16 november 2015, monday

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Vol. 1

Issue 161

Colonial Diamonds Are Forever: India and the Koh-iNoor Diamond Page 8

Dibrugarh, Monday, November 16, 2015

First Bought Leaf Tea Factory to achieve 'Zero Pesticide Residue'

Page 10

Page 9

In all, 1610 registered young and old, men and women and lawmakers ran from the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium to the Arunachal Pradesh Youth Congress (APYC) office at Itanagar, a distance of 18-kilometers, as part of the ‘Jaag Arunachal, Bhaag Arunachal’ event this morning to send out a louder message of “haam kisise kum nahin (We are not less than anyone). AICC secretary in-charge of Arunachal Indrani Mishra, who arrived from Kolkata to take part in the event, termed the run as unique, as it aimed to channelise the people’s energies, particularly that of the youth, in the right direction.

She said Arunachal has achieved yet another record.

The state’s Home Minister,

ET CAPSULES Oil prices hiked New Delhi, Nov 15 Stateowned oil marketing companies today hiked petrol and diesel prices by 36 paise and 87 paise per litre respectively with effect from midnight tonight following their fortnightly review of the price of Indian basket of crude oil.

After the latest price revision, petrol will cost Rs 61.

06 a litre in Delhi with prices varying marginally in other places due to local levies.

Girl student kidnapped Doomdooma, Nov 15: A girl student, Lipika Tanti, 14 years of age and a student of Class IX has been kidnapped from Hansara which falls under Doomdooma Police Station. According to sources, she has been kidnapped by Md Saidul Hussain, 28 years old, an inhabitant of Borhapjan. A case has been registered at Doommdooma Police Station in this connection.

(Correspondent)

Woman killed, 2 injured in feud Dhubri, Nov15: Beduna Bibi, 40, of Indira Gandhi Road in Ward No. 14 of Dhubri town died on the spot when a mob from her neighbouring residence attacked her with sharp weapon in the evening today. Two others of the same family Raju Sheikh, 20, and Hakima Bibi, 40, also sustained serious injuries who were shifted to Dhubri Civil Hospital in critical condition. A police source informed that a group of ten persons carrying daggers and crease led by one Abdul Hai attacked the family members of Jamal Shiekh.

There have been always war of words and quarrel between the two families over an amount of Rs 2500 which was taken as loan by Abdul Hai from Jamal Shiekh a few months ago and whenever Sheikh demanded of him to return his money, Hai instead of returning the money used to engage in quarrel while intimidating Sheikh, a police source said.

(Correspondent)

MARATHON MESSAGE LOUD AND CLEAR Ø A message to refrain f ro m a l c o h o l i s m a n d drugs to maintain lifestyles that are good, healthy, focussed on law and order and discipline. Ø The Chief Guest highlighted the 10% sports quota in job reservation in Police and other departments for talented sportspersons in the State. Ø A unique run aimed to channelise the people’s energies, particularly that of the youth, in the right direction and project that all Arunachalees are for peace and harmony in and of India.

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In a shocking incident, a baby girl received severe burn injuries in the heating chamber of Jeevan Jyoti Nursing Home in Tinsukia allegedly due to negligence of the hospital. The baby girl, 12 days old, was admitted in the nursing home

Ø Mudang Omo was the winner in the open category for men. ØAnung Wangsu was the winner in the open category for women.

Tanga Bylaing, and Bollywood actress, producer and director Neetu Chandra flagged off the run, arranged by APYC president-cum-MLA Nyamar Karbak, by uncorking bottles of champagne. In his message, Chief Minister Nabam Tuki said, “I convey my best wishes to all the participants, organisers and to Neetu Chandra, the actress from Mumbai for their concern for peace, security, communal harmony and unity amongst all tribes of Arunachal Pradesh.

Such a marathon race for youth will definitely strengthen relations between all sections of society. Congratulations to all participants for making this ‘Run for Unity’ a big success and for sending this message that all Arunachalees are for peace and harmony in and of India.”

Contd. on Page 3

Pages- 12

'French national' involved in Paris attack, raises question on Govt.: Defence experts

Page 6

Tarun Gogoi answers how to expedite growth trajectory of Assam A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 15

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi makes a pitch for infrastructure development, skill development, employment generation and raising living standard of the people to expedite the growth trajectory of Assam. Interacting with the people around on Google Hangout at his official residence at Koinadhora this

evening, Gogoi answered the questions put to him on different subjects related to Assam. Gogoi also said that State Government is committed to give incentive to the people eager to come to Assam and set up industries.

Government would give incentives in power, loan and other related segments. He also said government encourages entrepreneurship and will do everything possible to give entrepreneurial skills of the

youths a fillip. Gogoi also said organic farming is the priority area of his Government to maintain soil nutrition and health and hygiene. Interacting with the people Gogoi also pitched in for smart villages where development will take place in sync with the environment and people will have all basic necessities like drinking water, sewerage facility and the like.

Contd. on Page 4

Thread and blanket politics to Arunachal Governor for more Biological Parks continue, says Tarun Gogoi and Zoos to create awareness on wildlife The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa along with the First Lady of the State Smt Rita Rajkhowa visited the Biological Park, Itanagar, 9 km away from Itanagar on 15th November 2015. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Dr. Rabindra Kumar accompanied the first couple.

Curator of the Biological Park, Shri Raya Flago and Zoo veterinarian Dr. Sorang Tadap ushered them around the 2.5 Sq. Km Park, Contd. on Page 3

Arunachal BJP miffed at Cong for “attacks” on Governor ET Bureau Itanagar, Nov 15

In a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Arunachal Pradesh held here today at State BJP headquarters, Itanagar, presided by the State

ET Correspondent Margherita, Nov 15

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today inaugurated the Multi Disciplinary Skill Development Centre, Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Assam at Block Joya Nagar, Margherita. At the function, Forest and Environment Minister Etuwa Munda, Parliamentary Secretary Industries and Commerce Department RP Singh, former Dibrugarh MP Paban Singh Ghatowar, Margherita Constituency MLA and adviser to Chief Minister of Assam Pradyut Bordoloi, Commissioner of Industries and Commerce Department Swapnanil Barua, Contd. on Page 4

ET Bureau Itanagar, Nov 15

President, Tai Tagak, it expressed shock and surprise at APCC targeting the Raj Bhawan and the Governor while linking his office with BJP. In a release, State BJP said, “Most of the Governors were nominated by the Congress Govt. at the centre in the

past; the state BJP has never dragged the constitutional head into any controversy for petty political reasons. The institution of Governor is the custodian of the Constitution and is above partisan politics.”

Contd. on Page 3

CHAMPIONS!!!

Assam CM dismisses allegations of creating impediment for NRC updation A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 15

Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi termed AASU’s remark that present Government is creating impediment on the way of NRC updation process is

entirely false and baseless. In a statement here on Sunday Gogol said, “It is due to my initiative the NRC updation process has begun in right earnest. We are for a correct NRC devoid of any foreigner’s name”. Gogoi moreover said

that the State Government has all along been putting emphasis on preparation and updation of a correct NRC to solve the long standing issue of illegal immigration.

In a pre-election warm up for next year’s Assembly election, both Cong(I) and BJP held public meetings yesterday at Samaguri constituency led respectively by ruling Cong(I) party MLA and an influential

Contd. on Page 4

state minister Rockybul Hussain, albeit at two different venues at a little more than one km distance apart.

The BJP meeting was held in the forenoon and attended by state party president Siddhartha Bhattacharya, Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Bijoya

Chakravarty, Rajen Gohain, RP Sarma, KP Tasha MPs, Mahendra Singh, party incharge of the state and Himanta Biswa Sarma, a former Cong(I) minister who recently joined BJP. Contd. on Page 4

Wild jumbos from Gibbon in Mariani render residents sleepless, 2 dead in 20 days Bijoy Handique Jorhat, Nov 15

News on Page 12

by her parents for treatment of jaundice. The parents, Raju Paul and Manushi Paul hailing from Chabua in Dibrugarh district discovered it on Sunday that their baby daughter received burned injuries on her leg and back of the body.

Contd. on Page 4

In 20 days, two persons lost their lives when wild marauding elephants trampled them to death. These elephants are said to have come out from the Gib-

bon Wildlife Sanctuary in search of food and. The administration and the forest division have apparently failed to keep track of the movements of the jumbos out from the sanctuary and from the banks of the Brahmaputra belt where a to-

tal of 160 adult jumbos along with 12 to 13 new borns have been moving in and around the district of Jorhat, Sivasagar and Lakhimpur.

Contd. on Page 4

Income Tax returns filing app in the offing Bengaluru, Nov 15 Income Tax department is developing a mobile app which can be used by users for filing their tax returns, a top finance ministry official said. "We are developing a mobile app which can be used by users for filing their income tax returns.

Contd. on Page 10

BJP's communal politics will destroy Assam, says Akhil Gogoi

State Cong, BJP rip into each other in the build up to Assam Assembly polls 2016 N. Patnaik Nagaon, Nov 15

Baby girl gets burn injury due to hospital negligence Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Nov 15

Ø A message of peace, security, communal harmony and unity amongst all tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and to strengthen relations between all sections of society.

5.00

Locomotive factories to get a boost in Bihar

Run for Unity– Arunachal Pradesh shows the way ANI/A Staff Reporter Naharlagun, Nov 15

Price -

PUSHING FOR EASIER FILING OF INCOME TAX RETURNS ØIncome Tax department is developing a mobile app which can be used by users for filing their tax returns. ØThe government aims to collect Rs 7.98 lakh crore as direct tax in the current financial year.

Ø Online filing of tax

returns has caught up in a big way in recent years, while filings through mobile apps can make it even easier for the taxpayers.

ØThe CBDT Chairperson said the high-level committee under former High Court Judge R V Easwar, formed to simplify income tax laws, will submit its first report by January next year.

Dalim Phukan, Morigaon, Nov 15: As Krisak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) looks to fight against the Bharatiya Janata Party’s game plan ahead of the Assam Legislative Assembly polls 2016, Akhil Gogoi of KMSS while addressing two public meetings in Morigaon district on Saturday, said that the “capitalist BJP is being guided by communal outlook and it will destroy Assam and Assamese nationality”. Addressing the public meeting at Galsepa, Gogoi warned that Narendra Modi led BJP government which is being controlled by the corporate lobby will “never do good for Assam”. Akhil further said that sensitive issues like “beef found in mandir etc.” were pre planned by BJP and RSS so that “communal clashes take place” for the sake of political benefit. Criticizing the media, Akhil Gogoi said that a section of media of Assam is partial and they are propagating the idea that BJP will come into power in the next Assembly polls. Talking to newsmen, Gogoi said that KMSS is preparing to bring about a four party alliance in Assam barring BJP and Congress.

On the other hand, Akhil Gogoi clarified that he will not contest the election.

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M.S. Enterprise Picasso Shopping Complex T. Chai Market, Tezu

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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

BJP says party will win Uttar Pradesh polls in 2017 Agra (Uttar Pradesh), Nov. 15 (ANI): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Shahnawaz Hussain on Sunday said that even after party's loss in the Bihar polls, the election results are a lesson for the future of the party and they will win in Uttar Pradesh.

"BJP will fight against it strongly and we will win in UP," Hussain said to the media here.

Lashing out at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, Hussain said it has failed to maintain law and order and wants to

do divide the people and do politics "In Uttar Pradesh (UP) there is no rule of the government, Akhilesh Yadav has failed to maintain law and order in UP. Whatever incidents takes place in UP.it is the failure of Mulayam Singh's governance. Anything that happens in their state, they blame BJP for it.

The amount of communal tension created by Akhilesh Yadav's ministers is very unfortunate. They want to divide the people and do politics over it," he added.

Suspected ISI agent produced before court Kolkata, Nov. 15 (ANI): Akhtar Khan, who was arrested by Kolkata Police on suspicion of being an ISI agent, was produced before a Kolkata Court today.

Akhtar's lawyer, Fazal Ahmed Khan, said his client was an Indian citizen and that he has been living in India for many years.

According to reports, Akhtar was in Pakistan for over 20 years and returned to India in 2008.

"Akhtar Khan was pro-

duced before the court today with the allegation that he possessed fake currency.

From the record, it is found that he was not tendering the FICN (Fake Indian Currency Notes), therefore, the non-bailable section is not applicable," the lawyer told ANI. Fazal said that the only section applicable against Akhtar is Section 489 C, which is bailable.

"The section that is applicable at best is 489 C that is the for possession. I have

submitted to the court that he is entitled to get bail under 489 C," he said.

The police had reportedly booked Akhtar under sections 120 B, 121, 121 A, 122, 489 B, 489 C of the IPC after the arrest.

Akhtar Khan alias Raju was intercepted and arrested by Special Task Force (STF) of Kolkata Police at Colootola in Central Kolkata yesterday with fake currency and several passports of different nations.

Naga cadres under ceasefire Hot air balloon killed in mistaken identity

festival takes off near Taj Mahal Agra, Nov. 15 (ANI): The skyline of Taj Mahal resembled a rainbow as a hot air balloon festival kicked off yesterday.

Tourists from India and abroad thronged the city to witness the three-day festival where 15 different sized balloons participated. Expert balloonists from 15 countries including Spain, France, Britain and the USA are participating in the event which has been organised by the tourism department of Uttar Pradesh.

Flying enthusiasts enjoyed their rides as the balloons took off from banks of river Tourists, visiting the iconic marble monument Taj Mahal in Agra, were also delighted. "There is a lot of excitement. This is a new experience and a very good

start," said a tourist Ajit.

"It is very impressive, very beautiful and is flying next to the Taj Mahal. It is amazing," said a tourist from Australia, Jema.

Unfortunately, the view of the Taj Mahal was not clear due to thick haze. The balloons maintained a height of 300 metres from the ground and flew at an altitude of 1,000 Since the area around Taj Mahal is a no-fly zone, clearances were obtained from defence ministry and the Indian Air Force (IAF) and permissions were sought from Archaeological Survey of India and Directorate General of Civil Aviation. The festival aims to promote tourism in Uttar Pradesh through adventure and aviation-based activities. (ANI)

VHP veteran Ashok Singhal critical Agencies Ayodhya, Nov 15: Vishwa Hindu Parishad patriach Ashok Singhal is in a critical condition at the Medanta hospital, Gurgaon.

The 89-year-old leader was

admitted to the hospital yesterday. VHP sources here said that, doctors treating Mr Singhal said his condition was critical and was facing difficulty in breathing.

Agencies Dimapur, Nov 15: In an apparent case of mistaken identity, four cadres of a Naga militant group currently observing ceasefire were killed on Sunday in a gun battle with security forces in Tuensang district bordering Myanmar, an official said.

An Assam Rifles spokesman said the security forces launched an operation based on information that there was some movement of cadres of the anti-

talk faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-K (NSCN-K) led by their chief S.S. Khaplang.

The incident took place on the outskirts of Shamator town in Tuensang district bordering Myanmar.

The slain cadres were, however, later found to be members of the NSCN faction led by Khole Konyak and Kitovi Zhimoni -known as NSCN-KholeKitovi -- which is currently observing ceasefire.

Indian Army chief to visit Japan New Delhi, Nov 15 : Indian Army chief General Dalbir Singh will visit Japan from November 16 to 19 where he is expected to discuss a range of bilateral issues including enhancement of military cooperation.

A defence ministry release here on Sunday said defence relations between the two countries have been characterised by cooperation in disaster relief, exchange of training courses and cooperation in United Nations peacekeeping operations.

During the "goodwill visit", Gen. Dalbir Singh will interact with officials of the Japanese Self Defense Forces and the defence ministry over a wide range of issues to enhance

military cooperation.

He will also visit training establishments and formation headquarters.

"The visit will further cement the longstanding ties between India and Japan, which are based on a shared commitment towards world peace and regional security," the release said.

It said India's relations with Japan have undergone a significant transformation since the establishment of the India-Japan Global partnership for the 21st century in August 2000 and the enhancement of its status to a 'Special Strategic and Global Partnership' during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan in September last year.

ED registers Ukrainian soldier killed in violence in east money Agencies despite a ceasefire deal. Donetsk airport, where Kiew, Nov 15 : A Ukrai- The guns were mostly si- illegal groups cynically laundering nian serviceman was lent in September and violated agreements, fircase against killed and eight were October, but there has ing at Ukrainian posiin attacks by been an increase in tions using 120 calibre Himachal CM wounded pro-Russian separatists ceasefire violations in mortars," Ukrainian miliNew Delhi, Nov 15 : Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a money-laundering case against Himachal Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, sources said today.

Taking cognisance of a criminal complaint filed by the CBI in September under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the ED has filed this case against Mr Singh.

Sources said the ED could question Singh and his other associates soon in connection with the case.

Nepal citizen nabbed with illicit charas in Kullu Agencies Shimla, Nov 15 : Himachal Pradesh police arrested a Nepal national and recovered over 800 grams of illicit charas from him at Hurludhar in Kullu district last night.

A police source said during patrolling police recovered 805 gram charas from Jag Bhadur at Hurludhar last night.

A case was registered under the NDPS Act in Kullu police station.

in the past 24 hours, the Ukrainian military said today, as both sides reported renewed violence

recent weeks, with each side blaming the other.

"The most difficult situation is still around

tary spokesman Oleksander Motuzyanyk said in a daily televised briefing.

"There were reports about movement of NSCN-K militants in the area. Our forces launched an operation today (Sunday) morning and spotted movement of some 'uniformed' cadres.

The cadres fired at our forces forcing us to retaliate and in the ensuing gunbattle, four cadres were killed," the spokesman said. One AK-series rifle, one M16 rifle, two .303 rifles and some ammunition were recovered from the slain cadres.

Welfare schemes for STs to help them stand on their feet Agencies New Delhi, Nov 15 : To ameliorate joblessness among the Scheduled Tribes (ST) population, the NDA government is pursuing an integrated approach across the country by stressing on skill development.

This is being carried out under the Special Area Programmes of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs which provides funds as an additive to the state plan for carrying out skill development and employment-cum-income generation activities.

In recent years -- 2014-15 and 2015-16 -- the ministry has been impressing upon the state governments for promotion of need-based integrated livelihood initiatives and skill upgradation of tribals to get them ''respectable jobs''.

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

G M Hospital

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

AMC Road, Jalan Nagar Dibrugarh - 786 005

Archana Trauma & Orthopaedics Hospital

Brahmaputra Diagnostics & Hospital

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

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

Assam Medical College

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

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

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

Sanjivani Diagnostic & Hospital

Dr. Pawan Bajaj's Skin Clinic

Aastha Hospital

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

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

Paltan Bazar, Opposite Aditya Hospital Dibrugarh

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

Golaghat Sihu divas uplakhye ayojan kora vigyan paridarshni drisya.

Pic - Amit Nagori

ASTRO FOR YOU Your work and family will vie with each other for your attention. Merry-making will seem a good idea in the evening. Your desire for name and fame will meet with success shortly, maybe even today!

You have a hectic day ahead. You will be immersed in your work all day long and will love doing so. A lot will get done by the end of the day. Make sure you do not stretch your neck or take unnecessary risks. That will be bad for business. Stick to basics. Do not be innovative or speculative. Be prepared for new challenges that are due to come up shortly.

Your business rivals may compete with you in sales and deals today. Care and concern must be the two watchwords in all your dealings. Hostility may come in the way of love. Those spurned in previous romantic liaisons may get a chance to pen a new love story.

This is good day to buy new house or car. It is likely that you shift to a new house shortly. So be prepared for a ceremony like housewarming. You will achieve tranquil mind through yoga and meditation. It will radiate a new energy, enthusiasm and optimism in you.

Get ready to bask in applause. Well, not literally, but you be getting that long due recognition today for all the hard work you’ve put at your workplace. This goes hand-in-hand with the support of your colleagues and the good wishes of your seniors, especially if it is some new project that you are undertaking.

Remember, a job well begun is already half done. So carry on with the same zeal and watch success come your way.

Today, find yourself rummaging through the vast recesses of your inner self.

You will make fabulous money to spend on your loved ones. Face up to work pressures by indulging in corporeal pleasures. You may warrant the company of someone special to think out loud all that is inside you.

Today you shall make your competitors and enemies envious of your success in business. Beware, as they shall try to hurt or put down your reputation in varied ways. Instead of having a fight with them you should try to be politically correct and take care of matters using your intelligence. This afternoon can bring in a new love in your life that will be very good for you.

You are in a dilemma and feel like standing at a crossroads of life. Some important decisions of life need time and that’s what you want right now. However, keep personal life and work separate to avoid confusion and disturbance.

It’s all right if decision making takes some time, but avoid taking hasty decisions.

Your ways to deal with your team mates and colleagues will be strict and disciplined. However, your perfect ways at work will leave them awestruck. Your personal equations will be least affected by your stern ways. Do not let success go to your head.

Money will flow in from various quarters today, but it will also find its way out of your pockets. Keep a tab on your income and more on your expenses. Situation at work may get a little trying, but you will overcome all problems by means of your innate and acquired skills, and past experience. You may have to slog hard for a while, but it is all a matter of time; your efforts will pay off in the long run.

You are ambitious, and quite unapologetic about the way you pursue your goals! You will work hard and push your way through if you have to. Not just that, you will see to it that you have all the skills and competency required to make it big. Success is never served on a plate, and you know it.

Some unknown fear could haunt you today. You will direct your energies to discovering the source of your worries and eliminate them. Lovers will find some precious time to cozy up with their partners. You will find yourself going out to the movies or to a concert. On the whole it will be a productive day for you.

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

16-11-15 (MONDAY) 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-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Ramdhenu (Request Programme of Hindi Fim Songs) 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani (Youth Programme) 7-45 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Ei Poth Hoise Bikashor" 8-00 P.M-Drama 9-30 P.M- Mandakini 10-00 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Suriya Geetere Sonowali Asom" Sd-/H.O.P

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Rijiju inaugurates Tezpur SSB frontier headquarters Shambhu Boro Tezpur, Nov 15: “Security upgradation and requirements in North East region is very significant as the region is attached to the international border,” said Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Home Affairs, (State) government of India while inaugurating the Frontier headquarters of SSB at Tezpur today at the frontier headquarters premises adding that the people of Assam will be benefited from this frontier headquarters. He appealed to the people of north east to give up ethnic violence which he said suppresses the potential of the region. “We are working for the people of north east but the ethnic vio-

lence should be avoided for the sake of development of the region. He further stressed that the local law and order machinery and the administration should be robust to avoid the ethnic clashes. He mentioned about the incident of nine dead bodies lying at Manipur in connection with which he asked the local government to take necessary action. “This violence takes away from the beauty of the North East.” He said adding that the potential of the region gets suppressed by these incidents. He mentioned about the importance and significance of Tezpur in connection with the decision of constituting the

Guwahati ranks 12th among cleanest cities ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 15: Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Friday congratulated the people of Guwahati, the Kamrup Metropolitan district administration and Gauhati Municipal Corporation for Guwahati securing the 12th position among the cleanest cities. In a statement Gogoi said that the first ever survey on cities cleanliness from the per-

spective of tourists commissioned by the Ministry of Tourism, placing Guwahati at the 12th position among 36 cities and Union Territories. Gogoi while congratulating them hoped that they would put up more efforts to make Guwahati the cleanest city in the country. The Assam CM congratulated his counterpart Pawan Kumar Chamling for Gangtok getting the 1st position.

first unit of SSB to have been taken up in November 1962 at Circuit house Tezpur. He lauded the role of SSB in helping people in frontier habitats adding that SSB is socially attached to the people of north-eastern region mainly Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Regarding interstate border dispute, he said the border is a demarcation for administrative purposes and we the people of India must unite by avoiding these disputes. In his speech, he appealed to the members of parliament of Lakhimpur, Tezpur and Mongaldoi to take the senior citizens to the Arunachal border on a good will mission for bring-

ing back peace and tranquility in the areas. The Director General of SSB, BD Sarma, in his inaugural speech mentioned about the role of Tezpur in formation of SSB. “With the opening of one frontier headquarters at Tezpur, the total strength of SSB Frontier will be seven,” he said adding that the officer and the staff of the new frontier will dedicatedly discharge their duties. AK Negi, IG, SSB, gave vote of thanks as part of the inaugural ceremony. The inaugural ceremony was attended by the GOC, Gajraj corps, Sarat Chand, Tezpu MP Ram Prashad Sarmah, the MLA Tezpur Rajen

Borthakur. While interacting with the media, the home minster (state) said the ministry had taken initiative to hold talks with AASU for assessment of implementation of Assam Accord within a short period. Regarding extradition of Anup Chetia and two other ULFA cadres, he said that he would not disclose anything now. While interacting with The Eastern Today, the Director General of SSB, BD Sarma said the SSB did a good job in Golaghat in maintaining peace and tranquility and that a sector headquarters would be set up in Golaghat if the need be.

Manoj Kumar Doomdooma, Nov.15: One Motiullah, a 31-year-old youth, died in a fatal road accident which occurred yesterday night at Milan Pathar, around 6 km south of Doomdooma. The accident took place at 9 o'clock in the evening on NH 37 near Hindustan Uniliver Factory when the Tata Magic bearing No. AS-23G-2464 which was being

ET Correspondent Margherita, Nov 15: All Adivashi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA) under the initiative of Margherita Regional Committee and with the cooperation of Tinsukia District Committee organised the 140th birth anniversary function of Veer Birsa Munda at Margherita India Club. On 14th November, the first day of programme began with the hoisting of the AASAA flag by Ramanus Lakra, AASAA President of Margherita Regional Committee. Afterwards, Shahid Tarpan was done

ET Correspondent Jorhat, Nov 15: Buddhist festival Kathina Civara Danotsava (the ‘kathina’ robe offering ceremony) was celebrated at Jorhat with great pomp and gaiety at three different venues, Buddha Viharas, within the district of Jorhat. The Kathina day is a joyous and sanctified occasion for both the Sangha and the Buddhist laities. For this most sacred ceremony of the Buddhists, lay people of all age groups thronged to the venues of the monasteries at different venues within the district of Jorhat, informed Kamal Barua, the general secretary of the celebration committee here today.

driven by the deceased collided with a trailer bearing No. CG04E5485 approaching from opposite direction. Another youth also got injured riding a vehicle. Motiullah hailed from Abdul Patti in Doomdooma. He is survived by his wife and one child. It is said that one headlight of the vehicle was not working and the driver did not catch a

Ex-SBI official passes away ET Correspondent Jorhat, Nov 15: Former State Bank of India (SBI) official Ujjal Borgohain passed away in a Guwahati Nursing Home last night. He was 65. He is survived by his wife and two sons. Late Ujjal Borgohain served SBI till the post of GM technical and was member of SBI Sports Control Board. He served as AGM in Arunachal Pradesh Naharlagun, Itanagar, Kohima, and Aizawl and later served as GM in Assam in various districts.

Late Borgohain was an alumnus of Jorhat Engineering College with vast contributions in the field of sports and organizing sports and was associated with several social organizations.

by Prakash Urang, AASAA Secretary Margherita Regional Committee. And then, various sports events, drawing competition among school children, cultural song and dance competition were concluded on the first day of the programme. Again on 15 November, on the second day of the programme which was started with Safai Abhiyaan by AASAA activists, speeches on Veer Birsa Munda were given by AASAA leaders, cultural procession which started at Margherita India Club

proper signal as a result which the mishap occurred.

The local people blocked the road for several hours in the afternoon today at Hansara Chariali in demand of compensation to the victim. They burnt tyres on NH37.

Later Doomdooma police cleared the road to resume traffic flow. The police were patrolling the place till the filing of this report.

and concluded at Margherita Congress Bhawan were held with the unveiling of the statue of Veer Birsa Munda done by the Chief Minister of Assam Tarun Gogoi.

Ramanus Lakra, AASAA President Margherita Regional Committee said, “Freedom fighter Veer Birsa Munda’s life-size statue was unveiled today at Margherita Congress Bhawan as part of the initiative of Margherita constituency MLA Pradyut Bordoloi and we AASAA members are very satisfied about the noble work carried out by him.”

Tarun Gogoi answers how to expedite growth trajectory of Assam Contd. from Page 1

Talking about solving different problems, Gogoi reiterated his Government’s commitment to use education as a tool

to solve problems like poverty, unemployment, superstitions etc. He also informed that his Government is entering into memorandum of agreement with foreign universities like Stanford

Thread and blanket politics to continue, says Tarun Gogoi Contd. from Page 1

Tinsukia District Deputy Commissioner Puru Gupta among others were present today. Tarun Gogoi in his speech reminded that Congress is giving away thread and blanket to the people of Assam not for engaging in politics but to pursue development adding that other political party leaders of Assam have termed it as vote bank politics and if it is so then, they shall continue their thread and blanket politics. After the inauguration of Multi Disciplinary Skill Development Centre, the Chief Minister followed by the other del-

ET Correspondent Doomdooma, Nov 15: A group of Doomdooma Town youths has launched cleanliness programme as on November 1, inspired by Swachh Bharat Abhyan of the central government.

Shunning publicity, these youths come out from their houses with brooms

The speakers lambasted the ruling Cong(I) government in the state for its failure to resolve problems faced by the state. Speaker after speaker catalogued scams committed during Cong (I) rule and attempted to make people aware of misdeeds of Cong (I) party in the state and also at the centre and highlighted how almost no development work was done during the

speaking youth namely Akash Gupta, Sushanta Bharti, Anurag Gupta, Ankur Gupta, Samarth Gupta, Priyam Gupta, Sujal Gupta, Prince Gupta, Mohit Gupta, Abhishek Ray and Randhir Yadav have been devoting time to cleanliness honestly.

Their praiseworthy mission is still on.

600 BJP, HSDP supporters join Congress in Bokajan

egates headed towards Margherita Congress Bhawan and there inaugurated the statue of freedom fighter Veer Birsa Munda.

At the function, additionally, former Assam Assembly Speaker and MLA Prithivi Manjhi, All Adivashi Student Association of Assam (AASAA) Central Committee President Pradip Nag, Bishop Michael Herenj, Tinsukia District Congress Committee President Jayanto Kalita, and Margherita Block Congress Committee President Bhuban Handique were present apart from more than 3000 public of Margherita.

University, Columbia University, Curtin University etc. The Google Hangout is a measure taken by the CM to answer the queries of the people and interact with them 'live'. As an approachable CM, this

is one of the many steps taken by him to understand the problems of the people of Assam. The attendees were selected randomly from amongst all the entries received for the purpose.

Assam CM dismisses allegations of creating impediment for NRC updation Contd. from Page 1

He also said that efforts have been made by the State Government so that no genuine Indian citizen’s name is left out and no illegal foreigner’s name is included in the NRC. Chief Minister Gogoi said that funded by the Centre, the State Government has accorded top priority in the NRC updation process by putting its men and materials.

Because of the timely

intervention of the State Government, the process of updating the NRC is being done expeditiously. Chief Minister Gogoi also said that if there is any loopholes in the NRC updation process, AASU or any organization should bring it to the notice of the concerned authority. Gogoi also urged the people from all walks of life, AASU and other organisations to extend full cooperation for a correct NRC in the State.

ET Correspondent Bokajan, November 15: At a time when the APCC is battling a series of problems involving a number of leaders rethinking their party allegiance while a few others contemplating to leave the party, around 600 supporters of BJP and HSDP joined the Congress party at a function organised

by Bokajan Block Congress Committee (BBCC) here on Saturday. The President of BBCC Mr Pabitra Chetia presided over the meeting and welcomed the new entrants to work in the inter-

rule of the present government in the state. Almost all the speakers criticised Hussain and termed him a symbol of Congress misrule. Biswa Sarma, bête noire of Hussain was most vocal in criticizing the latter and the policies of the Congress. Terming the meeting as Jana Jagriti Sabha, speakers criticized the state government for its misrule during the last fifteen years and called upon people to dislodge the Con-

gress party from power in the next assembly election.

On the other hand, the Cong (I) meeting branded as a unity rally held in the afternoon at the playground of Samaguri HS school was attended by Rockybul Hussain, Pawan Singh Ghatowar, Dr. Ardhendu Dey, Ripun Bora and other Cong(I) leaders. Different speakers criticized the NDA government at the centre for its anti-people measures like abolishing subsidy

given to gas cylinders, failure in checking price rise of essential commodities etc.

Almost all the leaders among whom Hussain was most vocal criticized the role of Himanta Biswa Sarma. Interestingly immediately before the speakers began to speak a documentary containing Biswa Sarma’s umpteen dialogues uttered at various places and at different times in praise of Tarun Gogoi, CM and the former’s accolades for the

est of the party. He also said that the move would further strengthen the democratic base of the party in the region ahead of the state assembly elections. Many BJP and HSDP functionaries under the leadership of prominent local BJP leaders viz.

J C Rengma, Robinson Engleng, Soneshwar Bora, Bhuban Saikia, Deyklung Terang, Sonu Tati among others joined the Congress party. MP Diphu Lok Sabha constituency Mr Biren Sing Ingti and MLA 17 Bokajan LA constituency Mr Klengdun Ingti were

present to grace the occasion. However, none of the two local EMs of KAAC (Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council) was seen attending the meeting. Speaking to The Eastern Today, the EM (Fisheries & Flood Control) Mr Jiban Ch. Pathak expressed resentment over the party high command saying that differences among the party members came to the fore after the appointment of Mr Chetia as the President of BBCC who was earlier expelled for anti party activities.

NPP relieved after centre decides not to impose AFSPA in Garo Hills ET Correspondent Shillong, Nov 15: The NPP Meghalaya State Unit has breathed a sigh relief after the Ministry of Home Affairs Government of India decided not to impose Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958 in Garo Hills. In a statement issued here on Sunday, NPP said that the people of Garo Hills are relieved that the High Court

Baby girl gets burn injury due to hospital negligence Contd. from Page 1 What was more shocking and bitter on the part of the parents was that the doctors attempted to hide the incident from the parents. According to sources, when the parents pulled up the doctors and asked them about the incident, the doctors did not bother to reply.

It was only after the students’ union got involved that the doctors admitted the negligence on their part, claimed sources. In the meantime, All Tai Ahom Students’ Union has demanded a high level inquiry into the incident and closure of the nursing home. The students’ body has also demanded for free treatment of the victim girl child whose condition is said to be critical. It is yet to be seen what action district administration takes on such a serious matter.

State Cong, BJP rip into each other in the build up to Assam Assembly polls 2016 Contd. from Page 1

and all other necessary tools in the wee hours to clean the roads and streets of the town. Basically they are inhabitants of Sonary Patti and Netaji Path. These youths work for two hours every day and go back to perform their daily duty and studies. Organized as ‘Yuva Sahyog Dal’, twelve Hindi

Youth dies in accident, road blocked

Veer Birsa Munda birth anniversary celebrated

Buddhist fest Kathina Civara Danotsava celebrated

Mission Clean launched

by Doomdooma youths

good works done by Congress government and its leaders was shown to the audience.

It may be mentioned here that Mr. Hussain has retained Samaguri LAC since 2001 which was also held by his father earlier for two terms. Samaguri legislative constituency has mixed segments of voters – religious minorities, linguistic minorities, Assamese and tea tribes besides a small number of tribal people.

Order is going to be challenged in the Supreme Court and that it is looking forward with hope to a positive outcome emerging from this initiative of the Govt. of India. “Meghalaya is going through its worst phase in its entire history in terms of lawlessness and zero growth.

We condemn the apathy of Dr. Mukul Sangma who has undoubtedly proven himself as the most inept Chief Minister of Meghalaya”, NPP said. The party said that inefficiency of the Chief Minister has led the High Court to making such observations about the law and order situation in Garo Hills and the consequent order for imposition of AFSPA in Garo Hills. Earlier, the NPP Working President Mr. Conrad Sangma met with union minister of state, Home Affairs Mr

Kiren Rijiju on the order of the Meghalaya High Court to implement AFSPA in Garo Hills. Mr Conrad briefed Mr Rijiju about the situation in Garo Hills and informed him about resolution taken by the MDCs of the Garo Hills Progressive Alliance and also about the strong public movement against the implementation of AFSPA in Garo Hills.

The public of Garo Hills, the GHPA and all its political allies including the NPP, the GNC and the BJP, all the NGOs of Garo Hills expressed thankfulness to Mr Rijiju and the Home Ministry in general for understanding the sentiments of the people of Garo Hills and challenging the Hon’ble High Court ruling which proposed implementation of AFSPA in Garo Hills.

Wild jumbos from Gibbon in Mariani render residents sleepless, 2 dead in 20 days Contd. from Page 1 However, there has been no accurate follow up done by the administration as well as the office of the Upper Assam Commissioner and Office of Conservator Forest Upper Assam, in this regard. Meanwhile, around 1000 hectors of cultivated land has been destroyed, informed Dulan Nayak, a local resident of Koothalguri area near here.

Dulan Nayak said, “The residents of the adjacent areas of the Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary of Mariani Revenue Circle are passing off sleepless nights since last week of October; they were the residenTs of Pukhuria, Duklangia, Katonibari, Soycotta, Dhinhingiapara, Dessoi, Vellorguree, Hatigarh, Kothalguri, Meleng, Nagajanka, Koliapani, Kalyanpur, Kakojan, Dhekiajuli, Gojpuria, Loojonia and Mariani. They are now fed up with the attitude of the administration and the forest department.” On the other hand, Dipak Tanti, an AATSA leader from Mariani said, “The Forest department in connivance with the leadership of the District Forest Officer has been

looting money meant for compensation to man-elephant conflict victims, money meant for installation of solar light, money meant for installation of power fencing of several other projects.” Earlier, a series of misappropriation of funds on the part of the Forest Department employees/officials was alleged including in dailies like ‘The Eastern Today’, with regard to how forest officials, employees are playing a double role, for example, in the capacity of an employee as well as contractor. “People are suffering and going through sleepless nights,” Sokrosen Gogoi, a journalist-cum-social activist from MarianiKoothalguri belt, said. “On 26th October 2015 and again on 13th November, a Bangalore based youth Arun Tanti (34) was trampled to death at Soycotta while one Parsuram Choudhury (60) was trampled to death by wild pyridines at Hatihal gaon near Jhansimukh along the bank of river Brahmaputra respectively, but still both the high offices of the district administration and the forest are least bothered but are busy siphoning off government money.” Said a highly placed forest official here on condition of anonymity.

Education department pilgrimage tour concludes Dimapur, Nov 15: Two-day, pilgrimage tour Molungyimsen Christian Pilgrimage and Naga Educational Heritage village and Molungkimong Baptist church undertaken by department of school education led by minister for school education & SCERT, Yitachu concluded Saturday. In his public address, Yitachu said, "let the people whoever visit or come to village feel the presence of God with joy and blessing of the historic place for Naga Christian". Minister appealed NBCC to take initiative and declare Molungyimsen and Molungkimong as "pilgrimage villages" and also to pursue Baptist World Alliance for due recognition. He advised the villagers to maintain its originality and work with reason for the right things. NBCC general secretary, Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho in his address stressed the need to find out the roots in order to perform better with "our" activities. Emphasizing on the importance of knowing deeper and wider, Dr. Keyho assured that various department secretaries under NBCC would visit the village soon. Commissioner and secretary H&TE, school education & SCERT, F.P. Solo, apostle Rev. Luoliehu Yimsung, Molungkimong village chairman council, parliamentary secretary Amenba Yaden and Dr. Benjonliba also addressed the gathering. Around 150 members from school education, SCERT, NBCC, minister, parliamentary secretaries, and others participated in the Christian Pilgrimage and Naga Educational Heritage village tour. The team also visited the first route of Dr. Clark coming to village, kneeling ground of Dr. Clark, first baptistery pond in Naga soil, site of first chapel , first Baptist in Naga soil, Dr. Clark monument museum and others at Molungkimong village. (Agencies)

Cong flexes muscles ahead of by-poll Imphal, Nov 15 : The Congress party used the platform of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's birth anniversary celebration to assail the BJP both at the Centre and State, accusing the party of attempting to destabilize India's secular fabric. The ruling Congress concluded the year long celebra- tion of 125 birth anniversary of India's first Prime Minister with a function at the Congress Bhavan here today. A "Run for peace" marked the concluding programme. Led

by Chief Minister Okram Ibobi and Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, ministers, MLAs, party leaders and workers marched through Imphal city streets to spread the message of peace. The route of the march covered Keishampat, which is close to BJP head office as if the Congress wanted to demonstrate its strength ahead of the forthcoming by-election to Thongju and Thangmeiband Assembly constituencies. The Congress also used the programme to hard sell the party keeping in mind the

CM Okram Ibobi leads the rally. by-election, which is slated for November 21. "The Congress and its leaders had played an unparalleled role in attaining India's freedom. India has become a super power today because of Congress' contribution," Ibobi Singh claimed. Stating that former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi had sacrificed their lives for the sake of safeguarding the country's unity and integrity, the Chief Minister called upon the people to follow the

footsteps of the great leaders to maintain Manipur's as well as India's unity.

Ibobi Singh shrugged off criticisms on his Government's development programmes by maintaining that those who performed are bound to be discussed.

Though Gaikhangam, who holds home portfolio, paid glowing tributes to Pandit Nehru, he dwelled more on present political scenario in the country. "Delhi election taught BJP the first

lesson for making false promises. BJP learnt the second lesson in the Bihar election. The people of Manipur are going to teach the party the third lesson in the Thongju and Thangmeiband by-poll," Gaikahangam said. People across the nation have realized now that the BJP had fooled them with false promises during the Parliamentary election and Indians are now ready to punish the BJP. "The BJP has failed to keep its promises

of stamping out corruption and bringing back black money within 100 days of assuming office," Gaikhangam said. Without mentioning BJP, he urged the people to be wary of "communal politics and divisive forces" that can pose a serious threat to India's unity in diversity.

Terming BJP Manipur unit as a "wounded tiger", Gaikhangam ridiculed it as a party plagued with intraparty squabbling. He charged that majority of the BJP leaders are former Congress men who have no qualms about changing parties. On the issue of Manipur's geographical boundary, the Deputy Chief Minister said no one can break up the state's unity and territorial integrity. Lok Sabha MP Thokchom Meinya Singh also addressed the gathering. He termed the Congress as the only secular party that has been preserving the country's unity in diversity. Congress MP from Silchar, Susmita Dev too attended the programme. (Agencies)

Dalai Lama says 'Bihar victory result of religious harmony'; JD(U), Congress back him New Delhi, Nov 15: Expressing their support for a statement made by Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama that the results of the recently conducted Bihar assembly elections had shown that 'a majority of Hindus believed in religious harmony', the Janata DalUnited and the Congress claimed that a strong and befitting reply has been given to extremist groups in India. "I appreciate the comment made by religious leader Dalai Lama.

He has been in India for a long while and so, he is aware of the Indian culture. The statement made

more related to peace are always more popular and acceptable in India than others," Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit told ANI. Terming religious harmony in India 'remarkable', Dalai Lama on Saturday had said the results of the Bihar assem-

by him has given a strong and befitting reply to the extremist groups in India," JD (U) leader KC Tyagi told ANI. Meanwhile, the Congress Party also said that Dalai Lama's statement shows that peace has won in

No progress of Lokayukta formation Shillong, Nov 15: After the September 24 assurance in the Assembly by Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, the file related to constitution of Lokayukta has not moved from his table. The Chief Minister during the session in September this year had assured the Assembly that he would take up the initiative of convening the meeting of Selection Committee to start the process of setting up an effective Lokayukta in the state.

When contacted, an official source said on Saturday that there was no further progress on the formation

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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

of Lokayukta. Earlier, after a law in this regard was passed by the state government, an amendment was brought by the government to make it more effective and subsequently Lokayukta Bill 2014 was passed. It was on March 26 last year that the Governor gave assent to the amended Bill and later it was notified. As per the requirement of law, a Selection Committee was constituted last year to facilitate the formation of a fullfledged Lokayukta. Sources said that the Selection Committee never held meetings since last year thereby de-

BJP asks Congress for electoral alliance in Tripura Agartala, Nov 15: In a surprise move, the BJP's Tripura unit has requested the main oppositionCongress to form an electoral alliance to fight the ruling Left Front in the state's December 9 civic polls. "If the Congress does not put up its candidates in next month's municipal elections, then the opposition parties' combined vote would be able to defeat the candidates of the Left parties," Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tripura unit president Sudhindra Dasgupta told reporters here. He said: "The Congress either can form an alliance with the BJP or support the nominees of the BJP. The BJP was gaining popularity in the state after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government came to power last year," Dasgupta said after announcing BJP candidates for the municipal elections. "Results of the Lok Sabha, gram panchayat and tribal autonomous district council polls have shown that the BJP's vote share has increased substantially, eating into Congress's support base. "But, because of the division of votes among the BJP, the Congress and other non-Left parties, the CPI-M won the election," Dasgupta claimed. The BJP leader said his party has fielded promising, educated and dedicated youngsters for the civic bodies' polls. The BJP has put up a record number of 28 women candidates in the Agartala Municipal Corporation, 13 municipal councils and six nagar panchayats across the state. (Agencies)

laying the process of the formation of the anti-corruption body While the chairperson of the Selection Committee is the Chief Minister, members include the Speaker, Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court or a Judge nominated by him, Leader of Opposition and the nominated member MP Bezbaruah. The task of the Selection Committee is to recommend suitable names for the constitution of a Search Committee which will subsequently suggest the names for the selection of Chairperson and members of the Lokayukta. The Chief Minister had assured that a convenient date will be fixed to have a meeting of the Selection Committee, but in vain. "We will not shy away from the commitment as time has come to deal with corruption which has become a chronic disease," Sangma had said in the Assembly in September.

(Agencies)

Bihar. "Dalai Lama is both a religion and a political leader of the Tibetans. We should just take his statement to be what it is. However, it does show to some extent that peace has won in Bihar.

People with the message

bly elections had shown that 'a majority of Hindus believed in religious harmony'. In a reply to a question on 'religious intolerance' in India, he said that politics meant serving the people effectively and 'not creating problems'. (ANI)

"I appreciate the comment made by religious leader Dalai Lama. He has been in India for a long while and so, he is aware of the Indian culture. The statement made by him has given a strong and befitting reply to the extremist groups in India," JD (U) leader KC Tyagi told ANI.

Seven bombs seized from train in Bihar Katihar, Nov 15: Seven bombs were recovered from a passenger train on the Katihar-Malda section of the North-East Frontier Railway, a railway official said on Sunday. Acting on a tipoff, Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel launched a search in the Malda-Katihar passenger train and seized

an unclaimed carton box containing seven crude bombs underneath a seat in a general class compartment last night, Superintendent of Railway Police (SRP) Jitendra Mishra said. The bombs were defused by the bomb disposal squad.

Mishra said the bombs could have belonged to dacoits. (Agencies)

Women groups hold fast on Chakkouba

Women groups hold fast on Chakkouba Imphal, Nov 15: Members of several women organisations held a fast on Ningol Chakkouba day yesterday demanding the repeal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 and to show support to 16 years of Irom Sharmila Chanu's struggle to repeal the draconian Act. According to a statement issued by the convener of Sharmila Kanba Lup (SAKAL), several organisations from different commu- nities joined the solidarity fast in support of Sharmila and demanding repeal of AFSPA at the SAKAL Sanglen in Porompat, Imphal. SAKAL, Lamshang Hundi Women's Society, Thawanthaba Women's Development Society, Linthoi- nganbi Women's Welfare Association of Lup 18, LamshangTaothang, Porom-pat, Ayangpalli Women's Organisation and TammiChingmi Apunba Lup, Leiphrakpam Branch, Wangoi took part in the fast. Irom Singhajit, brother of Sharmila, joined the protest

and lamented that India maintains its continued silence on the issue of military regime in Manipur. He further said that although Ningol Chakkouba is a very special occasion in Manipur, their families never celebrate the day yet since Sharmila started her fast in 2000. He said, "despite the fact that I want to invite my sisters for a lunch, my conscience is unable to do so when my younger sister is fasting. So I have decided not to celebrate the occasion until AFSPA is removed." Ami Pamei, President of Lamshang Hundi Women's Society said they were there to support Irom Sharmila Chanu by holding fast for one day and without celebrating Ningol Chakkouba along with others. Hasina Begum from Thawanthaba Women's Development Society said the Muslim women community fully supports Irom Sharmila and to show that they were there to strengthen the movement to repeal AFSPA, the statement added. (agencies)

AFSPA Row: Conrad discusses matter with Sangma Shillong, Nov 15: The recent row over the implementation of the AFSPA act has taken yet another angle with NPP working president Conrad Sangma on Saturday meeting Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, and took up the issue of the order of High Court of Meghalaya. In the meeting, Sangma briefed Rijiju about the situation in Garo Hills and informed him about resolution taken by the MDCs of the Garo Hills Progressive Alliance (GHPA) and also about the strong public movement against the implementation of AFSPA in Garo Hills.

Rijiju informed Sangma that in a meeting held in Delhi with Home Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA, intelligence officials and other top officials of the Home Ministry, he had expressed concern over the implementation of AFPSA in Garo Hills and

NPP working president, Conrad Sangma had urged the Government to challenge the ruling of the High Court in the Supreme Court and accordingly the Union Home Ministry has decided to do so.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued on Saturday,

GHADC chief Denang Sangma said that the people of Garo Hills, the GHPA led GHADC and all its political allies including the NPP, the GNC and the BJP, all the NGOs of Garo Hills would like to thank Rijiju and the

Home Ministry in general for understanding the sentiments of the people of Garo Hills and challenging the High Court ruling which proposed implementation of AFSPA in Garo Hills. The GHPA also urged the people of Garo Hills to continue the movement for peace in Garo Hills, and appealed to every individual in Garo Hills to work positively by creating awareness about the issues and challenges which the people are facing because of militancy and work towards bringing back those who have gone in the wrong direction. Our Tura correspondent adds: Meanwhile, the largest Christian congregation in the Garo Hills, the Garo Baptist Convention (ABDK) has expressed concern about the possible consequences of AFSPA an imposition.

"While appreciating the high court for taking cogni-

zance of the deteriorating law and order situation, the ABDK would like to request the centre to consider alternative steps to tackle the problem, considering the atrocities that will befall on the innocent people," stated ABDK social action committee chairman Rev. D M Sangma. The GBC's A'chik Baptist Dalgipa Krima (ABDK) has also appealed to various insurgent groups to shun all forms of violence, kidnapping, extortions, intimidation of people on the grounds that such activities are contributing towards ushering in draconian acts like the AFSPA. "For reclamation of peace and for the greater interest of Garo Hills, it is essential for insurgent groups to give up arms and join the mainstream," stated the GBC (ABDK). (Agencies)

"Climate of Intolerance" completely unacceptable: CM Banerjee Kolkata, Nov 15: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday chose the launch of the 21st Kolkata International Film Festival to condemn the "climate of intolerance" sought to be created by the Sangh Parivar for the past few months and said "it is not at all acceptable". She was joined

by Amitabh Bachchan who in his inaugural address iterated the need for accommodating inclusiveness "at a time when cultures are being questioned and prejudices against communities are dividing the world".

Referring to Rabindranath Tagore's "Jana Gana Mana", Bachchan said that the verses

are relevant today as it is "important in holding together India's diversity and equality".

He said that apart from the first verse (which is the national anthem), the other verses too portray the unconditional love of Bharat Mata for Her children and are particularly important "at this time".

Echoing Bachchan, Miss Banerjee said that equality of all religions, caste and creed existed since early times and even the Vedas spoke about it.

"Tolerance is life. Intolerance is unacceptable to all", she said.

Applauding Bengalis, he said that there is a lot to learn from

them. "A Bengali is an institution in himself. He knows everything and is capable of pick-

ing up a debate on any topic", he said. Both Bachchan and Jaya complimented the audi-

Bollywood actor, Amitabh Bachchan lights the inaugural lamp of the KIFF. Also seen actress Jaya Bachchan, Sharmila Tagore and Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Saturday.

ence for being "passionate", "lively" and people who shower "genuine love on them". Bachchan said that he would be in Kolkata for a month in the end of November to shoot a film directed

by Sujoy Ghosh. According to sources, the venue of the shooting would be the Writers' Buildings. Speaking on a lighter note, Bachchan told Miss Banerjee, whom he addressed as "exceptional lady with great humanity" not to invite him any further since he and his research team did not have anything new to say on Bengali cinema. "I would love to sit with the audience

and listen to the guests", he added. This was for the third consecutive term that Bachchan was the chief guest. To which, Miss Banerjee extended an invitation along with Jaya Bachchan for next year's film festival in advance and said that he is an asset to Bengal and the film festival is incomplete without him. Meanwhile, Sharmila Tagore said that there has been a shift in the film festival since 2011 as the event was "made open for all" from a "restricted affair". Vidya Balan was the special guest on the occasion.

(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

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'French national' involved in Paris attack, raises question on Govt.: Defence experts New Delhi, Nov.15: Reacting to reports over the involvement of a Syrian with French nationals in the deadly terror attacks that took in Paris on Friday night, defence experts here said that the French Government and its intelligence have a lot to answer for, as to why they victimize their own people and allowed them to die when they knew the background of all the terrorists. "I am not at all surprised. This is a clear indication that this was done by a group of terrorists who have been trained, equipped and armed and they are the returnees to the same country where they are belonging," Middle East expert Dr. Waiel Awwad told . "I think the security and the French intelligence has a lot of questions to answer at this moment if they were fully

Right wing groups glorify Godse on his 66th death anniversary Panvel, Nov. 15: Several right wing groups assembled at Panvelon Sunday to commemorate the 66th death anniversary ofNathuram Godse, the man who assassinated Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 1948.

According to reports, members of the Hindu Mahasabha, Hindu Sena, Maharana Pratap Battalion and Sanatan Sanstha took part in the event. They organized a program called 'Shaurya Diwas' to commemorate Godse. Some of these groups reportedly celebrate Godse's death anniversary on November 15th throughout Maharashtra every year.

Godse was hanged on November 15, 1949 following his conviction. (ANI)

ED registers money-laundering case against Virbhadra Singh New Delhi, Nov. 15: A money laundering case has been registered against Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The case has been filed under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act after taking cognizance of a criminal complaint filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in September. Sources have been quoted by the All India Radio, as saying that investigators have gathered some important documents to probe and detect the proceeds of crime allegedly chanelled by Singh and his associates by using purported illegal funds. It is being reported that Singh and members of his family allegedly amassed 6.1 crore rupees between 2009 and 2011, disproportionate to his known sources of income, while serving as the Union Minister of Steel.

Apart from the Himachal Pradesh chief minister, the CBI has named his wife Pratibha Singh, LIC agent Anand Chauhan and Chauhan's brother C L Chauhan and charged them under the Prevention of Corruption Act. CBI had also carried out searches at various premises belonging to Singh and family immediately after the filing of the First Information Report (FIR). (ANI)

aware of the identity of these people. The ball is now in the court of the French Government and its intelligence to find out why they victimized their own people and allowed there people to die when they knew the background of all these terrorists," he added. According to reports, one of the assailants in the deadly attacks in and near the French capital recently entered Europe as a Syrian migrant and the people familiar with the matter said, exposing gaps in the continent's security as it copes with the biggest refugee crisis in decades.

Three French citizens also have been arrested from Belgium in connection with the attacks.

France, Greece, Germany and Belgium have pooled in their resources to identify the network of attackers and swift ar-

rests are being made.

Paris prosecutors have claimed that the attack was carried out in groups of three by the seven attackers, in six separate assaults across the French capital which killed 129 people. The seven attackers were killed in the attacks after six blew themselves up with suicide vests and

one was shot dead by police, reports say. Another defence analyst Qamar Agha said that the involvement of the Syrian with the French national has shown that it was a very well planned attack and must have taken long time to organize it.

"Radicalisation has been taking place in Syrian society as well as among the

French Muslims. The condition of a large number of Muslims in France is not good as many of them are marginalised and are living in ghettoes," Agha told. "I think there will be surge in these operations. France is a big power and it is a permanent member of the Security Council. I am sure France will take revenge and this will be very hard.

They will go deep inside ISIS's strong hold," he added. According to reports, ISIS claimed responsibility for the coldblooded series of attacks in Paris in an audio statement released online in

multiple languages, saying the 'blessed' attacks by the 'soldiers' had targeted the 'capital of prostitution and obscenity, the carrier of the banner of the cross in Europe.' The statement added that the deadly attack was the 'first of the storm and should be a warning to those who wish to learn'.

"Let France and those who walk in its path know that they will remain on the top of the list of targets of the Islamic State," the terror outfit said in their statement. Earlier, President Hollande held the ISIS responsible and vowed to lead a 'merciless' retaliation against them. (ANI)

French Government and its intelligence have a lot to answer for, as to why they victimize their own people and allowed them to die when they knew the background of all the terrorists- Defence expert

Ex-servicemen accuse govt of manipulating definition of OROP Ambala, Nov. 15: Major General (Retd.) Satbir Singh, who is leading the One Rank One Pension (OROP) protest, on Sunday accused the government of manipulating the OROP's definition, and said ex-servicemen would take their protest to the masses if a fresh notification is not issued.

Major General (Retd.)

Singh, who is the chairman of Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement (IESM), said that the exdefence personnel were 'annoyed and angry' with the current notification on OROP. "This rally is be-

ing held to bring to the notice of the people of Haryana and Punjab, and all the other states , that this notification issued by the government is not OROP. They have defeated the definition of one rank one pension. We are annoyed and angry," he told ANI. "We are intensifying the movement; we are spreading it to the youth, and to every member of the society. They give assurance and they don't fulfill, and too to faujis, it is shocking," he added.

The IESM chairman further urged the government to withdraw the current

OROP notification and reissue a fresh one after rectifying the shortcomings.

"We request you to withdraw the notification immediately, correct the seven shortcomings, and reissue a fresh notification," he said. He was speaking to the media at an OROP protest rally organized by ex-servicemen in Ambala. Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar had on Friday reiterated that the promise on the OROP was fulfilled. He added that if the protesting veterans had any pending issues regarding the OROP notification,

close links to radical Islam, but had never been linked to terrorism.

Omar's kin including his brother and father have been reportedly detained by the police and their homes also have been searched. Three other

French citizens also have been arrested from Belgium in connection with the attacks. France, Greece, Germany and Belgium have pooled in their resources to identify the network of attackers and swift arrests are be-

they could go to the Judicial Commission. Major General (Retd.) Singh had even earlier lashed out at Parrikar for failing to deliver his promises on

the OROP scheme and had warned him to stop misleading the nation while daring him to meet with their delegation for an open discussion. (ANI)

ing made. Paris prosecutors have claimed that the attack was carried out in groups of three by the seven attackers, in six separate assaults across the French capital which killed 129 people. The seven attackers were killed in the attacks after six blew themselves up with suicide vests and one was shot dead by police, reports say. After French President Francois Hollande accused the ISIS of waging an 'act of war', the terror outfit came out and issued a warning saying the Paris attack was just the 'first of the storm' that was heading towards France. According to reports, ISIS claimed responsibly for the cold-

blooded series of attacks in Paris in an audio statement released online in multiple languages, saying the 'blessed' attacks by the 'soldiers' had targeted the 'capital of prostitution and obscenity, the carrier of the banner of the cross in Europe.' The statement added that the deadly attack was the 'first of the storm and should be a warning to those who wish to learn'.

"Let France and those who walk in its path know that they will remain on the top of the list of targets of the Islamic State," the terror outfit said in their statement. Earlier, Hollande held the ISIS responsible and vowed to lead a 'merciless' retaliation against them.

(ANI)

ISIS chief in Libya killed in air strike: Pentagon London, Nov. 15: A day after the ISIS carried out six deadly attacks in the French capital slaughtering 129 people, the head of the terror outfit in Libya has reportedly been killed in a US military airstrike. The Guardian reports that the Pentagon has claimed the ISIS chief in Libya named 'Abu Nabil, aka Wissam Najm Abd Zayd al Zubaydi, an Iraqi national who was a long-time al-Qaida operative', was the target of the air strike. The Pentagon said Nabil's death will 'degrade (ISIS'S) ability to meet the group's objectives in Libya'. However, in a statement on the airstrike, Pentagon press secretary Peter Cook said, "This operation was authorised and initiated prior to the terrorist attack in Paris. While not

the first US strike against terrorists in Libya, this is the first US strike against an (ISIS) leader in Libya and it demonstrates we will go after (ISIS) leaders wherever they operate." The daily also said the US military is 'reasonably confident' that a drone strike over the Syrian city of Raqqa killed Mohammed Emwazi, the British man who came to be known as 'Jihadi John' after the world wide circulation of videos of him beheading ISIS hostages, including Americans. Earlier, US President Barack Obama said the attack was not just on France but on humanity and swore to help bring the perpetrators to justice. "Once again we've seen an outrageous attempt to terrorise innocent civilians. This is an

attack not just on Paris; it's an attack not just on the people of France. But this is an attack on all of humanity and the universal values that we share. The US stands prepared and ready to provide whatever assistance that the government and people of France need to respond," Obama said from the White House. He added that the U.S Government will do whatever it takes to work with France to bring the terrorists to justice and hunt down any terrorist networks that go after the people of their nation. ISIS claimed responsibly for the coldblooded series of attacks in Paris in an audio statement released online in multiple languages, saying the 'blessed' attacks by the 'soldiers' had targeted the

London, Nov. 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a memorial dedicated to the architect of the India's Constitution, Dr. B R Ambedkar, here on Saturday. The memorial is a house located on 10 King Henry's Road in North London, where Ambedkar lived as a student while pursuing his doctoral studies at the London School of Economics between 1921 and 1922. The house was purchased by the Maharashtra government for around Rs 32 crores (3.1-million

pounds) in September this year. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Republican Party of India (RPI) leader Ramdas Athawale were also present on the occasion. The Prime Minister also paid floral tributes to the bust of Dr. BR Ambedkar at the memorial. The plaque on the entrance of the memorial reads "Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar , Indian Crusader for Social Justice lived here 1921- 1922".

The six-bedroom property is now a public museum and a library. (ANI)

RSS ideologue Vaidya says Godse was no hero

Paris Bataclan massacre: 'French' attacker identified London, Nov. 15: After French President Francois Hollande announced that the Paris attackers had 'inside' help in executing the coordinated series of attacks, one of the suicide bombers from the Bataclan massacre has been identified as a French national. The Guardian reports that French media has identified Ismal Omar Mostefai, a 29year-old Frenchman from the southern Paris suburb of Courcouronnes as one of the attackers who blew themselves up at the concert hall where a rock show was in progress. He was reportedly identified from police fingerprint records. He allegedly has a criminal record and has

Modi inaugurates Dr. B R Ambedkar memorial in London

'capital of prostitution and obscenity, the carrier of the banner of the cross in Europe.' The statement added that the deadly attack was the 'first of the storm and should be a warning to those who wish to learn'.

"Let France and those who walk in its path know that they will remain on the top of the list of targets of the Islamic State," the terror outfit said in their state-

ment. Paris prosecutors have claimed that the attack was carried out in groups of three by the seven attackers, in six separate assaults across the French capital which killed 129 people. The seven attackers were killed in the attacks after six blew themselves up with suicide vests and one was shot dead by police, reports say.

(ANI)

Nagpur, Nov.15: RSS ideologue M.G. Vaidya on Sunday said Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse was no hero and criticised the Hindu Mahasabha, Hindu Sena and Maharana Pratap Battalion for commemorating the former's 66th death anniversary as 'Shaurya Diwas'. He said he was against honouring and giving respect to Mahatma Gandhi's assassin. "I don't know which organisation it is. But I am against honouring and giving respect to Nathuram Godse. He is a murderer. The fight of thoughts should be fought with thoughts only. It is not right to kill anyone as was done by Godse," Vaidya told. "Some people think that by doing so (killing Gandhi), they have encouraged Hindutva, but that is wrong. In fact, they have insulted Hindutva. I think it was an evil to kill Gandhi ji who was such a respected figure in India," he added. Right wing organisationson Sunday

organised a program to commemorate Godse's death anniversary as 'Shaurya Diwas' in Panvel near Mumbai. The Hindu Mahasabha is the same outfit which had made into the headlines last year when it declared plans to build temples for Godse.

Members of Sanatan Sanstha, which had hit the headlines for the murder of rationalist Govind Pansare, also participated in the ceremony to eulogise Godse. Hindu Mahasabha celebrates Godse's death anniversary the November 15th as 'Shaurya Divas' throughout Maharashtra every year. Godse was hanged on November 15, 1949 following his conviction for killing 'Father of the Nation'. (ANI)

ISIS jihadist blows himself up near G20 venue in Turkey: Reports Paris, Nov. 15: With the world leaders assembled in Antalya for the G20 Summit, an ISIS terrorist has reportedly blown himself up near the venue of the meeting. The terrorist strapped with explosives on his body, blew himself up near the venue where the summit was underway. Four policemen have been injured in the blast, and one of them is reportedly critical. This attack comes a day after the ISIS took out a series of coordinated attacks in different parts of Paris, slaughtering 129. Turkish soldiers killed four ISIS terrorists after they came under fire from

the militants along Turkey's Syria border as per the local media. Terrorism was the main agenda in the meeting of the world's presidents and prime ministers today in the wake of the Paris carnage. French President Francois Hollande did not attending the G20 Summit.

(ANI)

This attack comes a day after the ISIS took out a series of coordinated attacks in different parts of Paris, slaughtering 129.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

BRP President Nawab Brahumdagh Bugti invites all pro-freedom leaders and parties to unite Geneva, Nov.15: The president of the Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Nawab Brahumdagh Bugti, has invited all Baloch pro-independence parties and leaders to unite. In a recent statement, Bugti said that the BRP is a political and a democratic organisation which represents the Baloch nation and believes in a peaceful struggle for freedom.

"BRP has been making efforts to solve the Balochistan issue through political and peaceful means, but the Pakistani establishment and its security forces have always tried to suppress the Baloch movement at gunpoint," said Bugti. Talking about recent news stories about negotiations with Pakistan, he said every movement had to come at the negotiation table at some point to achieve its goals, and therefore, as a national political party, BRP possessed the authority to represent the cause of Baloch nation through peaceful and political means. "Dr. Malik Baloch made several requests for meeting in the past but they were rejected as he has no authority over the matters, which he accepted himself in the recent meetings and said that he works only as a messenger."

Nawab Brahumdagh Bugti said of his meeting with CM Balochistan Dr. Abdul Malik in Switzerland, adding that he also made it clear to state representatives that negotiations were not possible as long as the atrocities in Balochistan continued.

Bugti said that it was not the first time that Pakistani state called for ne-

gotiations or the Baloch leaders had been in contacts with and held meetings with the representatives of the state government. "Before this, Nawabzada Hairbyar Marri held meetings with the then interior minister Rehman Malik during Peoples Party's government and so has Dr. Allah Nazar been in contact with current CM Balochistan, Dr. Abdul Malik. BRP respects the decisions of these leaders to contact with state authorities, and in spite of being unaware of their agendas, we never criticised these decisions in the hope that Baloch national interest was prioritized in those communications," Bugti said. He said that in the current circumstances, it was his responsibility to inform the Baloch nation about some mistakes and weaknesses in the Baloch movement, adding that disclosing some facts might benefit the enemy but concealing them would harm the Baloch even more. He further said that father of the nation, Shaheed Nawab Akbar Bugti always tried to bring the Baloch under one platform and create unity among them by establishing a united platform or a single party; so that instead of dividing between different parties and groups, unity prevailed in their ranks. "After martyrdom of Shaheed Nawab Akbar Bugti, Baloch National Front was formed as a result of the efforts of all friends where all the baloch pro-freedom organizations gathered as a united front. The aim of this front was to raise voice against state atroci-

ties and military operations in Balochistan, and to continue the Baloch struggle through a unified approach. It was decided that besides these goals, all parties and leaders would use their personal or individual party platform to address all other matters. Unfortunately, some friends from the BSO-Azad violated this decision and a press statement against BNP was issued from the platform of Baloch National Front, against the front's rules. BRP contacted those friends and they accepted their mistaking, assuring it would not be repeated.

"After few days, another similar statement was issued from BNF and after contacting friends, we came to know that it was from some friends from BSO-Azad this time as well. The leadership of the organization apologized and pledged to take action against those responsible. BRP gave one more chance to the friends, since such small mistakes often take place in such movement; but this issue was not yet finished that another statement from the BNF platform was issued announcing Nawabzada Hairbyar Marri as the international representative of Balochistan, which BRP had no idea about despite being in charge of BNF leadership at the time. "However, if this matter was properly discussed by the member parties of the BNF, there were enough chances that BRP would also accept Mr.Hyrbyair Marri as the international representative. But as it was against the founding agenda of the front, BRP rejected it and opposed it

on every level. " Hyrbyair Marri got upset with us for opposing this decision even though he should have openly condemned the elements involved in such an apolitical move." He said that BRP contacted BNM and BSO-Azad and requested them reject this action but they showed no response. After investigations into the matter, he said, it was known that the statement was issued by Sweden-based Samandar Askani, who didn't have any affiliation with BNF whatsoever.

He said that "these non serious and apolitical attitudes of the member parties of the front, BNM and BSO-Azad, compelled us to resign from all offices of the BNF, even though it was decided at the time of formation of the front that this alliance would be converted into a national Single Party in the future." He said that some people accused and criticized BRP for breaking the alliance but later BNM and BSO-Azad also identified the real

people responsible.

"Even after these incidents, state atrocities such as enforced disappearance, illegal detentions, kill and dump of mutilated dead bodies continued in Balochistan.

Not only the pro-independence Baloch parties but the entire Baloch nation suffered heavy losses as a result of military operations, abductions and killings of hundreds of Baloch political activists and youth. On the other hand, no positive developments were being achieved to mobilize and strengthen Baloch national struggle on local and international levels because of the disunity among pro-independence forces. "During that situation, BRP once again tried to gather all the pro-independence parties and leaders under a united platform. Subsequently in June 2014, meetings were held between all the Baloch parties and leaders including BRP, BNM, Nawab Mehran Marri, Mir Javed Mengal, Sardar Bakhtiyar Domki in

Geneva, Switzerland.

"During the meetings, some differences between BRP and BNM surfaced and both parties steadily stood on their stance. Nawab Mehran Marri and Mir Javed Mengal were requested to resolve the standstill.

But after both leaders gave decision in favor of BRP, the friends of BNM refused to accept the majority decision which hindered the entire process. "Some responsibility also lies upon Nawab Mehran Marri and Mir Javed Mengal as they didn't properly played their role to persuade BNM to accept the majority decision. Had these leaders tried to convince the friends of BNM and/ or informed the Baloch nation about their irrational attitude, there were good chances that BNM would have also played its part to form a national unity." Bugti said that some leader or parties might oppose BRP's opinion and have their own, which was their right to have but "criticizing each other about the past mistakes would only worsen the situation.

BRP might also have weaknesses and mistakes and we are ready to identify and correct them." He further said that reason behind the disappointment and frustration among the Baloch masses were not the state atrocities but rather the disunity within the ranks of Baloch leaders and political parties. He said the nation also understand that if these parties don't unite under this difficult situation, how they would join hands after liberation of Balochistan. "Suppose if Balochistan gets inde-

pendence (which is very difficult if this crisis continues), then how would these leaders and parties would lead the nation and land into chaos by fighting among each other, when different international players will try to control the newborn state or its policies for their personal interests."

"A glimpse of such a horrible scene has been witnessed as a result of conflict between two organizations recently." He said it was very unfortunate that some friends paid more attention towards division than unity.

"There are some elements outside Balochistan who have no affiliation with Baloch, Balochistan or the Baloch movement, but they try to cause division among Baloch parties & leadership by supporting a particular opinion while criticizing others. Unfortunately some friends considers them as the well-wishers of Baloch nation but those elements, in fact, only work for their own petty interests. A small example is that they only bother to speak few words in favor of Baloch struggle or participate in a protest only when a first class flight ticket and five stars hotels for their stay are booked. Baloch does not need such fake sympathisers but rather needs true supporters." It is only possible under national unity to gain maximum true international support and recognition, he added. Bugti said that he was hopeful even in this situation in spite of all difficulties and assured the Baloch masses that BRP would continue to struggle for unity in the Baloch na-

tional movement to the extent possible. "I request all pro-independence parties and leaders including BNM, BRSO, BSO-A, Nawabzada Hairbyar Marri, Nawab Mehran Marri, Sardar Bakhtiyar Domki, Mir Javed Mengal and others to play their role for national unity, despite all the differences, for the sake of Baloch nation and the sacrifices of Baloch martyrs." "As I do not have documentation to travel outside Switzerland, therefore, i request all the leaders to try to put all other matters aside and sit together in Switzerland within a period of one month to sort out all differences, and work for national unity," he said. Bugti said that if it was not possible to meet in Switzerland for any reason, the meetings should be held in any European country where BRP delegations would also participate and he himself would talk via online video link. "There could be differences on many issues but they could be resolved through majority decision. If any party or leader does not accept the majority decision, they should be made answerable to the Baloch nation so the nation will decide who is responsible for disunity within our ranks.

"After formation of a national unity, BRP would accept the majority decision on all issues, including negotiations with the state," adding that the state atrocities could be defeated only through unity. "Only unity can guarantee success" he concluded. (ANI)

Nepal to lose sovereignty if Obama set to challenge China at Asia-Pacific summit Terai is separated: Deputy PM Manila, Nov 15: US they vowed after the ment in the South China Sea dispute was not relNepal, Nov 15: Nepal will lose sovereignty if Terai plains is separated from the hilly region by delineating the federal provinces established by the newly-enacted Constitution, Deputy Prime Minister Chitra Bahadur K C warned on Saturday.

"Terai, the southern plains, hilly region and mountain region are interdependent and it is necessary to keep them intact," said veteran communist leader Chitra Bahadur, who is also Minister for Poverty Alleviation. "It has become crystal clear why the Madhesi parties are demanding Jhapa, Morang and Sunsari of the east and Kailali and Kanchanpur

Death toll rises to 16 in China's landslide Beijing, Nov 15: The death toll in a landslide that hit a village in east China's Zhejiang province rose to 16, with 21 people still missing, officials said on Sunday. The only survivor was admitted to a hospital after the landslide hit a village Friday night. The landslide hit in Lidong Village of Yaxi Township in the outlying Liandu District of Lishui City on Friday night. Torrents of mud and rocks buried 27 homes in the village, with 21 houses flooded and more than 300 people have been evacuated, it said. More than 2,300 rescuers, along with 7 sniffer dogs, are helping with rescue work. Lishui reported heavy rain over the past two days. Waters were more then three metres over the alert level on Friday. (Agencies)

of the west in their provinces. "The hardship facing the people of Nepal today due to the ongoing blockade on the NepalIndia border is enough to show why separating Terai from the rest of the country can be disastrous for the country," he said.

"We are being punished in the form of economic blockade for promulgating the Constitution as per the wishes of the Nepalese people," he said. He also added that the Madhesi problem is Nepal's internal issue and they don't need external help for resolving it. The major demands of the Indian-origin Madhesi people are to re-draw the federal provinces by

separating the Terai plains from the hilly region and inclusion of more rights and representation for them. Madhesi groups have been staging protests in various parts of southern Nepal against the seven-province model of the newly-promulgated Constitution for more then two months now. Meanwhile, Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare C P Mainali alleged in a TV interview on Friday that India had a plan to merge Nepal's Terai region with its territory. Last week also Mr. Mainali had made the same allegation, prompting the Indian Embassy here to issue a statement dismissing his claims.

(Agencies)

President Barack Obama is set to challenge China when Asia-Pacific leaders gather in the Philippines this week, speaking out on a territorial row and lobbying to set proAmerican trade rules.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will also be in Manila for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, an annual event that is meant to forge unity on free trade within the region. But this year's meeting risks becoming entangled in various USChina power struggles, including over the South China Sea where Chinese island building in disputed waters has caused alarm in the United States and with its Asian allies.

The global menace of terrorism will also be an unwanted talking point after gunmen massacred more than 120 people in a series of coordinated attacks in Paris on Friday. Philippine authorities had already undertaken their biggest security operation for the summit, which will gather leaders from 21 Pacific Rim economies on Wednesday and Thursday, but

French carnage to do even more. While China said it wanted the summit to focus only on trade, the French attacks and US attention on the South China Sea showed this was unrealistic, according to Curtis S Chin, a former US ambassador to the Manila-based Asian Development Bank. "One cannot separate the economic and the non-economic in today's interconnected world," Chin, now an Asia fellow of the Milken Institute, a nonpartisan think-tank, told.

"That's as true in the battle against ISIS (Islamic State group) as in the search for a peaceful resolution to the many territorial disputes with China that haunt develop-

Sea." China insists it has sovereign rights to nearly all of the sea, even waters approaching the coasts of its Asian neighbours. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims to some of the waters, which are home to some of the world's most important shipping trade routes.

China's island building in the Spratlys archipelago, which is close to the Philippines, prompted the US military to recently deploy a missile destroyer and B-52 bomber planes to the area. China had insisted repeatedly in the lead-up to the summit that the South China

evant to the trade talks.

But US National Security Advisor Susan Rice said the dispute would be a "central issue" during Obama's three-day trip to the Philippines starting on Tuesday, and a subsequent visit to Malaysia for another regional summit. Rice also emphasised Obama would raise the issues of "maritime security" and "freedom of navigation", terms commonly used when referring to the dispute.

The Philippines, which has hauled China before a United Nations tribunal over the row, initially promised to respect that demand.

(Agencies)

Afghanistan must reject indefinite detention without trial: HRW Kabul, Nov.15: The Government of Afghanistan should reject a new law that permits indefinite detention of security suspects without trial, Human Rights Watch said on Sunday.

A September 2015 amendment to the Criminal Procedure Code, imposed by presidential decree, allows Afghan authorities to detain for a renewable one-year period anyone suspected of "crimes against internal or external security," or believed "likely to commit

such a crime." "Given President Ashraf Ghani's sharp criticisms of United States practices at Guantanamo, it is incomprehensible why he would want to bring indefinite detention without trial to Afghanistan. Afghanistan needs to take steps to address terrorism and protect public safety, but not by denying Afghans the right to a fair trial," said Patricia Gossman, senior Afghanistan researcher at Human Rights Watch.

The Judicial Committee

of the Wolesi Jirga, the lower house of parliament, has been considering the presidential decree since early October. Parliament has the power to veto the

decree; if it does nothing, the decree remains law. The Judicial Committee may call for a hearing on the decree and invite legal experts to testify before a deci-

sion to reject or amend it. Article 10 of the decree provides for preventive detention - indefinite detention without charge or trial - in the following circumstances: A person suspected of terrorist crimes or crimes against internal or external security, when "gathering incriminating evidence is not possible," but because of "strong indications or reliable information," there is a "strong possibility" the person will commit a crime if re-

leased. A person has served a prison sentence for a crime against internal or external security, but "there is a strong probability" that the person will again commit a crime if released. The detention period is for one year, which can be renewed indefinitely upon the approval of the Supreme Court. The decree does not specify whether the detainee will have access to family members, the right to legal counsel in those proceedings, the right to examine the evidence,

or the right to challenge that evidence in a fair proceeding. Detainees are to be "kept in a special place under the supervision of the prosecutor, separate from detention centers and prisons." As of November, the government had not yet identified where these "special places" would be. Segregation of these suspects from the regular criminal justice system, without any provision for their access to counsel, raises the risk of torture or other illtreatment. (ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Colonial Diamonds Are Forever: India and the Koh-i-Noor Diamond

Freedom of the Press Media have become very prominent and very powerful Ethics is a branch of philosophy that involves recommendations on right and wrong conduct. Media ethics has been a topic for discussion for nearly a century. As the influence, impact and existence of media have become widespread its moral stance and adherence to ethical codes have become important issues. Freedom is important, so is responsibility.

In countries like India, the media have a responsibility to fight backward ideas such as casteism and communalism, and help the people fight poverty and other social evils.

Freedom of the press and journalistic ethics is an important topic today in India - with the word 'press' encompassing the electronic media also. The importance of the freedom of the press lies in the fact that for most citizens the prospect of personal familiarity with newsworthy events is unrealistic. In seeking out news, the media therefore act for the public at large. It is the means by which people receive free flow of information and ideas, which is essential to intelligent self-governance, that is, democracy.

For a proper functioning of democracy it is essential that citizens are kept informed about news from various parts of the country and even abroad, because only then can they form rational opinions.

A citizen surely cannot be expected personally to gather news to enable him or her to form such opinions. And thereby the media play an important role in a democracy and serve as an agency of the people to gather news for them. It is for this reason that freedom of the press has been emphasised in all democratic countries, while it was not permitted in feudal or totalitarian regimes. Also, often the media publish correct news but place too much emphasis on frivolous news such as those concerning the activities of film stars, models, cricketers and so on, while giving very little prominence to much more important issues that are basically socio-economic in nature.

In India, the media have played a historical role in providing information to the people about social and economic evils. And, in an underdeveloped country like India the media have a great responsibility to fight backward ideas such as casteism and communalism, and help the people in their struggle against poverty and other social evils. Since a large section of the people is backward and ignorant, it is all the more necessary that modern ideas are brought to them and their backwardness removed so that they become part of enlightened India.

An Act of War Paris becomes target of ISIS terror attacks French police are hunting for the possible accomplices of eight assailants who terrorized Paris concertgoers, cafe diners and soccer fans in this country's deadliest peacetime attacks, and carried out a succession of explosions and shootings that cast a dark shadow over this luminous tourist destination.

Parisians who went to sleep in horror at initial news of the attacks woke up Saturday to learn that at least 120 people were killed and scores wounded. World leaders joined together in sympathy and indignation, New York police increased security measures, and people around the world reached out to friends and loved ones in France.

The carnage night in Paris was declared an "act of war" committed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Beforehand people's suspicion turned to Islamic extremists, who are angry at France's military operations against the Islamic State group and al-Qaida affiliates, and who targeted satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo this year and have hit Jewish and other sites in France in the past.

Whereas French President Francois Hollande convened a special security meeting where he vowed to be "merciless" with the nation's foes following what he called unprecedented terrorist attacks.

The apparently coordinated assault came as France, a founder member of the US-led coalition waging air strikes against Islamic State fighters in Syria and Iraq, was on high alert for terrorist attacks ahead of a global climate conference due to open later this month.

France has been on alert ever since the attacks on Charlie Hebdo newspaper and a Kosher supermarket in Paris in January killed 18 people.

The attack unfolded with two suicide bombings and an explosion outside the national stadium during a soccer match between the French and German national teams. Within minutes, according to Paris police Chief Michel Cadot, another group of attackers sprayed cafes outside the concert hall with machine gunfire, then stormed inside and opened fire on the panicked audience. As police closed in, they detonated explosive belts, killing themselves.

In addition to the deaths at the concert hall, dozens were killed in an attack on a restaurant in the 10th arrondissement and several other establishments crowded on a Friday night, police said. Authorities said at least three people died when the bombs went off outside the soccer stadium. The Paris carnage came within days of attacks claimed by Islamic State militants on a Shi'ite Muslim district of southern Beirut in Lebanon, and a Russian tourist aircraft which crashed in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula.

Earlier last week the United States and Britain said they had launched an attack in the Syrian town of Raqqa on a British Islamic State militant known as "Jihadi John" but it was not certain whether he had been killed.

A group of prominent Indians want the return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, which remains in the hands of the British monarchy.

Akhilesh Pillalamarri One of India's biggest lingering gripes about the British Raj is the fact that one of the world's most famous diamonds, the Koh-i-Noor (Persian for "Mountain of Light"), is still held by the British government in the Tower of London as part of the monarchy's crown jewels.

The Koh-i-Noor was mined in what is today Andhra Pradesh, an Indian state, in the 13th century.

Thereafter, it was allegedly "gifted" to Queen Victoria by Duleep Singh, the last ruler of the Sikh Empire in the Punjab region of northwestern South Asia. The British annexed the Sikh Empire in 1849, when Duleep Singh was 10 years old.

However, a group of Indian businessmen, actors, and luminaries named Mountain of Light, after the diamond, is attempting to have the 105-carat stone returned to India through legal means. The group has instructed lawyers to begin proceedings in London's High Court demanding that the Koh-iNoor be returned to India.

This move comes just before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits

the United Kingdom. The Indian government is not behind the current lawsuit, though there is a broad multiparty consensus in India that the diamond must be returned. Modi's visit to Britain will focus on attracting investment to India, rather than other issues. If Modi does raise the issue of the Koh-iNoor at all, it could be seen as a symbolic move to shore up domestic support in the aftermath of his party's defeat in Bihar.

While the voluntary return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond would be well received in India and would improve bilateral relations, relations between the two countries are driven by trade and investment and are unlikely to change regardless of where of the diamond stays. In a previous article, I questioned whether there was necessarily a rational case for returning the diamond, as it had exchanged hands several times, always through conquest.

Also of interest here is the question of whether or not the Mountain of Light group has a strong legal case for regaining the jewel for India.

It seems as though the legal case was not well thought through and is designed to garner publicity rather than to have a strong chance of succeeding. The Mountain of Light group seeks to base its case on the Holocaust (Return of Cultural Objects) Act of 2009, which allows the return of stolen art and objects to their rightful owners. However, the premise of using the Return of Cultural Objects Act of 2009 for the Kohi-Noor is shaky because the act itself declares that it only considers claims from the Nazi era, defined as the period from January 1, 1933 to December 31, 1945.

Furthermore, the Koh-iNoor situation resembles the Greek government's attempt to regain the Elgin Marbles, housed at the British Museum. The marbles were removed from the Parthenon in 1801 with the permission of the Ottoman Empire, which then ruled Greece. Legal experts who examined that case agree that Greece has aweak legal case because the whole exchange took place legally under the governments then in power. Finally, the statute of limitations for such claims (no more than a few dozen years by any defini-

tion) has expired and returning the marbles would set a bad precedent by opening up an endless Pandora's Box of historical claims and counterclaims.

Similarly, in the case of the Koh-i-Noor, even if it seems fairly obvious that Duleep Singh was not a free agent and was coerced to give the jewel to Queen Victoria, given the circumstances of his empire's conquest and his youth, this is almost impossible to prove.

An additional legal provision was in force then: the right of conquest. This allowed a country to annex another one by the principle

of "might makes right."

This essentially gave Britain the legal right to dispose of the wealth of its new territory as it wished. Additionally, there is the problem of the statute of limitations, as with the Greek case. What's more, the Sikh Empire no longer exists and it is unclear whether the modern Republic of India is its legal successor state, with all the rights and privileges of representing the Sikh Empire in court. The Sikh Empire also included territory in present-day Pakistan, including its erstwhile capital, Lahore.

This, unfortunately for those who wish to see the jewel returned, is how international law works.

Emotion alone cannot win a lawsuit in court. The case for the return of the diamond is not very strong and it is unlikely to succeed. The best way for India to acquire the Koh-iNoor would be for its government to one day convince the British government to return the jewel as a goodwill gesture in order to promote an economic and security relationship that would far outweigh the logic of keeping the diamond.

After ISIS Killings, Afghans Protest A large demonstration on Wednesday shows that Afghans are united in their anger against both insurgents, and their own government.

Sanjay Kumar Kabul witnessed unprecedented protests on Wednesday, when thousands of demonstrators marched to the presidential palace protesting against the brutal killing of seven Hazaras in Zabul province.

Braving rain and cold, people angrily demonstrated for hours, demanding the resignation of President Ashraf Ghani's government for its failure to protect ethnic minorities from insurgent groups. Though predominantly a Hazara crowd, many from other ethnic groups also joined the demonstration.

This makes it a rather unique protest, where ordinary Afghans are rising above ethnic and sectarian divides, expressing their collective anguish at

the deteriorating security situation in the country.

In March this year, a similar nationalistic outpouring of emotion was witnessed when hundreds took to the streets protesting the killing of a young woman, Farkhunda, who had been burned to death in the heart of Kabul on the false charge of burning the Quran.

The killing of the seven Hazaras is also symptomatic of the rising profile of a relatively new actor in Afghanistan: the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). According to various news reports, the anger on Wednesday was related to the killing of seven people who were taken hostage last month by the group.

They were killed by having their throats slit by ISIS forces in the southern province. Zabul has seen an increase in

internecine conflict among Taliban groups and fighting between different insurgent movements. However, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The protest took a violent turn in the afternoon after the Afghan government refused to meet the protestors. Some demonstrators tried to scale the wall of the presidential palace and security forces had to resort to their firearms to repel them. Seven people were injured as a result.

The collective anger will hopefully force Ghani to address the nation. The Afghan government will need to demonstrate a serious commitment to combating the insurgents.

However, above all, the midweek march in Kabul and other cities in Afghanistan symbolizes the Afghan people's growing

frustration with the government, which they feel is not doing enough to contain the insurgent groups.

Insurgent groups have long stoked sectarian conflict in Afghanistan. During the bloody civil war following the Soviet Union's retreat from Afghanistan in 1989, there was an especially bitter ethnic conflict between the Shia Hazara and Sunni Pashtun groups in the country.

Leaving this painful history behind, members of all communities have now united to condemn the barbaric killings. A new pan-Afghan identity was on full display on the streets of Kabul, a city that has previously seen many sectarian killings.

"People who participated in the march were thinking like Afghans, regardless of ethnic or religious

affiliation. You didn't get the sense that the anger of a particular sect was marching on the streets of Kabul, it was a collective anguish of the nation which was on display on Wednesday," says Shershah Nawabi, a Kabul-based journalist who covered the event on November 11.

A similar feeling is shared

by Humira Saqib, a women rights activist, who also participated in the march. Speaking to The Diplomat she says that "the larger message was that by joining hands Afghans can change their destiny. They have to come together to take on the extremist forces and force the government to act." She further adds that "if the government wants to have any credibility among people it has to take some decisions instead of empty rhetoric."

Afghans showed the same defiant mood against the Taliban and other extremist forces in the first round of presidential elections in April, when large number of people turned up to vote despite the threat from armed groups. You could not have missed the patriotic feeling had you been present in Afghanistan on that day. What was visible was a collective urge to write a new destiny for the nation.

The post-Taliban phase in Afghanistan has given birth to a new sort of patriotism in Afghanistan.

The message is clear: war and terrorism have affected all Afghans equally. Crisis has united the nation. It was this unity that was on display on the street of Kabul on Wednesday. Only a united Afghanistan can face the danger of extremism and terrorism.

Fancy Bazaar's Devastating Fire festival of Diwali, as reports telecast through the electronic news channels suggested, there was a tug of war between the district administration and the Police commissioners regarding granting of licenses for storing and selling of crackers, also for allotment of specific places where the vendors can sell crackers.

Crackers worth crores of rupees had been burnt down near Deepar Bill. But as time rolls by, the difference disappeared. It was then seen that myriad cracker shops sprouted in the Guwahati city taking full advantage of the slackness of both the Police and the administration. As a result of this serious lapsation and dilution of the system an unprecedented fire that broke out in Fancy Bazaar's SS Road engulfed and devastated almost a portion of Fancy Bazaar resulting into huge loss to the tune of more than 100 crore.

As alleged by most of the businessmen of Fancy Bazaar, the source of the fire was splinter of crackers. Further, they alleged that flouting the rules, some cracker shops had been set up by the side of the clothshops and for myopic vision of these cracker shopkeepers, the incident took the alarming proportion Sir, spreading from one shop to another. The affected In Assam, laws and systems are diluted by the bu- people alleged that the fire brigade's Vans arrived at reaucrats. People take full advantage of this slack- the spot late and that there was not sufficient water ness and encash on the advantage. Just before the to douse the fire. The state of affairs of the fire-bri-

gade unveiled the hollow image of a government agency, which could not extinguish the fire for 15 hours. Will our state government learn a lesson from this serious lapsation?

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

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

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

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

National Press Day

Real democracy depends on participation of informed citizenry, the Press Council of India remarked on the eve of National Press Day, while dedicating this year's celebrations to the role of media in facilitating transparency in public affairs. National Press Day is celebrated across the country on 16 November 2013. The day is symbolic of a free and responsible press in India. It is the day on which the Press Council of India started functioning as

a moral watchdog to ensure that not only the press maintains the high standards expected from this powerful medium but also that it was not fettered by the influence or threats of any extraneous factors. The Press Council of India was first constituted on 4 July 1966 as an autonomous, statutory, quasi-judicial body, and it started functioning from 16 November 1966 with Justice J R Mudholkar, then a Judge of the Supreme Court, as Chairman. The

Press Council of India started functioning as a responsible body overlooking the works of press as a whole body on this day. Their functions included maintaining the high standards of press which is expected from them and also to ensure that the free body does not come under the pressure of any force. The basic concept of selfregulation of the Press Council was articulated

by Mahatma Gandhi.

The Press Council of India is a unique entity that exercises an authority over the instruments of the state safeguarding the independence of the press. The Press Council was established in 1956 after which maintenance of professional ethics in journalism came into being. November 16 hence portrays the responsible and free press in the country. This day is being celebrated since 1997 in order to maintain and keep alive the importance of press in our daily lives.

Op

ed

First Bought Leaf Tea Factory to achieve 'Zero Pesticide Residue'

Amit Nagori By creating awareness drive in the radius of 20 km among Small Tea Growers as per Plant Protection Code and following simple techniques, a Bought Leaf Tea Factory named Sanjeev Tea Industry situated at Dhuliagaon of Golaghat district has achieved Zero Pesticide Residue in its Tea Production. It is noteworthy that Ex Chairman of Tea Board MGVK Bhanu had asked Small Tea Growers to adopt the Plant Protection Code technique in their production process and for its successful implementa-

Role of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan in Indian educational system

tion Tea Board organised more than 25 awareness programs. Availing the very facility the owner of Sanjeev Tea, Mr Sanheev Gogoi asked the small tea growers of his area to attend the training session and implement the same.

As part of this, 1200 Small Tea Growers were trained and implemented the technique in their farm which bore fruitful results. The Sanjeev Tea produced tea was tested and examined in the advanced Labs of VIMTA & Tea Research Association. There after undergoing several tests, reports gave a clean chit of having Zero Pesticide in the

made tea. Mr Gogoi said, "I am trying to maintain the same." It emerged that Sanjeev Tea is the first Bought Leaf Tea industry to achieve such an achievement. Mr Sanjeev Gogoi has also appreciated the work of Basundhra Tea Gut, Small Tea Growers of his area without whose effort it could not have been achieved. The Commerce graduate has achieved this just after 6 years of establishment of his factory. Now he has launched a packet named Sanjeev Tea Premium which is said to be the first packet with printed Laboratorial Reports.

Weaver extraordinaire Dalim Phukan Lasti Mithi, an expert weaver of Amkhalam village under Umswai area in Morigaon-Karbi-Anglong border, was adjudged as the best National Weaver who also earlier won the National Merit Certificate in 2011. Mithi, weaver extraordinaire also won the National Award in 2013 for her outstanding skill and contribution towards the development of handloom weaving of Tiwa Garments.

An amount of Rs 1 lakh in cash and a citation were handed over to Lasti Mithi

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Madras University Auditorium on August 7, 2015. Lasti received the National Award for her traditional narrow wrapper, Re-Chokodo. The sample woven is an upper wrapper worn by the male Tiwa during their festivals.

The chief materials used in these items are Eri-Cotton.

The yarn used are produced locally by the Tiwa people with wild herbs, turmeric and lah. Yarn of red, black, dark purple and yellow colour are used to produce this item. It takes about 3 months to make the

sample. The item ReChodoko is usually wrapped around the shoulders, but it is sometimes tied to the waist also by the male. The production of this particular sample however is on the decline, and as such ReChokodo has unique value.

The design of the cloth is developed by extra weft technique using low floor traditional loom system. Lasti Mithi, a 66 year old weaver, earlier was deprived of recognition on the part of the state government as of 2010.

She did not complain but continued her traditional weaving very sincerely and in a dedicated manner. So, ultimately, this is the result.

She has promised to go ahead and continue to weave at least to sustain many traditional dresses which are on the verge of extinction. The 66 year old lady was invited by the state government to the Assam State Weavers Convention on December 10, 2013 where Chief Minister, Tarun Gogoi felicitated her and promised her along with four other weavers of the state for financial assistance towards their activities.

But there has been no help till today from the state government.

This Is How Our 'Chalta Hai' Attitude Can Cost India Big Time Riju Agrawal

Teson Abo Sarva Shiksha Abiyan (SSA) is Government of India flagship programme for achievement of Universalisation of Elementary Education in a time bound manner, as mandated by the 86th amendment to the Constitution of India making free and compulsory education to the children of 6-14 years age group, a Fundamental Right. It is a historic stride towards achieving the long cherished goal of universalisation of elementary education. The programme lays emphasis on the education of the girl child, besides bridging social, regional and gender gap in the society.

The SSA was launched in 2001 as an umbrella programme to make elementary education a fundamental right for children in the age group of 6-14 years. SSA is being implemented in partnership with State government to cover the entire country and address the needs of 192 million children in 1.1 million habitations. The SSA has continued to be implemented to support and build upon other primary and elementary education projects. Initially, the programme aimed to ensure five years of primary education for all children in the age group 6-14 years by 2007 and eight years of schooling by 2010.

Under the programme, new schools are being opened in those habitations which do not have schooling facilities and existing school infrastructure is being strengthened through provision of additional class rooms, toilets, drinking water, maintenance grant and school improvement grants. The programme, which is implemented in partnership with State Governments, addresses the needs of 192 million children in 11 lakh habitations. The scheme would cover 8.5 lakh existing primary and upper pri-

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mary schools and 33 lakh existing teachers. Additional teachers are being provided to existing schools with inadequate teacher strength. The capacity of existing teachers is being strengthened by extensive training, grants for developing teaching-learning materials and strengthening of academic support structure at a cluster, block and district level.

The SSA programme is an attempt to provide an opportunity for improving human capabilities to all children, through provision of communityowned quality education on a mission mode. It seeks to provide quality elementary education including life skills. It has a special focus on girl's education and children with special needs. The programme also seeks to provide computer education to bridge the digital divide. The main features of the SSA are: 1) Focus on girls, especially belonging to scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities and minority groups; 2) Back-toschool camps for out of school girls; 3) Special coaching and remedial classes for girls and a congenial learning environment; 4) Special focus for innovative projects related to girls' education; 5) Recruitment of 50 per cent female teachers.

Some of the major norms of intervention by SSA are at least one teacher for every 40 children in primary and upper pri-

mary schools, atleast two teachers in a primary school, and at least one teacher for every class in upper primary. Similarly, the norms for schooling facility are a school within one kilometre of every habitation.

Since inception, SSA has provided support for: Opening 3, 02,872 new schools; Construction of 12,77,072 school buildings; Construction of 2,81,943 additional classrooms in existing schools; Provision of drinking water facilities in 1,90,961 schools; Provision of toilets in 3,47,857 schools; Appointment of 10.30 lakh teachers; Textbook support for approximately 10 crore children annually; Teacher training support for approximately 35 lakh teachers; and Establishing 573 KGBVs in which 2, 38,600 girls are enrolled, with priority given to girls from SC, ST, Muslim and BPL. SSA effectively involves the Panchayati Raj Institutions, school Management Committees, Village and Urban Slum level Education Associations, Tribal Autonomous Councils and other grassroots level structures in the management of elementary schools.

Though the programme is a partnership between the central, State and the local governments, it provides an opportunity for States to develop their own vision of elementary education.

The objectives of the SSA are expressed nationally though it is expected that various districts and States are likely to achieve universalisation in their own respective contexts and in their own time frame; 2010 was the outer limit for such achievements. The emphasis is on mainstreaming out of school children through diverse strategies, as far as possible, and on providing eight years of schooling for all children in the 6-14 age group. The thrust is on bridging gender and social gaps and a total retention of all children in schools. Within this framework it is expected that the education system will be made relevant so that children and parents find the schools system useful and absorbing, according to their natural and social environment.

The SSA programme is based on the premise that financing of elementary education interventions has to be sustainable. This calls for a long term perspective on financial partnership between the central and the State governments. The programme calls for community ownership of school-based interventions through effective decentralisation, augmented by involvement of women groups, VEC members and members of Panchayati Raj institutions.

"Everybody else is doing it, why shouldn't I?" On my recent trip to India, this was often the response I received from my compatriots who were knowingly and willfully ignoring the law. Whether it be the rickshaw driver who enters the wrong side of the road, quickly snarling traffic to shorten his own commute, or the well-educated and wellto-do middle-class families who have the habit of littering on the streets, such indignant rebuttals are all too common. A version of this logic, and the implicit abdication of personal responsibility, can be applied to the scourge of corruption as well: "I'll just give the bribe this one time; next time, it will be different," or "he was the one who asked for the bribe, I had no choice but to give it." I, as well as several of my family members, have been guilty of such transgressions. Though such individual lapses may seem insignificant in isolation, I would argue that they are indicative of a much larger challenge that India faces.

Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi's exhortations that India's development is the sum of small changes and small actions by 1.25 billion Indians, we still seem to harbor a widespread reluctance to accept individual responsibility for our actions and our mistakes. Despite the recent rise of well-publicized campaigns against problems like corruption, rape, and public cleanliness, change has been slow to come to India. For example, Anna Hazare's anti-corruption campaign ultimately failed to usher the passing of the Jan Lokpal bill and new corruption scandals in government surface on a daily basis. Not to mention that the offshoot Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has been mired in its own bureaucratic failings and power struggles that have rendered it more inept than the previous governments in Delhi. In the wake of the gang rape of 'Nirbhaya' in Delhi, which sparked international outrage and much shame for India, rapes

continue unabated in most parts of India. Most recently, the launch of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in October 2014 to help encourage public cleanliness is off to a strong start, but its legacy is yet to be determined, and many have raised questions about the efficacy of the movement.

When such campaigns are launched with much fanfare and the requisite celebrity endorsements, the citizenry is jubilant with the anticipation that change is imminent. The short-lived hype is important since it helps spread awareness of the issues that our society faces. We may slowly begin to change our errant ways.

However, evidence and experience both show that the resultant cognitive dissonance is not yet significant enough to catalyze long-term and widespread change.

Most importantly, the repeated failure of such 'collective action' campaigns raises the question as to whether such movements (especially the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan) are doomed from the start.

Basic economic theory would suggest that our societies are very poorly equipped to protect nonexcludable public goods such as most public spaces. The well-studied "free rider" problem, which arises due to insufficiently delineated property rights for public goods, guarantees that individual cost-benefit analyses are bound to provoke transgressions. In other words, I bear no cost for littering on the street, and I benefit nominally in terms of time and maybe effort by not having to find a trash receptacle; therefore, it makes most sense to litter. This problem is especially

acute in developing countries like India where the rule of law is weak. If fines for littering cannot be implemented, the costbenefit analysis is very heavily skewed in favor of transgression.

Under the "homo economicus" model of self-interested individuals optimizing their individual utility, such transgressions are not just rational, but actually the preferred mode of behaviour. Economic models assume that society as a whole functions most efficiently when every individual is behaving in a rational, self-interested manner. As such, we can't just attribute such transgressions to insufficient education (we would behave better if we knew better) or immorality (those who violate the rules lack a functioning moral compass). This is a problem that theoretically transcends all superficial differences and is a reflection of human nature. Furthermore, the "free rider" problem not only causes people to litter in the first place, but may also spell doom for the "collective action" nature of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan movement. Why should I help to clean up the streets when I can easily benefit from the effort that others are putting in?

Given the nature of the challenge and its possible roots in human nature, are all such movements doomed from the start?

And if so, why is the government focusing on such 'collective action' initiatives instead of strengthening the rule of law to correct the cost-benefit analysis? Pigouvian taxes are shown to successfully combat the externalities that are generated by this free market failure. Is the government abdicating

tough decisions regarding taxes and fines and instead trying to curry favor by employing wellpublicized campaigns with popular appeal?

The good news is that all may not be doomed. To the extent that the emerging field of behavioral economics is poking holes in the classical model of economics and human behavior, our efforts may be worth more than they seem. Given that the 'homo economicus' assumption is proving to be a rather poor approximation of true human behavior, our own 'irrationality' may be our saving grace. As we saw in the campaigns against corruption and rape and littering, nonutilitarian components such as national pride and patriotism can be key driving factors for human behaviour. In all three of these movements, rallies and protests of never-before-seen size and scale underscored the unique power of collective action. Even those who did not have any personal connection to the issues at hand joined the cause in the hope that they could help build a better country for their families and their children. These hopes and these aspirations, which are integral to the emerging 'Indian Dream' today (akin to the 'American Dream' nearly 100 years ago), are especially powerful if they can catalyze long-term systemic change. Such change will require many tough decisions by both the populace and its elected representatives, but the legacy of such movements will be in their ability to harness our 'irrationality' to overcome the failings of our 'rationality'.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

BUSINESS

Locomotive factories to get a boost in Bihar Patna, Nov 15: Bihar's economy is likely to get a boost with the railways awarding contracts to foreign companies for the two proposed locomotive manufacturing factories, diesel and electric, at Marhaura (Saran) and Madhepura respectively in the state. These two factories, which figure prominently under the PM Narendra Modi' 'Make in India' initiative, are on the list of his top priorities.

According to Railway Board chairman A K Mittal, the railways has awarded contracts to a French Company Alston for manufacturing electric locomotives at Madhepura at an estimated cost of Rs 1,296 crore. The proposed diesel manufacturing factory at Marhaura has been awarded to US-based GE Transportation at a cost of Rs 2,200 crore. The railways is likely to sign agreements with these two companies soon. Sources said the factories would manufacture electric locomotives (12,000 HP) and diesel locomotives (6,000 HP and 4,500 HP) to cater to the needs of Indian Railway.

The railways had set up a high-level committee to finalise the modalities to establish these two factories in Bihar. The committee placed these two projects before the Union cabinet for its final approval recently, the sources said. The Indian Railway would need about 1,800 electric locomotives to run passenger and goods trains every year across the country. Besides, the railways would require more locomotives (diesel and electric) on completion of the dedicated freight corridor.

There are currently two locomotive factories - one in Varanasi (diesel) and the other in Chittaranjan (electric). Steps have also been taken to augment the electric loco production capacity of the Chittaranjan factory from 200 to 250 locomotives per year. The focus will now be on acquiring land for the factories at Marhaura and Madhepura with the state government's cooperation.

The railways would develop these places by building colonies, hospitals, schools and proper infrastructure for

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present on the app. The app will soon be fit for use for utility bill payments, across online and offline merchants and leading payment gateways as well, making Ola Money a holistic solution in the payment ecosystem. Bhavish Aggarwal, Co-founder and CEO, said, "The launch of the Ola Money app is a big step towards simplifying payments for users across a wide range of products and services they use everyday!" "Ola Money has seen tremendous acceptance over the last three months, since the time we opened it up for third party merchants. We continue to add more merchants and build many more use cases with Ola Money, making it a seamless experience for users," he added.

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Income Tax returns filing app in the offing Contd. from Page 1

There are some security related issues, which we will resolve soon," Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Chairperson Anita Kapoor said today after inaugurating 'Taxpayers' Lounge' at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) here. Online filing of tax returns has caught up in a big way in recent years, while filings through mobile apps can make it even easier for the taxpayers. Talking about direct tax collections, Kapoor said, "Collections are doing well and we are keeping our fingers

crossed. The December collection of advance tax will actually give us a good idea."

The government aims to collect Rs 7.98 lakh crore as direct tax in the current financial year. The CBDT Chairperson said the high-level committee under former High Court Judge R V Easwar, formed to simplify income tax laws, will submit its first report by January next year. "The panel has clear terms of reference. They are expected to give their first report in January. They can give it earlier if they deem it proper. They have sufficient time," she said.

(Agencies)

Air India announces direct Ahmedabad-London flight from Dec 15

¨ Bihar's economy is likely to get a boost with the railways awarding contracts to foreign companies for the two proposed locomotive manufacturing factories, diesel and electric, at Marhaura (Saran) and Madhepura respectively in the state. ¨ These two factories, which figure prominently under the PM Narendra Modi' 'Make in India' initiative, are on the list of his top priorities. ¨ According to Railway Board chairman A K Mittal, the railways has awarded contracts to a French Company Alston for manufacturing electric locomotives at Madhepura at an estimated cost of Rs 1,296 crore. ¨ The proposed diesel manufacturing factory at Marhaura has been awarded to US-based GE Transportation at a cost of Rs 2,200 crore. ¨ The railways is likely to sign agreements with these two companies soon. ¨ Sources said the factories would manufacture electric locomotives (12,000 HP) and diesel locomotives (6,000 HP and 4,500 HP) to cater to the needs of Indian Railway. ¨ The railways had set up a high-level committee to finalise the modalities to establish these two factories in Bihar. ¨ The committee placed these two projects before the Union cabinet for its final approval recently, the sources said. ¨ The Indian Railway would need about 1,800 electric locomotives to run passenger and goods trains every year across the country. ¨ Besides, the railways would require more locomotives (diesel and electric) on completion of the dedicated freight corridor. their all-round development, Mittal said, add-

ing Bihar would benefit immensely as several

ancillary factories would come up in the vicinity

to support these two majors. (Agencies)

Ola announces 'Ola Urgent need for rationalization of ATF taxes to bring down airlines' operating costs: Study Money' for easy mobile recharges and transfers ANI New Delhi, Nov 15: Ola, India's most popular mobile app for personal transportation, announced the launch of mobile app for 'Ola Money' that will allow users to have a single point access across multiple brands. The Ola money app can be used for mobile phone recharge across all operators as well as to send money to friends and family. In August, the company had announced that its customers could use Ola Money for payments at a wide range of merchants including OYO Rooms, Saavn,Lenskart, Zo Rooms, Tiny Owl and various others. With an average wallet size that is significantly higher than its peers, Ola Money is one of the leading wallets in the country today. It is amongst the most preferred mode of payment on the Ola app. With Ola Money, users can pay any of the partner merchants without having to provide any additional authentication, other than their Ola credentials already

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ANI New Delhi, Nov 15: Implementation of a reduced and uniform taxation structure on air turbine fuel (ATF) across all states will bring fuel costs largely in line with global levels and improve financial health and competitiveness of airlines by reducing their operating costs, noted a recently concluded ASSOCHAM-Yes Bank joint study. "Reduction in ATF costs would spur aviation related activities and have a multiplier effect in terms of job creation and revenue generation in related industries like tourism, trading and manufacturing," noted the study titled 'Indian Civil Aviation: At the cusp of taking off,' conducted by The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India ( ASSOCHAM) jointly with Yes Bank.

Rationalisation of value added tax (VAT) should be consensual, involving deliberations with respective state governments, suggested the study. "Reduction in VAT on ATF implemented by states

like Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal during 2013-14 has shown direct benefits resulting in increased airline activities for that fiscal year, as such it can also be adopted by high consumption centres like Delhi and Mumbai." A more conducive fiscal environment by the states for aviation sector will contribute immensely in local economic development.

It has also been suggested to abolish the regulations like '150 km rule,' for developing new airport which is not in sync with actual demand situation. "Major cities would require development of multiple airports as burgeoning population, growing economy and rising middle class with higher disposable incomes would put massive strain on existing airports."

There is a need to replace the 5/20 rule to provide longterm financial security and international quality standards to the domestic airline operators. Revisiting this rule will provide incentive

for new players to enter the market due to advent of opportunity for enhancing revenues, yields and ultimately profits. The study has recommended for according 'infrastructure,' status to the aviation sector as it would help fuel growth in the sector with advent of cheap and longterm funding through issuance of tax free bonds, raising of low-cost external commercial borrowings and others for industry operators. The government should separate two primary functions of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) i.e. creation and maintenance of airport infrastructure and air navigation services in order to de-burden the organization and achieve op-

erational efficiency and commercial viability. Existing regulations importing aircraft parts, tools, supplies and equipment must be rationalized to include simplified and standardized customs, suggested the study. The regulatory and fiscal/tax structure pertaining to augmenting maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities is critical to ensure international standards of quality and services amid domestic players. Initiatives must also be taken for setting up new air freight stations and full-fledged operations of existing air freight stations for speeding up movement of goods with immediate effect.

Ahmedabad, Nov 15: National carrier Air India today said it will connect London with a direct flight from Ahmedabad from December 15, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that there will be a direct flight between the two cities. Air India already operates four frequencies to London three from Delhi and one from Mumbai. The daily flight will be a boon to the 1.5 million-strong Indian diaspora living in Britain, catering to the strong demand of more than six lakh Indians from Gujarat, Air India said in a statement. "From December 15, there will be direct flights between London and Ahmedabad," Modi had said in his address to 60,000 wildly cheering British Indians at the

iconic Wembley Stadium in London yesterday. The flight will operate with a B-787 Dreamliner aircraft, on the route Ahmedabad-MumbaiLondon-MumbaiAhmedabad, Air India said, adding the passengers travelling by the direct flight will not need to change aircraft at Mumbai. According to the airline, flight AI-131 will take off from Ahmedabad at 0430 hours to arrive Mumbai at 0545 hours from where it will take off at 0705 hours and land at London at 1130 hours. On the return leg, flight AI130 will leave London at 1330 hours, arrive at Mumbai at 0400 hours next day from where it will take off at 0530 hours and land at Ahmedabad at 0645 hours, Air India said. (Agencies)

Top Chinese General to ensure security of Pakistan's special economic corridor Islamabad, Nov 15: Beijing will back Pakistan to ensure the security of a new special economic corridor providing access to the port of Gwadar that aims to create direct links between China and the Arabian Sea, a top Chinese general has pledged.

Fan Changlong, vice-

delegation, on Thursday met Sharif at Pakistan army headquarters in Rawalpindi to discuss "matters of mutual interest, regional security, steps for regional stability and enhanced bilateral defence collaboration", the statement said. Fan said China "deeply appreciates" Pakistan's efforts to elimi-

chairman of China's Central Military Commission, told Pakistan army head Raheel Sharif that Beijing looked forward to close cooperation "to ensure proper management and security of CPEC," according to a Pakistan military statement. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor is an ambitious $46 billion project giving Beijing greater access to the Middle East, Africa and Europe through Pakistan, via a new highway to Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea. Fan's visit, the first by a Chinese general of his seniority in 11 years, came two days after Pakistan handed hundreds of hectares of land over to China for development of a free trade zone in Gwadar as part of the project. The development is part of China's ambition to expand its trade and transport footprint across Central and South Asia while countering US and Indian influence. India has expressed wariness about the project in the past, though analysts told AFP recently that concerns would only arise if there are "defence related matters". Fan, who headed a high level Chinese military

nate militancy, particularly by the East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), which Beijing says is active in China's Xinjiang region, on the border with Pakistan.

Xinjiang - the homeland of China's 10 million Uighurs, a mostly Muslim minority is sporadically hit by deadly violence. Beijing has claimed that ETIM militants are hiding in Pakistan, a claim that has been supported by local security sources. "China values the efforts of Pakistan Army in fighting ETIM," Fan said, adding that China and Pakistan are "best iron brothers, good friends and strategic partners". Fan also met with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad, with Sharif lauding Islamabad's friendship with Beijing as a "cornerstone" of its foreign policy. The government of Baluchistan province Pakistan's poorest - handed over about 280 hectares of a 923-hectare (2,300-acre) swathe of tax-exempt land in Gwadar on Wednesday that Beijing will develop under a 43-year lease. The rest of the land will be handed over under the agreement with the public China Overseas Port Holding Company "soon", senior Pakistani government officials told AFP. (Agencies)

Chennai's rail division bucks national trend Chennai, Nov 15: Chennai is the only railway division in the country where there has been an increase in passenger traffic in the first five months of the 2015-16 financial year when compared to the corresponding period last year. The top six railway divisions, based on the volume of unreserved tickets sold (including suburban tickets), are Mumbai Central and Western, Sealdah, Chennai, Howrah and Delhi, all of which run suburban trains that contribute a bulk of this

traffic. Railways reported a drop of 3.44% in this passenger segment. The Mumbai divisions, catering to more than 75 lakh passengers a day, saw a 10% drop in AprilAugust from the previous year, Delhi saw a drop of 4.35%, while Sealdah and Howrah saw a drop of around 3.5%. Bucking the national trend, Chennai division reported an increase of 1.51%, seen as a major achievement.

The division aggressively promoted automatic ticket vending machines and

stepped up ticket checks. The introduction of mobile app is bound to help in the coming months. "Transporting passengers is the bread and butter of Indian Railways and the drop in number of tickets sold has worried everybody.

The Railway Board has instructed all divisions to take steps to find out the reasons for the drop and check the trend," said a senior official of Chennai division. Officials said 50 additional ticketcheckers had been deployed at stations and Railway Pro-

tection Force chipped in with a 'show your ticket' drive at 13 stations (see box for list), with dedicated RPF personnel manning all entry and exit points. Sales from Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) in Chennai division increased by 25% compared to the corresponding period of the previous year and this is due to 15 additional facilitators deployed a few months ago, officials said. (Agencies)

Sebi likely to allow FPIs in commodities derivatives market Mumbai, Nov 15: Markets regulator Sebi, which has taken charge of regulating the commodities derivatives market, will look at allowing foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to trade in this segment in the coming months.

"Right now, Sebi is trying to concentrate on ensuring that we are in control of situation.

The responsibility being given to us, we are fully in control and the system is in place ...Once we are fully assured that things are in place, next stage would be allowing new products and new participants and both will happen," Sebi chairman U K Sinha told reporters. Asked about the timeframe for such decision, Sinha said, "it will not take years. It will be in few months." After taking charge of the commodities derivatives trading, Sinha in September said Sebi's first

priority would be to develop trust in the commodities market, after which it would focus on its development by allowing participation by banks and FPIs, among others, over a period of time.

However, he did not give any

specific timeframe for it.

Commodities market has been hoping for FPIs to be allowed after FMC's merger with Sebi, but RBI recently told the markets regulator to keep any such decision on hold till a policy review is

done by the government in this regard. There were expectations that the merger would pave way for FPIs to participate in the commodities derivatives market, as they are already allowed by Sebi in the capital markets segment under its ambit. Ahead of the merger, Sebi had written to the Reserve Bank and the government in this regard, to which RBI replied that the status quo should be maintained till a policy review is undertaken by the government for allowing FPIs in commodities derivative trading. When asked about the volatility in the stock markets, Sinha said, "volatility is part of the market... so far as Indian market is concerned we are very well regulated. Somebody tried to manipulate markets, we have identified those cases and taken action against them," he added. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Features

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ENVIRONMENT Single tooth analysis of oldest-known plant-visiting bat fossil suggests it was omnivorous A Stony Brook University-led team of evolutionary biologists has discovered that the oldest known nectar-drinking bat fossil, Palynephyllum antimaster, was probably omnivorous. They determined this by analyzing only a single molar of the fossil, which helped estimate the bat's skull length and infer its eating habits. Their findings are published in the Royal Society's journal Biology Letters.

Many fossil species can be described based only on their teeth, and this limits scientific knowledge of the functional ecology of the organism.

The researchers successfully developed a skull model of the oldest plantvisiting bat fossil using only a single molar.

Based on this model, they were able to estimate skull length, which relates to key biological traits, including bite force, and body size. In the paper, titled "Bayesian hierarchical models suggest oldest known plant-visiting bat was omnivorous," the authors explain that the estimated length of the skull, together with a database of

bat diets, helped them infer the diet of the fossil.

The study is the first to corroborate with fossil data that highly specialized nectarivory in bats requires an omnivorous transition.

Palynephyllum is represented by two molars from the Miocene of La Venta, Colombia. The molars are narrow, and their cusps are reduced and flattened, as they are in nectar-drinking relatives of the fossil that are alive today. La Venta is home to the most diverse vertebrate fossil fauna of its time. Twelve million years ago, this area of South America was booming with biodiversity, including several insectivorous bats and Palynephyllum.

Feeding exclusively on nectar, which is basically sugar water, is very physiologically demanding and requires special metabolic adaptations.

"A longstanding hypothesis holds that species shift to nectar feeding gradually, by first eating a mix of insects and nectar, but this has not been tested with fossils," said Liliana Dรกvalos, Professor in the Department of

Ecology and Evolution at Stony Brook University and corresponding investigator. "Our analyses show that Palynephyllum could not have fed exclusively on nectar, and it likely supplemented its diet with protein-rich insects, which supports this hypothesis." She added that "these estimates of the paleodiet of this important fossil demonstrate the omnivorous niche has persisted for at least 12 million years."

To estimate the skull length, a team of researchers from the American Museum of Natural History measured the same molars and skull length from other living nectar-feeding bats. From this data,

the Stony Brook team built a model that can predict the skull size from teeth measurements.

They were then able to use this model to predict the skull length from the only remains of the oldest known plant-visiting bat.

"We came up with a way to visualize what this animal looked like based on rigorous statistical methods," said Laurel Yohe, PhD candidate in Stony Brook's Department of Ecology & Evolution, and lead author. "In biology, there are different levels at which we find variation, and it is important to keep track of them. There is measurement variation, variation among species and indi-

viduals, and the samples cannot be assumed to be independent because the organisms are related to one another through common descent. Our models and estimations account for all of that," Yohe explains. Co-authors of the paper include: Paul Velazco and Nancy Simmons of the American Museum of Natural History, Division of Vertebrate Zoology; Danny Rojas, University of Aveiro, Department of Biology and Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies; and Beth Gerstner, a Stony Brook graduate now at City College of New York, Department of Biology.

C o u r t e s y : Sciencedaily.org

More than a Kaziranga comes up with one-track mind a clinic for elephants in male bees Male bumblebees are just as smart as female worker bees despite their dim-witted reputation, according to new research from Queen Mary University of London (QMUL).

Researchers from QMUL's School of Biological and Chemical Sciences trained male and female bumblebees to distinguish between artificial flowers that contained food and another that did not.

The new study published in the journal Animal Behaviour found male bumblebees equal the female or worker bee's excellence in learning which flowers reward with food.

Roles within a bee colony are tightly regulated with the sterile female (also known as worker) bees performing all the labour such as, cleaning the hive, defending the colony, collecting and storing food, and feeding the young.

Male bumblebees are believed to have few aptitudes beyond mating and thought to be not just lazy but simple. In comparison, for example, worker bees are well known to learn the location of their hive, the colours and scents of rewarding flowers.

Dr Stephan Wolf, lead author of the research, said: "Despite fundamental differences in the daily habits between male and female bees, this work illustrates that male bees can be clever shoppers in the flower supermarket even when their main interest is in mating."

The study tested the bees' ability to associate the flower colour with the reward of food. Flower colours where changed after some time, and bees had to forget the previously learned cue and learn a new colour as indicator for nectar or food. Over four sequential colour changes, the researchers demonstrated that male and worker bees are equally good at learning floral colours to guide them to those flower types that provide them with nectar even when the colours of the rewarding flowers will change over time.

Professor Lars Chittka, coauthor of the study, suggests that: "Since bumblebee males can't sting, they are a useful model to study insect learning behaviour without the constant risk of painful encounters."

(Agencies)

100 million may be pushed into poverty by 2030 Climate change could push more than 100 million people into extreme poverty by 2030 by disrupting agriculture and fueling the spread of malaria and other diseases, the World Bank has said in a report.

Released on Sunday, just weeks ahead of a UN climate summit in Paris, the report highlighted how the impact of global warming is borne unevenly, with the world's poor woefully unprepared to deal with climate shocks such as rising seas or severe droughts.

"They have fewer resources and receive less support from family,

Paris. Those who say that rich countries aren't doing enough to help the poor said the report added emphasis to demands for billions of dollars in so-called climate finance to developing countries. "The statistics in the World Bank report are suitably shocking and I hope they force world leaders to sit up and take notice," said Mohamed Adow of Christian Aid. "The Paris deal needs to support the poor and vulnerable communities to cope with unavoidable climate crises better, and to be more resilient to a changed climate." Despite pledges to rein in

improving access to health care and social safety nets, and targeted measures to upgrade flood defenses and deploy more heat-tolerant crops could prevent most of the negative consequences of climate change on poverty, the bank said. "Absent such good development, climate change could result in an additional 100 million people living in extreme poverty by 2030," the report said.

Stephane Hallegatte, one of the authors, said that one of the unique features of the report was that instead of analyzing the macro-economic impact of climate change it was

community, the financial system, and even social safety nets to prevent, cope and adapt," the Washington-based World Bank said. How to help poor countries - and poor communities within countries - deal with climate change is one of the crunch issues in talks on a global climate accord that's supposed to be adopted next month in

emissions of carbon dioxide and other global warming gases, climate change isn't likely to stop anytime soon. Carbon emissions are expected to rise for many years as China, India and other developing countries expand the use of fossil fuels to power their economies.

But efforts to protect the poor, such as generally

based in part on surveys of 1.4 million people in 92 countries. "When we ask people why they fall into poverty there are three major factors," he said.

"Agricultural shocks, including an increase in food prices; natural disasters such as floods, droughts, storms; and health issues, including malaria, diarrhea.

(Agencies)

Climate change destroys sharks' hunting ability

A clinic for elephants in the Northeast region was inaugurated at the upcoming Mark Shand Memorial Learning Centre

by Sir Evelyn de Rothschild, Founding Patron of the UK based charity Elephant Family and its CEO Ruth Powys in the presence of distinguished guests and a colourful audience from the neighbouring villages.

The facility, named after legendary conservationist Mark Shand, is a part of the Kaziranga Discovery Park, coming up opposite the IFAW-WTI and Assam Forest department run Centre of Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation near Kaziranga National Park.

Inaugurating the facility, Sir Rothschild congratulated the team and all the people who built the facility. "Mark was an energetic and dynamic personality who believed in lending a helping hand to animals. Today is a great

day for me to inaugurate this facility for elephants," he said.

The Mark Shand Memorial Asian Elephant Learning Centre in the Kaziranga Discovery Park is supported by Elephant Family, a leading conservation organization of the world dedicated to the conservation and welfare of elephants in Asia. Mark Shand had spent some valuable time with the captive elephants in Kaziranga and several mahouts here honour him at the end of the tourist season each year.

Prior to the unveiling of the statue of Mark Shand, Kaziranga National Park Director MK Yadava welcomed the dignitaries from the country and abroad and guests from the villages to the colourful event that started with a traditional welcome. Summing up the event and the work ahead, Vivek Menon, Executive Director and

CEO of Wildlife Trust of India said, "We are already working for the animals of Kaziranga at CWRC. But if Kaziranga has to be saved, it is you the people who play the most important role. So, it is for you that we are developing this learning hub of Kaziranga Discovery Park where your children will play and learn and appreciate the bio-diversity and nature that Kaziranga houses."

Mark Shand Asian Elephant Learning Centre is established as one of the three wings coming up under Kaziranga Discovery Park, the foundation stone of which was laid on 28th December, 2014.The other two wings are Kaziranga World Heritage Learning Centre and IFAWWTI Wildlife Rescue Learning Centre which will be dedicated to the public in the coming years.

Courtesy: Northeasttoday.in

The hunting ability and growth of sharks will be dramatically impacted by increased CO2 levels and warmer oceans expected by the end of the century, a University of Adelaide study has found.

Published in the journal Scientific Reports, marine ecologists from the University of Adelaide's Environment Institute report long-term experiments that show warmer waters and ocean acidification will have major detrimental effects on sharks' ability to meet their energy demands, with the effects likely to cascade through entire ecosystems.

The laboratory experiments, studying Port Jackson sharks and including large tanks with natural habitat and prey, found embryonic development was faster under elevated temperatures. But the combination of warmer water and high CO2 increased

the sharks' energy requirement, reduced metabolic efficiency and removed their ability to locate food through olfaction (smelling). These effects led to marked reductions in growth rates of sharks.

"In warmer water, sharks are hungrier but with increased CO2 they won't be able to find their food," says study leader Associate Professor Ivan Nagelkerken, Australian Research Council (ARC) Future Fellow. "With a reduced ability to hunt, sharks will no longer be able to exert the same topdown control over the marine food webs, which is essential for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems."

PhD student Jennifer Pistevos, who carried out the study, says the Port Jackson is a bottom-feeding shark that primarily relies on its ability to smell to find food. Under higher

CO2, the sharks took a much longer time to find their food, or didn't even bother trying, resulting in considerably smaller sharks. Most research studying the effects of ocean acidification and climate change on fish behaviour has concentrated on small fish prey.

Long-term studies on the behaviour and physiology of large, long-lived predators are largely lacking. Fellow University of Adelaide marine ecologist Professor Sean Connell says the results of the study provide strong support for the call to prevent global overfishing of sharks. "One-third of shark and ray species are already threatened worldwide because of overfishing," Professor Connell says. "Climate change and ocean acidification are going to add another layer of stress and accelerate those extinction rates." Courtesy: Sciencedaily.org

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"As long as we learn from all these problems that we are having this year and not repeat them any more next year, it's good but definitely it's tough right now."

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16

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Fernando Alonso

1st District Level Football Tournament organized by All Changlang District Students Union concludes successfully at Changlang Hosts ACDSU emerge champion's beating UMFC 5-4 via tie breaker in final Lomhom Thanga Changlang, Nov 15: Hosts All Changlang District Students Union (ACDSU) emerged as champions of the ACDSU organized 1st District Level Football Tournament defeating a spirited United Miao Football Club (UMFC) 5-4 via tie breaker in the final match played at the General Ground, here. The referee P.C.Chetry went for the penalty shoot-out as the match ended 1-1 during 90 minutes of regulation time.

Both the teams fought equally during the entire match. The first goal of the match was scored by Kunchom Rekhung in the 40th minute. Rekhung scored the goal capitalizing upon a well directed and powerful long ranger from one of his team mate.

ACDSU led 1-0 during lemon break. After the break, both the teams stepped up their attacks and during one such attack UMFC striker Akhonkam Tikhak scored the equalizer during a goal mouth melee.

With the score line leveled 1-1, both the teams became desperate to score but could not score any in fading light.

The dry ground condition too proved to be a stumbling block for the players. Later in the penalty shootout, ACDSU scored 4 goals while UMFC managed 3. L. Suraj Singh and Moya assisted the referee in the lines as assistant referees. The champion team ACDSU was handed over a beautiful and glittering trophy and a cash award of Rs. 1 lakh

Majuli Boy excels in National Athletic meet ET Correspondent Jorhat, Nov 15: A class VIII boy from Majuli Island under Jorhat district, Abutani Pegu excelled in National Athletic Meet held at Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh recently.

Abutani Pegu bagged the bronze medal in the discus throw event in the under-14 category.

After his arrival from Madhya Pradesh, a number of organizations including AASU, AJYCP, TMPK, BJP and Congress gave him a warm welcome and congratulated him on his success.

while the runner up UMFC was given a trophy and Rs. 50, 000/- in cash. Ashu Das of UMFC won the highest goal scorer of the tournament trophy with 11 goals, while Pontheng Rekhung of ACDSU was adjudged as the best player of the tournament. He scored 7 goals and was instrumental in the scoring of 3 more goals by his team mates. KCFC won the best disciplined team award while Chungpot Rekhung of ACDSU won the best goal keeper trophy. The prizes were given away by Tesam Pongte, MLA, Changlang (North), Suraj Tayam, finance secretary of All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU), Jango Hallai, Vice-Chairman (Vigilance), AAPSU, Kumar Doka, District Sports Officer (DSO), Changlang, Menpa Haisa, President, ACDSU and a host of other dignitaries.

Earlier, the players and match officials were introduced to the guests.

Congratulating ACDSU for organising the tournament, Suraj Tayam, finance secretary, AAPSU said that it is a matter of concern that Changlang is the biggest district of the state, but, it could not send a team to the recently concluded Tadar Tang state level football tournament which concluded at Tezu recently.

"I do hope that led by a youthful, dynamic and energetic MLA Tesam Pongte, deputy commissioner, DSO and ACDSU members led by President Menpa Haisa,

ANI Perth: Australia paceman Mitchell Starc has bowled the fastest spell of his career during Day three of the second Test of three-match series against New Zealand, thus entering to an elite band of fast bowlers who have clocked above 160 km/h. The 25-year-old

ANI Fuzhou: World number two shuttler Saina Nehwal suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Chinese opponent Xuerui Li to finish as a runner up at the China Open Superseries on Sunday. The Olympic champion took just 39 minutes to beat Nehwal 21-12, 2115 in a thrilling summit clash to clinch the title. The ace Indian shuttler has won two tournaments this yearthe India Open Super Series and India Grand Prix Gold, but lost the All-En-

Changlang will be able to field a very strong squad in future state level meets", Tayam said. He also stated that by organizing the tournament, ACDSU has taken a bold step towards eradication of drugs and opium from the district.

"Moreover, through the tournament we hope some talented footballers will come up who can be recruited in government jobs, since the

along with Mark Craig (seven) when they will come to bat on day four.

state government has a provision of 10 percent reservation for deserving sports persons", he added.

Later, he appealed to all the indigenous communities of the state, particularly of the affected areas, to stand united against the refugee called Chakma and Hajongs, which evoked a huge round of applause from the 1000 strong crowd. He also stated that the AAPSU has

endorsed the proposal of ACDSU to organize a coordination meeting in either Kharsang or Miao with AAPSU to deal with the issue. The organizers also thanked Tesam Pongte, the MLA, Changlang (North), 14 Assam Rifles, the AAPSU, The Eastern Today and all members of ACDSU for their guidance and assistance in conduct of the tournament.

For Australia, Mitchell Starc bagged two wickets while Josh Hazlewood,

gland and World Championships final to world num-

ber one Carolina Marin of Spain.

India vs SA: Incessant rain calls off Day 2 ANI Bangalore: The play between India and South Africa has been called off without a ball being bowled on Day two of the second Test of the threematch series at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium due

to persistent downpour since morning. The play will start at 9:15 a.m. tomorrow morning to make up for the loss of the game.

Earlier on Day one, replying to the South Africa's first inning score of 214, Indian openers put the

hosts in a commanding 800 at stumps. The hosts will aim to score a large firstinnings total when Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan will resume the innings on their respective unbeaten score 28 and 45 on the third day.

`Injured` Khawaja ruled out of third Test against Kiwis

Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Marsh grabbed a wicket each. Earlier, Australia posted 559 in their first innings, thanks David Warner (253) and Usman Khawaja (121).

Australia are currently leading the series 1-0 against New Zealand following their 208-run triumph in the first Test at Brisbane. The two sides will also play the first day and night Test at Adelaide from November 27.

'Corrupt' Blatter, Platini facing possible six-year ban from football ANI London: FIFA president Sepp Blatter and his UEFA counterpart Michel Platini could face a six-year ban from football-related activities due to corruption proceedings against them. According to reports, ethics officials are hoping to solve the case before Christmas so that situation can be cleared

before February elections.

Both of them are already serving a 90-day provisional ban handed by the FIFA's Ethics Committee over claims that Platini had received a 'disloyal payment' of 1.35 million pounds from the outgoing president in 2011. Platini could stand to replace Blatter as next president only if his ban ends

Young stars creating formidable England squad, says Collingwood ANI Dubai: England's coaching consultant Paul Collingwood believes that a young group of players has put the national team in strong position and added that he is really excited to have a set of talented cricketers to work with.

Collingwood, who thinks that the main aim of the England team is to win the World Cup, said his young team always goes out to

delivered the brilliant spell of 160, 4 km/h to Ross Taylor in the 88th over. With his spell, Starc has now joined four bowlers namely Shoaib Akhtar (161,3 km/ h in 2003), Shaun Tait (161,1 km/h in 2010), Brett Lee (161,1 km/h in 2005) and Jeff Thomson (160,6 km/h in 1976).

Shock defeat for Saina in China Open Superseries

Taylor hits double ton as Kiwis post 510-6 against Oz at stumps ANI Perth: New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor smashed a double century to help his side score 510/6 at the draw of stumps on day three of the second Test against Australia here on Sunday.

Resuming at yesterdays' score of 140/2, Kane Williamson thumped a brilliant knock of 166, including 24 boundaries. At the end of play, Taylor remained unbeaten at 235 and will resume his innings

Starc clocks 160.4 kmph against Kiwis

give their best. The 39year-old, however, admitted that his side requires a lot of development, but added that their aggressive approach during the game is working for them. Earlier, England had secured a 95-run win over Pakistan in the second match in Abu Dhabi and consequently leveling the four-match series 1-1. Reflecting on the win, Collingwood said the team had bounced back

brilliantly, and specifically pointed out to the contributions of openers Alex Hales (109) and Jason Roy (54).

Lavishing praise on Hales, Collingwood said he has a talent to do things that other people can't do, adding that the player had shown great temperament and mentality during the match. England will now play their third ODI against Pakistan on November 17 at Sharjah.

before the election date. Besides him, six other candidates will run in the race for 26th February election namely Prince Ali bin alHussein of Jordan, the UEFA general secretary Gianni Infantino, Liberia's FA president Musa Bility, Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman, former diplomat Jerome

Champagne and South African businessman Tokyo Sexwale. FIFA had plunged into an unprecedented crisis when Swiss prosecutors had opened criminal proceedings against Blatter over allegations that he had sold World Cup TV rights to disgraced former FIFA vice-president Jack Warner for 20 times below than their actual value.

ANI Perth: Australian toporder batsman Usman Khawaja has been ruled of the final Test of the three-match series against New Zealand after suffering from hamstring injury during day three of the second Test at Perth.

Confirming the news, team physio David Beakley said that Khawaja has suffered from moderate hamstring muscle strain, so he would not be available at least for the next two Test matches i.e in Adelaide and the match against the West

Indies in Hobart. Shaun Marsh and Cameron Bancroft could replace the injured Khawaja in the upcoming Tests.

Khawaja contributed a brilliant 121 runs in the second Test and 174 runs in the first Test against New Zealand.

Warne's Warriors thrash Sachin's Blasters to clinch All-Stars series

ANI Los Angeles: Warne's Warriors claimed a four-wicket win over Sachin's Blasters in the third T20 match here at Dodger Stadium on Sunday to clinch the All- Stars three-match series 3-0. Opting to bat first, skipper Tendulkar and Mahela Jaywardene steadied the innings with thumping a 74-run partnership for second wicket following the dismissal of opener Virender Sehwag for 27 runs.

Sourav Ganguly also smashed a

half-century for his side off just 37 deliveries while Carl Hooper remained unbeaten at 33. For Warriors, Daniel Vettori bagged three wickets while Courtney Walsh and Andrew Symonds shared two wickets between themselves. Replying to the target of 219 runs, Warrior bounced back after losing openers Micheal Vaughan and Mathew Haden for a duck and 12 runs. Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara and Jacques Kallis smashed 42 and 47 respec-

tively. Australia's Ricky Ponting remained unbeaten at 43, smashing three boundaries and two sixes to help his side claim victory. Kallis was adjudged as 'Man of the match' while Sangakkara was declared as 'Man of the series'. Sachin's Blasters had lost first match by six wickets and second match by 57 runs. The aim of the series led by cricketing greats Shane Warne and Sachin Tendulkar was to globalize the sport.

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