.

Step 3 - Gently apply it over your face and don't touch the mask for 20-30

Woman applying aloe vera, turmeric powder and rosewater mask. Source: stylexpresso

minutes.

Step 4 - Wash the mask using mild soap and lukewarm water.

6. Juicy Tomatoes And Avocado Mask Tomatoes may be tiny in size, but their contribution to beauty is huge!

The have natural bleaching properties that help

brighten the skin. They also have vitamin C and antioxidant properties that help fight acne, bacteria and improve the skin's overall complexion.

Since avocados are packed with vitamin C and E, this fruit too does a fabulous job of making your skin look flawless.

Step 1 - Scoop the pulp out from the tomato and the avocado.

Step 2 - Mash the two ingredients up till they both become a paste.

Step 3 - Apply it to your face and let it sit there for 10-15 minutes.

Step 4 - Wash it off with cold water.

Wonderful Styling Ideas For Long Hair Curl Your Hair At Home Easily Your hair creativity doesn't extend beyond wearing it down or in a loose ponytail? You're growing tired of your long locks but don't want to cut off the length? Well, say goodbye to those boring hair blues because we give you a mega list of ideas to try on your long locks. If you don't know what to do with your hair, want to try something different but have no idea how or what…then you'll definitely one to keep this checklist handy, ladies.

Who said long hair had to be boring?

on your next night out.

Flat iron your hair for smooth, straight locks and work in a coin-sized amount of gel from your hairline to the crown to get this celeb-favourite hairstyle.

5. Work In Some Texture The easiest way to notch up boring hair is to add some playful texture.

There are so many ways you can do this; braid your hair when damp and open it up the next morning, or you can run a flat iron down the braids to

try it, there are so many simple styles you can try.

Pull back a section on either side from the front into a braid and pin at the back; try the ever cute fishtail braid or a classic French braid. Better yet, weave a ribbon through your braid, a bright colour would help it pop.

7. Rock Some Bangs Experimenting with bangs is an awesome way to change up your look without chopping your precious hair off. Short, blunt ones, soft sideswept one or a delicate

technique where the colour is applied freehand for a super natural look. Ombre hair is still going strong, which is a good idea if you don't want to colour your whole hair; this way you only colour the ends, which you can chop off when you want to get rid of the colour. You can also just colour a thin panel of hair something funky for a surprise pop of colour when you don't want to do your whole hair.

Woman with Braid Brigade. Source: i.ytimg 9. Accessorize With A If you weren't blessed with gorgeous, springy curls or want to add some playful texture to your ordinary, straight hair, you've probably tried curling your hair before.

Well, now we ensure you don't end up with frizzy ringlets but those glamorous bends and kinks that you're lusting after. We tell you how to curl your hair with a curling iron as well as without heat to see whichever works for you and your hair best.

1. Scarlet Red Be a redhead for a day!

Well, actually give your strands a temporary red tint with this simple DIY hack. Pour half a cup of all-natural cranberry juice onto your locks, clip it up on top of your head and blast it with a hair dryer (on low-heat) till it's dry. Let it down and turn heads with a sexy scarlet twist as the light hits your hair - till your next wash at least.

2. Get Some Great Layers Layers offer some great boredom relief while maintaining the length of your hair. They bring movement to your strands, make them less heavy and work better with your natural texture, especially if you have wavy hair. Try face framing layers to flatter your face the best.

3. Happy Hippie Take a stretchy hairband you have lying around and place it over your head, across your forehead, to channel come hippie cool. Pair it with a maxi dress for that boho vibe.

4. The Style Slick You don't need to walk the red carpet to try this trend - it's great to add a sexy edge to your regular style

Woman with red tinted hair. Source: s.yimg speed up the process. Tie your hair in a ponytail and randomly pick up sections to wrap around a curling iron before letting them loose and tousling with your fingers, or simply scrunch second day hair with a sea salt spray.

6. Braid Brigade There's never a bad day for a braid. You don't need to be a hair pro to

wispy style - there are different types of bangs to try give your hair an instant makeover. Just remember to commit to maintaining the look, though.

8. Colour Me Happy With so many cool colour trends to choose from, this should definitely be on your to-do list. Try balayage (at a reputed salon) - it's a highlighting

Twist We all have simple accessories lying around - why not use them to dress up your mane in trend-setting ways? Wrap a necklace around an updo by weaving the chain through a braid before winding it into a bun for a sparkly twist. Or simply stack up multicoloured bobby pins for added cuteness.

Method 1 - Using A Curling Iron A curling iron helps give you long-lasting curls on stubbornly straight hair too, minus the frizz.

You Will Need " A curling Iron Choose a size depending on the type of curls you want. For looser, beachy waves and curls pick one that is an inch or two wide. For tighter curls and ringlets you need to pick one that is an inch or less wide. " A heat protectant spray " A strong hold mousse Step 1: Begin by applying your mousse on dry hair. Apply it on your roots for a fuller, mega voluminous look, or along your mid lengths to ends for a looser look. If your hair isn't oily, you don't need to wash it first,

remember second day hair holds styles better.

Just apply a dry shampoo, then the heat protectant spray, followed by the mousse.

Step 2: Divide your hair into sections and clip them away; the thicker your hair is the more sections you will need to make the process more manageable.

Step 3: Now start by picking up 1-inch sections from the nape and working your way up.

Clamp the hair at the ends and roll the barrel up till the whole section is wrapped around it.

Hold it like this for a few seconds before releasing the section.

Step 4: Continue working in sections across your entire head till all your hair is curled. Finger comb the curls gently to finish. You can mist on some hairspray if you want to prolong the style. * Remember to never ever curl your hair when it is damp. Wait till it's completely dry before you begin.

Method 2: No-Heat Curls There are several methods to help you get curls minus the heat; these are mainly overnight methods that help you wake up to your desired style.

Here are 2 favourite methods.

1. Rag Curls Take a rag or an old Tshirt and cut it up into thin strips. Then, on damp hair, take sections of hair, start at the ends and roll each section around a strip of fabric till you reach your scalp. Then tie the ends of the strip tightly together to hold your hair against your scalp. Do this on sections across your entire head before hitting the sack (don't worry, the strips are soft enough to sleep on).

When you wake up, untie each strip and let loose soft, bouncy curls. Remember, the section of hair you wrap around each curl depends on how loose/ tight you want the curl - wrapping a thinner section around each strip gives tighter curls.

2. Braid Brigade This is a super popular technique to help achieve no-heat curls and is very easy. Simply apply some mousse to damp hair before braiding it at night.

Remember one single, big braid will only give you soft waves, so by making more braids you'll get a curlier effect. Try multiple plaits to achieve more defined curls. The tighter the plaits are, the tighter your curls will be the next morning.

Woman with Rag Curls. Source: i.bg14spot

cmyk

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

PAGE 12

India aim to keep series alive in Ranchi Kavita clinches SAG marathon gold, books Olympic berth ANI Ranchi, Feb.12 : After facing a surprisingly painful defeat in Pune, the Indian team would look to keep the threematch series alive when they will take on Sri Lanka in the second T20 here today.

India, who are termed as favourites for the upcoming World T20, did not start the series as they would have thought. The hosts were taken aback by the bounce and pace on the Pune pitch. Ranchi, which is hosting its first ever T20 international, should offer them some respite although there are some other concerns here as well.

A file photo India may opt to give leftarm spinning all-rounder Pawan Negi a debut, and assess him ahead of the Asia Cup and World T20.

Hardik Pandya, who managed only two runs in his

first outing with the bat in addition to going wicketless, in Pune, is likely to miss out.

For the visitors, the series acts as an indicator to pick their World T20

squad and two names that stood out in the first game - pacer Kasun Rajitha and a l l r o u n d e r DasunShanaka - will no doubt be watched closely.

Earlier, Sri Lankan seamers produced a stupendous performance on a green-tinged surface before batsmen steered their side to a comfortable five-wicket win over India in the opening Twenty20 international on Tuesday.

A second-string Sri Lankan side chased down India's 102-run target after losing five wickets and with two overs remaining as stand-in skipper Dinesh Chandimal top scored with run-a-ball 35.

PTI Guwahati, Feb 12: Indian long-distance runner Kavita Raut on Friday qualified for the Rio Olympics in women’s marathon after winning the event in the 12th South Asian Games, a perfect end to the country’s memorable athletics campaign in the event in Guwahati. The 30-year-old Raut easily clinched the marathon gold in 2 hours 38 minutes and 38 seconds to become the fourth Indian women to have qualified for Rio Games women's marathon. The Rio Games of women’s marathon qualification standard stands at 2:42:00. O P Jaisha, Lalita Babbar and Sudha Singh have already qualfied for women's marathon in Rio Olympics. Sri Lankans N G

Kavita Rajasekara (2:50:47.00) and B Anuradhi (2:52:15.00) took the silver and bronze respectively. Nashik girl Raut is the lone athlete to have qualified for the Olympics from the 12th SAG. Another Rio Olympics-bound Nitender Singh Rawat took

the men's marathon gold in 2:15:18 seconds in a close finish in a star-studded field. He won the race by being merely a second ahead of Indrajith Cooray of Sri Lanka who has also qualified for Rio Games.

The men's race had a dramatic ending and there was appar-

ently some confusion over the finishing line inside the Indira Gandhi Athletics Stadium.

"Both Rawat and Cooray were not sure of the finishing line and they thought they would finish after running a lap inside the stadium. That was why there was a difference of just one second in the timings of gold and silver winner," a technical committee member told PTI. Cooray took the silver in 2:15:19 seconds while another Indian Kheta Ram, the third competitor to have booked a Rio Games berth, got the bronze in 2 hours 21 minutes and 14 seconds. With Friday's two golds and one bronze, India ended the athletics competition with 28 gold, 22 silver and 9 bronze, medals thereby establishing their unrivalled superiority in the South Asian region.

`Car-obsessed` Shane Warne Determined Oscar Miller, Simmons biggest earners in CPL 2016 draft eyes long-term future reveals lavish lifestyle ANI Melbourne,, Feb. 12 : Seems like Shane Warne is addicted to high life as he recently boasted about his luxurious five star lifestyle.

On a recent episode of the reality show 'I'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here,' the 46-year-old cricketer, who admitted to being obsessed with expensive cars like Ferraris and Lamborghinis, revealed that he has a 20-car basement garage and 10ft four poster bed and 13-bedroom house, News.com.au reports.

"I had the F type Jag[uar], which only had two seats, I couldn't put in my clubs, couldn't take anyone. I thought it was time to get a different car," Shane added.

The Australian former international cricketer further said that he wants more cars, clothes, money and houses.

Interestingly, Shane also spoke about the 13-room house, Donnington Hall, which he renovated with his former designer and actress fiancee Liz Hurley, including his prized custom-made bed and mirror in the ceiling.

with Chelsea

Shane Warne Eleven celebrities are staying in the South African jungle camp, competing for the series' title.

Smith, Khawaja combine to put Australia in command in first Test ANI Johannesburg, Feb.12 : Skipper Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja scored half centuries to put Australia in a commanding position against New Zealand at stumps on the opening day of the first Test at Basin Reserve in Wellington on Friday.

After being asked to bat first, New Zealand were bundled out for 183 in their first innings, with Corey Anderson and Mark Craig contributing 38 and unbeaten 41 respectively.

Brendon McCullum,

visitors.

Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon claimed three wickets each.

At stumps, Australia were at 147-3 and are trailing by just 36 runs against New Zealand, with Khawaja (57) and Adam Voges (seven) at the crease.

ANI London, Feb.12 : Manchester United embattled manager Louis Van Gaal believes that he can save himself from being sacked if his side finish in the top four in the Champions League or win the Europa League.

Van Gaal's job has been under scrutiny following his side's repeated poor performances in the Premier League, with former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was reportedly in talks to replace him at the Old Trafford.

Expressing his views on his chances to stay in the United, the 64-year-old insisted that if he would man-

matic collapse of defending champions Chelsea this season, the midfielder admitted that his side are not able to replicate last year's run despite putting on good performances, Sport24 reported.

Insisting that his side are doing everything possible to get back to their old form, Oscar added the Guus Hiddink-led side are now in a much better position.

Chelsea are unbeaten in their last nine league games, but six of those have been draws.

Chelsea are currently 13th in the league table and will play their next match against Newcastle on Saturday.

Steve Smith

who was playing his 100th Test and last international series, scored a duck.

Josh Hazlewood was the pick of the bowlers, bagging four wickets for the

Man U top-four CL finish can avoid sacking, believes Van Gaal

Louis Van Gaal

ANI Johannesburg, Feb.12 : Chelsea star Oscar dos Santos has admitted that he has no reason to change his current club and that he wants to contribute a lot to his side's victory.

The 24-year-old midfielder, who has a contract with Chelsea until 2019, had reportedly been the subject of a megamoney bid of around 58 million pounds from Chinese Super League club Jiangsu Suning.

The Brazilian international expressed that he wanted to stay at the Stamford Bridge club for a long time and that he was keen to add more trophies in their shelf.

While lamenting the dra-

age to guide his side to a Champions League place, his club might keep him for the third and final year of his contract, the Mirror reported.

United are also six points behind Manchester City, who are currently in the fourth and final Champions League place, so it would still need a big turnaround in domestic results - or winning the Europe League, which also secures a spot in UEFA's No 1 club competition.

Meanwhile, Mourinho, who is favourite to replace Van Gaal, was desperate to join the Old Trafford and believes it his destiny to take over as next United manager.

United are currently six points behind Manchester City in the league table, having 11 wins from 25 games which they have played.

United, who made an early exit from the Champions League, will next lock horns with Sunderland on Saturday.

Earlier, Australia suffered a 1-2 defeat in the three-match ChappellHadlee series against New Zealand following their 55-run defeat in the final ODI at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

Oscar dos Santos

ANI Barbados, Feb.12 : The 2016 HERO Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Player Draft was held in Barbados on Thursday, with the six franchises flexed their financial muscles to rope in their desired cricketers.

David Miller and Lendl Simmons were the costliest buys in the CPL 2016 players' draft. Each of them bagged 160,000 dollars contracts from St. Lucia Zouks and St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots.

Talking on the CPL Player Draft, CEO Damien O'Donohoe said, "There is a strong selection of outstanding international talent, supplemented by the introduction of 'marquee' players for each franchise which allies to our biggest roster of local Caribbean players to date, and that remains a cornerstone of the CPL's strategy to develop West Indies cricket."

O'Donohoe said they are aiming to work harder this year to build on the strong platform and engage their growing international audience.

South Africa batsman Faf du

Plessis will line up for the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots alongside West Indies duo Samuel Badree and batsman Lendl Simmons, Australian international Brad Hodge, retained players Evin Lewis and Tabraiz Shamsi as well as Canada's Nikhil Dutta (ICC Americas) for the coming season.

Swashbuckling South Africa batsman AB de Villiers was roped by Barbados Tridents and he will join fellow teammate Robin Petersen and David Wiese alongside Kieron Pollard, Pakistan's Shoaib Malik, Ravi Rampaul and Steven Taylor (ICC Americas) who were also retained by the franchise.

Australia's two-time ICC Cricket World Cup winner Shane Watson will join his former international teammate Michael Hussey as well as West Indies World T20 captain Darren Sammy at the Zouks. They will team up alongside the likes of Johnson Charles and Andre Fletcher as well as South African paceman Morne Morkel.

Meanwhile, former ICC

Cricketer of the Year Kumar Sangakkara will return to the Jamaica Tallawahs after helping them seal the inaugural trophy in 2013. He will join the electrifying Chris Gayle, Sri Lanka fast bowler Lasith Malinga, Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and local favourites Andre Russell and Chadwick Walton.

The recently re-named Trinbago Knight Riders will welcome back the number one ICC WT20 international bowler Sunil Narine, who will be joined by former South Africa skipper Hashim Amla and Dwayne Bravo, Kevon Cooper as well as former Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum.

Left arm spinner Sulieman Benn and Pakistan wicketkeeper Umar Akmal will also join the Trinidad and Tobago based franchise.

The duo of Christopher Barnwell and Versammy Permaul were picked by Guyana Amazon Warriors.

They will be joined by the hugely talented Martin Guptill , Dwayne Smith and Pakistan's Sohail Tanvir, who has moved from the Patriots.

McCullum `super excited` about his first CPL appearance ANI Barbados, Feb.12 : Retiring New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum has expressed his happiness after being picked for Trinbago Knight Riders team of the 2016 edition of Caribbean Premier League (CPL), saying that he is super excited to make his first appearance in the tournament.

"It's really special to be playing in the Caribbean; the fan engagement and carnival atmosphere is something I've heard a lot from a lot of players around the world. I guess there's the cultural aspects of the Caribbean (as well), and just getting to meet some of the great people over there, and obviously playing on some of those wonderful golf courses in the likes of Barbados as well," the 34-year-old said.

He further added that he would also get the opportunity to meet his favourite West Indies player and cricket great Sir Viv Richards.

South Africa duo AB de

Villiers and Faf du Plessis also expressed their views on the tournament.

Du Plessis, who will represent St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, insisted that the tournament had been growing with each passing year and also getting big international players.

"I'm looking forward to be part of a tournament that's like no other around the world. The West Indian culture is all about having fun and I can't wait to be a part of it. It's great to see that the tournament is growing and getting big international players playing in it. We will be going there in July just before the CPL starts for a triangular series involving the West Indies and Australia, so I'm looking forward to that and getting some experience of the conditions," Plessis said.

Plessis, who reveals that Brian Lara is his favourite player, called on the Patriots to perform at their absolute best in the CPL. New Zealand opener Martin Guptill, who will rep-

Brendon McCullum resent Guyana Amazon Warriors, said he was really looking forward to play his fourth season in a row.

"I'm really excited. I've been here three years in a row and it's going to be my fourth year this year. So I'm really looking forward to getting over there. Even from the very first CPL it was an extremely exciting atmosphere and to be out there in the middle and witness the crowd having a great big party is pretty

special to watch and it's something I've really enjoyed being involved with," Guptill affirmed.

Echoing similar views, Australian batsman Shane Watson said that he always wanted to be a part of the CPL and that he really enjoys playing with worldclass players in the tournament.

"It's a tournament that I've always wanted to be a part of. It looks very cool, awesome atmospheres and there are world-class play-

ers playing in the tournament as well, so I really can't wait to be a part of it.

It's very special to be able to play in the Caribbean.

My hopes for the tournament would be to really enjoy myself over there.

It's an awesome place to play cricket, especially T20 cricket. Everyone loves it and gets into it. So, I can't wait to just be a part of it and hopefully provide a lot of entertainment for the cricket-loving public there," Watson said after he was picked by Zouks for the upcoming edition of the CPL. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan great Kumar Sangakkara also hailed the quality of the CPL, saying that it was growing with each passing year and he felt glad to be a part of it.

"I am extremely excited to be part of the Jamaica Tallawahs again this year, having enjoyed being part of the squad who went on to win the inaugural trophy back in 2013. The CPL is a competition that is growing year on year and the

quality is extremely high.

Over my 15 years playing international cricket I only toured the West Indies twice, aside from playing in ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 and the ICC World T20 in 2010, but every time I played here it was a special experience," he said.

Sangakkara revealed Richards as his idol, saying that he loved the way the latter used to dominate the opponents.

"We have some outstanding players such as Chris Gayle, Andre Russell and Chadwick Walton and we will aim to build a cohesive side and add strength, which I believe we have done now.

It's clear that there has been a real growth in popularity and appeal in the CPL and with the quality of cricketers who have been attracted across all of the teams, this could be the best year yet,"Sangakkara added.

The draft for the 2016 edition of the CPL was held in Barbados on Thursday, which featured six franchises.

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

Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

cmyk

cmyk

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