17th may 2016

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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 12

Vol. 1

Issue 338

Dibrugarh, Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Price -

5.00

PAGE 7

Pages- 12

Famous sketch artist arrives in Tinsukia Chief Minister Kalikho to prepare sketch of blast suspect Pul suggests measures 9/11 terror attack to Jaipur serial blast, Debashish Bandopadhya played an important role in helping agencies identify terrorist Rishi Kalantri Tinsukia, May 16

BIG BREAKING STORY The person who played a crucial role in helping agencies identify terror suspects worldwide - be it 9/11 terror attack in America or Jaipur serial blasts, crime in running trains or other terror attacks, Debashish Bandopadhya in an exclusive interview to ‘The Eastern Today’ correspondent said, his primary task is to help Tinsukia police as fast as possible in identifying bomb blast suspects by preparing their sketch.

ET EXCLUSIVE available with the police.

Citing an example on time required to prepare one sketch, he said, in Jaipur serial blast it took over 11 hours to prepare sketch of one of the suspect who was finally arrested 2 days later with RDX from New Delhi

ET CAPSULES

Tinsukia police to seek custody of ULFA cadre Bheem Tinsukia, May 16: Tinsukia police is looking to take custody of a hard core ULFA militant, Bharat chutia alias Bheem alias Abhi Asom arrested by Sibsagar police and Indian army in Sibsagar. Bheem, a resident of Barekuri in Tinsukia district was a member of ULFA Zebra unit headed by dreaded ulfa militant Mekuri killed

by Tinsukia police recently. It may be mentioned ULFA Zebra unit is believed to be behind attack on Kakopathar police station last year.

(Spl correspondent)

1 killed in Lightning

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Kokrajhar, May 16: One person died when lightning struck Daoraighat in Kokrajhar aroudn 10 am this morning.

The person identified as Mazibur Rahman, 52 was on way back home after dropping his grandson to school when lightning struck him at the school ground killing him on the spot. His mobile was also blast in the lightning. The heavy rain and storm also hit in different parts of Kokrajhar district. Lightning has so far claimed 7 lives in Kokrajhar since March 28 this year.

Kokajhar district is worst hit by lightning every year.

Last year, over a dozen people were killed and many injured in lightning in various parts of the district.

It has also claimed lives of many cattle, inflicting heavy losses to marginalized and poor farmers.

(Correspondent)

based on the sketch. It may take somewhere form 8 hours to 48 hours to draw a sketch and it depends upon the theory of 'no', Bandopadhya added.

During the interview that took place at superintendent of Tinsukia police Mugdha Jyoti Mahanto's residence,

Bandopadhya showcased his work on behalf of which several terrorists to criminals have been arrested till date. Hardly any difference can be found out between the arrested ones photographs and the sketches.

He prepares all his sketches by hand, Bandopadhya said.

It need to be mentioned here that it is mainly because of the efforts of superintendent of Tinsukia police Mugdha Jyoti Mahanto to leave no stone unturned to identify the persons behind the blast and arrest them that such a renowned sketch artist has come to Tinsukia to

BJP all set to clinch victory in Assam as per exit poll results A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 16

With exit polls and pollsters giving a clear edge to the BJP led alliance for forming the government in Assam, the party seems to have broken its jinx of not winning a single election since its Delhi debacle last year. The BJP looks set to write history in the remote northeast, wresting power from Congress in Assam on the wave of a strong antiincumbency mood, a consolidation of Hindu votes and a split in Muslim, an Axis My India-India Today poll

predicts. Of the total 126 seats, the BJP and its allies are tipped to win between 79 and 93, the poll announced. The Congress tally plummeted to anywhere between 26 and 33 from 79 it won in the last assembly elections, according to the survey.

On its own, the BJP minus allies is expected to bag 56-75 constituencies this time, a steep rise from its single-digit accountin 2011. The AIUDF could win 8-10 seats.

Meanwhile the BJP today ruled out joining hands with Badaruddin Ajmals AIUDF to form a government in Assam and claimed it will get absolute

majority alone and two-thirds seats with its alliance partners.

"There is no question of joining hands with AIUDF. We alone will get absolute majority and with our partners, we will get two-thirds seats," said BJP’s chief ministerial candidate Sarbananda Sonowal.

The Congress however said that these figures are not true, and said that the party will come to power for a record fourth time on its own. “We don’t believe these exit polls, and we are confident of winning on our own,” said Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi.

offer his service to the local police.

While speaking to the Correspondent Superintendent of Tinsukia police Mugdha Jyoti Mahanta, said based on the eyewitnesses accounts and CCTV footage there is a chance to identify the blast suspect.

Hence, we have called Mr Bondopadhya to help police by drawing sketch of the suspects.

We want to catch the person behind the blast before he attempts a second attack, Mahanta added.

It may be mentioned here that Debashish Bandopadhya has been not limited to the country itself. He travelled to America on diplomatic passport to prepare sketch of suspects after 9/11 terror attack that shocked the entire world. He has also worked with Scotland Yard of London apart from NIA, military intelligence agencies, railway police and police from most of the state in India. His work was appreciated in 2014 by the present DGP of Assam police, while other agencies has also appreciated his work and help in nabbing criminals and terrorists from time to time.

Road accident at Tengakhat

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 16

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul today suggested on adopting wide-ranging measures to change the way floods are dealt with, in response to the recent disaster of unexpected proportions that hit the state triggered by the pre-monsoon rains.

This followed after Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein called on the Chief Minister today to discuss regarding breach of Nao-Dehing River in Namsai district, which had inundated more than 100 acres of WRC fields and led to relocation of several hundred flood-affected families.

The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by WRD Minister Kamlung Mossang,

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's lavender-blue lipstick during "Sarbjit" premiere at Cannes film festival did not go well with Twitterati as the Bollywood actress is facing backlash for her choice.

The 42-year-old Indian beauty teamed her purple lips with flower-strewn Rami Kadi off-shoulder dress. She completed her dramatic look with gothic eyes and high ponytail.

But Twitter users did not like the look.

"Aishwarya's lips all over.

But can't blame the trolls.

Looks like she ate a lot of Jaamuns before going to the red carpet. #cannes," a user wrote.

Another asked, "Did Aishwarya kiss a smurf this time before she walked the red carpet at Cannes?"

Relating it with urban poor and urban rich urban poor conundrum, a Twitter user posted "Urban rich: Aishwarya's lips look like

The Chief Minister asked the department officials to adopt preventive measures targeted to long-term, medium-term and short-term actions, Contd. on Page 3

Leopard killed in yet another man - animal conflict in Tinsukia

A staff reporter Dibrugarh, May 16

A road accident took place at Natun Ali, Tengakhat yesterday morning. According to the local source this accident took place due to head on collision between a Maruti Van (No. AS 06 0147) and a Truck (No. AS 01GC 4703). Unfortunately, 4 persons died on the spot and one sustained injuries in the accident.

The killed leopard. Pic - Sidharth Singh Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, May 16 In yet another man - animal conflict, a leopard lost his life in the hands of a man at a tea village at hahakathi under Dholla police station in Tinsukia district on Monday.

According to the sources, the incident occurred when one

Dil Bahadur Chettry, a resident of Arunachal Pradesh was on his to visit his friend's residence in the village. Suddenly, a leopard came in front of Dil Bahadur Chettry in a road passing through a jungle before the village.

This resulted in a conflict between both of them to save their lives in which the leopard lost

Aishwarya Rai's purple lips trolled on Twitter PTI Cannes, May 16

Tax & Excise Parliamentary Secretary Zingnu Namchoom, WRD Parliamentary Secretary Gum Tayeng and other high ranking officials from the WRD department.

she had black current ice cream. Urban poor: Aishwarya's lips look like she had kala khatta gola."

outfits this year included shimmering gowns by Ali Younes and Elie Saab and a red dress by Naeem Khan.

"Petition for aishwarya rai to fire her make up artist what are those purple lips," a user tweeted.

Another wrote, "When Asian Paints sponsors your lipstick..."

This is Aishwarya's 15th year at the festival and the actress says she is not very bothered by what fashion police thinks about her choices.

"I am an actor by my career choice. I enjoy fashion and I treat it like art and I have a life, a family.

So, I am not focusing on all of this. So it (look) doesn't stress me out.. It doesn't make me nervous.. I am a professional," she said in an interview.

Directed by Omung Kumar, "Sarbjit" is a biopic on Sarabjit Singh, an Indian farmer who died following an assault by fellow prisoners at a Pakistani jail.

The actress' other Cannes

his life. Altough, Bahadur was also injured and admitted to also hospital, sources added.

The rapid concrete jungle development replacing the natural jungles has often resulted in man-hole conflict across the country. At times human live is lost in the battle, while other times leopard is killed.

Two held in connection with contraband drugs ET Correspondent Mangaldai, May 16

Operation against the illicit selling, possession and administration has been intensified by police in Darrang district in recent times. As a part of this operation police from Dhula PS of the district on Monday acting on secret inputs held two youths on charges of transportation and possession of banned drugs and also seized around 30 bottles of such contraband drugs. A case has been registered in this regard and further investigation is on. The arrested youths have been identified as Gautam Deka (27) of Gerimari and Rana Saha (22) of ward no 5 of Mangaldai. (Correspondent)

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To help police to identify the suspects behind the recent bomb blast at Devi phukri paanchali here, famous sketch artist arrived Tinsukia on Monday. He is supposed to make a sketch of the suspect based on the eyewitnesses and cctv footage

The person who played a crucial role in helping agencies identify terror suspects worldwide - be it 9/11 terror attack in America or Jaipur serial blasts, crime in running trains or other terror attacks, Debashish Bandopadhya in an exclusive interview to ET correspondent said, his primary task is to help Tinsukia police as fast as possible in identifying bomb blast suspects by preparing their sketch. To prepare sketch he will use whatever evidences police have in hand including eyewitnesses, who may have seen the suspects and CCTV, he added.

to deal with floods

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries If you’re looking to get married, buy the ring today. But before you take the leap, weigh all the pros and cons carefully. All in all, this may be a day filled with activities related to your relationship and by the time the day ends, you may be on cloud nine!

Taurus You will be feeling listless, lazy and out of sorts today, and will tend to ignore and neglect important tasks scheduled for the day. Guard against this tendency as you could miss out on opportunities that others could then benefit from. That way, you will surely lose out professionally, particularly if you are in business. This aside, the day promises to be an eventful and fruitful one.

Gemini While today will be a day filled with a lot of festivity, you still need to guard against getting carried away. You will spend the day socialising with friends and family. You might end up neglecting your household duties in organizing some function or picnic.

Cancer You are known for your ability to set the ball rolling. Once you set your mind to do something, it is generally considered done by your peers. Today, you are eyeing a few accomplishments on the monetary front. Most part of your day will go in dealing with financial transactions, and importing and exporting goods.

Leo Guides help other people choose the right path in life and to select the correct alternatives.

It is a good day for those who are in the teaching or coaching professions. It is also a progressive day for those working in MNC’s.

Virgo You will start off on a long, arduous path to success. Some tough work will play a vital role in your progress. Don’t cut corners, and your labours will pay rich dividends and you will reap due rewards. Some opportunities are best left alone as they involve too much risk.

Libra Today will be a lucky day for you. You may receive some financial gain. There will be some good news about your children’s progress. This is the right time to invest in business.

For financial investors and share brokers this period is beneficial, so make the most of it.

Scorpio Your energy levels are high as you as you gear up for new events. However, there are chances that these events may not meet your expectations. But, don’t lose hope and get disappointed. Keep your spirits high. Implement the first lesson learnt in school: try & try till you succeed!

AJYCP protest against drugs menace in Margherita ET Correspondent Margherita, May 16: Asom Jatiyotabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad(AJYCP) Margherita regional Committee today took out a agitational programme by burning tyres near Ledo college at NH 38 in protest against the rising drugs menace in Margherita.

Hundreds of AJYCP activists took part in the agitational programme and raised various slogans against the failure of the Margherita administration to control the narcotic items.

Bora alleged that the places like Baragolai, Ledo, Lekhapani, Jagun are the areas where the uses of the narcotic substances has been rising day to day and the Margherita administration has failed miserably to control the illegal activities.

Committee said that the Kanchan Bora General rising of drugs and other Secretary of AJYCP intoxicated items has Margherita Regional been rampantly in-

creased at Margherita Sub Division and the cases of theft, dacoity

Uncertainty over Brahmaputra Board project at Barbhag ity due to the failure of the Brahmaputra Board. The construction of the project was started in November 2012 and was to completed within a period of 18th month. In this project there are provision of four under ground walls measuring 45 metres wide and 42.4 metres depth two walls and 45 metres wide, 60 metres depth two walls. Unfortunately the constructing company in last 19 months erected only one wall.

Sagittarius Lady luck is all smiles for you today. Suddenly, you feel like multi-tasking and becoming a jack of all. This is likely to keep you busy, almost throughout the day. If need be, your colleagues and peers will lend a helping hand.

Capricorn You are in hot water, but do not lose hope during these turbulent times. Maintain a calm head over your shoulders and deal with the problems. Also, do not jump to conclusions or be argumentative with the people around you, as you may end up being at the losing end.

Aquarius You have already fulfilled your short-term objectives. But you are ambitious, and straightaway begin setting your long-term goals. But all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

Leisure time with family will rejuvenate and prepare you for a better stint at work.

Pisces A day of mixed fortunes awaits you, where taking risks could prove to be your undoing, or provide you with handsome returns. This is because you could come out on top by treading cautiously, but uncalculated risks will probably throw your calculations out of gear. Your success rate is unlikely to be too high; hence it may be a tough day for you. However, it will end on a promising note.

ET Correspondent Nalbari, May 16: The fate of much awaiting Barbhag drainage development scheme being implemented at Nakheti village in Nalbari district to control the floods problems of more than fifty villages hanging in balance due to the negligence of Brahmaputra Board officials.

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 17-5-16 (TUESDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Hindi Language Lesson 6-30 A.M-Vidyarthir Anusthan 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 Assamese Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Surar Satsori (Request Programme of Assamese Songs) 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan 7-15 P.M-Karpumpuli 8-00 P.M-Parikrama 9-30 P.M- Kramasha-"Jangam",Written by Debendra Nath Acharya Sd-/H.O.P

and other criminal activities has also been increased.

As part of this project a sluice gate was designed on the Satha channel at the village to prevent the black flow of the flood waters of the rivers Pagladia and

Baralia. Unfortunately the Brahmaputra Board failed to complete the sluice gate on the small Satha channel during the last five years.

The Brahmaputra Board to progress only ten percent in last five years. Even the Board remained silent despite the constructing company had left the site after only ten per cent progress of the project in last three years.

in order to solve floods and irrigation problems of that locality. Under the project and sluice gate is also being constructed over the Satha channel at Nakheti village at a cost of Rs 11 crore. The stormed water of Barbhag areas will drain out to the Pagladiya through the sluice gate. Similarly the sluice gate will protect the back flow of the Pagladiya and Baralia rivers during the floods in monsoon.

The Barbhag drainage development scheme project is being implemented at the Barbhag area

However the dream of the Central Water Commission (CWC) is yet to come real-

Worse still the company after the wall completely stopped the works and finally left the site. The local people Complained before this correspondent of The Assam Tribune who visited the project area recently that the negligence of the Brahmaputra Board officials delayed the anti floods project of the Barbhag area.In absence of the sluice gate the people of Barbhag area have been facing flood problems every year and the poor farmers of that locality compelled to withdraw their sali cultivation.The back flow of the river Pagladiya submerged the entire ares and affected the sali crops during the monsoon.

Two girls rescued Robber arrested at Naharkatia

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 16:Two girls hailed from Kokrajhar district were rescued from Muradabad of Delhi and Sersha district of Haryana and brought back them in Kokrajhar on Monday.

Shyamal Prasad Saikia, Kokrajhar SP told the reporters Jon Monday that police rescued two girls from different two places in Delhi and Haryana state on May 13, who were hailed from Gossaigaon and Bishmuri area of Kokrajhar district. The girls were trafficked from Kokrajhar dis-

trict few months back in the neighboring states and rescued them on supports from GRP, Muradabad and some NGO activists. The rescued girls reached in Kokrajhar on Monday and they would be handed over to their respective families, he said. A girl was also rescued from Delhi few days ago, who hailed from Kachugaon of Kokrajhar district. Police has been taking stern action against culprits who have been involved with human trafficking as well anti social activities in the region, Saikia said.

ET Correspondent Naharkatia, May16: Naharkatia Police arrested a robber in connection with the loot of 9 lakh rupees from Naharkatia railway station which happened few days back. The person name Tarun Gogoi was arrested by

Naharkatia Police following a tip off in early morning today.

It must be mentioned that the police was in search of culprit in connection with various car thief, ATM loot and various other cases.

Later he was send to Dibrugarh Jail.

The Organization warned Margherita Administration to take immediate action against the persons involved in the drug racket. "If our demand is not met within a week then we will intensify our movement against the administration,'' said Bora.

Pensioners committee formed ET Correspondent Nazira, May 16: A new executive committee of the All Assam Government Pensoners and Family Pensioners’ Association formed in a general meeting held in the Office of the Labour Union of Dairy Farm, Khanapara on May 4.

Mohammad Tamijuddin Ahmed became President, Mr Sapun Bordoloi vice president and Mr.Bhoves chandara Deka become general secretary of the new committee.

Women Association formed at Doomdooma ET Correspondent Doomdooma, May 16: In a meeting which was held at Hoonlal Higher Secondary School, Doomdooma branch of Sadau Asom Mohila Karmachari Santha ( SAMKS ) was formed.

Kiranmoyee Hazarika Barua presided the meeting in which a good number of women employees were present who were of various departments of the state government.

In the meeting SAMKS central committee President Purabi Phukan, general secretary Dr. Bhanuprabha Saikia and cultural Secretary Sayeeda Masuda Rahman were also present.

The Doomdooma branch of SAKMS was formed with a-22-member executive committee with Kiranmoyee Hazarika Barua as President, Anju Konwar as working president , Manisha Banik as Vice President and Priyalata Moran as general secretary.

Edu-fair at DHSK College A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, May 16: For the first time in Dibrugarh Hanuman bax Surajmall Kanoi College ‘Edu-fair’ was started from today and sponsored by the Impact Media in association with the Assam Tribune, Oil India Ltd.

Activist of Assam Movement Martyrs and Sufferers Co- ordination Comittee, Dibrugarh district protest in front of the BCPL Administration buliding at Barbaruah In Dibrugarh on 16-05-16. demands to the appointment of Assamese personality for the post of MD in BCPL. Pic - UB Photos

More than 21 top institutes of India have joined in this ‘Edu-fair’.

Students and publics were informed about B.E., M.B.B.S., B.D.S., B.B.A., M.B.A., Tourism, Management etc. on today. According to the organizers, students were misleading due to lake of proper in-

formation regarding choosing institutes for their academic career and

then their professional career.

“To chose a career one have to very cautious and don’t fall on any trap,’’

said a stall owner.

Assam Tribune group has organized this kind of Edu-fair in various parts of India. In this year, Kanoi College was sclected as the venue of Edu-fair.

More than twenty one faculties were appointed contractually for the extra promotion of the academic site of this college.

The authority also informed that the college prepared and started distribution of the prospectus with forms for the upcoming academic session. An expo also organised along with the Edu-fair.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

PAGE 3

Ten bedded AYUSH Hospital inaugurated at Pasighat The DC also instructed them to tie up with the school and college authorities and teach yoga to the students. There should be competitions amongst them so that people come to know about the benefits of yoga and it becomes popular.

ET Bureau Pasighat, May 16 : An Integrated 10 (Ten) bedded AYUSH hospital was inaugurated by Ms. Isha Khosla, DC East Siang, in General Hospital Pasighat in presence of Dr. Kabang Lego, JDHS, Dr. Mandip Perme, DMO, Kaling Dai, ZPC, Kaling Doruk, Councilor and others. " The Govt. is promoting alternate medicines in a big way so all has to make it successful by dint of their dedication, hard work, work ethics and maintaining quality standard", said Isha Khosla. Since this AYUSH hospital is first of its kind in the state all should endeavor to take it to new heights. All should help to promote it so that people

Lok Adalat Disposes 13 Criminal Compoundable Cases Aalo, May 16: As per schedule of the State Legal Service Authority, District Lok Adalat held in the Court Building of District Court has disposed off 13 Criminal Compoundable Cases on 14th May last.

The members of District Legal Service Authority Adv. Minrik Nochi, Todak Ado and Gorik Kamduk under the supervision of Shri Tage Halley, Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Civil Judge (Sr. Divn), Aalo have disposed 13 criminal compoundable cases out of 57 cases taken up for hearing on that day.

The remaining cases could not be heard or disposed off due absence of victim/complainant and unwillingness of the party to settle the case in the Lok Adalat etc. These left out cases have been referred to next Lok Adalat/regular court for necessary step as per law.

from outside the state also can avail its benefits. This can become a centre of health/medical tourism, the DC said.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 16: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has congratulated Filmmaker Chow Partha Borgohain for selection of his feature film - ‘1962: My Country Land’ for screening at the Cannes International Film Festival on May 18, 2016. He has also congratulated producer Smt Marbom Mai of Living Dreams and music composer Guru Rewben Mashangva for the film’s selection.

Felicitating the team for the extraordinary achievement, the Governor expressed the hope that the film, which was shot

Proper planning is essential for its long term development therefore, she appealed the authorities to prepare a vision document.

She urged the Joint Direc-

tor, Health Services (HTRC) and DMO Pasighat not only to support and lend co operation but provide guidance so that it becomes a reputed hospital.

Dr. Kabang Lego while welcoming all informed that for the full fledged AYUSH Hospital, most of the equipments and medicines have been procured and staff appointed. Dr. Taru Tajung (Ayurvedic) and Dr. David Panggam (Homeo) are already in the hospital, he informed. He assured full support and co operation for the development of the hospital.

Earlier all participated in the yoga session in the hospital.

DC Pasighat inaugurates basic computer training program for officers transparency in official works. Nowadays, the majority of citizen centric services are available over the Digital platform viz. Citizen entitlements, banking services, Railway and Air Ticketing, online shopping etc. Also, government offices are going for e-Governance.

So, the digital / computer literacy empowers an individual to be an active player in the Digital world.

ET Bureau Pasighat, May, 16 : The DC Pasighat, Mrs. Isha Khosla inaugurated a week long training program (16th - 20th May

Governor congratulates ‘1962: My Country Land’ team

JP Rajkhowa

in picturesque Tawang and Mechuka in Arunachal Pradesh, and Sohra in Meghalaya, besides a few locations in Guwahati will draw attention of the filmmakers all over the World, in the pristine beauty of the North East and the nature’s wonders in Arunachal Pradesh in particular. As the film is based on the 1962 Indo-China war and depicting the rural life in extremely hostile terrains and the patriotism of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, he opined that it will reinforce the already high sense of patriotism amongst the people of the region and also underscore the persisting challenge of resolving border issues.

The Governor, while reposing his faith on the talents of the filmmakers of the North Eastern region and members of the Film fraternity of Arunachal Pradesh, advised them to highlight the unique culture and serene gifts of nature with enchanting rivers, streams, lakes, snowy mountains, five valleys etc. of the State, exclusive folktales and the exotic lifestyles and traditions.

2016) on basic computer skills for officers. She urged that everyone should acquire computer skills as it has many uses both in personal life and

work places. The manual processes in offices are increasingly being replaced by automated systems in order to increase efficiency, accountability and

The officers will be benefitted from this computer training program and it will bring efficiency in their official works also.

The opening training session was conducted by Sri T. Devaraj Singh, DIO NIC Pasighat.

Journalists from Pune spellbound with Mishmi rich culture

ET Correspondent Tezu, May 16: Journalists from Pune in Maharashtra were overwhelmed from the warm hospitality shown by the young Mishmi girls who were clad in rich traditional attire at Kholariang village during their exposure trip in Lohit.

The scribes felt fascinated with the colorful traditional costume of the Mishmi and their way of warmth greeting. They enquired about the ethnicity, main occupation and about the culture and food habits of the tribe and looked around the way of their life style and living pattern. "We are immensely mesmerized by their humble approach, simplicity and courtesy.

People are simple and rich in its culture. Before our coming we

misunderstood and had negative impression regarding North - East and the Arunachal", expresses Miland a freelance Journalist from Pune.

These beautifully dressed girls well exposed the treasure throve of rich culture of Arunachal. We will tell India and broadcast its exquisite natural and culture beauty, he says in excitement. "In the mainstream and far off the region people consider them as barbaric, cruel and wild but coming here literally the scenario is better than ours. Bountiful of natural beauty, fresh water & air, good weather condition and good people could lure better tourism prospect in this region. Good road, bridges and other wayside infrastructure would facilitate to explore tremendous

tourism potential in the state", said other.

In this short interaction we will be carrying with sweet memory and positive impression of the tribe, he utters. Later they also visited Loiliang village where the team entered traditional Mishmi house of Jogin Tamai and took photograph of predominantly well displayed trophies of various wild animals, Mithun etc. Teso Tamai also entertained them with folklore.

They also extend deepest gratitude to Shivali Yun General Secretary of the Mishmi Women Welfare Association (AMWWA) who arranged Mishmi girls in complete traditional costumes for photography.

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul suggests measures to deal with floods Contd. from Page 1 which could be adopted as policy decision.

The long-term actions may include preparations for flood protection investments, developing flood management plans (FMPs) and managing river schemes, which would depend on 100% central funding.

For medium-term, the Chief Minister said the funding would be made through centre-state combined resources and the actions would include building and maintaining flood-

Police outpost including Watch Tower inaugurated

protection infrastructures.

As immediate measure, the CM assured the state government would fully equip the departments to respond promptly to deal with any occurrence of natural disasters.

For department to carry out immediate restorations works, it would be equipped with heavy earth moving machineries. Also the Chief Minister assured to provide emergency motor boats to navigate floods and informed that Rs 2 crore has been already earmarked for WRD department.

Aiming to achieve comprehensive solution rather

on finding piecemeal solutions, the CM asked the department to prepare proposals and schemes only on need base and to properly identify and discourage such proposals that are based on individual interests. On this matter, the Chief Minister assured the department of government’s full support for any repercussions.

Also to avoid inconsistency in allotment of works, the CM proposed that all flood related infrastructure works should go to WRD as it is the department concerned.

Further the Chief Minister

asked the department to map all rivers and rivulets in the capital city to check erosions and flooding. Also he informed that he would be conducting an aerial survey of the flood prone areas in East Siang, Lower Dibang Valley, Namsai and Changlang district.

Earlier in his introductory speech, the DCM highlighted on his recent tour of flood affected areas in Namsai district and apprised the CM that due to flooding of Nao-Dehing river embankment, the Mahadevpur town was in risk and a major catastrophe was imminent if no preventive measures are taken.

Speaking on flood-induced conflict, Minister Kamlung Mossang apprised the CM on how repeated occurrences of floods in Chakma inhabited areas in Changlang district were forcing them to migrate. This had in many instances led to conflict between the refugee community and the local inhabitants as the former were seen as encroacher, said the minister.

Also he spoke on the need to revive the flood infrastructure projects in Arunachal prepared by the ADB on whose funding China had objected.

ET Correspondent Tezu, May 16: C/O Police outpost including Watch Tower at Gandhi Market, Tezu, which was funded under MLALADS 2014-15 and inaugurated by Hon'ble MLA Dr. Mohesh Chai [44

-Tezu-Sunpura (ST) Assembly Constituency] on 16th May'2016 in the presence of Danish Ashraf, Deputy Commissioner, (IAS), Lohit District and sri Isaac Pertin, (IPS), Superintendent of Police, Lohit District, all the

head of Departments, Tezu Bazar Committee, Public Leaders and Local Public of Tezu were present. This Police Outpost and Watch Tower at Gandhi market, Tezu was constructed by Rural Works Division, Tezu.

Tirap Zilla Parishad gets new ZPC

ET Correspondent Khonsa, May 16: With the change of leadership and emergence of PPA, a regional political party as the ruling party in Arunachal Pradesh, winds of change are blowing across the Tirap Zilla Parishad with the election of Smti. Sontung Bangsia as the new Zilla Parishad Chairperson of Tirap district on 16th May at Khonsa. Smti. Bangsia from 005 Khela-Lamsa Zilla Parishad Constituency was declared elected as ZPC 15 -Tirap Zilla Parishad on 16 th May consequent upon the motion of No Confidence moved against sitting ZPC Chawang Lowang . The motion was supported by 6 ZPMs out of 7 ZPMs of 15 -Tirap Zilla Parishad. Out

of the 6 ZPMs who supported the motion 3 are from the PPA while the other 3 are Independent.

Earlier, a complaint was lodged by INC against the merger of 3 INC ZPMs to PPA which was later heard and disposed off by Tirap Deputy Commissioner as per the provision of Subsection (2) of the Section 6 with reference to Section 4 of the Arunachal Pradesh Local Authorities (Prohibition of Defection) Amendment Act-2006.

The election was ably conducted by the ADC and Member Secretary of 15 Tirap Zilla Parishad N. Wangsu. Nyasam Jongsam, General Secretary of PPA, Itanagar who is the Incharge of TCL also attended the election as an Observer and

appreciated the smooth election. The Speaker Wangki Lowang, Education Minister Wanglin Lowangdong and MLAs Tirong Aboh and Wanglam Sawin have congratulated Sontung Bangsia on her election and hoped that she would work for the overall development of the district.

It may be mentioned here that Smti. Sontung Bangsia is the Chairperson of WWA and is one of the well known women leaders and activists of Tirap. She is the first woman ZPC. She has been initiating many development projects in KhelaLamsa in collaboration with the elected leaders and the district administration.

Congratulatory notes are being received by the new ZPC from across the state.

AACWA had not apologised to deputy CM Kameng Dolo for May 2 bandh A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 16

The All Arunachal Contractors’ Welfare Association (AACWA) today in a press conference stated that it had not apologised to Deputy Chief Minister Kameng Dolo for the 12-hour bandh called on May 2 last, but instead had rendered a ‘submission of regret’.

AACWA general secretary Nabam Akin Hina said that while the association and its members are pleased with the decision of the state government for extending the validity of the government cheques to June 30 next, the AACWA is at the same time disappointed at the procedural detention of eight of its executive members on May 11 last under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, 2014.

Akin also stated that if the state government was to lift the ban on entertaining government cheques to contractors then it should have called AACWA for discussion before the bandh call. He added that the state government should not try to

suppress people’s protest on genuine demands.

He claimed that Dolo, who is also in-charge of the Home Department, had asked them not to repeat such bandh calls and asked for a written statement on it. Accordingly, the AACWA submitted the ‘submission of regret’, which also demanded withdrawal of all charges against the central executive members of the association and release of AACWA treasurer Tabu Guha.

However, the association leaders alleged that even after clearing the bail procedures in Banderdewa, Nirjuli and Naharlagun, the members were put under procedural detention

under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, 2014 when they arrived at Itanagar Police Station in the evening, and were sent to central jail the next day.

“The other association members then submitted another letter to the deputy chief minister, and keeping his commitment we were finally released”, said Hina.

Further, the association extended gratitude to Deputy Chief Minister Dolo, Ward Councilor Gora Lotak and BJP leader Tame Phassang for their assistance in lifting the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, 2014 against its members

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

PAGE 4 Doomdooma Don Bosco organized Mastermind - 2016 ET Correspondent Doomdooma, May 16: The Don Bosco school of Doomdooma organized an event of inter house competitions, Mastermind-2016.

Its theme was - "Involve .....Inspire ......Ignite". A debate was held on the topic "Modernity is the main cause for the destruction of cultural values ". It was moderated by Gilbert Deb Burma, principal, St Xavier's School .Quiz, declamation, group dance and a magic show was also staged by Bicky Singh from Jorhat.

CPI protests against price hike in Sivasagar ET Correspondent Sivasagar, May 16: The Sivasagar District Council of Communist party of India (CPI) on Monday staged a two hour sit-in protest as a part of state-wide campaign here at Sivasagar in front of Deputy Commissioner's office, against the rise in the prices of essential commodities as well as petroleum products.

They send a memorandum including seven demands to Prime Minister of India through Deputy Commissioner of Sivasagar signed by district secretary Kanak Gogoi. Kanak Gogoi, in a interaction with media said that the charter of demands

include, to control the sky touching rates of essential commodities, to continue the government control on oil companies as before, to strengthen the Public Distribution System (PDS), to identify and punish the unholy businessman who is involved in price hike and also illegal stockiest of essential commodities, to leave nabbya udartabad, to control over petroleum products and to stop unholy nexus of Congress and BJP with big industrial groups.

He also threatened that if Government fails to deal with their demands, they will launch their protest more widely in democratic way.

ABSU organised anti drugs rally at Bijni ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 16: The All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) organized an anti drugs rally at Bijni town where over thousand students, common public participated with banner, placards demanding stern action against use of drugs and illegal gambling in the region on Monday in Chirang district. The rally was orgsnised by

Bijni anchalik committee ABSU in association with Chirang district ABSU in protest against abuse drugs. Promod Boro, president of the students union, BTC MCLA Guneswar Goyary participated the rally, which was started from Bijni Bandhav HS School ground and concluded at Lakhi Mandir ground. Boro demanded government as well dis-

AJYCP Protest in Sivasagar

trict administrations in the region should take stern steps against illegally use of drugs and running of illegally gambling in the state.

The running of illegally gambling and uses drugs have been affecting social integration among society, that is why all kinds drugs related uses should be stopped and held healthy situation in the region, he said.

Books donated at Golaghat AJYCP burned effigy of Director of Health, Assam ET Correspondent Sivasagar, May 16: The AJYCP Sivasagar District Committee today staged a protest in front of Sivasagar District Joint Secretary of Health's office here in Sivasagar. They also burned an effigy of Director of Health, Assam. They send a memorandum to Director of Health, Asaam mentioning various burning issues regarding health services in the District through Joint Director of Health, Sivasagar, signed by district secretary Utpal Konwar and ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 16: Under the able leadership of Maheswari Yuva Sangathan in association with Maheswari Sabha and Maheswari Mahila Sangathan Golaghat Two number valuable book sets consisting 6 books of class

10 was Donated to Golaghat Town Hindi High School today. One set was donated to Library and another set was given to girl named Priya Kashyap. The books were donated by Golaghat Maheswari Mahila Sangathan. The Headmaster Gopal Singh

appreciated the imitative of the organisation and said it will be helpful to the students.

It is to be known that motive behind this project is to help the needy students good in studies and provide some help for their HSLC exam.

Liquor Culture setting bad example for Youths ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 16: Golaghat town is also seeing a trend of modern youth culture of Liquor consuming which is proving dangerous signals for future generation. According to information at the time of mid night yesterday a numberless EON Car was continuously moving on in the streets of Golaghat which came in the notice of party out in Patrolling. As such on suspect at last Golaghat po-

lice stopped the car without number and found a woman and three men in a drunken state.

in such incidents than what example they will set for the upcoming younger generation.

To the great surprise these persons have been identified as personnel of NRHM Sarupathar , NRHM personnel of Jorhat, and one from ONGC and the maiden from Golaghat NRHM working as a media expert.

Now the question arises that if government's young officers are found to be engaged

According to the intellectual of Golaghat due to excess freedom provided to their prince and princess by modern guardians events of such kind have become common. The group told the police official that they were returning after attending ring ceremony of their friend.

President Debojit Dutta.

Utpal Konwar, in an interaction with media said that there are not enough facilities for blood collection and testing in Sivasagar Hospital. During last year Sivasagar Hospital's blood bank collected 3181 samples of blood. And for testing HIV for 3181 blood samples, 40 ELISA kits were needed. But State Government had failed to send 40 ELISA kit for testing HIV for those samples.

But only 12 ELISA kit's

send to Sivasagar Hospital in last eleven month, which was not enough. Health department playing with the life's of common people, He added. On the other hand he also blamed health department for not supplying normal medicine, blood transfusion set, tetanus, Amoxicillin for children and many other essential medicines . AJYCP today also threatened that if Government fails to deal with their demands, they will launch heavy democratic protest in future.

JACAS protest on auto state ET Correspondent Diphu, May 16: Joint Action Committee for Autonomous State (JACAS), will begin fresh agitation on Autonomous State issue from tomorrow protesting NDA government's carelessness in holding discussion with the organization.

JACAS said BJP's ache din will come to the autonomous hill districts of Assam only when longstanding demand of Autonomous State

is fulfilled. Former BJP president Rajnath Singh has promised implementation of Article 244 (A) of the constitution at an election rally at Dokmoka on March 30, 2014, but the issue is yet to be taken up by the NDA government. It may be mentioned here that talks on the issue were held on September 2, 2013 and held subsequently on November 6, 2013 and February 6, 2014 with the UPA Government

and thereafter on April 9, 2015 with the NDA government. JACAS source has informed that to set fire to the Autonomous State movement a series of agitation programs been firm up and shall be announced which will be carried out phase wise. A 3-hour sit-in demonstration will be held in front of the office of Deputy Commissioner, Karbi Anglong, Diphu tomorrow.

committee. After that swahid tarpan was offered

by Puna Gogoi, secretary of the organizing committee.

The competitions were inaugurated by Purna Kanta Handique, an educationist and social worker. A souvenir titled Sanai was released by Bonshibadsan

Raj Khanikar. The cultural night was inaugurated by Luhit Gogoi, retired engineer of ONGC and the founder of KASS and at present the adviser of KASS. Madhujya Buragohain, Debojit Sarma, Bondita Borah along with local artistes Biswajit Doley and Purna Kanta Munda performed.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 16: Promod Boro, president of the ABSU has been eyed good governance through the new government which would be formed after May 19 by anyone of the party in the state. He said that the students union backed UPP party to meet good governance and change of society in the region, which had contested in 14 seats in the region.

The new government by whom

it would be formed should do welfare for the common publics and take stern steps to the implementation of the promises during the elections.

He also said several issues including Bodoland separate state, bringing of social uplift among all sections of communities should be implemented through adopting people's welfare agendas in the state during the next government in the state.

Jorhat ready to go for counting for six LACs, that includes CMs seat ET Correspondent Jorhat, May 16: With a view to apprise the political parties and candidates of 97 Dergaon, 98 Jorhat, 99-Majuli, 100Titabor, 101-Mariani and 102 Teok Legislative Assembly Constituency's about the counting process of Assembly Election, a meeting was held at Jorhat, Titabor and Majuli in the conference hall of the Deputy Commissioner and Sub divisional Officer (Civil) office respectively.

The District and Sub divisional heads, addressing the party representatives and candidates, thanked, one two all for the support in peacefully holding the polling during first phase poll on April 4, and expected same kind of support in the ensuing counting on coming Thursday next, informed Dwijendra Gogoi the DIPRO, Jorhat here today. Hectic arrangements have been made at Jorhat Government Boys HS & MP School for a free and fair counting, as counting will commence from 8:00 am and all counting agents were re-

quested to reach the counting centre on or before 7:00 am.

The Deputy Commissioner further informed that already counting personnel have been trained for May 19 counting and their constituencies will be allotted through computer randomization only. Apart from on duty officers, staff, police, journalist with authority letter, candidates and counting agents, no one will be allowed to enter into the counting centre.

Besides, no one will be permitted to carry and use mobile phone in the counting halls, while all winning candidates will be provided victory certificate after completion of the counting process and accounts for election related expenditure will be completed in next one month, said Mr. Solanki. The political party representatives and candidates were also acquainted with the EVM counting process through demonstration in the meeting, while Jorhat SP, Ms Amanjeet Kaur was also present in the meeting.

Biennial Conference of North Lakhimpur Press Club held: DK Pandey and Kumud Baruah elected as President and Secretary ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, May 16: The Biennial Conference of North Lakhimpur Press Club was held today with a day-long program in the Conference Hall of the Club. As per agenda of the program the flag of the Press Club was hoisted at 9am by Vice President Jiban Goswami.

Then the last executive meeting was held from 10 am under the chairmanship of President-in-Charge Debendra Kumar Pandey.

The General Assembly cum Delegate Meeting commenced from 12.30pm. It was presided over by Debendra Kumar Pandey. General Secretary Kumud Baruah elaborated the purpose of the meeting and read out the secretarial report and audit report of the last term. After detailed discussion on the reports they were approved through few corrections. In this program President of last two terms Surajit Bhuyan, who contributed much for the amelioration of the Press Club.

Ambedkar fellowship award winner journalist Jiban Goswami, along with journal-

ists Sailen Baruah and Farhana Ahmed who visited China in the aegis of Ministry of Youth Welfare and Sports Affair under 'India Youth Delegation to China-2014', were also felicitated warmly in the program.

Several issues like organisational strength of the Press Club, financial status, sports, cultural and intellectual development etc were discussed in the meeting with detailed explanation and several resolutions were taken on these points.

A strong executive body was constituted in the meeting through secret voting method.

Debendra Kumar Pandey as President, Sailen Baruah as Working President, Kumud Baruah as General Secretary were elected as per the method for the term of 2016-18.On the other hand, Jiban Goswami and Karuna Krishna Nath as Vice Presidents, Ruhiteswar Borah and Anil Dutta as Assistant General Secretaries, Kumud Saikia as treasurer and Ranjit Kakati as Megazine Editor along with nine executive members were selected in the body.

Heavy Rains and Artificial Flood Disrupts Normal Life in Golaghat ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 16: Continuous heaven downpour has made the people of Golaghat to suffer a lot.

Today many parts in the town were seen under the grip of artificial flood due to heavy rains throughout the day. Several parts were

Nitaiphukhuri Rangali Bihu Sanmillan Concludes ET Correspondent Demow, May 16: The patronage people of Nitai Panidehing area, the 7th Nitaiphukhuri Rongali Bihu Sanmillan which was held at Gosaibari playground for two days concluded last Saturday. On Friday the flag was hoisted

by Susan Chandra Konwar, president of the organizing

Promod Boro eyes good governance

waterlogged. School, college students and office goers faced a lot of problem and normal life was disrupted.

Also continuous rainfall and storms have affected electricity and other essential services in Golaghat.

MGNREGA Workers Protest in Golaghat

AAMSU protest against the block of the scholarship for the minority students’.

Pic - Nekib Ahmed

ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 16: Today the workers engaged under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme protested in Golaghat. The protesters amidst heavy rain protested near the DC Office in Golaghat demanding

their wages which are pending for the last eight months. The protesters alleged that this MGNREGA scheme was launched by the government with a view to help the poor but the scheme is not properly implemented till the time.

REGION Voter turnout impressive despite D-Day for Cong, NPP as GH votes today gloomy weather in Meghalaya PAGE 5

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

Tura, May 16: Today is voting day! Will it be making of a history or keeping a legacy?

The 6,23,426 voters from five districts of Garo Hills will give their verdict through the ballot on the political fate of Dikkanchi D. Shira of the Congress and the NPP's Conrad K. Sangma.

Polls open from 7 AM and will continue till 4 PM. The Chief Electoral Officer Frederick Kharkongor said all arrangements have been made to conduct a free and fair election on Monday. All the polling personnel have already arrived at their respective polling stations and the security personnel are also on guard to ensure a peaceful poll. A senior police official said that the recent surrender of many militants have provided a conducive atmosphere to

hold the polls without any law and order problem.

The Chief Electoral Officer hoped that with the various initiatives taken by the election department coupled with improved law and order situation, there will be better turn out of voters compared to the past.

Sangma. It is also a litmus test on the leadership of Chief Minister Mukul Sangma whose supporters believe is the next 'undisputed' leader from Garo Hills though his critics wish to prove that statement wrong.

The last 2014 polls saw 78.14 per cent voters' turn out for Tura Lok Sabha seat.

There was rainfall for the last few days, and as a precaution, polythene and plastic sheets were provided to the polling personnel to cover the EVMs in case of rain. The election will also have a binding on the legacy of P.A. Sangma, whom the people of Garo Hills returned to Parliament for nine consecutive times, never to lose a single election. This election has not centered solely on P.A.

Despite belonging to rival parties, both are similar in the sense that be it Conrad or Dikkanchi it is their first race for Delhi. Dikkanchi wishes to make history by breaking traditional bastions held by (L) P.A. Sangma for more than forty long years while Conrad carries on his shoulders the albatross of a profound legacy, that of his late father.

For Conrad, this time round, the personal is political as he vies to win the seat and keep his father's dreams alive.

For Dikkanchi, this is a

Mizoram tribal refugees burn, damage houses in Tripura

Agartala, May 16: Tension prevailed on Monday in Tripura's Kanchanpur areas where angry tribal refugees of Mizoram burnt and damages around 22 houses of locals the previous day, police said.

The Tripura government has sent a report to the union home ministry about the ethnic troubles, which caused around 100 local people to take shelter in safer places.

"A huge contingent of Tripura State Rifles (TSR) have been deployed in the trouble-torn areas. Situation is now fully under control, though there were some tension prevailing in the areas," north Tripura district police chief Manik Lal Das said.

Das said that the local administration would provide all kinds of assistance and financial support to the affected people.

The arson by several hundred Reang tribal refugees was

started on Sunday afternoon after Bhriguram Reang, 36, reportedly committed suicide on Sunday after he was beaten up by local people who accused him of catching fish from a pond without seeking permission from the owner.

At least seven police men and some fire service personnel were injured in the clashes. Around 31,000 Reang tribals, who locally call themselves "Bru", are living in seven makeshift camps in northern Tripura for the past 19 years after they fled Mizoram following ethnic troubles.

With the directives of the Supreme Court and union home ministry, the Mizoram government has taken many initiatives to take back the refugees but they were reluctant to go back to their villages in western Mizoram unless their demands for food and security were met.(Agencies)

never-before-come opportunity to show her mettle and prove her detractors wrong - that she is a woman with a mind of her own.

This is also an election where the youth will play a decisive factor on voting day.

There are a whopping 3,46,242 voters in the age group of 18 to 35 years in this election. On which side the youth vote will swing is anybody's guess. Also, the male voters overshadow the females in this election.

There are 3,15,999 male voters against 3,07,427 female voters. Out of 945 polling stations, 410 are hypersensitive of which 317 is due to militant activity.

The highest number of voters is at Rongrenggre polling station of Williamnagar while Nengsrang Adugre (Williamnagar) has the lowest number of 89 voters.

Two completely different regions in Garo Hills will play an important role on polling day. The minority dominated plain belt region of West and South West Garo Hills - Mahendraganj, Rajabala and Phulbari have always witnessed huge turnouts of the electorate on voting day. The hill areas of East, South and North Garo Hills - Resubelpara, Mendipathar, Kharkutta, Bajengdoba, Siju-Rongara, Baghmara, Rongjeng, Songsak, Williamnagar and Chokpot - have traditionally voted en-bloc and been the deciding factor in every parliamentary election for the Tura Lok Sabha seat.

But unpredictability is the only possibility, be it in nature or in the polls. Whether this election turns out to be a psephologist's delight or a challenge will be known on May 19 when results are declared.(Agencies)

Tura May 16: Twentyeight per cent polling was recorded in the first four hours of voting in by-election to the Lok Sabha from Tura in Meghalaya. Despite gloomy weather, voters queued up in 945 polling booths across the five districts of Garo Hills region.

The by-election was necessitated following the demise of former Lok Sabha Speaker Purno A. Sangma on March 4. Chief Electoral Officer Frederick Kharkongor said that polling was going on smoothly.

There were technical glitches in eight EVMs, which were quickly replaced. Sangma's youngest son Conrad K. Sangma is the National People's Party's (NPP) main candidate against Congress entrant Dikkanchi D. Shira, wife of Chief Minister Mukul Sangma. Shira is also a member of the 60-member Meghalaya assembly.

State govt now owner of coal worth Rs 1400 cr Shillong, May 16 : Transportation of extracted coal came to a halt on Sunday night as per the NGT order leaving as many as 30 lakh metric tonnes of coal worth Rs.1400 crore to be auctioned off by the State government. After the ban on rat hole mining on April 17, 2014, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowed payment of royalty and subsequent transportation of already extracted coal from November, 2014.

The State government has collected around Rs.700 crore from November, 2014 till April this year in terms of royalty and Meghalaya Environmental Restoration Fund for the transportation of extracted coal. Government counsel in Delhi, Ranjan Mukherjee, said over phone on Sunday that as per the earlier order, the NGT had allowed payment of royalty till April 15 and the transportation of extracted coal till May 15 after which the State government has been entrusted with the task to sell or auction the remaining coal.

Mukherjee said that from Sunday midnight, no transportation of extracted coal will be allowed as this will be the property of the gov-

ernment. "Unless the coal mine owners get some relief from the Supreme Court, the extracted 30 lakh metric tonnes of coal will be auctioned off by the government," Mukherjee said.

He said that the government will have to deploy adequate security forces to prevent the transportation of extracted coal in the State. According to Mukherjee as far as the illegal extraction of fresh coal is concerned, action is being taken by the government, and now the government has to protect 30 lakh metric tonnes of coal which is its property. (Agencies)

Pravin Bakshi on May 13.

BJP blames Congress for hate pamphlets Shillong, May 16: The BJP has lodged a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer on Sunday demanding appropriate action against circulation of pamphlets containing malicious, divisive and condemnable elements on the eve of Tura by-election alleging that it is the handiwork of the Congress.

Earlier, after the AICC had lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India naming RSS behind the malicious campaign, the police registered a case based on the FIR filed by the Returning Officer

"As evident, similar attempts have been made in the recent past by the INC candidate to create a situation of mistrust among the voters and trying to divide them on parochial lines by issuing hate speech and hence, the instant handiwork cannot be ruled out to be a sequel to such attempts in desperation by the INC candidate and her party at large," the BJP leader said.

"Besides, seizure of lakhs of rupees from the possession of the Congress party workers during the campaign period and addressing of election meeting beyond the stipulated hours speaks voluminously of the illegal and unconstitutional means adopted by the INC and its candidate to illegally garner support of the voters," the BJP said.

Lyngdoh said that the pamphlets do not conform to the requirements of such publication as the same neither reflects the name of the signing authority and a co-

The BJP leader has also criticized the Returning Officer for not promptly acting against the Congress candidate for the various lapses.(Agencies)

However, in the complaint letter addressed to the Chief Electoral Officer on Sunday, the BJP state president Shibun Lyngdoh said that as a responsible national party wedded to the Constitution of India, the BJP takes serious exception to the circulation of pamphlets in Garo Hills, aimed at vitiating not only the peaceful electoral atmosphere on the eve of Tura by-election, but also in an attempt to divide and mislead the voters on communal and sectarian lines for reaping narrow electoral gain.

gent official letterhead nor the logo etc., substantiating thereby mala fide with which the whole exercise has been undertaken by the vested interest in this regard.

According to the BJP leader, it is also in public domain that the INC candidate and her party have not only been indulging in corrupt practices to allure the voters but also resorted to deliberate violation of electoral rules and instructions which unfortunately has not drawn the concern of the Election Commission in terms of action restraining the candidate and her party from abusing the process.

ADCs have say in headmen's affairs, State govt admits in affidavit to SC An Indian Telecom technician works on a connection panel at a telephone exchange, in Agartala, 16 May 2016. The World Telecommunication Day will be marked 17 May..pix by UB PHOTOS

Reang refugees originally hailing from Mizoram burnt 21 houses at Kashiram Para village in Kanchanpur under North Tripura district on May 15, 2016 due to physically assault of a 42-year old Bhiguram Reang who killed himself after returning from hospital treatment. pix by UB PHOTOS

Shillong, May 16: SHILLONG: The role of district councils to deal with matters related to headmen was highlighted in the affidavit filed by the State government before the Supreme Court. The case came up for hearing on May 9 in the Apex Court and the Counsel for the State government in the Supreme Court, Ranjan Mukherjee, made a submission that under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution, only the district councils have the power to deal with matters related to headmen and not the State government.

Mukherjee said over phone from Delhi on Sunday that the Supreme Court referred to the Special Leave Petition (SLP) earlier filed by the KHADC and wanted the

petition filed by the State government to be tagged together even as the Court issued notices to the concerned parties.

According to Mukherjee, the earlier order of the Supreme Court after hearing the SLP was that the district councils will have the power to make rules for headmen which means that para 21 of the order of Division Bench of the High Court of Meghalaya has no relevance.

Mukherjee also made a submission before the Supreme Court that headmen cannot be termed as public servants as it is beyond the Constitutional provisions.

The High Court of Meghalaya wanted the headmen to be equated with public servants and hence ordered the State government to frame

rules for them. Earlier on January 13 this year, the Division Bench of the High Court had ruled that until a suitable legislation or an Ordinance during the pendency of the Bill, is brought by the State government, the directions passed by the single Bench headed by Justice S.R. Sen on December 10, 2014, derecognizing the powers of headmen will remain in force.

Later, the KHADC challenged the verdict of the High Court in Supreme Court by filing the SLP. In its order on February 12, the Supreme Court had held that the persons occupying the posts of headmen may continue to function subject to various instructions framed by the District Council as per the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution.(Agencies)

"I am happy a large number of people are coming out to elect their new representative to the Lok Sabha," Conrad said after voting at Gondog in Selsella assembly segment.

"We are positive the voters will elect me as their Lok Sabha representative as a tribute to my late father, Purno A. Sangma," he added. Conrad, who has earned the support of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and regional parties like the United Democratic

Party (UDP), is a former Meghalaya finance minister and opposition leader in the state assembly.

Since 1977 and until his demise on March 4 this year, with the exception of 1989 and 2009, the late Purno Sangma was the representative from Tura Lok Sabha seat-for nine terms.

The Tura Lok Sabha seat, which covers 24 assembly segments, has 622,189 voters-315,255 males and 306,934 females. (Agencies)

HNLC threatens to unleash violence Shillong, May 16: The banned HNLC on Sunday asserted that it will resort to violence after the State government failed to respond to its willingness to hold talks even as it revealed that the plan of the arrested cadres along with the ULFA militant was to blow up the High Court of Meghalaya and the State Secretariat.

In a statement to the press, HNLC publicity secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw informed that they have coordinated with other groups of the North East.

The recent arrest of its cadres along with an ULFA cadre is a huge loss but they will be replaced by others, the outfit said, adding that they will vehemently take to military tactics.

He stated that the two institutions were a target as both was trying to 'segregate' the Hynniewtrep community by taking away the rights of the people. Threatening to intensify their violence, Nongtraw stated, "The police are overconfident of 'Operation Hillstorm'. But they should not forget that the HNLC can create operation IED storm in the heart of the city and its political institutions."

"Henceforth if any casualty is taking place in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, the State government shall be solely responsible. We have decided to take up the path of violence again," the statement said.

The HNLC boasted of having their own bomb experts who are capable of blowing up strategic locations and causing maximum damage. The banned group issued a warning to the public to

not participate in Independence Day or Republic Day celebrations this time.

"We shall plant IEDs in unexpected locations and the public would be solely responsible for their own casualties," Nongtraw warned. "The arrest of our cadres shall not demoralize us but it shall trigger up more hardcore cadres to take up our cause," the statement added. Taking a dig at Chief Minister Mukul Sangma who is campaigning for his wife, Dikkanchi Shira, Nongtraw said, "The CM is busy canvassing for his wife in Garo Hills. He has given in all his efforts to make his wife the 'queen of Garo Hills', but during Vincent Pala's MP election campaign the CM did not bother to canvass for him even though they belong to the same party."

The outfit recounted that they had issued press releases regarding the appointment of interlocutor but was sidelined by the State government and Police department since the government was stressing on dialogues with Garo militants.

"The CM has inked peace pact with Garo militants but when it comes to our group he sidelines us. We had faith in him as a capable leader of the state but his working attitude has made matter worse," Nongtraw stated. In view of the above the HNLC said that the banned group should not be blamed for any consequences as the chief minister has compelled them to take up violence.

(Agencies)

Singer Zubin Garg and Priyanka Bharali perform during Prag Cine Award in Tezpur on 14-05-16. Pix by UB Photos

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

PAGE 6

Missing MHA official produced before court, sent to five-day custody New Delhi, May.16: Union Home Ministry Under Secretary Anand Joshi, who went missing after charges of corruption were slapped against him and was later arrested, was on Monday sent to the CBI custody till May 20 by a Delhi Court. The top investigative agency had sought five day custody of the officer accused of indulging in murky deals with NGOs from the Patiala House Court.

Joshi, who was found hiding at a relative's residence in Tilak Nagar, had

left home in Indirapuram ahead of his questioning by the CBI on May 11.

He had left behind an emotional letter for his family in which he claimed to be subjected to mental harassment.

In a moving appeal to his wife, Joshi wrote, "I am leaving home. Please do not look for me. Now, you (his wife) have to take care of kids by becoming both father and mother".

Joshi, who stands accused of issuing of Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) no-

tices arbitrarily to NGOs for financial gains, further said in his letter that

Court will take a view on Malegaon blast: Jaitley New Delhi, May 16: Rubbishing the opposition's assertion that the Centre is interfering with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in the 2008 Malegaon blasts case, Finance MinisterArun Jaitley on Monday said the manner in which the credibility of some of these investigating agencies have declined was a record.

"The manner in which the investigating agencies were used, the manner in which credibility of some of the investigating agencies declined, I think was a record.

And, therefore, these are matters ultimately which the court will have to take a view. Ultimately this will all go before the court. And, if anything is wrong or improper, I am sure the court will take an appropriate view," Jaitley said in a press conference.

"In each of the cases I referred to, each case without a single exception, the court didn't even frame the charge. They (UPA) discharged the accused even without a trial and that discharge took place not under NDA but even when the UPA was in power," he added.

Citing that he wrote a letter as an opposition to the then prime minister Dr.

Finance MinisterArun Jaitley

Manmohan Singh listing the number of cases with detail of how the chargesheet has been fabricated by the UPA government, he said, got one line reply that these matters are 'sud-judice' "These are legal matters, which are based on quality of evidence. When during the UPA, some of these chargesheet used to be filed by the investigating agencies, you can go back to my Facebook and see the letter I wrote as an opposition to then Dr. Manmohan Singh listing the number of cases with detail of each case illustrating how the chargesheet has been fabricated by the UPA. I got one line reply back that these matters are sub-judice," Jaitley said.

The Congress had yesterday accused the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) of interfering in the 2008

Malegaon blast case to give "clean chits" to accused people with RSS- BJP background, and sought to drag National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's name into the row.

The opposition party urged the Supreme Court to take into its custody the chargesheet, official files, notings and other relevant documents in the case to ensure justice. The NIA now contends that prime accused in the Malegaon blasts were framed by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) which planted evidence against him.

The NIA last week gave a clean chit to accused Sadhvi Pragya Thakur and five others by stating lack of evidence to justify their prosecution in the case.

NIA said out that witnesses against accused had retracted their statements. The Malegaon 2008 blast case was a first case in which Hindu extremists, including Lt. Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit and Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur were chargesheeted in 2009 by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad. The NIA took over the case in 2011.

(ANI)

such a situation wherein he has been accused of corruption.

Posted in the MHA's Foreigners Division, Joshi reportedly had access to files related to Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). He is accused of accepting bribes for getting FCRA clearances done. Joshi has, however, refuted the charges, saying he was 'pressurised' by his superiors to give a clean chit to some organisations. he had never imagined that his 'patriotism' and integrity would lead to

Bihar Police to continue its probe till CBI takes up journalist's murder case Patna, May 16: With Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar giving his consent for a CBI probe in the murder case of journalist Rajdeo Ranjan in Siwan district, Director General of Police (DGP) P.K. Thakur today said the state police would continue its investigation till the top investigating agency takes up the case.

Addressing a press conference along with the Chief Minister, Thakur said the former has announced that the case be handed over to the CBI, adding a proposal is being sent to the top investigating agency for the same.

The DGP, however, downplayed a media poser that 23 people were on the 'hit list' of former RJD lawmaker Mohammed Shahabuddin. "We cannot divulge the details of the investigation.The accused can take advantage of the same," he said.

Thakur further said that it would not be appropriate to make any comment till the time the shooters are not arrested. "Once the shooters are arrested and the

Malegaon blast: Swamy slams 'hypocritical' Congress' New Delhi, May 16: Taking a strong exception to the Congress Party's demand for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the 2008 Malegaon blast case, BJP's Rajya Sabha MPSubramanian Swamy on Monday said the grand old party is 'hypocritical'.

Responding to the Congress' allegations that the National Investigation Agency has become the 'NaMo Investigation Agency', Swamy told that the grand old party 'tells lies at the drop of a hat'.

"Congress is a hypocritical party and they tell lies at the drop of a hat. I want to know why are they demanding that the CBI probe against Harish Rawat in buying of the MLAs be dropped and they have made the same demand today this is called as talking from both side of your mouth," he said.

Refuting the criticism of his government over the reversal of NIA's stand in Malegaon case, Swamy said

Swamy slams 'hypocritical' Congress' the moot question remains as to why even after ten years a chargesheet wasn't filed in the case.

"You (Congress) had originally arrested and charged six to seven Muslims and they are still on bail and that case was not yet addressed and you put another case called Hindu terror. These are utter complication and forging of affidavits,' he added. Brushing aside Congress' charge of saving the

blast convicts, Swamy said: "We can't take Congress seriously."

"If they are really upset on what is happening then let them go and file a complaint in the court, why they are asking us to do this, we are quite satisfied with the way matter is proceeding," he added. The Congress had earlier demanded a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the 2008 Malegaon blast case.

The CBI had last Monday registered case

against the Under Secretary under Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Prevention of Corruption Act after conducting raids at four locations, including Joshi's residence and office.

The CBI had said that cash worth Rs. 7.5 lakh and certain 'incriminating documents', including files pertaining to THE MHA and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, were recovered from the premises of the officer during the raid.

(ANI)

Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma said the National Investigation Agency has become the NaMo Investigation Agency. Sharma further claimed that the chargesheet filed by the NIA in the case seemed to be aimed at "decimating and demolishing" the "meticulous" investigation conducted by the Mumbai Anti-Terrorism Squad led by its then chief, late Hemant Karkare.

He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to uphold his Constitutional oath by letting the apex court monitor the case.

Eight years after she was arrested in the Malegaon blast case, Sadhvi Pragya got a clean chit from the NIA earlier last week.

The NIA on Friday filed a supplementary chargesheet before the court and gave a clean chit to Sadhvi Pragya and five other accused. It also revoked the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act from the case. (ANI)

demand of the slain journalist's relatives. The slain journalist's wife Asha yesterday demanded a CBI probe into his murder to ensure that the culprits get stringent punishment.

Director General of Police (DGP) P.K. Thakur

weapons used in the murder are recovered.Then only we can ascertain," he added when asked whether the police investigation into the murder case was moving towards political intervention.

Expressing shock over the journalist's killing, the Chief Minister earlier said that he has given consent for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the murder case.

He said a formal announcement in this regard will be made soon, adding the request will be sent to the Centre for a CBI inquiry into the murder case in Siwan district.

The Chief Minister said he has given his approval for a CBI probe in view of the

"I demand from the government a CBI probe and a secured future for my children and me. The culprit must be given stringent punishment," she said. When asked if her husband had ever mentioned about any threat to his life, Asha said that she did not have any knowledge about it as her husband never talked about it.

She, however, told in Siwan: "He only mentioned once about receiving threat regarding his profession after BJP leader Shrikant Bharti's murder." 42-yearold Ranjan was allegedly shot dead by criminals near the Siwan railway station earlier on Friday.

Two bullets were fired at the Siwan bureau chief of Hindi daily Hindustan that hit on his head and neck. He was shifted to a hospital, where the doctors declared him brought dead. (ANI)

6,000 HIV cases registered in Kanpur hospital in last six months

6,000 HIV cases registered in Kanpur hospital in last six months Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh), May 16: In a shocking revelation, it is found out that around 6,000 patients infected with HIV have been registered at Kanpur's Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical College in the last six months. According to Dr. Chaman Kumar of the Medical Col-

"We are not opposing GST, the bill would have been passed last year itself if the amendments given by us were approved. When we were in Centre we made the GST bill. That time the opposition has some objections. We had looked after that matter then, now after 3, 4 years we have mentioned one two amendment. What is the problem in improving that," said Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad to here.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had earlier showed positive signs in connection with the passage of pending Goods and Services Tax Bill (GST) and said every political party, including the Congress, favours the bill.

Addressing a press conference here, Jaitley said that he is reasonably confident that the BJP will be able to pass the GST bill, as all parties, national and regional, are in favour of having an

According to officials, awareness among the people is the reason behind this increasing figure. There has been increase in the number of cases, especially in the rural areas. (ANI)

Handwara molestation: Victim makes u-turn, says cops harassed her Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), May 16: In a major twist in the Handwara molestation case, a girl whose complaint of molestation led to protests and firing in the region, said on Monday that she had been forced to record a false statement while in custody and had also been abused.

"They (policemen) spoke to me nicely so I narrated the whole incident to them. After which they told me not to tell the real story to anyone. And added that if I divulged anything, then my family and me might land in trouble. They threatened our lives. I told them that to lie is wrong and I won't lie.

There and then, one of the three policemen got up and slapped me and forced me to lie. I retaliated for a while and then I succumbed to their pressure and changed my statement," said the victim.

"The police misbehaved with me, nobody came forward to help. While I was sitting at the police

Congress not opposing GST, says Ghulam Nabi Azad New Delhi, May 16: The Congress Party on Monday said that the Goods and Services Tax Bill (GST) bill would have been passed last year itself if the amendments given by the grand old party were approved by the government.

lege, around 40-50 cases of people infected with HIV are registered every month.

indirect tax law.

"Every political party, including the Congress favours GST. The Congress party should have had the vision to support it more aggressively because they could claim the original authorship of the idea," said Jaitley.

"If you actually do a number count about all those who are supporting the GST and every regional party has a strong interest in passage of the GST, because the state where it is going to have an impact, it will help those states.

All UPA partners are making urges for GST. I am reasonably confident as when it comes to the crunch. It's extremely difficult for even the Congress party to take a contrary step," he added.

On Saturday Jaitley said that the government might seek voting on GST Constitution amendment bill in Rajya Sabha during the monsoon session of parliament in case Congress continues to oppose it.

The GST bill, which has been cleared by the Lok Sabha, is lying in the Rajya Sabha because of stiff resistance by Congress.

Government has been insisting that most of the parties, except Congress, are in favour of GST, which will bring about a uniform indirect taxation regime in the country. (ANI)

station, several policemen abused me and went away.

After a long time, a woman police constable took me to a room and left after a while. The three policemen came into the room with their faces covered," she added.

Handwara witnessed massive clashes between the police and locals on April 12 after the news of a girl being molested by an army soldier spread. The area was under curfew for a week.

Five people were killed in firing by security forces during the protests. But in a controversial video shot inside a police station, the girl had denied the molestation allegation. The girl has now changed her statement saying she was under pressure. (ANI)

Nitish says ready for CBI probe in journalist's murder case Patna, May 16: Expressing shock over the killing of journalist Rajdeo Ranjan, Bihar Chief Minister NitishKumar on Monday said that he has given consent for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the murder case.

He said a formal announcement in this regard will be made soon, adding the request will be sent to the Centre for a CBI inquiry into the murder case in Siwan district. The Chief Minister, who was speaking to the media here, said he has given his approval for a CBI probe in view of the demand of the slain journalist's relatives.

The slain journalist's wife Asha yesterday demanded a CBI probe into his murder to ensure that the culprits get stringent punishment. "I demand from the government a CBI probe and a secured future for my children and me. The culprit must be given stringent punishment," she said.

When asked if her husband had ever mentioned about any threat to his life, Asha said that she did not have any knowledge about it as her husband never talked about it. She, however, told in Siwan: "He only mentioned once about receiving threat regarding his profession after BJP leader Shrikant Bharti's murder."

When informed that Upendra Singh's name has figured in connection with this case and the police have detained him, she said, "I have seen Upendra calling on his mobile that's how I know about him."

42-year-old Ranjan was allegedly shot dead by criminals near the Siwan railway station earlier on Friday. Two bullets were fired at the Siwan bureau chief of Hindi daily Hindustan that hit on his head and neck. He was shifted to a hospital, where the doctors declared him brought dead.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

Mali storm kills two Bangladeshi UN peacekeepers

Tanahun (Nepal), May 16: At Least two people were killed and several injured after being struck by lightning in Nepal's Tanahun district.

NEIGHBOURS

Want to respond to allegations levelled against me before questioning PM: PTI chief

Islamabad, May 16: Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan has said that he will respond to allegations leveled against him regarding his offshore wealth before questioning Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Dhaka, May 16: Two the same in parliament Bangladeshis on a United Nations peacekeeping today. mission were killed and five injured in a storm in "I will first respond to the allegations leveled Mali last night. against me in the parliaThe Daily Star reports ment and will then ask that the deceased are po- Nawaz Sharif to clarify lice constables Samidul the allegations against Islam and Motahar him. However, I have Hossain, according to a yet to decide whether I press statement issued by will clarify the allegathe police headquarters in Dhaka today. Inspec- tions in a press confertor General of Police ence or in the assembly," (IGP) AKM Shahidul the express tribune Hoque mourned the quoted him as saying deaths of the constables, outside his Bani Gala the press note adds. De- residence here. Famed tails on the deceased and injured victims were not available till 12:29pm when the report was filed.

Lightning kills two in Nepal's Tanahun district

PAGE 7

country if prime minister responds to the questions of the opposition in the assembly, " he said.

cricketer-turned-politician who just returned home from his UK trip asserted of being accountable.

"I am not among those who level counter allegations on their opponents instead of presenting the facts before the nation. I will first clarify

myself. In democracy, a leader does not put counterallegations. I am accountable to the people," he added. "I want to discuss everything before the prime minister in the assembly.

This is a great moment for democracy and it will further the democratic culture in the

Talking about Chief Justice of Pakistan Anwar Zaheer Jamali's refusal to form a judicial commission on government's plea to probe the Panama Papers leaks, Imran said the opposition's stance has been vindicated.

"Everyone knew the chief justice will reject the TORs presented by the government. The chief justice said the right thing. If Nawaz Sharif is serious and thinks that he is innocent then he should sit with the opposition and discuss the TORs," he said.

The PTI chairman has last week admitted that he formed an offshore company in 1983 during his cricketing years in London. He even admitted at London Heathrow Airport that he formed the offshore firm on the advice of his accountant to "avoid UK taxes".

The leaked documents from the Mossack Fonseca law firm in Panama last month showed premier's three children owned at least three offshore holding companies registered in the British Virgin Islands. Following that the opposition last week prepared seven questions for the Sharif to answer on the floor of the assembly.(ANI)

Federal Alliance accuses Nepal govt. of crackdown on protesters

Kathmandu, May 16 : The Federal Alliance has accused Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli-led government of ordering a crackdown on its cadres who were taking part in the Kathmandu-centric protests which began on Sunday.

In a statement by the Federal Alliance on Monday, spokesperson Parashu Ram Tamang said that the police personnel stopped "thousands of leaders and cadres" heading to join the movement for seven to eight hours at mid-

The thunderbolt struck at the house of Khem Rana at Kanhunshivapur VDC-7 last night, injuring his 18 and 20-yearold daughters, Gulabi and Mausami respectively, reports the Himalayan Times. Mausami died while undergoing treatment at the Damauli Islamabad, May 16: PakiHospital at 11 p.m..

ways, interrogated them with unnecessary questions, seized flags and banners and frisked them unnecessarily, reports the Himalayan Times.

The statement said that the police activities violated their basic right to movement. "If any untoward incident takes place while suppressing our peaceful and nonviolent protests.We would like to inform that this racist government will be held responsible, " the statement said.

Meanwhile, the Alliance

continued the Singha Darbar gherao programme for the second consecutive day. Protesters gathered outside Singha Darbar, chanted anti-government slogans and attempted to push through a police barricade.

Briefly, the police also used batons to tame the protesters but no serious injuries were reported on either side. Alliance members, however, said that three protesters were injured and were undergoing treatment at the National Trauma Centre.

The alliance comprising of 27 political parties, including seven Madhesi forces, which have formed the Samyukta Loktantrik Madhesi Morcha (SLMM) had announced protest to exert pressure on the government to address their longstanding demands.

The disgruntled Madhesi parties demand redrawing provincial boundaries and amending some provisions of the Constitution.

The move comes days after the agitating forces'

declined the government's offer to resume talks. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli-led government had on Monday written to the agitating parties, inviting them to the negotiating table.

No talks have been held between the two parties since February 18, the day the government formed a political mechanism to address the agitating parties concerns.

The alliance has vowed to continue the protest programmes until their demands are met. (ANI)

Panama leaks scandal: Sharif to address National Assembly today

Gulabi was immediately rushed to Pokhara for additional treatment. In the meantime, lighting struck another house in the same neighbourhood, killing Animaya Thapa (55). He died on his way to the hospital.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Surendra Bahadur Gurung, of District Police Office, Tanahun said that four cows and three lambs belonging to Rishiram Thapa of the same locality were also killed in the lightning.

stan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will today make his first appearance in parliament since the Panama Papers revelations about his family's offshore holdings caused a political uproar in the country.

However, the revelations that his arch-rival, PTI chief Imran Khan, had also set up an offshore company have eased some pressure. "The prime minister will come up with lots of substance, which should be sufficient for his own constituency and the more fair-minded critics, since the opposition always manages to find some fault," Dawn quoted a key adviser

to the Prime Minister as saying.

The adviser added that the Sharif was now in a better position to defend the case of his three children, given that several key opposition

members, including PTI's Imran Khan, Jahangir Tareen, Aleem Khan, PPP senators Rehman Malik and Osman Saifullah as well as Moonis Elahi, the son of former deputy PM Pervaiz

Elahi, would have to answer regarding their direct or indirect links to offshore companies in tax havens. Apart from responding to the opposition's queries, the Prime Minister reportedly would urge political leaders across the board to come up with a collective strategy to root out the evil of money laundering once and for all.

According to reports, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan is said to have played a key role in the preparation of notes for the Prime Minister, whereas Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid has been tasked with phrasing the response.

Meanwhile, the opposition

will be meeting again ahead of the assembly session this afternoon to thrash out a strategy before going into the session. "[Opposition parties] will meet and discuss our response in case the PM avoids answering the seven questions that have been conveyed to the government through the National Assembly speaker," PTI chief whip Dr. Shireen Mazari said.

PTI spokesperson Naeemul Haq confirmed that Imran Khan was due to return to Pakistan on today and would also be attending the National Assembly sitting.

(ANI)

Parties to strive for consensus on Nepal's Parliamentary Regulations: Gachhadar Biratnagar (Nepal), May 16: Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister Bijay Kumar Gachhadar has said that parties would take initiatives till the last hour to forge consensus on parliamentary regulations.

Gachhadar asserted in finding a consensus before going to the voting process to decide on the regulations, reports.

He pointed out that the opposition parties should think that people would take them positively if the regulations were passed in consensus. Asserting that the size of the Parliamentary Hearing Special Committee should be determined as per the new Constitution, he said the committee could disqualify decisions of the government regarding impeachment of the chiefs of the constitutional bodies and other officials appointed on political basis with the twothirds majority.

He also said that the government was ready to hold local bodies' election and both Nepali Congress and Madhesi Morcha should be positive for the same. Expressing his view over the current agitation of the Federal Alliance, he said that it was not suitable to

launch agitation as the government had urged the Alliance for talks time and again. He pressed that all problems would be resolved through dialogues.

(ANI) Caption: Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister Bijay Kumar Gachhadar NC Prez Deuba urges all democrats to unite for stable democracy Kathmandu,May 16: Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba has urged all the democrats for staying united as there was threat to democracy in the country. Deuba claimed that the incumbent government failed to implement the new Constitution through harmony and agreement among the political parties.

The government ignored the largest party (Nepali Congress) in theParliament, but his party would deal with that and work out to save the democracy. He was speaking at a programme organised to mark the 22th anniversary of Prajatantrik Vichar Samaj. A book published in memorial of former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress leader Krishna Prasad Bhattarai was also launched on the occasion. (ANI)

Hundreds protest in Kabul, accuse govt. of discrimination, injustice Kabul, May 16: Hundreds of people on Monday took to streets protesting against the government in Kabul city demanding the change of the route for TUTAP power project to Bamyan and Maidan Wardak provinces. The protesters marched together chanting slogans against the government accusing the leaders for discrimination and injustice, reports the Khaama Press.

Amid concerns that the demonstration could turn violent, the Afghan security forces are high alert and the main roads going towards the presidential palace and government compound have been blocked. A number of the prominent former Jihadi leaders and religious figures on Sunday warned the government that demonstration could

turn violent and urged the government to prevent the implementation of the project until the controversies have been resolved.

Pir Syed Ahmad Gilani, a member of the High Council of Jihadi parties warned that the country could face riots and violence if the issue is not resolved. President Ashraf Ghani has meanwhile, suspended the execution of 500kV TUTAP power project until the completion of the review of the project.

"President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani issued a decree for the formation of a national commission for the review of 500kV power project route from Pul-eKhumri to Arghandi," Khamma Press quoted statement issued by the office of the President as saying. (ANI)

Lankan National Police Commission receives over 1000 complaints from public

Pak to raise India's Prithvi-II BGB, BSF to jointly missile test at international level probe border killings

Lahore, May 16 : Reacting to the recent supersonic interceptor missile test by India, adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has said that Pakistan will acquire advanced technology to improve its defence and will also raise the matter at the International arena.

Quoting Radio Pakistan, Aziz expressed concern over India's missile test, saying it will disturb the balance of power in the region.

Asserting that Pakistan is

States, as Washington thinks a strong India is vital to contain China. India successfully test fired its indigenously developed Prithvi-II missile from a test range off the Odisha coast on Sunday.

not oblivious to its defence, Aziz added that Islamabad will continue to upgrade its defensive capabilities.

Assuring that Pakistan

would raise its voice at the international level against India's defense developments, the diplomat alleged that India is enjoying the cooperation of the United

The missile was launched at 11.15 a.m. from the launching complex. The success of Advanced Air Defence interceptor missile test now strengthens India's position in the very exclusive Ballistic Missile Defence club of the US, Russia and Israel. (ANI)

Dhaka, May.16: The Bangladesh Border Guard (BBG) and the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) will jointly investigate border killings. This was decided by the heads of both forces during a five-day discussion held in Dhaka.

Major General Aziz Ahmed, director general of Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) said that through this process, both sides will have clear information reports Daily Star. The five-day conference was held at BGB headquarters located in the capital's Pilkhana area.

Both sides, led by the head of the forces, attended the talks that began on May 11.

After the talks came to a close, a joint press briefing was arranged this morning.

Both sides agreed to invite journalists to open the activities of the border troopers to public, BGB chief Major General Aziz said.

His Indian counterpart, K K Sharma, director general of the Border Security Force (BSF), said talks were held focusing on moving forward to foster cooperation among both forces.(ANI)

Colombo, May 16: Since its inception in October 2015, the NationalPolice Commission (NPC) of Sri Lankahas received about 1,000 complaints against police officers or the police service from the from the general public. The NPC has been able to complete investigations of only 200 complaints, reports the Colombo Page web site.

Police Inaction, acting beyond their authority and bias are the three major category complaints received.

The NPC is empowered to engage in activities pertain-

ing to transfers, promotions, maintaining of discipline and removal from service of all police officials other than the Inspector General of Police.

When asked why the NPC does not investigate despite some of these abuses by police officers , the official said the commission cannot launch investigations without a complaint. In addition, the general public can lodge complaints to the Commission against police officials or the police service.(ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

Make in India Major boost to the campaign Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious "Make in India" program last September, pledging to lower barriers to doing business Photo:livemint and promote foreign investment. He is hoping to transform Asia's third-largest economy into a manufacturing powerhouse like China. For many years, India has harboured hopes of chasing down China to the forefront of economic growth but its attempts kept faltering as unwieldy coalition governments held back much-needed reforms for nearly 25 years. The Indian economy, which grew at a nearly doubledigit rate in the middle of the last decade, slowed down 5.08% in 2012 before recovering to 7.2% in 2014. The contribution of manufacturing in India's GDP growth has come under fresh scrutiny after factory output dipped for the second consecutive month in December.

The main aim of Make in India Campaign is to increase the GDP and tax revenues in the country by manufacturing products, with high quality standards and minimising the impact on the environment. Besides fostering innovation, protecting intellectual property, and enhancing skill development. And focus on areas under the policy: New initiatives -- for ease of doing business; FDI-government has allowed 100 percent FDI in all sectors except space, defence and news media; Intellectual Property Rights-to protect the rights of the innovator; National manufacturing-to increase manufacturing sector's growth and job creation. The ministry of statistics reported that the index of industrial production shrank by 1.3% in December compared to the previous year. Cumulative factory output for the nine months to December 31, 2015, grew just 3.1% over the previous corresponding period. The data stood at odds with the GDP numbers of the same period that showed manufacturing growing at 12.6% during October-December 2015. Also the government wants to focus on domestic companies to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. It will converge multiple initiatives such as Start-Up India, Skill India and Digital India to boost manufacturing. The longest wait, however, has been for tax reforms which can improve the country's competitiveness. But first, the government has to break political logjams to get crucial enabling legislation through Parliament.

Experts rue Uttar Pradesh pollution board's move to reduce brick kiln pollution The Uttar Pradesh Pollu- ones is erroneous and hot air inside and the relation Control Board shows total lack of techni- tively cooler air outside (UPPCB) has directed the cal understanding on the produces a pressure differbrick kiln owners of UPPCB's part, experts ence which is known as Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh said. draft.

Nagar and Hapur to up- In view of erratic power In induced kilns as the grade their technology supply, kiln owners will movement of air is manfrom natural draft brick have to run a diesel genera- aged with the help of a fan, kilns to induced draft brick tor set to operate the fan if the pressure drop is higher kilns than within that 9 0 Rahul Kumar Singh, Nivit Kumar Yadav found days. in the The UPPCB notice was they shift to induced draft natural draft. issued last month under kilns which will further It is believed that induced Section 31(A) of the Air add to their woes. kilns operate faster, and (Prevention and Control of Also, the notification does thus reduce coal consumpPollution) Act, 1981. All not mention cleaner tech- tion. But to control the air the three districts fall un- nologies that brick kilns flow and achieve proper der the National Capital need to adopt to reduce air brick firing, the brick setRegion (NCR). pollution. ting in the kilns is denser "The UPPCB received a Brick-making techniques than natural draft kilns. directive from the Central There are different types of Most of the existing kilns Pollution Control Board brick-making technologies in NCR are natural draft (CPCB) to enforce strict available in India. These kilns that follow the Bull's compliance with (the) con- techniques vary in terms of Trench Kiln technology. version of natural draft arrangement of bricks, fuel The results show that the brick kilns to induced draft feeding, air flow and the Natural Draft Bull's Trench and we are just complying method of achieving rela- Kiln is the most polluting with the direction re- tive movement between air as well as the highest enceived," a senior official of flow and bricks. ergy-consuming technolGreater Noida regional of- The commonly-found red ogy. It is only logical that fice of the UPPCB said. bricks used for construc- this technology should not The CPCB directive was tion are made by firing be allowed to operate as sent under section 18(1)(b) dried bricks into kilns at suggested in the UPPCB of the above mentioned temperatures up to around notification.

Act for initiating action 1000 degrees Celsius.

The results also show that against various pollution Air flow is important as it it is not only the method of sources to improve the air is responsible for the dis- creation of the draft (natuquality of Delhi and NCR. tribution of heat inside the ral or induced) which deAccording to pollution ex- kilns. In natural draft brick termines the pollution perts, the UPPCB step is a kilns, this is achieved by a level, but the kiln technolwelcome move as it has chimney whereas in in- ogy is also the determining identified brick kilns as an duced draft brick kilns, the factor. important source of air pol- air flow is controlled by a Lack of technical knowllution. fan. edge However, the notification Under the former technol- The lack of technical ungoes off the mark in terms ogy, hot gases accumulat- derstanding and clarity on of the technological solu- ing at the bottom of the the part of the UPPCB is tion it has proposed. The chimney are lighter than baffling the brick industry. transition from natural the ambient air outside. Kushanga Mittal, a brick draft kilns to induced draft The difference between the kiln owner near Greater

There are different types of brick-making technologies available in India.

These techniques vary in terms of arrangement of bricks, fuel feeding, air flow and the method of achieving relative movement between air flow and bricks (Photo: Ben Stephenson) Noida, has recently converted his kiln from fixed chimney Bull's Trench Kiln to the natural draft zig-zag kiln.

The performance of his kiln was recently monitored by an international research team and the SPM emissions were found to be low.

"I have voluntarily invested more than Rs 20 lakh to upgrade my kiln and bring down emissions to low levels, but as my kiln is a natural draft kiln, it will not be considered as a cleaner one. This is unjust and unfair and the regulation needs to be amended," he said.

Experts said the UPPCB

notification should be amended and the existing natural draft Bull's Trench Kilns should be replaced with cleaner technologies.

Several other developing countries have already undertaken similar measures.

Vietnam has taken steps to ban traditional kilns and Bangladesh has banned Bull's Trench Kilns.

"There is adequate technical understanding and experience available today in the country which can be used to assist the brick kilns owners and the CPCB is making right technological choices that will help in reducing air pollution in the NCR region as well as modernise

the brick industry. As brick kilns provide employment to millions of workers, a much more sensitive and holistic approach is required for achieving a sustainable transformation," Sameer Maithel, director, Greentech Knowledge Solution Private Limited, a clean energy research firm, said.

Half-baked measures lacking scientific validity and technological understanding should be avoided. If the CPCB and the UPPCB really want to bring a major difference in air quality, they will have to come up with a clear technological roadmap for the brick sector, experts said.

Courtesy: dte

Kudos to ISRO Study Reveals Plight of Assam's Migrant Workers in Kerala. Part-II

First baby steps towards the big Hanuman leap Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will embark this month on a never before space flight that would make history. The Indian space agency is set to undertake the maiden launch of its very own indigenous version of a 'space shuttle', a madein-India effort. A sleek winged body almost the weight and size of a sports utility vehicle (SUV) is being given final touches at Sriharikota, awaiting the final countdown. Scientists at ISRO believe that they could reduce the cost of launching stuff into space by as much as 10 times if reusable technology succeeds, bringing it down to USD 2,000 per kg. Very soon and if all goes well possibly before the monsoon sets in, India's space port at Sriharikota on the coast of the Bay of Bengal in Andhra Pradesh will witness the launch of the indigenously made Reusable Launch Vehicle - Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD). This will be the first time ISRO will launch a spacecraft, which has delta wings. After launch, it will be glided back onto a virtual runway in the Bay of Bengal. The RLV-TD is unlikely to be recovered from sea during this experiment as it is expected that the vehicle will disintegrate on impact with water since it is not designed to float.

The purpose of the experiment is not to see it float but to glide and navigate from a velocity five times higher than the speed of sound onto a designated virtual runway in the Bay of Bengal some 500 km from the coast. Similar in its looks to the American space shuttle, the RLV-TD being experimented is a scale model which is almost 6 times smaller than the final version.

India embarked on making its own version of the space shuttle by thinking about it more than 15 years ago, but work in earnest started only five years ago when a dedicated team of engineers and scientists plunged into making RLV-TD a reality. The 6.5-mlong 'aeroplane'-like spacecraft will weigh 1.75 tons and will be hoisted into the atmosphere on a special rocket booster. The special booster or the first stage is powered using a solid fuel and it will hoist the RLV-TD experiment to about 70 km into the atmosphere from where the descent will begin.

During the descent, phase which is essentially a glider like event small thrusters will help the vehicle to be navigated to the exact spot where it is supposed to land.

Ships, satellites and radars will monitor its descent. The current experimental version has no undercarriage so it cannot be brought back onto land and India lacks a runway that is longer than 5 km in length to accommodate such a landing. Some private billionaires with very active support from NASA have been trying to master vertical lift-off and vertical landing as part of trying to recycle rocket engines.

After the successful deployment of the Swadeshi Global Positioning System through NAVIC or Navigation with Indian Constellation, ISRO is again reaching for the stars.

In the wood industry, the adds.

DMLs earn between However, DMLs who reRs.200-300 a day. They ceive better wages workwork for 10 hours a day. ing as masons, superviHowever, there are differ- sors, petty traders, hawkences in accommodation ers etc. live in a proper and food in different flat, with one room and a units. The study team common veranda, a small found that in one of the kitchen and a toilet. These flats wood i n - Ratna Bharali Talukdar h a v e elecdustry units, examined by it, tricity and water connecthe weekly menu for the tions, and are occupied on labourers included mut- an average by 5-6 persons. ton for three days, The average rent of such chicken for two days and buildings ranges between egg for one day. The hard Rs. 4000 to 5000. labour required to put The wage thus differs into wood industry has from sector to sector, promade their employer en- fession to profession and sure good food. How- depending on level of ever, living condition of skill, market demand and the unskilled labourers is supply of labour. The the worst. These un- number of DML is so huge skilled labourers mostly that they have been relive in dwellings with tin ferred as "reserve army of or plastic sheds, without labour for various produckitchen, bathroom or toi- tive sectors", with very low level of awareness on lets.

"There are instances of issues of minimum wages open defecation and legal provisions. too‌‌The local public "Many respondents rehas very low opinion ported that they come to about them and saw them Kerala due to lack of emas a threat to public hy- ployment opportunities in giene, security and law their home state. Agriculand order", the report ture has become uneco-

nomical, and there are no openings in industrial or services sector. And, when one compares the wage levels, the wages in Kerala is more than double they get in their homeland. All this makes Kerala a very lucrative destination," it says.

DMLs are visible in both rural and urban pockets of Kerela and in almost all professions including hotels and restaurants, brick kilns, jewellery work, bakeries, head-load work, hospitality and in manufacturing industries of all kinds.

"One can see crowds of DML ranging from hundreds to thousands in the suburbs of Thrissur, Kannur, Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram cities. They have not only outnumbered the local workers in many professions but they have also totally replaced them" the report says.

Working for 12-14 hours a day, these DMLs hardly have leisure time for relaxation or entertainment.

They return to their accommodation sites late in

the evening. It is only Sundays that they have time to do weekly chores like marketing, recharging of their mobile phones, visit friends and relatives in parks, streets, open centres, gardens, etc. Such spaces are very few, and presence of DMLs often "irritate local people." There have been instances in Trivandrum when they were driven away from parks by local police, adds the report. "Not only that their participation in local festivals and celebrations are minimal, some of their celebrations like Holi and Deepavali are seen as too noisy and riotous by local population. All this further insulates them from any kind of social life."

Their movements are closely monitored by group leaders and local community. They have the right to oust them without any excuse if they happen to find something wrong. They are under constant surveillance of the house-owner, who provide accommo-

dation for them, it says.

DMLs are also often seen as a health threat, as carriers of diseases that were eradicated from Kerala.

Even after living a hazardous life in vulnerability at work site, these DMLs send the money they save to their families in home state. Over 24 per cent of them send between Rs.1000- 5000 a month, 38.50 per cent sent between Rs.5000- 10,000 and 19.73 per cent can send between Rs.10,00020,000. Only about 4.76 per cent can send above Rs.20,000/ a month to their homes.

The annual remittance by the DML is estimated between Rs.16,076.16 Crore and 10,768. 93 Crores, depending upon the stock of DML taken.

It would be definitely over 14,000 Crore a year, the report says.

Despite opening up of such huge employment opportunities to DMLs of outside states, the study team has expressed deep concern over a possible change in demography of local population in Kerala

Unhealthy Health Department

image for representational purpose (Photo: smartgrowth)

Sir, The 'Health' department of the State is in the grip of a gloomy scenario. So long as the result of the assembly election is not declared, the ruling dispensation of the state is supposed to hold the rein of the administration. As against the tall talks of the leaders of the ruling party about the development, functioning of each and every department is in a shambles. Health department is the worst of the lot. It transpires from a report telecast through the electronic media that a child after receiving blood from the 'Blood-Bank' of the GMCH got infected with 'HIV - Positive'. This is not the first case, on earlier occasion also, people got infected with 'AIDS' after receiving blood from GMCH blood bank. It seems, the blood bank is manned by some dubious persons. Only a probe will unveil what is going on in the blood bank. It is reported from time to time about the sorry state of affairs prevailing in the state owned hospitals. Another matter of grave

concern that rocks the boat of the health department is the resignation of some specialist doctors from the Jorhat Medical college and Hospital and a good number of disgruntled doctors of the college are contemplating resignation. A report published in some news papers suggest that hundreds of posts of nurses are lying vacant, supply of medicine also stopped for last two years, no HOD in most of the departments speak volume about the sordid tale. Do these phenomena reflect about the 'Development' of the 15 years as claimed by Tarun Gogoi led state Government?

with a steady increase in DML population.

"The demographic profile of Kerala, due to various interventions like family planning programme, and factors like out migration to Gulf and other countries, is increasingly weighed towards the older age categories, and in another ten years, majority of the population will be 40 plus. So, in the near future, a very explosive demographic situation will arise in Kerala, where a big majority of the host population will belong to the older age groups while the migrant population will dominate the other segment of the population that is young and working," report sounds an alarm bell.

To address such issues in advance, the report strongly recommends for introduction of policies and regulations ensuring protection of both DML as well as the local population.

End Courtesy: Nezine

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So please keep writing.

Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Yours etc.

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

Page 9

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6 Golden Rules I Learnt As A Young Entrepreneur In India Taking up entrepreneur- comparisons. It's a hecship shortly after gradu- tic lifestyle, but I'm really ating comes with its fair enjoying the benefits of share of pros and cons. both career paths in one It is quite risky: you are go. potentially sacrificing I've learned a lot over the years of reliable, stable past year. Today, I'd like career growth in ex- to share some of these change for learnings the chance of Awais Imran with you, in experiencing the hopes that incredible personal, ca- it will help you become a reer and financial growth. better professional: I personally have The Dos adopted the middle path: Take risks: All the magic like my peers, I am work- happens when you start ing full-time for a US- working outside your based startup. Unlike comfort zone. This is most of my peers, how- where you face your ever, I work on my own fears by taking risks both startup at nights and on big and small. Most will weekends.

At not work out as you had PriceOye.pk, we're build- imagined, but you will ing a shopping intelligence learn and grow imservice which helps con- mensely having taken sumers make great buy- them. Mistakes teach you ing decisions - starting lessons which push you in with mobile phone price the right direction. And

the few risks that do work out? These will propel your startup to the next level.

So, I actively encourage you to take risks and not be afraid of making mistakes. The knowledge you gain from them will only push you faster towards your goals!

Be very patient: It takes years to build and sell great products. When you get into the startups game, understand that nothing - not even Rome - was built in a day. Keep building your product, keep forming partnerships, and keep growing your platform. One day, several years from now, you will be considered an "overnight success" by the public when your startup goes mainstream.

In my network, the most

successful entrepreneurs are those who have remained patient and kept slugging through the mud for several years until their relentless persistence paid off.

Keep meeting people: Remember that your network is your net worth.

Keep finding and meeting new people who interest you - not just for immediately getting something out of them.

It's a highly rewarding experience where you learn about entirely new concepts, understand different perspectives, and get inspiration for your next goals.

Some of my greatest learning experiences have come from directly meeting people above me on my chosen ladder of success. Do you want to

become a successful blogger? Find one, and take them out for a coffee. Listen to their story.

Their struggles. Their successes. They will equip you with the tools required for success. I've found this activity to be as fulfilling as travelling to a new country.

The Do Nots Ignore feedback: I know it's difficult to hear people poke holes in on your startup, but you should actively listen to and implement good feedback. This is especially important for B2C startups whose products are to be used by millions of people. In the process of building them, it's easy to forget how others use your product since you are naturally always seeing things from your own

Image for representational purpose (Photo: tech.cd) perspective.

Care about what people say: Entrepreneurship is not a socially accepted career choice in major parts of the world. You will hear extended family members, friends and more tell you to work in a multi-national company.

Pay no heed to such people. These are the

How Assam's Tea Gardens Flourished On The 'Abuse And Torture' Of Their Labourers "Our ancestors migrated to to their excessive intake of were keen on getting labour purpose of this intimidation these lands from the Orissa- opium. They too turned out at cheaper prices. A series of was to create a sense of fear Jharkhand region of present to be deserters and were legislations were passed to among the coolies whose India. We would like to go hardly regular. They worked overcome this problem; populations outran the Euback and see the villages in the tea garden only when thus, the act of 1870 created ropeans and also keep the where we came from." - they needed money and then an alternative system called labour force obedient. "To These were the words spo- left without notice. All this 'Garden Sardar' . preserve their authority, the ken by Jeremiah (name added to the annoyance of Sardars are non-commercial planters devised the indenchanged), a tea i n t e r m e d i a r y ture regime to keep their Richu Sanil Chemmalakuzhy agents of the workforce docile, disciplined worker in the Tinkhuria tea esplantations who and intimidated, enforced by tate in upper Assam. We met British in its inability to find were sent back to their vil- legislation from the colonial Jeremiah on our field visit to a compliant labour force. lages to procure labour from rule." the tea estate last year. We Next was the turn of Kachari their 'close kin, community, The life of labourers under had the experience of inter- tribals who had migrated to and caste'. This was a mea- the sadistic tea planters was acting with the workers who tea plantations from lower sure intended to bring down harsh and dismal. They got have been shedding their Assam area. Besides most of the level of deception and a meagre amount as wage, sweat in those tea gardens them leaving just like the lo- coercion employed by the there was a shortage of since the last three genera- cal labourers and Chinese, private contractors. Also, food, there were epidemics tions. Some had the longing the Kacharis also organised buying labourers from the and diseases. This was to go back; some had only peasant revolt against the Sardars would be way too complimented by the cruelstories of their woes to share, British - all the more reasons cheaper than buying from ties meted out to the of government and planta- for the British to be disap- the contractors. But later on, labourers by their European tion managers not listening pointed with the Kacharis. it was found that the Sardars masters in the form of flogto their demands. They don't After these failed attempts, have properly built schools the British found its rightful or hospitals nearby; and of- labourers in the tribal people ten no electricity. They only of central India. have deprivation as their as- The Industrious Coolies set. One which is passed on And British Race Notions from generation to genera- It is interesting to note that, tion ever since they set foot in the first two decades of on these lands. Assam is to- tea plantations (1840-1860) day the largest tea manufac- "‌physical coercion and turer in India, contributing other forms of extra-legal significantly to the annual means to control and tame produce which makes India workforce, did not appear to the second largest producer be in practice during this of tea. But this vast empire period." It is because, as has been built on the sorrow Rana P. Behal points out, the and sweat of millions of tea management was cautious labour who had come to about the development of these distant land to earn tea industry and would not manage a living. This is their want to jeopardise it at any story. cost.

The Failed Attempts It was the time when the BritImage for representational purpose (Photo: Around 1834, tea was dis- ish were exploiting the reamalgamatedplantations) covered in Assam. In the be- gions of Chotanagpur (Cenginning, large amounts of tral-India). They found the worked in close alliance with ging, making them do extra forest clearing and setting up people in these regions more the contractors and were able work, confining them for of tea gardens were under- suitable to the work in the to exploit the internal vulner- days without food, humilitaken by European capital- tea plantations than Kachari abilities of families in the vil- ating and threatening them ist planters. The Charter Act labourers, as they were not lage. Thus, the contractors with trained dogs that would of 1833 allowed Europeans the kind "who succumbed and Sardars both emerged as find those who fled and to buy land in East India to the onslaught of exploitative labour recruiters much more. Their life grew Company colonies. Also, the civilisation." The British with the Sardars failed in their miserable by each passing 'Wasteland Act' enabled the considered them more indus- purported aim of lowering the da as reflected in the high mortality and desertion rate Europeans to acquire large trious, diligent and docile. irregularities in recruitment. in the plantations across swathes of 'wasteland' at Soon there was significant Indentured 'Slavery' concessional rates. Very demand for this tribe in the The cruel subordination un- Assam. Figures show out of soon, these 'wastelands' tea plantation business. All der slavery was replaced by 84,915 labourers imported were converted to 'money- these 'labour-suitable' quali- a 'less severe' indentured between May 1863 and May yielding-lands' with the set- ties attributed to the men and labour system in 1833 which 1866; only 49, 750 survived, ting up of tea plantations in women of these regions in has been crucial to the Brit- and the rest either perished Upper Assam. The British the colonial discourses, ish plantations from then on. or managed to escape. were keen on ending the struck a chord with the plant- Assam Gardens were no ex- People called this the "New Chinese monopoly over tea. ers as they decided to import ception, where this system Slavery" with the coolies Availability of labour always labourers from Central India. was established around 1860. trapped in the predicament posed a problem for the capi- This decision decided the Often this system shared a of 'die-if-you-stay' or 'die-iftalist. Firstly, they brought in lives of millions of men, blurred line with slavery as you-go.' Nothing was done skilled Chinese labourers women and children who the coercive methods em- to improve the health and from Singapore and Penang. migrated, sometimes force- ployed in these gardens were sanitation of the labourers.

But they refused to do work fully or deceived by recruit- similar to the ones practised The Question Of Women like clearing forests (not ers or voluntarily owing to under slavery. The indenture The recruiters brought a mentioned in their con- pressures, to the 'Slave King- system bound the labourers large number of women and tracts). The Chinese soon dom' of tea plantations in to the plantations through a families to the tea plantapenal-contract system in tions. The planters used the contracted diseases in this Upper Assam. foreign land. Many died and The Recruitment Dilemma which the violators who fled tactic of bringing the family the rest deserted. They There was a section of busi- were given harsh punish- as this acted as an advanturned out to be a headache nessmen who took advan- ments by the planters who tage and bonded the for the British as they de- tage of this persistent need had been given extra-legal labourer to the gardens. manded improved condi- for labour in the Assam gar- authority. "It was a case of There was also a disparity tions for working. By 1860, dens. They were the large co-existence of an 'irrational' in treatment of women in the the Chinese labourers com- private contractors who and inhuman labour regime gardens though the work pletely disappeared. The Brit- thrived on procuring labour producing a modern 'rational' done by both men and women would be the same ish had also recruited Nagas, and selling it to the planta- corporate world." who were forest dwellers. tions in Assam at "exorbi- This indentured labour sys- (Rs. 4 each month to women They were given the work of tant" prices. In the expand- tem created a structure of and Rs. 5 to the men). clearing forests while the ing phases of the tea indus- power hierarchy based on The planters were 'egalitarChinese worked in tea plan- try, they charged the plant- coercion and extra-legal au- ian' in giving punishments. tations. But they were not ers Rs. 120 - Rs. 150 per thorities. The European plant- Rapes, flogging, confineregular, and the planters labour, which was quite a ers became an oppressive ment, and other brutalities were dissatisfied with them. significant amount at the class and the labourers be- were committed on the 'cooMeanwhile, the planters also time. These intermediaries came the oppressed. There lie' women. Women were started to recruit 'Lazy na- commercialised labour re- was also a great demographic also victims of deceit at the tives' whom they accused of cruitment. This posed a prob- gap between the Europeans time of recruitment owing to being inherently lazy owing lem with the British, who and labourers. The primary the thriving flesh trade

which was carried out under the smoke pretence of labour mobilisations. As Samita Sen points out, "The buyers of young girls were usually older 'prostitutes', who 'adopted' and apprenticed them as a source of future income.." All this made the women's life more pathetic and put them in perilous situations.

The British 'Justice' And Indian 'Injustice' The planters were beyond the rule of law and justice evaded the coolies permanently. As the indentured labour system came with 'blessing' of extra-legal penal authority for the planters, they used this provision at their liberty. The planters considered it necessary to use flogging and other severe measures to discipline their workforce. As Elizabeth Kolsky argued, "The tea planters demanded protection from law and not protection under law." The State projected a 'protector' image to the coolies, but Kolksy brings to light the real image of the state - protector of the planters. She asks some important questions, "Having authorised the private use of force, could the state subject the planters to prosecution and punishment under the ordinary criminal law?" By flogging someone to death "were they (planters) transgressing or enforcing the colonial order of things?"

Could you unlawfully kill a coolie who had no legal status, therefore, it not even amounting to murder?

The tea planters also used force to contain the coolies within the village so that they would not leave the estate to file complaints.

Also, the police stations where, in most cases, situated far away from the estates. The European were well connected and influential while the "tea workers were poor, disenfranchised and internally divided along the lines of region and language" . They were illiterate and most often did not even know the procedures of court and other grievance reprisal systems. Even if some case were filed, the Europeans used their influence in higher echelons of Judiciary and administration to get away with light punishment, while the coolies were given severest punishment for the crimes of the same gravity. There were many cases in which planters killed the Estate managers and set them and their bungalows on fire. There were incidents of mob violence and riots. These were considered to be grave 'injustices' by the Europeans who turned a blind eye towards the 'justices' they meted out to the coolies.

The Labourers Unite!

All this had earned the tea industry the title of 'Planter's Raj'. The 20th century was the era of brewing tension.

Convinced that the prevailing law is entirely unjust, the labours took the law into their own hands . There were increasing instances of coolie resistance and violence in the tea plantations. The labourers acted collectively with "premeditation, organization and rational inspiration". They mobbed the Europeans, and in some cases set them on fire along with their bungalows too. There was also tactics of refusal to work collectively that led to violent confrontations leading to many killings of workers as well as planters.

With the rise of nationalism all over the country, there was a widespread protest against the cruel indenture system, spearheaded by Gandhi and C.F. Andrews.

"Nationalist leaders and the Indian press drew frequent attention to the mortality rates and abysmal living arrangements, and slave-like working conditions on the tea gardens." The penal contract and indentured labour ended in the Assam gardens between 1908 and 1926. As Jayeeta Sharma points out, "Over the years, high mortality and desertion rates coupled with low fertility rates had raised the real cost of labour and reduced its productivity‌ The state was eventually forced to act to abolish indenture to ensure the long-term viability of the tea sector."

Conclusion The colonials who considered themselves to be racially superior used it to legitimise their violence over these poor people. The 'coolies' were deceived or coerced right from the recruitment process and had to meet with grave injustices at the tea garden . T h e y w e r e flogged, raped, killed, confined and denied justice at the hands of planters, who made the State dance to their tunes and exploited the labourers further. Even the collective spirit of labourers could not change much.

The spectre of rising peasants continued late into the years after Independence. There were reports of riots and protests. It is rather disheartening to know that "time has stood still in these gardens" as not much has improved here. The colonial legacy, in the form some practices certain practices of hierarchical division which diminish the status of labourers, still is being carried out.

For example, "the garden culture" in which the silent servant, who has to hold the tray when guests arrive and carry out their mundane business deals; he cannot even put the tray aside as it is 'improper' to do so . The colonial mindset of the planters and the fate of eternal deprivation of labourers still continues.

Marching on to eternity.

Courtesy: youthkiawaaz

same folks who go out of their way to show-off their connection to you when you succeed.

You only need your family and close friend's support. Don't let that support system go!

Building but not shipping: A huge number of entrepreneurs remain stuck in

the building phase. In the pursuit of perfection, they keep iterating on their product until it becomes too late and you're replaced by something else.

Don't be afraid of an imperfect launch; you will only learn from it, and get better. Be afraid of being rendered irrelevant!

Courtesy:youthkiawaaz

Is Russia Aiding ISIS By Providing 'Foot Soldiers' To It? A recent article by The out of the country. No Economist titled 'Salafis prizes for guessing where Mustered' discussed the most of these 'misguided' counter-intuitive Russian souls went. policy of targeting mod- The account given in that erate voices especially article has been taken priamong the clergy in the marily from actual militants Muslim(six of them) Nazeef Mollah that the jourdominated region of nalist conDagestan, near the tacted, those who were Caspian Sea. The target- alive that is, one security ofing includes harassment ficial who coordinated with and even arrest of a local one of these extremists imam, for example. The (God knows what'll happen magazine draws the obvi- to him now), and family ous conclusion from this members of the people who that the crackdown on went. Some of these people moderate voices is driving were on the 'wanted' lists the region's Muslims to- of the region. Oh, it seems wards the 'Islamic State'. I forgot to mention the reIt quotes an expert on the gion - Dagestan. region who believes that These revelations raise moderate sections act as more questions than ana "buffer‌between swers first and foremost of young people and those which is: What the hell is calling for violence." going on? Was it done Clearly, the Russian secu- merely by local security ofrity forces are not on the ficials or were the higher right track. ups involved as well. How But the question that one high were the 'higher ups' might well ask is this: Do in the pecking order? The they really wish to be on time we're talking about is

Image for representational purpose (Photo: a.abcnews) the 'right' track here?

A more recent story by Reuters comes out with a shocking revelation. 'Russian fighters are joining ISIS in record numbers'.

'Nearly 1,700 Russians Fighting For ISIS In Iraq'.

'Russians Are Joining ISIS in Droves'. These are a few of the headlines from various news platforms from the year 2015 that a google search shows.

What about them, you may ask. Well, it turns out that this proliferation of Russians in the rank and file of the 'Islamic' State might have been facilitated by the security forces themselves.

It seems that there were many threats from 'Islamists' to the safety and security of people who were expected to arrive in Sochi for the 2014 Winter Olympics. To neutralise these threats, instead of countering them the old-fashioned way, Russian security officials allegedly gave them a free pass to travel

not too far back, really. By 2014, by which time Russians had been allowing extremists to slip by and travel to Syria for a while, the Syrian resistance to the Assad regime was already in a mess. 'Islamic' State had already "burst onto the international scene". Their Toyota caravans had already begun their inevitable march on the Fertile Crescent. Why would Russia, then, allow extremists to go to that region? And why would it now crack down on moderate Muslims in Russia?

It's a scary thought. A nation that has pledged itself to fighting the scourge of terror that has ruined the beautiful Arab state of Syria has actually been supplying foot soldiers to its enemies! Russian policy seems confused and uncoordinated, which is bad enough. But what if they know exactly what they're doing? This scenario is scarier.

Courtesy: youthkiawaaz

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

BUSINESS

Price of Tata Tiago may be increased Bengaluru, May 16: Tata launched the Tiago at a competitive price of Rs 3.20 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). While the introductory price did get buyers interested, Tata Motors' vice president of sales & network admitted that it would be difficult to hold on to it. Now it looks like the hatchback may get more expensive. Around 3000 units of the car were sold in the first month of its launch, which was a fairly moderate response, considering how well the car fared in our road test.

Sources now say the Tiago is gaining pace, with some dealers reporting a waiting period of up to one month.

The company's Sanand plant is

74% stake Sanjeev Kapoor's co bought by Discovery Mumbai, May 16: Discovery Communications has acquired a 74% stake in celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor-promoted Turmeric Vision, which owns and operates pay-TV network FoodFood and its digital products, in a deal estimated to be worth $710 million (around Rs 50 crore). Kapoor initially held a majority stake in Turmeric Vision, which was founded in 2011. Malaysia-based Astro Overseas and ad man Sandeep Goyal's Mogae Consultants are the other shareholders in the company.

Industry reports said Astro later increased its shareholding. Discovery's investment in FoodFood is being seen as part of a strategy to expand its presence in the country and strengthen its portfolio of female and lifestyle brands such as TLC and ID. "Tapping into the growing appetite for food programming among women across India, Discovery plans to support FoodFood's 100% focus on local programming and products, and to drive further value from the ongoing digitalisation of India.

Discovery has also agreed to sell FoodFood's advertising, effective immediately," a press release said. Kapoor will continue to produce programmes for FoodFood as its brand ambassador, and will remain a minority shareholder in the business.

(Agencies)

4,000 hospitals on Medi Assist online cashless claims management portal Bengaluru, May 16: Medi Assist, the Bengalurubased managed healthcare organisation, said it now has 4,000 hospitals on its online cashless claims management portal, MediBuddy+, a top official said. "That is, in fact, a staggering 67 per cent of the total number of hospitals in our network. In some cities, up to 90 per cent of all preauthorisation requests daily are routed through our portal," said Satish Gidugu, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Medi Assist. MediBuddy+ has helped more than 4,000 hospitals across the country completely eliminate faxes and emails to manage all the preauthorisation requests online, according to a company statement.

Satish Gidugu, Medi Assist COO said: "That is, in fact, a staggering 67 per cent of the total number of hospitals in our network."

(Agencies)

churning out over 100 Tiagos every day and Tata may even start an additional production shift to tackle any backlog since the unit has the capacity to produce around 1200 cars a day. Dealers have reportedly received a revised price list already, indicating a price rise of around Rs 3000, though a Tata spokesperson has denied any price revision.

Launched in April 2016, the Tiago (formerly named the Zica) is available in five variants - XB, XE, XM, XT and XZ. Prices for the petrol Tiago start at Rs 3.20 lakh and go up to Rs 4.75 lakh, while the diesel costs between Rs 3.95 and Rs 5.54 lakh, putting it right in between the Nano

PRICE MIGHT INCREASE Tata launched the Tiago at a competitive price of Rs 3.20 lakh (exshowroom, Delhi). Now it looks like the hatchback may get more expensive. Around 3000 units of the car were sold in the first month of its launch, which was a fairly moderate response, considering how well the car fared in our road test.

Dealers have reportedly received a revised price list already, indicating a price rise of around Rs 3000, though a Tata spokesperson has denied any price revision.

Tiago is gaining pace, with some dealers reporting a waiting period of up to one month. The company's Sanand plant is churning out over 100 Tiagos every day and Tata may even start an additional production shift to tackle any backlog since the unit has the capacity to produce around 1200 cars a day.

Prices for the petrol Tiago start at Rs 3.20 lakh and go up to Rs 4.75 lakh, while the diesel costs between Rs 3.95 and Rs 5.54 lakh, putting it right in between the Nano and Bolt.

Both engines come mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. Features on offer include dual airbags, antilock brakes (ABS), reverse parking sensors, a multifunction steering wheel, height-adjustable driver's seat, and a Harman-developed ConnectNext infotainment system with eight speakers and USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity.

Launched in April 2016, the Tiago (formerly named the Zica) is available in five variants XB, XE, XM, XT and XZ.

and Bolt. The car is available with two engine options, i.e. the 'Revotron' three-cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol mill that makes 85 PS of power and 114 Nm of torque, and the 'Revotorq' three-cylinder, 1.1-litre unit that makes 70 PS of power and 140 Nm of torque. Both engines come mated to a fivespeed manual gearbox.

Features on offer include dual airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), reverse parking sensors, a multifunction steering wheel, height-adjustable driver's seat, and a Harman-developed ConnectNext infotainment system with eight speakers and USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity. (Agencies)

Now, Europe gets a taste of Mahilabad's chillies ANI Mahilabad (Uttar Pradesh), May 16: Malihabad town in Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow district is famous for its "Dasheri" mangoes, and now has emerged as hub for its green chillies.

Mango Pack House in this town, which is located about 55 kilometers from state capital Lucknow, is now exporting green chillies to Europe. Nearly 2.5 tons of this product is being exported to Europe on a daily basis. According to those involved with the export of green chillies, places like Germany, UK, Italy and the Netherlands have placed orders for the product. An export house in Mumbai threw some

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: ste.india) more light on this. Its assistant managing director, Ramanand Varayi said, "The demand for Mahilabad's green chillies in Europe is huge. These chillies are beautiful in colour, long, not very spicy and have a long shelf life.

Mango Pack House has

been sending Mahilabad's famed mangoes, and this is the first consignment of green chillies that his going to Europe to Mumbai from Lucknow's Amausi Airport." This is mango season in Mahilabad, but farmers here are also actively involved in the cul-

tivation and growing of green chillies, that too of exportable quality. Villages like Rehmankheda, Kakori, Kash Mandi, Sohranvan Kheda and Badi Kurd are forwarding their respective consignments of green chillies to the Mumbai-based export house for onward delivery to foreign locales.

Mahilabad's access to foreign countries has raised the hope of its farming community, as they are not at the mercy of wholesale markets and can grow the product on their land and ferry it conveniently to destinations outside the boundaries of their villages without hindrance. Mango Pack House manager Mohsin

Khan told ANI that the Uttar Pradesh government needs to credited with bring Mahilabad on the international map through the export of both mangoes and green chillies. He said that Mango Pack House has been given the certification and license to expand its exportable range to include vegetables such as bottle gourd, apple gourd and ridge gourd. The export of these vegetables has provided improved incomes for the farmers of Mahilabad. He said that Mango Pack House takes great care when it comes to the packaging of these products that are being exported.

4,000 Bookings for compact SUV BR-V registered by Honda Mumbai, May 16: Invoking an already anticipated response, Honda has registered 4,000 bookings for its compact SUV, the BR-V. The number is encouraging as Honda had launched the car just a week ago, though the manufacturer started accepting bookings from April, 2016.

The deliveries are yet to begin and are expected to commence shortly.

The price of the car ranges from Rs. 8.75 to

12.90 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is offered in four variants.

This latest offering from Honda's line-up competes in the five-seater compact SUV space.

Though, the design has resembles that of an MPV, especially the side profile, the availability of two additional seats does help. The car runs on same engines which power the Honda City.

Even the power figures are exactly similar

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: i.ndtvimg) (119PS/145Nm for petrol and 100PS/200Nm for diesel). There is a slight

change in the transmission duties where the carmaker has introduced

a six-speed manual gearbox instead of fivespeed. The CVT transmission is also available only with the petrol mill.

The carmaker is reportedly eyeing annual production of 40,000 units for the BR-V. The MPVish SUV is a refreshed product from Honda good for highways as well as for daily commute. We do expect the booking numbers to go up in the coming days.

(Agencies)

2-3 rate hikes to be witness by New measures to revamp Fed's Williams this year 'ailing' Railways

San Francisco Federal Reserve Bank President John Williams. (Photo: frbsf) Sacramento, May 16: With the U.S. economic outlook "definitely looking good," the U.S. central bank is on the cusp of deciding whether to raise rates at any of its next few meetings, San Francisco Federal Reserve Bank President John Williams said. "I view the balancing act as very similar to the balancing act that kind of led

to the first rate increase. ... We have to be making the decision. Do we want to wait a little longer or act now?" Williams told reporters after a speech at the Sacramento Economic Forum. Two to three rate increases this year "definitely still makes sense," he said.

The Fed raised rates in December for the first time in nearly a decade,

but has kept them on hold since then largely because of worries over a slowdown in China and Europe. Williams, a centrist whose views are generally in line with those of Fed Chair Janet Yellen, said he has not yet conferred with his staff economists over whether the next rate increase would be best made in June, July or September. Such discussions typically take place the week prior to Fed meetings; the next policy-setting meeting is June 1415. With most gauges of the labor market suggesting the United States is at or nearly at full employment, he said, and inflation set to rise to the Fed's 2 percent target in two years, "things are definitely looking good." Delaying rate hikes for months, he said, "would force our hands a little bit to move much more quickly in 2017." (Agencies)

promised by Prabhu Mumbai, May 16: Union Minister Suresh Prabhu said his ministry is focusing on upgrading facilities for passengers and is set to launch new initiatives that will overhaul the "ailing" Indian Railways.

Prabhu was speaking at the inauguration of five new infrastructure facilities at suburban Kanjurmarg railway station-- a six-meter wide foot over bridge (FoB) with escalator, 8-meter wide home platform with shelter for 12 coach trains, 2.5-meter wide pathway with fencing, booking office of five windows on east side. The Minister inaugurated these facilities through remote control system from Dadar. Terming these measures as the beginning of new reforms, Prabhu said, "We will see a number of new initiatives that are set to overhaul of the ailing Indian Railways. In the past 30 to 40 years, the Rail-

ways did not attract the investment as it should have considering the rise in the country's population."

The Railway Ministry is pushing hard to raise the comfort level of the passengers and in last two budgets, it received so much funds, which it had failed to get in the past, Prabhu said. The launch of the passenger amenities at the Kanjurmarg station was the part of trespassing control project (to curb death on tracks), in which six suburban stations have been shortlisted for the upgradation of the infrastructure facilities. Other five stations are Dadar, Kurla, Thane, Thakurli and Kalyan. Prabhu also said he had detailed discussion with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and with the co-ordination of the state government, his ministry was moving ahead with the integrated transportation system.

(Agencies)

PAGE 10

E-com must avoid discounts

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: uniecommerce) New Delhi, May 16: India's e-commerce market needs to look at robust business models beyond discounts, V. Paddy Padmanabhan, Academic Director, INSEAD Emerging Markets Institute, said. There is a course correction happening in the space, which is sign of the market maturing, he said. Investors have poured in billions of dollars into firms such as Flipkart and Snapdeal, which have been used to discount products and widen customer base with stiff competition from Amazon. None of these firms has made profit.

The Indian government

recently banned the ecommerce firms from directly influencing prices.

"Discounts are good for an initial customer base and market share. But this way of building business will have a bunch of very happy customers but sad investors and is not sustainable," Mr. Padmanabhan said. Indian customers, though price conscious, look at the entire experience, he said.

"China is a price-sensitive market, but their growth has been built around the buying experience."

Flipkart saw a slew of funds recently marking down its valuation.

(Agencies)

AI non-stop flights to be operational from Ahmedabad to London from August 15

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: flyawaysimulation) London, May 16: This Independence Day, people flying between Gujarat and the US will get freedom from long and roundabout transit flights. Air India is going to fly direct from Ahmedabad to London Heathrow and the same aircraft will fly on to Newark an airport in New Jersey that is in New York metropolitan area - from August 15, said a senior official. There has been a longstanding demand from the Gujarati community for a direct flight to London and a faster connection to the East Coast.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had during his London visit last November announced that AI will fly from Ahmedabad to London from December 15, 2015. AI did start that flight but it was not a direct one. Currently, we have an Ahmedabad-Mumbai London flight which very often involves a change of aircraft in Mumbai. This means flyers have to often get off the aircraft and then board an-

other plane. From August 15, a Dreamliner will fly direct from Ahmedabad to London, onward to Newark and take the same route on return," said the official.

Senior AI officials admit that while there has been a compelling business case for this flight but the "inspiration came from the PM and this flight is Modi's gift to the huge Gujarati community in UK and US." AI's decision comes close on the heels of Modi's visit to Washington early next month and during his previous visits to US and UK, the PM has announced AI flights to those countries while addressing the Indian diaspora there. AI has fifth freedom rights in UK, which means its Ahmedabad-UK-US flight can take passengers between London and Newark. "At present, we operate from Heathrow's terminal 3.But by September AI will operate out of the Heathrow's Star Alliance terminal, T2," said the official. (Agencies)

FLY NON-STOP This Independence Day, people flying between Gujarat and the US will get freedom from long and roundabout transit flights. Air India is going to fly direct from Ahmedabad to London Heathrow and the same aircraft will fly on to Newark - an airport in New Jersey that is in New York metropolitan area - from August 15.

There has been a longstanding demand from the Gujarati community for a direct flight to London and a faster connection to the East Coast. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had during his London visit last November announced that AI will fly from Ahmedabad to London from December 15, 2015. AI did start that flight but it was not a direct one.

Currently, AI have an Ahmedabad-Mumbai London flight which very often involves a change of aircraft in Mumbai. This means flyers have to often get off the aircraft and then board another plane.

From August 15, a Dreamliner will fly direct from Ahmedabad to London, onward to Newark and take the same route on return.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

Features

PAGE 11

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE Eating seafood once a week reduces age-related memory loss A new research says, eating a meal of seafood or other foods containing omega-3 fatty acids at least once a week may protect against age-related memory loss and thinking problems in older people.

The findings by researchers at University Medical Center and Wageningen University in the Netherlands said that the age-related memory loss and thinking problems of participants in the study who reported eating seafood less than once a week declined more rapidly compared to those who ate at least one seafood meal per week.

"This study helps show that while cognitive abilities naturally decline as part of the normal aging process, there is something that we can

Sea-food taste good and also consuming sea food regularly do have a lot of advantages. (Photo: myvacationhaven)

do to mitigate this process," said Martha Clare Morris, a Rush nutritional epidemiologist and senior author of the paper.

The researchers followed 915 people with a mean age of 81.4 years for an average of five years. At study enroll-

ment, none had signs of dementia.

The participants were recruited from people already taking part in the Rush Memory and Aging Project, a study of residents of more than 40 retirement communities and senior public housing units across

northern Illinois, plus older adults identified through church groups and social service agencies.

Participants in the higher seafood consumption group ate an average of two seafood meals per week. Those in the lower group ate an average of 0.5 meals per week.

Seafood is the direct nutrient source of a type of omega-3 fatty acid (docosahexaenoic acid) that is the main structural component of the brain.

While epidemiologic studies have shown the importance of seafood and omega-3 fatty acids in preventing dementia, few prior studies have examined their associations with specific types of cognitive ability.

The study has been published in 'Neurology' journal.

Courtesy: ANI

Turning back the clock for cosmopolitan women The role of a woman has immensely changed over the last couple of decades.

Today's woman is educated and well-informed.

She is versatile and efficiently multitasks and balances work and home. She is conscious about her looks and also of her health and fitness. In spite of a hectic demanding lifestyle, she has to look youthful, healthy and fit.

To manage ageing gracefully, she needs to understand ageing process, her own skin and avail information about the new world solutions and technologies which can be

dration level of the skin.

The skin gets drier, patchy and the skin glow reduces.

We feel that we are looking darker and are not glowing the way we used to!

By 35 years of age, fine lines start developing around the eyes called crow's feet. By the age of 40, frown lines and forehead wrinkles set in. By 45-50 years, the laugh lines get deeper and neck wrinkles appear and skin laxity sets in. Some people develop age spots patchy skin and pigmentation.

Please do not despair because the good news is that

and other new world technologies to maintain that youthful glow forever.

Below are some tips to fight ageing: 1. Facial therapies like Microdermabrasion or diamond polishing, oxygen treatments, antioxidant Vit C face therapy and lightening electroporation therapy.

2. Laser rejuvenation- It is a non-surgical and painless answer to a rejuvenated, fresher and glowing skin. In this procedure, a laser light is used on the whole face and neck and it stimulates

Living forever young is a dream come true for anyone in this world.

(Photo: bellavou) helpful.

The skin starts showing signs of ageing from 2530 years. These changes get more pronounced after 30-35 years of age. The first sign of ageing is change in texture and hy-

ageing can be prevented and reversed to a great extent.

SkinAlive Clinics founded by leading dermatologist Dr. Chiranjiv Chhabra offers a variety of anti-ageing face therapies, lasers

the cell renewal thereby giving one a more youthful and radiant skin.

3. Affirm fractional multiplex laser- Affirm is a revolutionary laser for skin rejuvenation toning and tightening. It also im-

proves blemishes pigmentation and complexion Very effective for acne scars and open.

4. Thermage- It is a safe, non-invasive, no downtime, single treatment, cosmetic procedure that is clinically proven to tighten, contour and rejuvenate facial skin to help naturally restore a more youthful appearance. It is FDA cleared Immediate results are visible and continue to improve for up to six months.

5. Ultherapy is a non surgical modality, which uses ultrasound energy for skin lifting and tightening. It is FDA-approved procedure that aims to lift, tighten and tone skin.

6. Vampire Facelift- It is an exceptionally innovative trademarked technology, wherein magical factors from your own blood are used to rejuvenate your face, hence, the name.

6. Botox - It is an injection treatment which relaxes the muscles that create wrinkles thereby lessening the appearance of frown lines and crow's feet. It is used for other indications like face contouring, lifting of eye brow, Jawline and drooping lips. A small amount of Botox is injected right into the muscles that are responsible for creating wrinkles.

7. Fillers such as Restylane, Perlane and Juvederm are used to fill up wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, mouth lines and neck lines. They are also used to create pouty lips and to enlarge thin, wrinkled lips to give a fuller and younger appearance. Fillers also help in volumising the sunken areas of the face and get those apple cheeks. Down turned dropping lips can be converted into upturned smiling lips through this procedure.

Courtesy: ANI

Body image is related to life satisfaction: study A new research says overall life satisfaction is related to appearance and weight.

In a survey of more than 12,000 Americans adults, the questions focused on personality, beliefs about romantic relationships, self-esteem, television viewing, and personal characteristics.

"Our study shows that men's and women's feelings about their weight and appearance play a major role in how satisfied they are with their lives overall," said researcher David Frederick.

For women, satisfaction with overall appearance was the third strongest predictor of overall life satisfaction, behind only satisfaction with financial situation and satisfaction with romantic partner.

For men, appearance satisfaction was the second strongest predictor

their appearance and weight.

Dr. Frederick noted that, "body dissatisfaction and anxious attachment styles can lead to an out of control spiral and fuel each other. People who are less confident in their appearance become more fearful that their partner will leave, which further fuels their worries about their appearance."

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: 4.bp.blogspot)

of life satisfaction, behind only satisfaction with financial situation.

People who were dissatisfied with their weight reported substantially less satisfaction with their sex lives and lower overall self-esteem.

The results also showed that people's orientations towards their relationships, known as "at-

tachment styles," were linked to how people felt about their bodies.

People with an "anxious" attachment style are often preoccupied with their romantic relationships and fearful that their partners will leave them. Women with more anxious and fearful attachment styles were more dissatisfied with

The results showed that dissatisfied people had higher neuroticism, had more preoccupied and fearful attachment styles, and spent more hours watching television. In contrast, satisfied people had higher openness, conscientious, extraversion, are more secure in attachment style, and had higher self-esteem and life satisfaction.

The study has been published in Body Image.

Courtesy: ANI

Grape-orange combo can beat obesity, diabetes, heart disease You can keep obesity, diabetes and heart disease at bay by consuming a mixture of red grapes and oranges, suggests a new study.

The University of Warwick researchers found that a combination of two compounds found in red grapes and oranges could be used to improve the health of people with diabetes, and reduce cases of obesity and heart disease.

Paul Thornalley, who led the research, said that this is an incredibly exciting development and could have a massive impact on their ability to treat these diseases. As well as helping to treat diabetes and heart disease it could defuse the obesity time bomb.

The team studied two compounds found in fruits but not usually found together.

Consuming a mixture of red grapes and oranges can help you fight obesity. (Photo: lodiwine) The compounds are transresveratrol (tRES), found in red grapes, and hesperetin (HESP), found in oranges.

When given jointly at pharmaceutical doses the com-

pounds acted in tandem to decrease blood glucose, improve the action of insulin and improve the health of arteries.

The compounds act by in-

creasing a protein called glyoxalase 1 (Glo1) in the body which neutralises a damaging sugar-derived compound called methylglyoxal (MG).

Thirty-two overweight and obese people within the 18-80 age range, who had a BMI between 25 - 40, took part in the trial.

He noted, "As exciting as our breakthrough is it is important to stress that physical activity, diet, other lifestyle factors and current treatments should be adhered to."

Thornalley and his team are now hoping manufacturers will want to explore the use of the compound as pharmaceutical products.

The study appears in the journal Diabetes.

Courtesy: ANI

High fruit intake during teenage years cuts breast cancer risk A high intake of fruit could be the key to living a breast cancer-free life, according to a recent study.

Two linked papers shed new light on the relation of alcohol and diet with breast cancer and heart disease.

The first study reports that high fruit consumption during adolescence may be associated with lower breast cancer risk, while the second study finds that increasing alcohol intake in later life is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

The team followed 90,000 nurses for over 20 years who reported their diet in early adulthood, of whom half also recalled their usual diet during adolescence.

They found that high fruit consumption during adolescence was associated with a roughly 25 percent lower risk of breast cancer diagnosed in middle age.

In particular, greater con-

Eating fruits regularly helps you fight many deadly diseases of the world. (Photo: mostepicstuff)

sumption of apple, banana and grapes during adolescence, as well as oranges and kale during early adulthood was significantly associated with a reduced breast cancer risk. But there was no link between intake of fruit juice in either adolescence or early adulthood and risk.

In a linked editorial, Uni-

versity of Oxford researchers say "much more evidence is needed before we can draw conclusions on the reported protective association between adolescent fruit intake and breast cancer risk." But that these foods "have well known beneficial effects on health, and efforts should continue to increase intake of both

fruit and vegetables at all ages."

Both studies are observational, so their interpretation needs to consider the potential impact of other factors before any firm conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect, the authors added.

The study appears in The BMJ. Courtesy: ANI

cmyk

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MAY 17

PAGE 12

I'll hit six sixes again: Yuvraj to a kid who fought cancer PTI Mohali, May 15 : A cancer survivor and a World Cup hero, India batsman Yuvraj Singh gave some vital tips to 17 young kids, who fought their own battles against the dreaded disease, during an interaction here.

Yuvraj, who hit 24-ball 42 runs to guide his IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad to a sevenwicket win against Kings XI Punjab, interacted with a group of children, many among them aged 7 or 8 years, at the PCA stadium last night.

When a young kid asked Yuvraj if he will again hit

Yuvraj Singh those six sixes, the 34year-old who hails from Chandigarh, said, "You pray, I will hit six sixes again."

The left-handed batsman, however, said he doesn't know how he hit those six sixes. "Many years have passed since

then."

Yuvraj's six sixes in an over remains one of the most cherished moments in Indian cricket, and these came off England's Stuart Broad in a Twenty20 World Cup match in 2007 in South Africa.

One of the cancer survivor boy, aged 8 now, had been diagnosed with cancer when he was just 18 months old.

Studying in Class 4 now, the boy told PTI that players like Yuvraj are a great inspiration for him.

"I love cricket and seeing Yuvi and Suresh Raina in action gives me

Rosberg `gutted` over Spanish GP crash with Hamilton the lead after making a pass at turn one from Hamilton, who was on pole position.

Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg ANI Johannesburg, May 16 : Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg has admitted he is feeling extremely gutted after his

collision with teammate Lewis Hamilton at Spanish Grand Prix, which ended his sevenrace winning streak.

Roseberg had seized

But the reigning world champion soon lost control into turn three and entered an incorrect setting on the steering wheel.

The duo collided when Hamilton tried to slide up the inside at turn four.

Reflecting on the incident, Rosberg said he had decided not to give any space to Hamilton, but was very surprised to see his team-mate go for the gap anyway, Sport24 reported.

Rosberg, who lost his first race of the season, said he is feeling extremely gutted not only for himself but also for his colleagues, saying that

they deserved to win the race.

The German, however, refused to directly blame Hamilton for the clash, but added that he would go with the verdict of the stewards.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen later went on to win the race to become the youngest Formula One winner.

He recently replaced Daniil Kvyat, who was dropped to the junior team Toro Rosso after his accident with Ferrari's four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel at Russian Grand Prix.

Despite the exit, Rosberg currently holds a 43-point lead over Hamilton in the championship after winning four consecutive races of the season.

immense joy," he said.

Yuvraj also gave valuable tips to the children, saying fight with dreaded disease like cancer teaches you not to take life for granted, not to take your family or friends for granted.

"Think of it as a blessing in disguise that you have an opportunity to live again," he told them.

Yuvraj was Player Of The Tournament in 2011 World Cup, the same year when he was diagnosed with the dreaded disease which he later fought bravely and got cured.

Mauricio Pochettino dubs Tottenham's 5-1 loss at Newcastle as `worst day` ANI London, May 16 : Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has admitted that his side's humiliating defeat at the hands of relegated Newcastle marks his `worst day` as a manager as the Spurs finished their Premier League campaign at the third spot.

Tottenham needed just one point going into the final game to finish second, and above Arsenal for the first time since Arsene Wenger has taken the helm, but they failed to do so after suffering a 1-5 defeat at the hands of 10-man Newcastle at St James' Park.

Meanwhile, Wenger's side went on to clinch 4-0 win over Aston Villa to ensure Tottenham finish the season at the third spot.

Disappointed with the result, Pochettino issued an apology to his fans for the performance

Mauricio Pochettino on the pitch which he described to be `shameful'.

"First of all I want to apologise to our fans, our supporters because it was a shame what happened on the pitch," the Argentine manager was quoted as saying by oal.com.

Pochettino, however, called on his side to try to improve their

mentality if they don't want to be on the losing side in future.

"We need to learn, we need to improve our mentality. It wasn't a tactical problem it was a mental problem. When you go into the pitch you need to give 100 per cent. We need to show more character," he added.

Sri Lanka's Prasad out of first England Test AFP London, May 16 : Sri Lanka paceman Dhammika Prasad will miss the chance to repeat his Headingley heroics of two years ago after being ruled out of the first Test against England starting on Thursday.

Prasad played a key role in Sri Lanka's first Test series win in England when, in the second and final match of the 2014 campaign, he took five for 50 in the second innings at Headingley, the headquarters of county champions Yorkshire in Leeds, northern England.

His haul included all of England's top four, in a match Sri Lanka won by 100 runs after clinching victory with just one ball to spare on the final day.

Sri Lanka paceman Dhammika Prasad

However, this trip saw the 32-year-old injure his shoulder during Sri Lanka's first tour match against Essex last week.

ter the tourists' final warm-up match, against Leicestershire ended in a draw on Sunday.

"We're hoping that we can get him bowling again pretty soon," Sri Lanka coach Graham Ford told BBC Sport af-

"Prasad has had a few tests and the specialist came to see him today," the South African added.

"We'll have to build him

up and get him bowling a number of overs in the nets to have him prepared potentially for the second or third Test."

Sri Lanka's top-order have struggled in England so far this tour but Dimuth Karunaratne made a hundred and Lahiru Thirimanne hit 40 at Grace Road.

"As we have gone along players have started to find their feet and find a bit of form," Ford said.

"Every day, there is someone new who is starting to look like he feeling a bit more settled in English conditions.

"Hopefully with a bit more work the boys will have some good belief about what they can do.

It is going to be about mental toughness and handling pressure when the Test starts on Thursday.

Suresh Raina becomes proud father of baby girl `Gracia`

Indian batsman Suresh Raina ANI New Delhi, May 16 : Indian batsman Suresh Raina and his wife Priyanka, who were expecting their first child, are now proud parents of a baby girl.

Raina took to micro blogging website Twitter to announce the welcoming of their daughter Gracia.

"Welcome my beautiful daughter. # GraciaRaina????????.

Long wait but totally worth it. #ProudFather.

She is getting dressed up for her photoshoot," Raina posted, along with a photo of his wife and daughter.

Raina, who got married last year in a glorious ceremony, flew out to the Netherlands on May 10 to be with his pregnant wife, thus missing his first Indian Premier League ( IPL) match in nine years.

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