19 July, 2016, Tuesday

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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 12

Vol. II

SANIA READY FOR OLYMPICS BUT NOT PREDICTING MEDAL

Issue 31

Dibrugarh, Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Tinsukia, July 18. Troops of 16 Assam Riffles on Monday arrested a NSCN - K cadre from Noglo under Changlang district in Aruanchal Pradesh. The arrested cadre has been identified as Jenlong Mokhpu, resident of Laju. Security forces has recovered a 7.65 mm pistol from his possession.

According to sources, the arrested youth was working at Pongchau Hotel when he taken to Mon district in Nagaland for training in January this year. He had come to Noglo for collection of taxes when security forces nabbed him.

(Spl Correspondent)

3-year old dies on spot Tinsukia, July 18. In a heart-breaking incident, a three - year old child lost her life after she fell from third floor of a building here at Chirwapatty area of Tinsukia town on Monday. The deceased, Mukti Agarwal also known as Pihu, had come to her grandma's place on vacations.

Both Opposition and ruling party members raised slogans against each other over the auction of 12 oilfields and price rise following hike in VAT

Assam Assembly's Budget session began on a stormy note today as both Opposition and ruling party members raised slogans against each other over the auction of 12 oilfields and price rise following hike in VAT, leading to a brief adjournment and walkout.

As soon as the Question Hour ended, members from Congress and AIUDF sought permission from the Speaker to discuss the proposed auctioning of 12 oilfields in Assam in view of the ongoing agitation across the state against it.

A heavily armed strike group of Paresh Baruah led Ulfa (I) has entered Tinsukia district through the jungles of Changlang. The group, consisting of four cadres, are believed to be hiding in the jungles of Penegri and Bordumsa and are armed with atleast 3 IED bombs and 3 nos AK series assault rifles. In the

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A Staff Reporter Guwahati, July 18

CM Sonowal arrives for the assembly session. discuss the issue along with a notice by former minister Ajanta Neog.

Speaker Ranjit Kumar Das accepted Neog's notice, which does not give any scope for discussion or debate. At this,

Four heavily armed cadres of Arakan Gut of Ulfa enters Tinsukia, red alert sounded Rishu Kalantri Tinsukia, July 18

backdrop of specific intelligence inputs, a red alert has been sounded across security agencies in Tinsukia district.

Confirming this input, a top level reliable source said, the threat this time is very serious.

In the wake of the ongoing protests against auction of oilfields the outfit is likely to target oil installations to gain local support.

Contd. on Page 4

The Assam Assembly Speaker Ranjit Kumar Das today said he had proposed to change the daily timing of the House by delaying the start by half an hour.

Opposition members urged the Speaker to allow a discussion by accepting any one of the adjournment motions by the two members.

"We have discussed it and will place before the House tomorrow about the new timings.

Contd. on Page 4

Contd. on Page 4

Misfire hurt Kaziranga boy, 2 KNP employees suspended Bijoy Handique Jorhat, July 18

One Akash Orang (7), who hails from village near Mihimukh- Holmora camp was hurt in a misfire by a Forest employee when he was trying to chase away a rhino at Mihimukh-Holmora area under Kohora Range in Kaziranga National Park (KNP) last night, informed official sources here.

Two Forest guard suspended over the firing incident. The

suspended employees were Manas Borah and Anil Kalita, who illegally allowed Manas Borah to handle his service rifle which was kept loaded.

Akash Orang got gunshot at his thigh and was immediately taken to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital after which he was hurriedly referred to Guwahati Medical College and Hospital this morning, informed KNP sources here.

Contd. on Page 4

Seven oil tankers gutted in fire A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jul 18

Seven crude oil carrying tankers of the Oil India Limited (OIL) were gutted in a devastating fire at an unloading station in Dikom in Dibrugarh district today. An OIL official said that a tanker was unloading crude oil at a Crudeoil Browser Unloading Station (CBUS) at around 1.45 pm when it suddenly caught fire. In a flash the blaze engulfed six other tankers at the site. The place is near the

Upper Assam town of Dibrugarh, about 445 km from Guwahati.

The resident of the area after hearing the news run at the spot to enquire about the matter.

“We are very much afraid after seeing the fire which engulfed the tankers. In 2005, due to leakage in oil fields huge fire have engulfed the oil field and our paddy fields were destroyed and for many days smoke comes out for that field.

Fire fighters trying to douse the fire at Dikom OCS. Pic - Rafique uddin Ahmed

Contd. on Page 4

Tezu – Airport is all set be operational by July end - AAI ATR – 72 model of aircraft will be landed after completion of required amenities Bishnu Rana Tezu, July 18

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The citizen of Lohit is definitely fly long distance once the Airport is operational by the end of this July. The Tezu Airport – the only civilian airport in Arunachal is all set to be completed within 10 – 15 days if good weather condition prevailed. Runway and air traffic control tower have been already completed and Terminal building is in full – swing, 90 (ninety) percent of renovation works is completed till day. “At least 15 days of good weather condition will do.

Unfortunately whole year we have experienced rains except few months in such situation number of assured deadline were failed. Once the entire

Party High Command expresses thanks and gratitude to Tuki for his sacrifice

Assam assembly speaker proposes change in daily timing of house

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, July 18

The girl died on the spot, added sources.

Kokrajhar, July 18: Security forces arrested NDFB (S) cadre and an over ground worker/ linkmen from Beherbari area under Runikatha PS in Chirang district early this morning.

They were identified as Mahindra Champramary @ Rankhw (22) and Bamansing Mushahary @ Gendra. Hand grenade was recovered from them. (Correspondent)

Page - 5

Tuki calls all PRI leaders and Assam Assembly's Budget Nabam party workers back to Congress who session begins on a stormy note have abandoned the party earlier

Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia and AIUDF MLA Hafiz Bashir Ahmed submitted two separate adjournment motions to

NDFB(S) cadre held

6 HELD FOR PILFERING ONGC DRILL TOOLS IN TRIPURA

Page - 6

According to sources, the incident took place around 9.30 in the morning at the incomplete multi - storeyed building, Janki Complex at Chirwapatty. As the maternal uncle of the child left home on the third floor after breakfast, the girl walked behind her and walked out of the flat finding the main gate open. Members in the family thought she had gone with her 'mama' but something else was written in her destiny. The girl walked towards an open balcony (extra space) on the floor which did not had any railings and fell down.

The girl mother was still in shock at the time of filing this report while her father Pramod Agarwal was at Guwahati.

(Correspondent)

PAGE 6

Pages- 12

infrastructure is completed a central team headed by Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will visit to assess and monitor the update amenities to

facilitate landing of aircraft”, informs S K Sagar DGM (Engg.

Civil) AAI Tezu. Subsequent to submission of report to Airport Authority of India New Delhi by DGCA, the aircraft will start its routine operation, he discloses further.

The Sagar earlier assured June 2016 as deadline to Kalikho Pul former Chief Minister during his visit at Tezu on 20 May last regrettably the rainy weather delayed the operational schedule.

The Tezu still being surrounded by rivers becomes delayed to get required materials instantly which need to be

procured from Tinsukia (Assam) and ferrying goods all the way to Tezu is herculean task. “Our materials are still stuck up at Tinsukia due to flooded lohit river, if there is recede in water level then we can think for its transportation”, rues other officials.

ATR – 72 model of aircraft with carrying capacities of 68 passengers will be started landing. Tezu being the remote and secluded area is connected through airway leaving behind the longtime isolation syndrome, hopes M Biswas (Engineer) In charge Tezu Airport.

Dr. C.P.Joshi, general secy of AICC delivering his speech A Staff Reporter Itanagar, July 18

Former CM, Nabam Tuki today request all party leaders to call all PRI leaders, party workers who have joined PPA earlier back to the Congress Party and march ahead with the Congress led Govt. under the leadership of Pema Khandu for all round development of the state. He was speaking at the

Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee meeting, held today at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Itanagar, where the newly appointed State-In-Charge of Congress party, Dr. CP Joshi, General Secretary of All India Congress Committee (AICC) accompanied by Mukul Wasnik, also General Secretary AICC and Dr. K Jayakumar, Secretary AICC interacted with the PCC office bearers, Heads

of Frontal organisation, Legislators, Senior Congress Leaders, DCCs/BCCs and party workers.

Tuki while explaining recent political happenings urged the team to work unitedly for the interest of the party and the state with the principle of forgives and forgets.

Contd. on Page 3

Nishi Elite Society calls on the CM and DCM CM Khandu appeals Nishi Elite Society to play the role of a Big Brother

NES members during their meeting with DCM Chowna Mein ET Bureau Itanagar, July 18

“I believe in team work and will work to reach out to all sections of society to strengthen the spirit of Team Arunachal,” said Chief Minister Pema Khandu in a meeting with the members of Nyishi Elite Society (NES) here today.

“Being new to the chair and much younger, I will be needing guidance and advice from all the learned and elderly

members of the society,” he said to the visiting delegates led by its president Bengia Tolum.

Stating that he has high regards for NES, Chief Minister expressed hope that it would strive to lead the state to a better future being the largest social body in the state.

Also CM Khandu urged the Nyishi apex body to devote its full effort on preservation of indigenous culture and tradition. “Cultural traditions

DCM calls NGOs including NES for constructive idea and criticism

strengthen our sense of belongingness and it reinforces to define who we are. Without it we tend to lose our identity,” he asserted.

He further appealed the Nyishi society to play the role of a big brother in bringing harmony among all people of Arunachal.

On developmental priorities, he promised to bring equal development to all constituencies.

Contd. on Page 3

Flood situation creates havoc in Namsai district ET Bureau Namsai, July 18

Due to incessant rainfall since last one week, low lying area of entire Namsai district are submerged by flood water.

Noa-dihing river alongwith other rivers and its tributaries passing through the district are flowing just below the danger level.

As reported by WRD around 30 percent of water flow of Noa Dihing river water near bridge point is diverted towards Silatoo, MahadevpurI and Mahadevpur-IV villages.

Contd. on Page 3

Houses submerged under water in Mahadevpur under Namsai District.

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NSCN-K cadre arrested

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

PAGE 2

ASTRO FOR YOU Aries You will be indecisive today, which is not usually the case with you. This could lead you to indulge in speculation, which is not so bad unless you risk all your money in it. Besides, when it comes to matters of the heart, you must exercise a great deal of caution.

Taurus Impulsive action kicks in as you work and interact today. Do not let the pressure and strain cloud your thoughts, and instead focus on acting on the things at hand. If you find things spiralling out of control, take a break and listen to some music that soothes your heart.

Gemini Today, you will decide to become a bit more conscious about your health. You may or may not join a gym or measure your calories, but you will definitely sit up and take notice of your lifestyle and unhealthy food habits. A new job is also likely, which will open a completely new chapter in your life.

Cancer Today, you will put your heart and soul into whatever task you take up. And, that's a great thing to do. Don't lose heart though, if despite the best efforts, the results of your efforts are not too forthcoming. Feeling dejected is only going to hamper your progress. Remember that you'll receive your due sooner or later. Spend some time with your loved ones to revive yourself. Alternatively, a quiet evening tucked in the bed with a nice book is also a great idea.

Leo If one were to put an earnest spirit and a frank attitude together, the result would be a Leo; it's like your hallmark. And with qualities like these in your kitty, don't be surprised if you happen to reach a milestone or two today. Will it be marital bliss or career success? No matter what the area is, be assured that your societal standing shall get a heady boost today.

Just don't let the success go to your head.

Virgo The booster rockets of your ambitions and spirit to work will kick in at the maximum today. Seek recreation after a hard day's work and look to relax at private parties, socialdos and even weddings.

Libra "Every man has specific natural abilities", said Aristotle. This seems to be true for you today. Your natural talents will be acknowledged and documented at work. This might prompt your equals to hold you up above the rest, and for your seniors to positively encourage you to scale greater heights. But as always, be careful to make sure that success does not make you heady with arrogance. Keep yourself firmly grounded, and remember that, 'pride cometh before the fall'.

Scorpio You will find yourself thinking with your heart rather than your head today. You may not be able to repress your feelings, and you should not even try. But you should be careful about how you express them, particularly in public as people may judge you wrongly on the basis of it.

Sagittarius Today, your superiors at work are going to trust you with many complicated assignments.

But, after exerting yourself, you are sure to come out with flying colors and have your work appreciated. Do not be surprised if cash incentives come your way. Such may indeed be your fortune.

Capricorn You will be a live wire, today. With amazing exuberance you have completed mammoth tasks and have spread the energy around. It will give you tremendous job-satisfaction.

Everything seems well and good the personal front, too. Spending some quality time your spouse will relax your mind and keep you in an upbeat mood.

Aquarius For a moment, it seems that you're swamped with problems. But you are brave enough to deal with any ugly issue that crops up suddenly. A romantic evening, which may just be time together in a jacuzzi, or simply preparing a meal together. Pure ecstasy!

Pisces You are fond of traveling and are always looking for an excuse to set off. Hence it comes as no surprise if you pack your bags and decide to embark upon a journey on a whim today.

It is a much needed break too, from the daily stresses of earning a livelihood. While you are seeking solitude, you will take your friends and relatives along with you on the trip.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz)

19-7-16 (TUESDAY) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 6-50 A.M-Folk Song (Tokari Geet) 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi 9-05 A.M-Antara 12-30 P.M-Geetimanjari 1-10 P.M- Troops Programme 2-00 P.M-Singphow Songs 2-10 P.M-Brindagaan 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Mizumishimi 4-05 P.M- Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikor Aasor 7-45 P.M-Aadhunik Geet 8-00 P.M-Krira Jagat 9-30 P.M- Sahitya Kanan 10-00 P.M-Question Hour in Parliament

Dhrmapur covering the adjoining areas. Floods appearing one after another collapsed the newly planted crops, submerged the fisheries. The affected people and livestock had to suffer a lot losing their means of living of the coming days. Affected people raised severe complaint of not getting adequate flood relief during the days of their miseries. The Borduba Field Management Committee of No. 1 Dharmapur strongly reacted over the Issue against the administration and the public representatives. The Secretary

of the Committee threatened to initiate stirring protest program unless the administration provide flood relief and fodder in those areas. It is to be noted that these areas have been continuously affected by flood due to the establishment of defective and non panned embankment by the concerned department.

Flood caused by river Shingara Inundated more than Twelve villages in the Southern part of Nowboicha area.

Though flood receded slightly today, the victims are in want of adequate food and pure drinking water. Communica-

DHSK college organized NCC CATC camp A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh 18 July: 63 Assam Girls Battalion NCC, Graham Bazar, Dibrugarh conducted their Combined Annual Training Camp (CATC) at DHSK College, Dibrugarh from 07 July, 216 to 16 July, 2016.

It was a unique camp since it was attended by 397 Girl NCC Cadets and 4 Associated NCC Officers from Dibrugarh, Chabua, Tinsukia, DoomDooma, Shibsagar districts of Assam and Bardoomsa, Mahadevpur and Tezu districts of Arunachal Pradesh symbolizing Women empowerment in absoluteness.

The District administration of Dibrugarh contributed into the training of these Girl NCC Cadets by providing instructors for imparting training in miscellaneous subjects other than NCC

syllabus like Fire Fighting, Traffic Control and Civil Defence. Medical and Police personal including lady doctor, Nursing Staff and lady constable were present for the entire duration of the camp. During the camp, the cadets were given training in NCC subjects like Drill with and without arms, Map reading, Weapon handling and Field Craft / Battle Craft.

During the duration of the camp, the cadets were served nutritious and wholesome food which was prepared and provided in the camp site. Despite adverse weather condition and rainfall, regular training was carried out. The cadets were also taken to Army firing range in Dinjan for carrying out firing. The day used to start with morning PT and

ended with practice of Cultural evening with games classes in the evening. The final Cultural evening was organized on 15 July, 2016 wherein the cadets performed to the tunes of local and Hindi songs with the final event being the Fashion Parade in Traditional dresses of the country thereby symbolizing Unity in Diversity. The prizes were distributed by the Chief guest of the event Dr. Sashikanta Saikia, Principal DHSK College. Lt. Col. Alok Kumar commanding Officer of 63 Assam Girls' Battalion, Dy. Camp Commandant Lt. Col. Rajeev Dhand, Camp. Subedar Major Janak Singh Bhandari also present and they help for success of this camp. It is mentioned that it was second CATC camp at DHSK College, Dibrugarh.

tion problems has paralysed their normal life. Terrific flood and erosion case by river Chesa wreaked havoc in Shimaluguri area under Narayanpur Revenue Circle.

On the other hand, rivers like Pichala, Dropang, Dihiri, Chunajuli inundated a good deal of villages in Narayanpur and Dhalpur area. At least fifteen villages in Lohit Khabalu GP under Lakhimpur Revenue Circle are still submerged in flood cased by river Subansiri.

Several villages under Subansiri Rvenue Circle also inundated by flood cased by river Jiadhol and Kumatia.

LOST & FOUND I shri Etenso Towang S/O Ewai Towang have lost my Class X Marksheet bearing Roll – No 3120910 & Class XII Marksheet bearing Roll – No 36120910 respectively which have been missing somewhere in the Tezu township area.

Henceforth an FIR has been lodged under Tezu PS GDE No 05 dated 18/7/2016 to find out out the said document unfortunately it could not be traced out till day.

2 held for involving in jihadi activities

A Correspondent Bajali, July 18: Two persons were arrested at Chapaguri in Chirang district on Monday for allegedly involving in Jihadi’s activities. The duo arrested by Dhaligaon po-

lice have been identified as Nur Islam Mandal and Jehar Ali. Top police sources disclosed that the duo had undergone training of terror activities in Doukhanagar.

AASU submits memo against illegal settlement in Dibru Sikhowa National park diversity hotspots of the country. But rare species have been facing the threat of extinction due to human encroachment in the park.

“According to the forest act, human habitation was totally prohibited in the national park then how can those people are staying in the area. Earlier, we asked the forest department to identify the illegal settlers and sent them to foreigners tribunal but they failed to do so,’’ alleged Mohammad Tarik, AASU president, Tinsukia.

The organisation submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister and Forest minister through Deputy Commissioner of Tinsukia.

Recently, Forest minister Pramila Rani Brahma visited in the national park to take stock of the flood situation. “We demand an inquiry on the illegal settlers and living in the National park and sent them to foreigners tribunal,’’ Tarik said.

He said, “When we asked the Forest department that some illegal settlers are living in the park they told us

that they have not found anyone inside the park and told that police didn’t help us during the raid but when we asked the police personnel they informed us that the forest department didn’t told them of such raid,’’ said Tarik.

The organisation alleged that the illegal settlers are mostly depending upon the forest products of the park.

They are indulging in poaching of wild animals, felling trees, harbouring poachers, helping illegal timber traders and fishing within the park etc. Though

there is a proposal for shifting these villages to another places but it could not be materialized due to political and social problems.

AASU alleged that the DFO N.K.Dhar of Wildlife division, Tinsukia is involved in all the wildlife crimes and helping the poachers in many ways. “The illegal settlers are destroying the flora and fauna of the park and after knowing the things the forest department is not doing anything is shows the apathy of the department,’’ he said.

Anti Medical Terrorism Day on July 19 Sd-/H.O.P

Ganesh Chandra Kurmi of Dibrugarh receives Deoram Smarak Bota- 2016 award

The award was handed over to Ganesh Chandra Kurmi by the president of Assam Sahitya Sabha, Dr. Dhrubjyoti Bora. Many dignitaries were also present during the ceremony.

ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; July 18: Recurring flood during this rainy season has collapsed the economic and agricultural infrastructure of various areas of Lakhimpur District.

Affected people have to coexist with flood till the date in the district. Especially, the southern part of Nowboicha, along with Laluk and Lohit Khabalu Gaon Panchayat was badly affected by recent flood. Flood caused by the rivers Gabharu, Pabha, Bogoli, Meneha, Paita, Shingia submerged Dhakhin Laluk GP, No. 1and No. 3

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, July 18: Tinsukia district All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) today protest in front of Tinsukia Divisional Forest office, Wildlife division of Tinsukia district seeking an inquiry on the illegal settlement of Bangladeshis at the Dibru Sikhowa national park.

The students’ organisation alleged that there is a nexus between the illegal settlers and forest department. Situated in the extreme east of the State and 13 km north of Tinsukia city, DibruSaikhowa is one of the bio-

Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights

Bijoy Handique Jorhat, July 18: Deoram Smarak Bota -2016 award was awarded to Ganesh Chandra Kurmi, a renowned litterateur who contributed in the field of literature and collection of various writings. The prestigious literature award of Deoram Smarak Bota -2016 was handed at a glittering ceremony held at the Rahda Kanta Handique Bhjawan, organized by Jorhat Sahitya Sabha here today.

Inadequate relief for flood victims in Lakhimpur as situation continues to be grim

Advt.

ET Correspondent Guwahati, July 18 : The Dr. Anamika Ray Memorial Trust feels happy that the issue of "Medical Terrorism" has been placed and deliberated at the 32nd general session of the Human Rights Council at the United Nations, Geneva recently by an NGO named Prahar.

The Trust also conveys gratitude for observing Patients' Rights Day nationally on June 25. A nationwide movement named "STOP MEDICAL TERRORISM" has been initiated by a group of victims of medical negligence and their supporters under the platform of the Dr. Anamika Ray Memorial Trust, Guwahati from May 14, 2016 demanding better and transparent health care services in India.

It is a matter of serious concern for the entire nation that about 52 lakh medical injuries are recorded in India, of which around 98,000 people lose their lives every year. Approximately 30 lakh years of healthy life are lost in the country each year

due to medical negligence, which is not acceptable at any cost. To create awareness and improve the condition of healthcare services in India, the Trust has decided to observe Anti-Medical Terrorism Day on July 19 to commemorate the untimely demise of Dr. Anamika Ray, a renowned media educator of the country, who had her life's lights snuffed out too early due to utter medical negligence, nay, medical terrorism, in a hospital in New Delhi. This day will be observed in

many parts of the country and even in Dhaka and Colombo. In Assam, a candle light demonstration has been organised at Dighali Pukhuri in Guwahati and at Daulamukh Chariali of Sivasagar town on the evening of July 19 as a symbolic protest to improve the healthcare services in India.

The trust has prepared a list of ten points as demands to the state and union governments for improving the present healthcare condition of the country. The demands include CCTV surveillance

in the hospital premises, ICU monitoring facility, availability of the indoor case file or ticket, recording of surgery, prompt action towards negligence issues, prevention of laboratory nexus, prescription of generic medicine, incorporation of a course on medical ethics and communication between doctor-patients in the medical programme, development of the skills of paramedical staff, development of record-keeping mechanism on the cases pertaining to medical error

and negligence, etc. The Trust urges all to observe Anti Medical Terrorism Day by lighting a candle in front of their residence on the evening of July 19 (Tuesday).

The Trust reiterates that the purpose of the movement is to bring about improvement in health care services in the country through legislation aimed at systemic changes.

It is a distant and difficult goal but the movement is determined to succeed so that victims of Medical Terrorism can find justice, so that doctors who wish to and are trying to make a difference through their actions can do so with greater ease, and so that there is greater and justified trust in the relationship between medical professionals and patients. The Trust urges the public not to be swayed by divertive and misleading arguments and to support the movement. To support the movement launched by this Trust, any supporter can type JOIN ATRUST and 'SMS' it to 9220092200 or give a missed call to 02262116842.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

PAGE 3

Demand for civilian terminal intensifies, meeting held at Solung Ground Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, July 18: The Civilian Terminal Demand Committee, Advance Landing Ground, Pasighat (CTDC, ALG, PSG) under the banner of Adi Baane Kebang East Siang Unit convened a public meeting at Solung Ground here on Sunday in which members of CTDC, ABK, ABKYW, AUPO, AdiSU, ESDSU, ABSU, Councilors and civil societies participated.

After a threadbare discussion and debate over the need of a civilian terminal in ALG, Pasighat and consequent problem in arranging additional 4 acres of lands for the civilian conclave as required by IAF and AAI, the meeting resolved to serve 10 days ultimatum to state government addressing the Chief Secretary, Itanagar to look into the need of the people.

If government doesn’t turn up for a solution, a 24 hour first phase bandh will be called in all Adi dominated areas as a mark of protest, quoted Okom Yosung, Chairman and Tobom Dai, Vice Chairman, CTDC, ALG, PSG. The various speakers in the meeting put in their suggestions as to how additional land could be arranged for the purpose as required by Airport Au-

thority of India who is supposed to build the Civilian Terminal in the ALG. The IGJGHSS, Pasighat playground and public occupied land at Civil Supply camp compound backside along present ALG at Muriline area was also discussed for the purpose as sought by AAI during recent meeting held at DC office. On resistance from dwellers at civil supply side and Principal, IGJGHSS and Dy. Director of School Education, Pasighat, there is no land to be handed over to the AAI. But many speakers like Okom Yosung, Chairman, Tajing Taki, Gen. Secy.

ABK E/Siang, Tabung Ering, ABK Secy. (HQ), Mongol Yomso, President, AUPO, Obyak Ering, President, Pasighat Market Association etc. spoke in favour of acquiring the land at Muriline side though occupied by people. They also felt that, local MLA who is said to be backing those occupants needn’t back them, rather, he should find alternative land for them so that those land as required

by AAI be freed from any occupation so that civilian terminal comes up on time.

In an earlier interview, former Education Minister,

SanSys honing skills of students in Tirap

ET Bureau Khonsa, July 18 : The SanSys established at Khonsa is not only creating awareness on importance of digitizing the education system among the students but also enthusing the students of educationally backward Tirap district by honing their skills to prepare them for competitive examinations in future. It may be mentioned here that SanSys is marketing an educational product 'Smartschool Tutor.'

It virtually acts as a Tutor for the students covering all the

aspects of imparting quality education in all subjects from Nursery classes to Class-XII. It is approved by the CBSE, New Delhi. In fact, SanSys is the only company approved by the CBSE. The contents of teaching materials are mostly in 3D animation and the explanation of the subject contents had been done by the vastly experienced Professors. Moreover, along with the Tutor, there is ExamGuru that prepares the students for examination.

The parents and students are overjoyed with the establishment of SanSys at Khonsa and are giving positive feed-backs about the company. The SanSys is also doing the work of transposing school from simple to digital school.

Thanks to the great performance of SanSys, the Experts have rated it above Teach Next, EduComp and other companies due to which SanSys is the lone company recognized by the CBSE. More and more students are enrolling themselves at SanSys because of the immense benefit they get.

The many private schools running in the district can also adopt the SanSys teaching techniques in their schools.

"More such education related companies should be established in Khonsa and other places of Tirap district to improve the over all education scenario in Tirap district that performed poorly in the last CBSE examination." One of the parents of a student opined.

Delegates of Buddhist societies pay courtesy call on CM & DCM ET Bureau Itanagar, July 18: The members of Theravada Buddhist Society (TBS) and Itanagar Buddhist Cultural Society (IBCS) led by its General Secretary TBS Chau Dhanyo Mungyak and President IBCS Sonam Tenzin paid courtesy call on Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein at their respective residence in Itanagar on Monday.

The members congratulated and felicitated Khandu and Mein on assuming the office.

They appraised Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of the works and initiatives carried out by the Buddhist

Society of the both Mahayana and Theravada Sect in Arunachal Pradesh.

Appreciating the works carried out by the Buddhist societies, Chief Minister Khandu appraised that his government will work for overall development of the State in all fronts and sought cooperation from all quarters to work under the mantra of Team Arunachal.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Mein thanking the TBS & IBCS members for paying him a visit appreciated the efforts of the Buddhist Societies in promulgating the teaching of Lord Buddha and the endeavor to keep intake the traditional and cultural

heritage of both Mahayana & Theravada Sect in the State.

Mein also assured to look into the grievances placed by the societies.

Mein informed that under young leadership of Khandu the State will see progress in all fronts as his thoughts are matured and has clear vision for development of the State and its people.

The members of Theravada Buddhist Society included C.W.Lohan, C.M.Thaumoung, C.W.Mancheykhun and C.B.Namchoom while members from Itanagar Buddhist Cultural Society comprised of Dorjee Wangdi Thongon, Genden Sangmo, Dr Nawang Norden, Sonam Phuntso and Donka Lhamu.

Nabam Tuki calls all PRI leaders and Party workers back to Congress who have abandoned the party earlier Contd. from Page 1 Padi Richo, President of Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee while extending welcome to the new State in Charge exhorted overwhelmed happiness to Sonia Gandhi and Congress Vice President, Rahul Gandhi for deputing the central leaders to oversee the state affairs of Arunachal

Pradesh.

Dr. CP Joshi dealt in length about the functioning, discipline and implementation of programme and policies, coordination amongst the legislators and party workers.

Mukul Wasnik, GS AICC extended heartiest and thanks and gratitude to Nabam Tuki on the behalf of the party high command for his sacrifice made for the interest of the

party and the people of Arunachal Pradesh as a whole.

The meeting was attended

by BC Tok, GS of APCC, Kipa kaha, Chief Organiser APCSD, Smt Kamala Lingi, President APMCC and Marpin Basar, Vice President, APYC and they have appraised the problems, shortcomings and solutions for smooth functioning of the state government and the party.

Bosiram Siram had told this reporter that, people alongside those required land (Muriline) can be vacated by the local MLA and District Administration if desired. “I had also done the same during my period by relocating the occupants inside present ALG, Pasighat to elsewhere nearby and that was successful”, quoted Siram who is said to be a pioneer in bringing ALG, AYUSH medical, Arunachal University (though not yet coming up) etc in Pasighat. He also said that, he wouldn’t let such confusion come up, had he been in power as priority

should be given to developments, added Siram. When same questions was asked to present local MLA some days back, Kaling Moyong had said that, he is looking into the matter but can’t comment perfectly at the moment.

As the DPR or MoU/MoA of ALG, Pasighat in between IAF/AAI with government of Arunachal Pradesh is not shared with public by the concern authorities, CTDC and ABK East Siang has deeply resented as going through the agreement papers would have cleared the doubt whether civilian terminal

was to come up within the present ALG without requiring additional lands.

The state government need to make the MoU/MoA public so that a clear pictures could be develop for the much needed civilian terminal at ALG, Pasighat as many Pasighatians has felt the Advance Landing Ground of no public/local importance without civilian terminal for domestic air connectivity for which people has been longing from long ago as boarding planes at Dibrugarh, Lilabari, Guwahati in Assam has been a problem to the people of this frontier state who often feels neglected by the central government at times.

Meanwhile, a memorandum seeking for immediate construction/addition of civilian terminal at ALG, Pasighat was submitted to Kiran Rijiju, MoS, Home at New Delhi on Friday last.by Ninong Ering, MP, Lok Sabha and Yalem Taga Burang, President, Adi Baane Kebang Women Wing, East Siang. Talking to this reporter over telephone from New Delhi, Burang has said that, Rijiju has given his full assurance to pursue the public demand at concern Civil Aviation Ministry and is likely to be addressed shortly.

Another blow to insurgency by Assam Rifles

ET Bureau Khonsa, July 18 : Delivering yet another blow to the NSCN factions, the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles conducted a successful operation in Tirap District on 17 Jul 2016. Acting upon an input about movement of an insurgent from Lazu to Noglo village to carry out extortion activities, the Assam Rifles launched an operation on 17 Jul 2016.

The operation resulted in successful apprehension of a insurgent named self

styled private Jenlong Mophuk of NSCN (K).

The insurgent was found in possession of a 7.65 mm pistol, forged identity card and a diary containing details of extortion activities.

Since the individual was apprehended before carrying out extortion activities, the civil population in the area expressed a sigh of relief out appreciated the determined efforts of Assam Rifles for bringing peace and normally in the region.

2 girls rescued under Awareness meeting on disaster management Operation Smile: SP organised by civil administration and Assam

Rifles at Jairampur

Spl Correspondent Pasighat, July 18: While delivering their best duties, the East Siang Police has rescued two minor girls in a month under Operation Smile (Muskan) which is quite praiseworthy. The rescue of second girl came on Sunday when the missing minor girl from Rani Village, some few KM from here was brought home from Dispur, Assam.

While talking about the rescue to this scribe late this evening, SP East Siang, Pranav Tayal said that, the team of Pasighat Police did successfully execute the operation by stationing at Dispur, Assam. The one (non local boy), aged about 19 years with whom the girl got missing is also brought back and put behind the bars, added Tayal who has ensured more such good operations from his police in days to come. The another girl, aged about 16 years from Sille-Oyan was also rescued under similar operation recently and the girl was handed back to parents while arresting the one

who had lured the girl, added Tayal.

While police are doing their best, concern parents across the district also need to have close vigil over their growing up children, especially, the girls who are falling into love even in such minor age without realizing the possible bad consequences.

There has been cases in past and recent times that, girls are fleeing away with boyfriends or lovers in such nascent stages where parents are also equally responsible for having not keeping vigil over their children’s moves. The slight care and attention over their growing up children, especially to adolescent girls by parents would save them from such uncanny times.

The same care also need to be given to boys by their respective parents so that their beloved sons don’t commit mistake of fleeing away with minor lovers and lands into jail when they should be paying attention to their studies at those times.

Flood situation creates havoc in Namsai district Contd. from Page 1 District Administration deputed NRDF team to shift the people from all endangered areas of the above villages.

R.K. Sharma, Deputy Commissioner, Namsai visited the affected area and personally monitoring the flood situation. H.N. Dubey, Extra Assistant Commissioner, Lekang, DDMO, Namsai and other officials from different departments are visited the flood affected area of Lekang Circle. Relief camps are set up at New Silatoo, MahadevpurI where all essential items provided from the District

administration. People from affected houses have been shifted to relief camp.

Flood water also entered in Diak Miri village and affected 55 dwellers. Report of massive soil erosion along with losses of public and private properties are being received from various pockets of the district. Hectors of cultivated land especially paddy field are totally submerged by flood water. Actual loss could be ascertained on recede of flood water. DMO, DVO, Namsai are directed to visit the affected areas and to keep vigil to curb out any possible epidemic in an around the affected villages.

Fishermen also warned to refrain to go to the rivers.

ET Correspondent Jairampur, July 18: An awareness meeting on disaster management on flood, earthquake, landslide and fire was conducted at the Govt. Higher Secondary School Auditorium, Jairampur under the joint patronage of Jairampur civil administration and 13 Assam Rifles, which is headquartered at Jairampur. A huge turnout of more than 300 persons comprising of heads of offices, PRI members, and officers of paramilitary forces, civil police, teachers and students participated in the programme. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Jairampur Kento Riba read out the disaster preparedness plan and actions to be taken in the event of any disaster like floods, earthquake, and fire landslides. A representative from the 13 Assam Rifles came up with a power point presentation and explained the safety measures to be taken during and after earthquake with practical demonstration. The fire brigade team of Changlang explained the various types of fires and how to extinguish the fire with practical demonstration by using fire brigade, water tanker and other fighting equipment. A cash award of Rs. 5000/- was given to the fire brigade team for their brilliant display of fire fighting drill.

Medical officials from Com-

munity Health Centre (CHC), Jairampur explained the safety measures to be taken during and after flood to avoid diseases and epidemics and when bitten by snakes. Pamphlets of precautionary measures and safety tips on earthquake, fire, landslides and floods were distributed amongst all the participants.

An official of 13 Assam Rifles said, “The main aim of this awareness programme was to provide basic knowledge and to demonstrate drills to be adopted during the hour of need in any such incident like flood, earthquake, landslides, fire, motor vehicles accident, snake bite etc. Demonstration was conducted to train and em-

power students to make effective use of their services in rescue and relief operations”.

Speaking on the occasion, the Commandant Jairampur Battalion reiterated that north east is located in the seismic zone V which is most prone area for earthquakes. In the past couple of years, India has seen a series of disasters – Uttrakhand, Kashmir and Chennai. Training was focused on disaster management. He also told that Assam Rifles is committed towards overall development of the remote areas and further assured that the battalion will continue doing whatever it takes to make this place a better place for all of us.

Nishi Elite Society calls on the CM and DCM Contd. from Page 1 “I believe all MLAs must be financially empowered equally so that that no constituency is deprived of development,” said the Chief Minister.

The NES promised its full support to the new government, and asserted that being a social organization it is committed to help the government in carrying forward its welfare programmes and policies.

NES also paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein at his residence in Itanagar today, and congratulated him on his appointment.

NES President Tulom said that the society is happy with the formation of the new government in the state and hoped for overall progress of the state under the new

government. He also assured to provide support for overall development of state as the NES stands for unity and integrity, and has been acting as the bridge in unifying the different communities of state.

Tulom also apprised Mein of the welfare measures carried out by the apex Nyishi organization for the betterment of the society and the state.

Welcoming the NES delegates, Mein stated that he has high regards for the NES and appealed to the society to play the role of a big brother in bringing and unifying different communities of state together.

He informed the delegates that the state will progress and witness development in all fronts under the young leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu. “The chief minister may be young but his thoughts are mature and is capable of brining constructive

growth and development to the state”, Mein said, before adding that Khandu has the support and guidance of all young and senior elected leaders cutting across party lines.

He also informed that his government will seek the opinion and support of opposition parties, stakeholders, NGOs and also the NES for constructive idea and criticism, to carry forward all the programs and policies of the government.

“Ours is democratic government and without distinguishing any society we must move forward towards the path of development and better governance in the state”, he added.

The NES delegates included Tarh Tabin vice president (East), Heri Maring general secretary and Dr N T Rikam assistant general secretary.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

PAGE 4

Baralia erosion creates threat to Garamsing village

ET Correspondent Nalbari, July 18: The massive erosion of Baralia River is causing concern to Garamsing village, near Baharghat in Nalbari district. The continuous erosion by the river, creating serious threat to the em-

bankment.

The people near bordering area of Nalbari and Kamrup district called upon the concern authorities to take appropriate anti-erosion measures but the water resources devel-

opment department have not taking this erosion issue seriously.

However, the Mukalmua sub-divisional office of the department only erected some bamboo spurs as antierosion measures.

Student bodies demand ban on tobacco products A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, July 18 : The All

Assam Hindu Students’ Union (AAHSU) and All Assam Mottock Yuba Chatra Sanstha (AAMYCS) today organized a 2-hour sit-in protest at Chowkidinghee here demanding a ban on all chewable tobacco products in Dibrugarh district.

In 2014, Assam become the first state to legally ban consumption of all forms of smokeless tobacco, including pan masala containing tobacco and nicotine, through an Act but tobacco products continue to find their way in the market as before.

“We demand ban on all forms of tobacco products in Dibrugarh district. Tobacco products like gutkha, sikhar and pan masalas are being openly sold in the market.

Youngsters and students consume it and are exposed to its harmful effects. Recently, we had protested in Tinsukia and to some extent the products is banned in Tinsukia,’’ said Lalan Sahani, Central organizing secretary of AAHSU. A memorandum was submitted to Deputy

Commissioner of Dibrugarh M.S.Manivannan in this regard.

Cigarettes and other Tobacco product (COPTA) Act, 2003 came into being in to ban such products.

Sahani added that there is a strict law against the tobacco products in Assam but still in some places the products are easily available in the shops.

“No steps taken by the BJP so far to ban such products.

Himanta Biswa Sarma, then Health minister in Congress rule Gogoi cabinet failed to ban the products in his own constituency and now he is busy criticizing the congress government. Now, why BJP is silent about the matter.’’ Sahani asked.

Recently, after a protest in Tinsukia the District administration had promulgated 144 for banning of tobacco products in Tinsukia. “We demand that the Dibrugarh deputy commissioner should take stern action to ban such products,’’ said a member of AAMYCS. According to the act,

whoever commits an offence such as manufacture, advertisement, storage, trade and distribution of smokeless tobacco products shall be punished with imprisonment for up to seven years and fined not less than Rs 1 lakh, which may go up to Rs 5 lakh. It also says that anyone found consuming smokeless tobacco would be punished with fine up to Rs 1,000 for the first offence and Rs 2,000 for the second and subsequent offences.

“Tobacco products are rampantly sold in the town under the nose of the District administration.

The administration has completely failed to check it.

They have not initiated any circular or notice to the shops to use billboards and posters in front of their shops,’’ alleged AAHSU. The organization said that they have submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to ban the products.

“In coming days we will launch awareness campaign through procession and distribute pamphlet in school to ban tobacco and make Assam tobacco free,’’ said Sahani.

Assam Assembly's Budget session begins on a stormy note Contd. from Page 1 When the Speaker stuck to his stand, Congress and AIUDF MLAs went to the Well pressing for their demand. "Speaker sir, please be neutral for the sake of Assam and in the interest of people of Assam," Congress MLA Abdul Khaleque said.

Suddenly, first-time BJP MLA Suman Haripriya, who was sitting on the second last row in the House, ran into the Well claiming that the

Opposition members are going to attack the Speaker. Other BJP MLAs also rushed to the well.

Both sides started sloganeering with the Opposition members displaying placards against the proposed auction and price rise.

At this, the Speaker adjourned the House for five minutes. As soon as the House reassembled, Congress and AIUDF members again pressed for their demands

leading to resumption of noisy scene.

"I will follow the books. A Speaker can disallow a matter even if it is of a public interest if he thinks that way," said Das. The Opposition legislators again walked into the well with their placards, while the ruling party members kept shouting against them from their respective seats.

When the Speaker moved ahead with the scheduled business of the day, the entire Opposition walked out of the House for the day.

Assam assembly speaker proposes change in daily timing of house Contd. from Page 1 After seven days of that, the new timings will be applicable," he said.

If the House passes the proposal, the House will start everyday at 9:30 am instead of 9 am and will conclude at 2 pm against 1:30 pm at present, he said.

"For Friday, the morning session of the House will be from 9:30 am to 11:30 and the evening session will be from 3 pm tp 5 pm," the speaker said.

When asked about the reason for changing the time, the Speaker said employees of the Assembly were finding it difficult to complete their morning household duties like

dropping children to schools among others.

"Moreover, the deadline to receive Zero Hour notice is 8 pm, leaving little time for preparation of respective ministers. So now the new timing will give 30 minutes more to them as the deadline remains the same," Das said.

Misfire hurt Kaziranga boy, 2 KNP employees suspended Contd. from Page 1 According to Manoranjan Barman, the Range Officer of Kohora, Manas Borah was new to KNP, who joined just two days back and had very little knowledge about rhino or any other animal movement,

thought that the movement was from rhino, near the Mihimukh camp and took the rifle of Anil Kalita to chase away the rhino, which was loaded. But incidentally touched the trigger of the rifle and hit the leg of Akash Orang, who hails from the nearby village and used to visit very frequently to the

BTC chief present 462.66 crores budgets for BTC ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, July 18: BTC chief, Hagrama Mohilary, who is also Finance department in-charge, presented a plan size budget of Rs 462.66 crore for the annual Plan of BTC for the year 2016-2017 on Monday to the three days’ BTC Legislative Assembly budget session held at BTC Legislative Assembly House, holding speaker of BTCLA in the chair at Bodofa Nwgwr in Kokrajhar.

from state plan.

On the first day, BTC chief Mohilary presented a plan size budget of Rs 462.66 crore for the annual Plan of BTC for the year 20162017, highlighting priorities for development, which included Education, Agriculture, Health, Irrigation, Road communication, Forest protection etc.

Earlier the Speaker announced the report of the business advisory committee under Rule 230 of the Council Legislative Assembly.

Opposition MCLAs from UPP, AIUDF raised several questions on various issues of developmental activities, including land allotment to Patanjali at Rowmari, educational rationalization method in Chirang district.

In his budget speech, Mohilary said, the council is committed to achieve the growth target, fixed as per the plan allocation. He however said, it requires support

Mohilary also said, the government of India has sanctioned one-time special plan assistance to BTC amounting Rs 421.02 crore for 2015-16 but the money is still lying with the state government. He urged the Assam government to release the amount as it will be great help to meet the critical gap of the rural development of BTC.

of both the central and state government to increase investment economy.

Mohilary also said the Council has decided to adopt one ‘Model village’ in each constituencies of BTC for all round development of this model village by providing fund from each entrusted departments.

He also said the council has decided to launch a new scheme ‘Bodoland Nivash Yojana’ at the rate of Rs 1.50 lakhs along with

Bodoland Vikash Yojana’ by providing a house to the eligible BPL families those who are not having BPL ID number within BTC. For the skill development and empowerment of women and to create equal opportunities, he said the council government is emphasizing promotion of women in the sector of handloom & textile, sericulture, cottage industry, cooperation, sports by providing financial assistance through Self-help Groups.

Six arrested for trying kidnap

He also said the council has decided to provide financial assistance to rank holder of students of HSLC and Higher Secondary at the rate of Rs 2 lakhs, sponsoring students for coaching of intending candidates of UPSC examination.

He urge upon the state government of Assam to enhance the plan allocation of BTC to take up more development work for the people.

In 2016-17, Rs 462.66 crore has been earmarked to BTC

Md Zakir Hussain(28) of Satipur and Saja Ali(25) of Satipur- all under Dhaligaon police station in Chirang district were arrested last evening for allegedly trying to kidnap a Adivasi girl from Deosri area under Runikhata police station.

Police said the youths allegedly tried to kidnap the girl

Rwngwra Narzary, Opposition MCLA said, “We placed several question in the session regarding developmental aspects and land protection. We hope BTC administration will provide good governance through people’s fulfillment”.

Assam Bahumukhi Samabai Samiti urges government for budget allocation ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, July 18: The Assam Bahumukhi Samabai Samiti Limited urged the state government to include the Samabai Samiti into state budget which will be presented on July 26 next by Finance Minister in the ongoing Assembly budget.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, July 18: Chirang police arrested six persons for attempt to kidnap a girl in the district last evening. Police said Md Nijam Ali (28) of Baikhungaon, Md Taibor Rahman (29) of Satipur, Hanif Ali(25) of Baikhungaon, Md Najrul Sk(36) of Satipur,

Kampa Borgoyary, BTC deputy said, “BTC administration was working for the uplift of education in the region with special initiative to provide educational growth. We are appointing more 600-700 teachers in schools in the region by short periods”.

Sudhir Chandra Nath, asby pulling her inside a ve- sistant divisional manager, hicle (AS -01 AU/8258). BTAD division of Assam The girl raise alarm by Bahumukhi Samabai shouting following which Samiti told that, the Samiti the local caught the six ac- was found 23 years back cused and later handed over in Jorhat and since then it to the police. has been serving for the A case was registered againt welfare of citizens relentthem at Runikhata police lessly with dedication of station. They were produced welfare. He said that in Court at Kajalgaon in Samiti has been running Chirang sent to jail today. various schemes like fixed

deposit, Current deposit, and loan system besides providing facilities of social welfare among customers in the region. “We had recently met with the finance Minister of Assam to discuss about Samabai’s feasibility and its expectation of working capacity,” Nath said.

He has urged state government to take bold step during state budget feasibility, so that over 5000 engaged staffs across the state can get government status in their living life. “The Samabai have 105 branches along with 10 divisions across the state and giving peoples’ services with good dedication”, Nath added.

Four heavily armed cadres Warm public felicitation to young of Arakan Gut of Ulfa enters football sensation on way to Germany Tinsukia, red alert sounded ET Correspondent Contd. from Page 1 However, Digboi is on top of their target list followed by Margherita, he added.

Two out of the four cadre has been identified as Rupam Asom and Uday Asom, added the source and said, one Dihingia named ulfa linkman is the main link to help the cadre organize blasts.

The source added that the group have come from Arakan Gut - Ulfa camp in Myanmar.

The cadres walked all the way through the jungles of Changlang and have sneaked into Assam through Jagun.

The inputs suggest that cadres are carrying atleast three IED bombs and equal number

of AK series assault riffles. The militant organization is planning to target security establishments apart from vital oil installations.

Another senior official with security agency said, security across all vital installations has been beefed up. Joint team of police, army and CRPF are conduction area domination exercises.

Security forces are on their toes to thwart any threat, he added.

It may be noted The Eastern Today on its July 15 issue had published a report of major operation launched art various places in Tinsukia following reports of ulfa cadres having entered the boundaries of Tinsukia.

Seven oil tankers gutted in fire Contd. from Page 1

Today, we are afraid and think that same thing had camp. happed but thanks to god that everything is fine,’’ said a Meanwhile, locals from the resident of Dikom.

Kohora area gharoaded the The inferno was finally Kohora Range office and brought under control by firedemanded justice, proper tenders from OIL Duliajan, investigation and treatment and Indian Air Force, Chabua and also irate locals blocked the NH-37 at the Kohora Range BCPL, Dibrugarh at 3.45 pm.

There was no report of any point.

causualty or injury. The cause of the fire is yet to be known.

The amount of crude oil destroyed in the fire was not immediately known. On an average around 1,000 kilolitre of crude oil come into the station daily from various oil wells, the official added.

On Sept 15, 2005 an oil well of Dikom engulfed with fire causing huge loses to Oil India Ltd.

Mangaldai, July 17: Many public organizations and individuals of Darrang district on here on Sunday offered felicitation with gamosa , ready made garments, shoes , bag and good wishes to nine year old football sensation Chandan Boro belonging to a very poor family of remote village Harisinga in Udalguri for being selected as the lone footballer of the state to get trained for long six years in Germany under a sports scholarship provided

by Tata trust. On this occasion a public function has been organized at Chapai near here by a local non government organization called Yuva Kalyan Kendra in association with Chapai Theatre Management committee at its auditorium in the afternoon.

A good no of people including prominent citizens like Pratap Bordoloi , Chairman , Municipal Board Mangaldai , Dr Bijoy Kr Sharma, HoD, Assamese Deptt ,Mangaldai College, associate professor of Mangaldai college Bhabesh Choudhury , Dr Amarendra Narayan Deb former president Darrang Zila Sahitya Sabha, senior journalist Bhargab Kr Das , international level veteran athlete Runu Debi office bearers of Mangaldai Sports Association , Harisinga Sports Association ,

Harisinga AASU , local sports lovers , students attended the function. All the speakers while speaking on the occasion expressed their delight on the rare achievement of an youth from a rural area which had been an integral part the Darrang sports before its bifurcation in 2004 and hoped that one day the promising footballer Chandan with his outstanding football ability will shine in the world football . Earlier journalist Ganesh Dutta while compeering the function described how pathetic the livelihood condition of Chandan and his family residing in a temporary hut along the railway line and his father Nripen Boro and mother Bina Boro both earning from daily wages . It was Semual Basumatary , the dedicated young football

coach who in his free coaching camp first spotted the football talent of Chandan and then helped and guided him to get selected in a football camp by Sports Authority of India in Kokrajhar on June 16 last from among 150 budding football talents of the state. Many organizations and individuals including Dr Mrinal Choudhury , Anupam Deka of SRD Group among others came forward to present financial package to meet up his preparations of his journey . The function also witness felicitation to football coach Samuel Basumatary along with Bhargabmuni Das and Nirmal Ghosh the two local youths who has made Mangaldai proud by getting selection for Assam Police Service under APSC results of which have recently been announced.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

PAGE 5

6 held for pilfering ONGC drill tools in Tripura Agartala, July 18: A team of Tripura police and ONGC security personnel averted a possible mishap at an oil drill site in Gabardih near here by apprehending six persons allegedly involved in pilferage of sophisticated machineries of the oil major.

Acting on a tip-off, the raid team of police and ONGC security reached the drill site on Friday and arrested six persons, who were trying to pilfer machineries from the site, a statement issued by the ONGC unit here

said on Monday.

As the location has high pressure wells and pipelines connecting the old well at a pressure of 2000 PSI, it is very unsafe for humans to enter the location. Even a minor dent in any of the pipelines or spark due to friction could cause an explosion, Assistant Manager, ONGC Tripura, S C Soni said.

He said such acts of pilferage had caused a loss of Rs.2.3 crore to ONGC, apart from delaying by at least one month the plan to con-

Legendary freedom fighter remembered on his 181st death anniv

NEEPCO anomalies: Former CVO leaves Shillong

Shillong, July 18: The Khasi Students' Union (KSU) remembered the legendary Khasi freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem on his 181st death anniversary in a small function at Madan Iewrynghep, Laitumkhrah here on Sunday.

Besides paying tributes to the legend, the KSU used the occasion to draw attention to the contentious issue of uranium mining in the state which the union is opposed to. The KSU felt that the confrontation faced by the state on Sunday is parallel to the challenges faced by the Khasi freedom fighter from Hima Nongkhlaw in his quest to gain freedom from British rule.

Speaking to reporters on the occasion, KSU general secretary Auguster Jyrwa said, "The British had requested for permission to construct a road which had its ramifications in the Khasi states and presently the Central Government is trying to pave its way into the state with a road project from N o n g s t o i Ăą - Wa h k a j i Mawthabah to facilitate uranium mining (which will again be detrimental to the state)."

"We do not want the same story of harassment and violence to be repeated in the present times as undoubtedly the road project is to facilitate uranium mining in the region," he added.

Jyrwa stated that if the Centre gives green signal to the road project, the pressure group will be "ready to face the challenge".

However, he said that for the time being the organization will settle for a public meeting to make people aware of the end result of the road project.

Also present on the occasion were members of regional political parties-UDP and KHNAM, and those representing the HNYF among others.

All present paid rich tributes to the legendary freedom fighter.

Addressing the gathering, UDP working president and former KSU leader Paul Lyngdoh said, "A community that does not remember its freedom fighters is immature.

It is necessary to instill the spirit of love for one's community."

Our Ri Bhoi Corespondent adds Meanwhile, the KSU, North Khasi Hills District along with the principal, teachers and students of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Niangbari observed the 181st death anniversary of the U Tirot Sing by paying homage with floral tributes at the memorial monument of the freedom fighter at the campus of JNV Niangbari in Ri Bhoi District on Saturday.

Quoting the immortal words of Tirot Sing, "Better die an independent king than reign as the vassal", KSU NKHD president, Ferdynald Kharkamni urged the student community to take inspiration from the great leader and urged people to be united in their fight against various issues concerning the state.

U Tirot Sing Syiem, the tribal Khasi chief of Nongkhlaw Kingdom, was the first Khasi ruler to rebel against the British empire in 1829.

U Tirot Sing Syiem's name is etched in history as the last man who ended up in the British dungeons in Dhaka, Bangladesh for trying to free his people from foreign yoke. It was on January 13, 1833, that the British forces treacherously captured him and kept him in a Dhaka jail, where he died on July 17, 1835.(Agencies)

Shillong, July 18: All is not well with the Shillong based North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) as the Centre is keeping a close watch on several reports regarding alleged malpractices in the central public enterprise with those who are at the helm of affairs adopting a hush-hush approach.

Sources said on Sunday that ousted NEEPCO Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) Satish Verma reached here from Shillong on Sunday. According to sources, as CVO of NEEPCO, Verma had unearthed several alleged anomalies and the probe reports in this regard have already been sent to authorities here.

Sources said some NEEPCO officials allegedly influenced the Union ministry of Power to secure the transfer of Verma as he was probing serious corruption charges against top NEEPCO functionaries.

According to sources, the Centre should institute an independent

A team of Tripura police and ONGC security personnel averted a possible mishap at an oil drill site in Gabardih nect the wells.

"Our intent is not to pun-

probe into the state of affairs in NEEPCO as the tenure of Verma as CVO was cut short by the handiwork of some vested interests who do not wish to cleanse the mess in NEEPCO. The scope of probe by Verma included the Siang power project in Arunachal Pradesh. Despite the payment of Rs 100 crore, the project is yet to start as a result of which NEEPCO incurred heavy loss. Alleged fake billing for boulders for the Kameng power project in the same state was another area. Only 75% of the project was completed.

Sources added that Verma had also submitted a report on how a particular official who was vying for the post of next CMD lodged complaints with the ministry of Power against AG W. Kharkongor, Director (Finance) NEEPCO, who was set to take over as the new CMD. As per earlier media reports, it was in December last year that the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB), Ministry

ish a section of villagers but to make them aware

of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions had recommended Kharkongor's name for the post of CMD. PESB had recommended Kharkongor's name after an interview held in Delhi on December 28, 2015.

Besides Kharkongor, S.B. Borgohain, Director (Personnel), NEEPCO had also appeared in the interview.

Earlier on July 1, after Verma as CVO lodged three FIRs against Chairman-cum-Managing Director P.C. Pankaj who retired on June 30, Director (Personnel) S.B. Borgohain, and Executive Director (Security) P.K. Jaiswal for allegedly extorting money from his sub-ordinate officer Abhishek Kumar, Manager (HR), and preventing the CVO from performing duties, NEEPCO had clarified that Verma was against the suspension order of Kumar and hence made false allegation.

Moreover, NEEPCO had said that after the order from the vigilance department, the office

that it's highly unsafe to be involved in any such activity near any gas well or pipeline. It is not possible to post security personnel at all the 209 wells drilled by ONGC. Rather the villagers should ensure that national property is not destroyed by any miscreant," Soni said.

The cluster location has two new wells having gas potential of 1.5 lakh cubic metres each per day, and two old wells.

The new wells are scheduled to be connected to Gas Gathering Station

chamber of Kumar was unsealed.

Following this development, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the proposal of Union Power ministry for curtailment of tenure of Verma who will now join as IG CRPF in Delhi after his service was placed at the disposal of Ministry of Home Affairs.

Though the tenure of Verma as CVO was for three years, he could serve not even two years with NEEPCO. CMD reimburses over Rs 4.91 lakh Earlier, the Director of Central Vigilance Commission Sanjay Agarwal had examined a letter of the Union ministry of Power regarding complaint against ex-CMD P.C. Pankaj on the recovery of excess rent claimed by Pankaj.

After examining the complaint, in a letter addressed to the CVO, the ministry of Power on April 13 this had said, "The case has been examined in the commission. It is submitted that reimbursement of 70 per

(GCS) of ONGC while the site was scheduled to be used by another rig of the oil major to undertake repair of old wells.

Police inspector-incharge, Dipak Das, who is probing the case, told reporters that the thieves tried to lift the machineries for selling in markets in low rates.

Police were interrogating the six arrested persons, he said adding the arrests busted a racket involved in pilferage activities in the area but further raids were on.(Agencies)

cent may not be in order.

Therefore, the Commission advises CVO, ministry of power to recover the same from Pankaj CMD".

Sources pointed out that the CMD had claimed and availed house rent allowance of total Rs 4,91,400 for 39 months (Rs 12,600 per month) by stating that he was using only 30 per cent of the house allotted to him at Shillong Peak and the rest 70 per cent of the accommodation was used by someone else.

Though he was entitled house rent allowance of Rs 18,000 per month, he had claimed an additional Rs 4,91,400.

However, the NEEPCO Terminal Benefit Settlement Cell on June 30 this year cleared the settlement of dues after adjusting Rs 4,91,400 to be reimbursed by Pankaj, days before the vigilance clearance from the Centre.

Curiously, the vigilance clearance from the Union ministry of Power came to Pankaj on July 11, 11 days after he had retired.(Agencies)

State moves to normalcy as bandh culture ends Shillong, July 18: Overcoming its regressive attitude, Meghalaya is slowly but surely transforming into a friendlier place thanks largely to the end of the bandh culture in the State. From being a State where bandh and agitation was the order of the day, Meghalaya is now inching towards a positive environment and in the process attaining a positive environment essential for the development of the State.

As per official statistics, no bandh has been called in East Khasi Hills in the last 14 months, with the last such call being made on May 26-27 last year. In 2013, bandh was called five times in the State by different groups including banned militant outfits in East Khasi Hills. In 2014, however, bandh was called on four occasions by a banned militant outfit and other organisations.

Significantly till May 2015, a militant outfit called bandh on two occasions and there has been no such call made since June, 2015.

Incidentally, road blockades - which were called at the drop of a hat - have also become a thing of the past. Police statistics reveal that

in 2012, night road blockades were called on five occasions while in 2013, announcement of night road blockades saw a spurt with 13 such calls.

No doubt, the order of the High Court of Meghalaya which came down heavily against the bandh culture in the State last year has largely helped to put an end to such agitation calls. The High Court had, in an order, restrained the media from publicizing statements from organizations calling bandh, strike, bandh, road blockade and holding of rallies in the State.

Sharing her thoughts on the matter, Urban Affairs Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh observed that the present situation in Meghalaya shows that the community has become matured and people have become smarter.

"If there is a problem, people find the correct platform to address their concerns," she said.

Ampareen also believed that in the last couple of years, students have been performing better as they know that there will be no disruptions and people are assured that there will be no more untoward inci-

dents.

"The fact that there are no more bandhs is a good thing from the law and order point of view and now a good image about the State is being imprinted in the minds of the tourists," observed East Khasi Hills SP M. Kharkrang.

According to Kharkrang, daily wage earners who compromise the bulk of the population are not affected anymore due to the end of the bandh culture.

KSU president Daniel Khyriem said the State government in the last few years has actively engaged with pressure groups on the issues concerning the State and decisions are about to be implemented.

"So far so good. With this trend many unwanted decisions have been avoided," Khyriem said.

Stating that the government has been able to address certain issues, Khyriem, however, said the government should not be complacent and it has to seriously address all the issues to ensure that the demands and aspirations of the people are met.

On the other hand, FKJGP president Joe

Marwein said the pressure groups, at times, are forced to apply pressure on the government if the issues concerning the State are not addressed properly.

"When a committee of the government recommends for Inner Line Permit and then the government is reluctant to implement the recommendation then such behaviour of the government forces us to put pressure," he said.

Entrepreneur Mark Laitflang Stone said bandhs added to the perception that Meghalaya was unsafe and unwelcoming to professional and private enterprises even as he added that for entrepreneurs who are just starting out, closure of business for a day amounts to loss of revenue and reputation with clients, especially for those in the services sector.

"The environment in Shillong seems to have mellowed down in recent years and small businesses are now concerned more with growth and expansion and not with when to close," he added.

CSWO president Agnes Kharshiing had a different take on the matter, saying that if people themselves cooperate it cannot be termed as a

bandh as it is their prerogative to either support or reject the bandh.

Putting fear in the minds of people cannot be tolerated but seeking support of people is not a wrong thing, she added. "In fact there are many government employees who are longing for a bandh so that they can sit at home," Kharshiing said.

She also said that putting a restriction on media to write certain information is also a bandh in a democratic setup. "Let people decide what is right and wrong," Kharshiing added.

When contacted, a city hotelier admitted that tourist flow had tremendously increased in Shillong and tourists are now doing advance bookings for hotels since they know that there are no bandhs in Shillong. "I hope the situation remains like this forever for the benefit of everyone," the hotelier said.

Echoing similar views, a woman who runs a footpath shop said it is the common people and the State which suffer during bandhs. "Everyone can take care of their livelihood if there is no bandh," she added.(Agencies)

MCSCC exam embroiled in another controvery

MCSCC exam embroiled in another controvery Imphal, Jul 18 : Alleging that Manipur Public Service Commission (MPSC) has violated the rights of OBC and SC candidates in the recently declared result of Manipur Civil Services Combined Competitive (Preliminary) examination, All Manipur Scheduled Caste Association has demanded annulment of the said result.

Speaking at a press conference held at Manipur Press Club, association secretary Moirangthem Gyanel said that the cutoff mark for unreserved, OBC and SC categories were clubbed together at 171 while the cut-off for ST was 168. As such, MPSC had given no reservation to SC and OBC candidates which was a clear violation of the all India reservation policy, Supreme Court ruling and Constitutional rights of the candidates belonging to these two groups, he said.

Gyanel stated that MPSC conducted Manipur Civil Services Combined Competitive examination to fill up 82 different posts.

In the notification of the examination issued by the commission, it was clearly mentioned that two seats are reserved of SC candidates, 22 seats for ST, 10 seats for OBC (Meitei/Meetei) and four seats for OBC (Meitei Pangal), Gyanel said.

He further said that the result of preliminary examination declared on July 8 did not mention category-wise selection of candidates that led to suspicion of the candidates. Stating that this is not the first time that

MPSC had ignited controversy, Gyanel said that there were many irregularities and mistakes in the past examinations as well.

Alleging that the latest goof-up was not just an inadvertent mistake but an intentional game, Gyanel said that stern action must be taken against the officials concerned of MPSC. He further said that they are incompetent to handle such important examinations.

Gyanel further said that the State Government must consult other agencies like UPSC if MPSC is unable to conduct the examination in a proper manner.

He further said that they would fight the matter in the Court if no positive action is taken up even after the submission of a memorandum to MPSC regarding the invalidation of the Preliminary examination results.

It may be mentioned that the first notification for MCSCC examination, 2015 was issued on December 29, 2015. However, the examination which was supposed to be held on February 28, 2016 was cancelled due to detection of errors in the eligibility criteria.

After a fresh notification was issued on April 7, 2016, MPSC conducted the Preliminary examination on May 15 this year.

However, the commission had to cancel this examination as well due to many question errors and ambiguity in instructions.

Later, a fresh examination was held on July 3.(Agencies)

KHADC chief bats for 'people's platform' Shillong, July 19: KHADC CEM P.N. Syiem has called for formation of a 'people's platform' to allow people from all walks of life including intellectuals to air their varied views which according to him can be translated into a political agenda. "I am unhappy with the present situation where everything is in disorder whether it is cleanliness of Shillong, its environment, air or water," Syiem told The Shillong Times on Sunday.

According to the Congress legislator from Mawsynram, a new and transformed Meghalaya is the need of the hour.

Without commenting on the issue of dissidence in the State Congress, the KHADC CEM said, "My priority now is to explore ways and means of forming a peoples' forum where people can freely express their views on how to improve the city and the State which will be translated into a political agenda to be carried forward".

Asked whether he was talking about forming a new political party, the CEM said, "It does not matter whether it is the same party or a new party, but what matters is the gathering of likeminded people to explore the possibility of forming a vision for the overall development of Meghalaya which can be translated into a political agenda in

the long run.

"There is overall breakdown of civic amenities in the city coupled with bad roads and people bask only in the past glory of Shillong being an educational hub. There are other concerns over water and air pollution and the ecology is devastated. We are not good law makers. We need a different kind of politics.

There is a need for new thoughts and better policies to be suggested by people with sound background as we are fed up with the old system," Syiem said.

According to Syiem, there is also a need to have a think tank and experts in major fields with every political party and government to reduce the dependency on bureaucrats as the government is very often at the mercy of bureaucrats.

"Look at other states which are making tremendous progress whereas we are regressing," he said.

A disillusioned KHADC chief further said people should freely discuss important issues concerning the State.

"Unless there is discussion, we cannot create a clear cut political agenda, a new vision to achieve a transformed Meghalaya.

Hence we need to create a platform and let people come forward and express good ideas," the KHADC chief added.

(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

PAGE 6

Govt mulls stern provisions law vs polluters: Uma New Delhi, Jul 18 : Government is working to bring a law having stringent provisions against polluters, Water Resources Minister Uma Bharti announced today, saying industrial and sewage waste discharged into river Ganga was the primary source of its pollution.

Replying to supplementaries in Rajya Sabha during Question Hour, the Minister said the government is proposing to bring the law in consultation with states to act against polluting industries.

"The primary reason for pollution of Ganga is sewage and industrial waste discharged into the river and not the religious materials which flow into it...

"Ganga has been polluted for many years and there is concern all over the world about it, but not even one person has gone to jail so far. We are committed to act strongly against those polluting river Ganga. There are 764 industries located along the river Ganga.

We are proposing a law in consultation with states to act against polluting industry," Bharti said.

The Minister noted that religious materials which flow into the river were not the main source of its pollution.

These only add to the pollution if the flow of water is blocked, she said.

Government is carrying out a survey for resolving the issue of discharge of religious material into

'No penalty for violation of env norms in last 2 yrs'

The government did not impose any penalty for violation of environment and forest clearances in the last two years New Delhi, Jul 18 : The government did not impose any penalty for violation of environment and forest clearances in the last two years, Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday.

"No penalty was imposed by the Ministry for violating conditions of environment, forest, coastal regulation zone clearance in the last two years," Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave said in a written reply. He was asked whether the government has waived the penalty imposed on certain companies recently.

The Environment Ministry had earlier this month termed as "incorrect" claims that Adani Port and SEZ Ltd (APSEZ) was spared a hefty fine of

Rs 200 crore for environmental damage during construction of Mundra port and said it had imposed "more serious" responsibility on the firm without any cost limit.

"The inference drawn by the news report is not correct. The present government has not cancelled fine of Rs 200 crore. This decision of the ministry is much more stringent than asking for Rs 200 crore from APSEZL... "...because here in this case whatever has been recommended by the Sunita Narain Committee for damage restoration and further conservation has to be borne by APSEZL which otherwise was limited to Rs 200 crore," the Ministry had said in a statement.(PTI)

Kejriwal indulging in politics of fraud: Harsimrat News Delhi, July 18: Union minister Harsimrat Kaur on Monday accused Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of indulging in "politics of fraud" and not "politics of penance" after he washed utensils at the Golden Temple to seek apology over the youth manifesto controversy.

Kejriwal washed dishes in the Golden Temple's community kitchen as an apology after his Aam Aadmi Party drew flak for depicting the image of the Sikh shrine with the party symbol - broom - in its youth manifesto.

"But people of Punjab will teach him (a lesson).

People of Delhi are also realising what a big mistake they have made. He made promises to people of Delhi and has not been able to fulfil them," Kaur, also a SAD MP, said outside Parliament.

Terming Kejriwal's re-

gime as a "failure", she said "He is a totally failure in Delhi. I have never seen CM of a state going to another state to make a government over there and not serving the people of his state."

Asked whether SAD was feeling jittery because of the presence of Kejriwal in Punjab, she said, "It is not so.

Kejriwal cannot make any dent in SAD's support base. A man who does not know the culture of Punjab, language of Punjab, will be wiped off badly...He does not know how to respect the people of Punjab. He is doing politics of fraud in Delhi."

Asked if Kejriwal's presence in Punjab was a challenge for SAD-BJP alliance, she said "the alliance will score a hattrick in the Assembly elections thanks to AAP and Congress." (Agencies)

ensuring relentless flow of water in the river, to which the government is committed and Ganga will be cleaned up.

"There are concerns the world over on cleanliness of the river. The Ganga river is pure from the issue of reverence but not in reality, as there is presence of chemicals in the water and government is working on cleaning it up," she said.

Water Resources Minister Uma Bharti the river by evolving a project connecting the livelihood of people living along the river, which will be implemented soon after the survey report comes, she said.

Asked if the dams con-

structed on the river during previous regimes were hindering the flow of its water, the Minister said a treaty was signed between British rulers and Madan Mohan Malviya and others for

The Minister said Rs 20,000 crore has been earmarked under "Namami Gange" project which will help clean the river. The first phase will be completed by this year and the second phase by October 2018, she said.

Bharti also said that hi-tech equipment is being deployed to bring water from Ganga's tributaries back into the river.(PTI)

"Ganga has been polluted for many years and there is concern all over the world about it, but not even one person has gone to jail so far. We are committed to act strongly against those polluting river Ganga. There are 764 industries located along the river Ganga. We are proposing a law in consultation with states to act against polluting industry,"

Republican convention starts in Cleveland under tight security Cleveland, Jul 18 : The Republican convention, which will formally coronate billionaire Donald Trump as the party's presidential candidate, will kick off here amid tight security and heightened tensions following a series of shootings in the US. Sleuths of security forces and secret service agents have converged on the city and huge make-shift iron walls have come up several blocks around the Quicken Loans Arena where Republican National Convention would be held over the next few days July 18 to July 21.

The Convention which kicks off tomorrow is aimed at Americans to "get to know Donald Trump the man" rather than Trump the candidate, his top campaign aide said here yesterday.

A different and new image of Trump, a success-

ful businessman and a great human being, would be narrated through the personal stories of people who have known him and worked with him throughout the past several decades and along with his own family members, his campaign manager Paul Manafort said.

Manafort said the line to speakers have been selected in such a way which so that "Americans would get to know Trump the man" and not the candidate.

"They're going to see more of the man. I mean, they've seen him on the campaign trail, but they haven't seen him in the back, in the boardrooms.

They haven't seen him up close and personal. They have a perspective of the man, but this convention is going to focus on the whole part of the personality," Manafort said.

Trump, 70, is scheduled to arrive in the city today, but is unlikely to address the convention which would have a theme beginning with "Make America Safe Again".

Main speakers as per the list announced are Melania Trump, Lieutenant General (ret) Michael Flynn, Senator Joni Ernst, Jason Beardsley and Congressman Ryan Zinke.

"A Donald Trump administration will listen to and learn from our nation's heroes who have put themselves in harm's way and pursue a national security strategy and foreign policy that will strengthen our military and make America safe again," the Republican Convention said in a statement.

"You're going to have his family speaking. You're going to have friends who have known him

speaking. You're going to have people who have worked with him both inside the company and outside of the company.

And so you're going to see how he's built his successful empire," Manafort said.

Strongly refuting the allegations that the party is divided, Manafort said the Republican was united under Trump.

"It is a Trump convention. The delegates on the floor are going to be his delegates. More importantly, the message is going to be his. The platform that was passed in this past week that will be adopted by the convention," Manafort said.

Trump will deliver the acceptance speech on Thursday night when the theme is "Make America One Again." Other speakers on that day are Peter Thiel, Tom Barrack and Ivanka Trump.(PTI)

Fadnavis govt shielding Khadse: NCP Nagpur, Jul 18 : NCP leader and former Union minister Praful Patel has claimed that the Devendra Fadnavis government is shielding former Maharashtra minister Eknath Khadse who had resigned in the wake of a series of charges against him. "We were always sceptical about the ACB probe. The manner in which the government was shielding Khadse, it was crystal clear that he would be protected," Patel said referring to media reports on the investigating agency giving a 'clean chit' to Khadse in a bribery case involving his personal assistant Gajanan Patil.

According to reports, the ACB chargesheet in the case does not name the controversial BJP leader, thus giving him a clean chit. However, Patil, is indicted for allegedly demanding a bribe on Khadse's behalf. Among other charges, Khadse was accused of alleged irregularity in buying a Maharashtra Industrial

NCP leader and former Union minister Praful Patel Development Corporation (MIDC) plot at Bhosari in Pune.

The former Union minister also criticised the proposed inquiry to be conducted by a retired High Court Judge and demanded that the probe should be under Commission of Inquiry Act. "This probe is another attempt to save Khadse who is under scanner for questionable land deals by his family members and brazen misuse of office by him," Patel told reporters here yesterday on the sidelines of a Eid function.

The NCP leader also launched a frontal attack on the state government over alleged deterioration in law and order and took potshots at Fadnavis for inducting alleged tainted individuals in the state cabinet.

PM introduces new ministers in Lok Sabha

The allegations against ministers in Fadnavis' government are on the rise and with this addition of tainted people, all are perturbed, Patel claimed.

Reacting on the trouble in violence-hit Kashmir valley, Patel claimed that the Centre "over-relied" on personal warmth between leaders overlooking the harsh realities of international politics and criticised the PDP-BJP government in Jammu and Kashmir as well the NDA for "inept handling" of the situation. He also criticised Narendra Modi government for its decision to impose President's rule in Uttarakhand first and recently in Arunachal Pradesh.(PTI)

"The NCP leader also launched a frontal attack on the state government over alleged deterioration in law and order and took potshots at Fadnavis for inducting alleged tainted individuals in the state cabinet."

PM introduces new ministers in Lok Sabha New Delhi, Jul 18 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced his new ministers to the Lok Sabha on the first day of the Monsoon Session today.

The Prime Minister had inducted 19 new faces in his Council of Ministers in the expansion which took place on July 5.

As per custom, Modi introduced his new colleagues in the government to the Lok Sabha on the first day of the session. These included Prakash Javadekar, the new HRD minister, who has been elevated to the Cabinet rank.

Vijay Goel, Anil Madhav Dave, Faggan Singh Kulaste S S Ahluwalia, Ramdas Athawale, Ramesh Chandrappa, Rajen Gohain, Purushottam Rupala, M J

Akbar, Jaswantsinh Sumanbhai Bhabhor, Arjun Ram Meghwal, Mahendranath Pande, Ajay Tamta Krishna Raj, Mansukh Mandavia, Anupriya Patel, C R Chaudhary P P Chaudhary and Subhash Ramrao Amre were among the new ministers of state and ministers of state with Independent charge introduced to the House.

Earlier, Conrad Kongkal Sangma, elected on National People's Party ticket from the Tura constituency in Meghalaya, took oath as member of the Lok Sabha.

The bypoll to the Tura seat was necessitated following the demise of veteran parliamentarian P A Sangma in March this year.(PTI)

Clinton leads Trump in polls ahead of Republican convention

Clinton leads Trump in polls ahead of Republican convention Cleveland, Jul 18 : Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton holds a modest but solid lead over her Republican rival Donald Trump, according to three latest polls released ahead of the Republican party's national convention here.

The edge for Clinton, who seeking to become the first female US president, ranged from four to seven percentage points over Trump, the billionaire real estate mogul set to claim the Republican nomination this week.

The ABC/ The Washington Post survey gave Clinton an advantage of four points over Trump.

The real estate tycoon was seen trailing by seven points in the CNN/ORC International Pol. In the ABC News / The Wall Street Journal the former Secretary of State leads by five percentage points.

RealClearPolitics.Com which maintains all major

national polls, said Clinton is leading Trump by 3.2 per cent in an average of major national polls.

But both remain unpopular.

The ABC/Post survey said 58 per cent of voters say they are dissatisfied with their choice between Clinton, the wife of former President Bill Clinton, and Trump, the one-time television reality show host. It said 64 per cent view Trump unfavorably, with 54 per cent looking negatively at Clinton.

The pre-convention polls give Clinton a lead that has declined only slightly through a tumultuous July that began with FBI Director James Comey accusing the former secretary of state of being "extremely careless" with her use of a private email server while at the State Department, though Comey recommended no charges.(PTI)

Draft env policy by IIFM under consideration: govt New Delhi, Jul 18 : A draft National Forest Policy has been submitted by a forest management institute under the Environment Ministry and it is under consideration, Rajya Sabha was informed today.

Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave, in a written reply, said "The Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal under the Environment Ministry was asked to prepare a draft National Forest Policy. IIFM has submitted the draft policy document

which is under consideration." He was replying to a question on whether the Ministry has come out with a draft national forest policy proposing levy of green tax.

The Ministry had earlier said it had uploaded a "study" and "not issued" any draft policy on its website. It said it was a study done by IIFM that was "inadvertently" uploaded on its website as draft forest policy and "not issued" any draft forest policy. (PTI)

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

Turkey detains 103 generals, admirals after coup

Turkey has detained a total of 103 generals and admirals in the wake of the failed coup aimed at overthrowing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Istanbul, July 18: Turkey has detained a total of 103 generals and admirals in the wake of the failed coup aimed at overthrowing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, state media said on Monday.

The top military figures have been detained in sweeps across the country after Friday's attempted putsch, the Anadolu news agency said, in what appears to be a major purge of the armed forces.

They are now being taken to courts to decide on remanding them in custody. Ten generals have already been re-

manded in custody ahead of trial, the Dogan news agency said.

Those detained are accused of seeking to violate the Turkish constitution and attempting to overthrow the authorities by force.

They are also accused of belonging to what the authorities call the Fethullahci Terror Organisation (FETO) led by Fethullah Gulen, the exiled USbased preacher who Erdogan blames for the coup. Gulen's supporters say their group, which they call Hizmet (Service), is entirely peaceful

3 get death penalty, 5 jailed for life over B'desh war crimes

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

PM's return to Islamabad delayed due to fever and infection Lahore, July 18: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's return to Islamabad has been delayed due to fever and infection, a PM House spokesman said Monday.

The premier, who is currently in Lahore, "was due to travel to Islamabad tomorrow (Tuesday) morning but due to an infection in one of his leg incisions, he is suffering from fever," the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added that doctors are treating the prime minister's infection and Nawaz Sharif will travel

to Islamabad as soon as his fever subsides.

Nawaz arrived in Pakistan last Tuesday after undergoing open-heart surgery at a London hospital on May 31.

The need for the surgery arose after the premier went through a cardiac procedure called Atrial Fibrillation Ablation in 2011, "during which certain complications occurred resulting in perforation of heart", Maryam Nawaz earlier told the media.

Many had called it a politically imprudent decision to leave the country at a time when opposition

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif parties were exerting pressure on the government in the wake of the Panama leaks. However,

a PML-N officer-bearer had told that Nawaz's medical condition necessitated the visit.

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf secretary general Jahangir Khan Tareen last week said the party's preparations for launching a "massive protest movement" over the Panama leaks soon after Eidul Fitr were in full swing.

An investigation published April 3 by an international coalition of more than 100 media outlets ? based on 11.5 million records and 2.6 terabytes of information drawn from the internal database of Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca ? details how politicians, celebrities and other fa-

China tie-up latest step for Abu Dhabi Global Market's hub ambitions China, July 18: Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the capital's financial free zone, has clinched an agreement with the Chinese market regulator to boost links between the UAE and the world's second biggest economic power.

Richard Teng, the chief executive of ADGM's financial services regulatory authority, signed a memorandum of understanding with Liu Shiyu, chairman of the Chinese Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC), the country's main financial watchdog, in Beijing last week while on a visit to China by ADGM officials.

The MoU is the second

agreement to emerge from the China trip, following an earlier deal with the Shanghai free zone authority. It complements an agreement reached earlier in the year with the Chinese banking regulator.

Mr Teng said: "We are very pleased to cooperate with CSRC and believe the concerted efforts from both authorities will serve the long-term interests of our respective stakeholders and markets. The growing economies of both China and the UAE have offered, and will continue to offer investment opportunities for investors worldwide.

"As an international financial centre based in the heart of the Middle East, ADGM is commit-

ted to provide a wellregulated and strategic platform for companies and investors to access the UAE's growth and advance their business aspirations in this region.

With the MoU, we will strengthen regulatory cooperation between both markets to support increasing cross-border activities," he added. A statement from ADGM said that the deals with Chinese regulators "reconfirm ADGM's commitment to support China's 'one belt, one road' initiative," the country's strategy for future trade and economic development in Asia and the Middle East.

"The MoU provides a framework to provide

assistance, exchange regulatory information and co-operate in the supervision of financial institutions with respective securities and derivatives markets laws and regulations to uphold high standards. It enables both regulators to work on initiatives such as joint training and technical assistance to strengthen high regulatory standards and practices in both markets," ADGM said.

The CSRC has steered China through a challenging time in financial markets, with large levels of debt hanging over the public and private sectors as the country has sought to move from an export-oriented manu-

facturing economy to a consumer-based model.

Despite a slow-down in Chinese growth rates from the explosive rates in the decades before the global financial crisis, the country has maintained a fast pace of economic expansion. In the second quarter, GDP grew at 6.7 per cent, according to official figures, belying fears of a "hard landing" from previous double-digit rates. The UAE has identified China as a strategic trading ally.

The Dubai International Financial Centre has also focused on the country's banks and financial institutions as potential business partners.(Agencies)

Beijing To Close Access To Part Of South China Sea For Military Drills 3 get death penalty, 5 jailed for life over B'desh war crimes Dhaka, July 18: Three Islamists were handed down death penalty while five others jailed until death by a special tribunal in Bangladesh for committing crimes against humanity during the 1971 liberation war with Pakistan.

A three-member panel of judges of Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-BD) led by Justice Anwarul Haque pronounced the judgement as two of the convicts appeared on the dock while six others were tried in absentia as they were on the run to evade justice.

The verdict came as the prosecution accused all the eight of five charges relating to crimes like mass murders, abductions, tortures and lootings.

Prosecution lawyers said six of the convicts were members of infamous Al-badr auxiliary force of the Pakistani troops during the war and carried out atrocities in northern Jamalpur district.

The two others belonged to Razakar, another Bengalimanned armed group raised

by Pakistanis during the war.

Manned by activists of fundamentalist Jamaat-eIslami, which was opposed to Bangladesh's 1971 independence from Pakistan, the Al-Badr appeared as an extremely notorious force by carrying out ruthless atrocities siding with Pakistani troops.

The verdict came amid a nationwide tension following the recent two back-toback Islamist terror attacks in the country following which Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina hinted that Jamaat could be behind the assaults.

Bangladesh has so far executed four war crimes convicts since the process began to try the top Bengali perpetrators of 1971 atrocities in line with the electoral commitment of Prime Minister Hasina in 2008. (Agencies)

Beijing, July 18: Beijing will close off access to part of the South China Sea for military drills, officials said Monday, after an international tribunal ruled against its sweeping claims in the waters.

An area off the east coast of China's island province of Hainan will host military exercises from Tuesday to Thursday, China's maritime administration said on its website, adding that entrance was "prohibited".

The area of sea identified is some distance from the Paracel islands and even further from

Beijing will close off access to part of the South China Sea for military drills the Spratlys, with both chains claimed by Beijing and several other neighbouring states.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The

12 new sites added to World Heritage List

Baton Rouge suspect was Marine who served in Iraq Iraq, July 18: The suspect who shot three police officers dead in Baton Rouge on Sunday was a Marine veteran who served in Iraq, in a chilling parallel with the Dallas cop killings, whose perpetrator served in Afghanistan. Gavin Eugene Long, a 29-year-old African American widely identified as the shooter by US media, turned his gun on police amid a spate of race-tinged violence involving law enforcement.

Louisiana State Police Superintendent Colonel Mike Edmonson told reporters the gunman was killed, and

there are no suspects at large.

Long served in the US Marines for five years starting in August 2005 as a data network specialist, and attained the rank of sergeant, according to his military personnel file. His Iraq tour lasted from June 2008 to January 2009. Long received several awards, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Navy Unit Commendation Medal. (Agencies)

Hague last week ruled that there was no legal basis for Beijing's claims to much of the sea, embodied in a "nine-dash line" that dates from

12 new sites added to World Heritage List Istanbul, July 18: The World Heritage Committee on Sunday evening agreed to put 12 new sites on the World Heritage List before ending its 40th session in Turkey's Istanbul city.

With nine others already approved on Friday, the session has placed a total of 21 out of 27 nominations for this year on the prestigious list, as re-

ported.

With the 21 newly added -12 cultural sites, six natural and three mixed ones -- the heritage list has now 1,052 sites in 165 countries.

The state of conservation of 155 properties was examined as well during the session, with five in Libya inscribed on the List of World Heritage in Danger along with one in Uzbekistan and another in Mali.

Meanwhile, one site in Georgia was removed from the list of endangered sites, while the site of Nan Madol, or the Ceremonial Centre of Eastern Micronesia, was simultaneously inscribed on the World Heritage List and on the List in Danger.

The 40th session started on July 10 and was cut short by four days due to the outbreak of a coup attempt in Turkey on Friday night.

The heritage committee, a panel under the Unesco, decided to discuss the unfinished items on the agenda at another meeting slated to be held in Paris later.

The 41st session is slated for July 2017 in Krakow, Poland.

The heritage committee was formed in 1977 to enforce the World Heritage Convention and manage the heritage list created based on the convention.

(Agencies)

1940s maps and stretches close to other countries' coasts. Manila -- which lodged the suit against Beijing -- welcomed the decision, as China dismissed it as a "piece of waste paper".

Despite Chinese objections, the European Union weighed in on the subject at a regional summit this weekend, with President Donald Tusk telling reporters that the grouping "will continue to speak out in support of upholding international law", adding that it had "full confidence" in the PCA and its decisions.

China pressured countries in the ASEAN bloc

of Southeast Asian nations not to issue a joint statement on the ruling, diplomats said.

Beijing held military drills in the South China Sea just days before the international arbitration court ruling, state media reported.

China has rapidly built reefs in the waters into artificial islands capable of military use.

In a separate message on its website, the maritime administration said last week that four out of five lighthouses built atop islands and reefs in the sea have been activated, and a fifth would be put into use soon.(Agencies)

mous people use banks, law firms and offshore shell companies to hide their assets.

According to documents available on the ICIJ website, the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's children Maryam, Hasan and Hussain "were owners or had the right to authorise transactions for several companies".

The data leak revealed the financial wheelings and dealings of over 200 Pakistanis, including the late Benazir Bhutto, Rehman Malik and other prominent politicians and businessmen.

(Agencies)

Saudi detains Turkish army attache to Kuwait for suspected coup involvement Dubai, July 18: Saudi authorities have detained the Turkish military attache to Kuwait for his suspected involvement in a foiled coup against the rule of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, local media reported Monday.

The attache, identified as Mikail Gullu, was arrested at an airport in the eastern Saudi city of Dammam as he attempted to board a flight to Germany, the reports said.

"Saudi authorities are holding the military attache for the Turkish embassy in Kuwait," the kingdom's Asharq Al-Awsat daily reported, quoting what it described as a foreign diplomatic source.

"He was stopped based on a Turkish request and was detained during his attempt to flee over his likely links to the coup in Turkey," the daily reported.

The Saudi-owned AlArabiya news channel confirmed the report from "Saudi sources" adding that Gullu was heading to Dusseldorf in Germany via Amsterdam.

Kuwait's Al-Qabas daily said that Gullu had fled Kuwait by land to Saudi Arabia.

Turkey's ambassador in Kuwait Salih Morat Tamer told Al-Qabas that Gullu is suspected of involvement in the coup attempt but stressed that "accusations against him are yet to be investigated once he is handed over to Turkey."

Judges and military commanders are among 6,000 people arrested over the weekend as Erdogan vowed to stamp out the 'virus" of the coup plotters.

Erdogan has blamed Friday's putsch on his archenemy, US-based cleric Fethullah Gulen.(Agencies)

Rajapaksa's son granted bail; brother arrested by Lanka police Colombo, July 18: Former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa's eldest son was today granted bail but was banned to travel abroad by a court here over allegedly accepting USD 500,000 from an Indian firm in connection with a multi-million dollar real-estate project in the heart of Colombo.

Namal Rajapaksa, a member of parliament, was arrested last week and kept under remand custody till today, becoming the second son of the former president to be remanded over financial irregularity. Among the bail conditions by the magistrate court here were a ban on his foreign travel and permission for

the police's Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) to peruse his bank accounts.

Namal, 30, has been charged with misappropriating 70 million rupees (USD 500,000) in connection with the deal with India's Krrish Group, which had in 2013 signed an agreement to start a USD 650 million real-estate venture in Colombo's central business district of Fort.

The case will be next taken up on August 8.

Namal's younger brother Yoshitha, who was previously arrested by FCID over another business deal involving a sports television channel, is currently on bail after being in remand. Almost at the

same time as the bailing out of Namal, Rajapaksa's younger brother Basil was arrested by the FCID this morning over allegations of wrongdoing in the Divinaguma or the livelihoods fund which he administered under his elder brother's presidency.

Basil is also currently on bail over a similar case filed in April this year.

The Rajapaksa family has faced many accusations of wrongdoing during the 10 years of the former strongman's rule.

The family has branded the cases against them as a 'political witch-hunt' by the Rajapaksa successor Maithripala Sirisena's unity government. (PTI)

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

PAGE 8

Irfan Khan & The Modernist Dilemma Pema Khandu Becomes youngest chief minister in the country Pema was elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party on Saturday in a dramatic turn of events for the beleaguered party fighting to (Photo: sahilonline.net) save its government. Eldest son of the family, Pema, a graduate from Delhi's prestigious Hindu College had an early entry into governance after his father's demise. From assisting his father Dorjee Khandu in politics to working for social transformation, Pema Khandu has travelled a long way to sit in the coveted post of chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh. 37-year-old Pema, the youngest chief minister of the country, is all set to follow the footsteps of his father and former chief minister Dorjee Khandu, who died in a chopper crash in 2011 near Luguthang in Tawang district bordering China. And in five years, he has emerged as the chief ministerial prospect after Supreme Court's intervention that changed the course of politics in the state with dissidents returning to Congress. Pema, who hails from Tawang, first entered the Arunachal Pradesh assembly in 2011 to fill the vacancy caused by his father's death. His election as MLA from Mukto (ST) constituency was uncontested and he was soon included in the state government as Cabinet Minister for Water Resource Development and Tourism in the Jarbom Gamlin ministry.

He also became the cabinet minister for Rual Works Department (RWD) and Tourism since November 21, 2011 in Nabam Tuki government and thereafter served the state as cabinet minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation and Art & Culture.

He was re-inducted as the Urban Development Minister on June 1 2014 in the Nabam Tuki government after the general election. He quit as minister in October last year and sided with dissident Kalikho Pul. He had joined the Congress in early 2000 and became Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee in 2005 and President of Tawang District Congress Committee in 2010. Pema was re-elected unopposed from Mukto in the 2014 assembly elections.

He also championed civil-Army relations, plantation drive in hilly Tawang district, organised periodical medical camps in various parts of the district. Besides promoting games and sports in the district, Pema also patronized talent search among local youth to preserve traditional songs by conducting talent show in Tawang and West Kameng districts. He is keen on developing a peaceful and socio-economically vibrant state with cordial relations among various tribes of the state.

Honour Killing Popular social media celebrity Qandeel Baloch Popular social media celebrity Qandeel Baloch, also a model and actor, was strangled to death by her brother in yet another "honour killing" in Pakistan. Qandeel, known for posting bold videos and statements on Facebook, was killed by her own brother at the family home on the outskirts of Multan in Punjab, media reports said. Qandeel's brother had been threatening her over her Facebook posts and videos. Although her brother fled after murdering Qandeel, whose real name is Fauzia Azeem. The murder took place when she was sleeping in her room, said her parents, who were asleep on the rooftop. There were no signs of bleeding and she seemed to have been strangled to death, a police officer said.

Qandeel, who became famous through her tireless self-promotion and suggestive "selfies" posted on social media, had amassed tens of thousands of followers. "Nothing is good in this society. This patriarchal society is bad,". Three weeks ago, Qandeel wrote to Interior Minister and the Senior Superintendent of Police in Islamabad asking them to provide security to her. She had said her life was in danger and that she was being threatened via calls on her mobile number. Qandeel was derided and feted in equal measure in Pakistan. According to Dawn, her videos had been viewed more than 830,000 times and garnered thousands of likes. She first shot to fame in Pakistan in 2014 after a video of her pouting for the camera.

Qandeel Baloch has been dubbed Pakistan's Kim Kardashian. There are comparisons: the provocative selfies, the pursuit of celebrity, the controversial rise to notoriety. But in Pakistan, women, especially poor ones, still lack basic rights, from schooling to choosing a husband and violence against them is rife. The country struggles with sexuality and especially with "immodest" women. Hundreds of women are murdered every year in Pakistan in so-called honour killing cases. More than 500 people-almost all womendie in Pakistan each year in such killings, usually carried out by members of the victim's family meting out punishment for bringing "shame" on the community. While the killings are not unique to Pakistan, a law from the 1990s After Baloch's death, many Pakistanis again called for the passage of an antihonor killing law, aimed a closing a loophole that allows family members to forgive the killers. The pattern of crime has its roots in tribal social norms that remain prevalent across South Asia, and the victims are overwhelmingly women. There were 933 honour killing cases in 2015, according to Pakistan's Ministry of Law, but these may only represent a fraction of the true number.

My distant paternal uncle, being a staunch communist for his life arranged his daughter's marriage with an unconventional ritual. He decided not to pursue any traditional ritual; indeed to all our surprise, assigned the hieratic job to one of his Indrajit c l o s e friends. With little nervousness in the new-found clericalism, his close friend addressed the gathering. In his words, different cultures and belief systems in the world have different rituals to sanctify the institution of marriage and no two rituals are same. Accordingly, the atheist uncle's unique ritual can also be accepted as one. Conversely, the nuances of this story may be contested by utilitarian vis-Ă -vis non-utilitarian divide of rituals, once we engross ourselves with the recent hullabaloo on Irrfan Khan's comments on Ramadan and Quarbaani.

Undoubtedly, the natural tension subsists between individuality and potentially totalitarian implications of ritual discourse.

The banal actions of rituals strip the semantic layers of individuality which bring about a swing from individual to strong collective awareness of identity.

Likewise, the ritualistic discourses develop more and more exclusivist forms of identities which are adversative on a partition between "us" and "them,". These stand for the primitive emotions of ego-loss and communitas, which are alien to critical thinking and democracy.

In practice, rituals should be restricted to the symbolic provinces of existent communities of freely as-

sociated individuals and never determine the nature of the entire public space.

Is it again the conflict of the ritualistic outbreak of religion-as-ideology and the morality of traditional religion-as-faith? Indeed, the social transformation process enBorah compasses the inherent quandary associated with the objective necessity of modernism. The infill layers of critical traditionalism and modernism cannot be ignored in this context. This denotes a profound gap in perpetuating the principles of morality in the process of transition from traditional to modern.

Again, it opens up the critical aspects of the theoretical and historical foundations of the liberaldemocratic state in India.

Secularism in India is a product of the pre-colonial traditions of anticlericalism and anti-superstition transformed by colonial encounter. Before independence, the "social reform" was endeavored by imploring the administrative intervention of the colonial state. The same activist desire within the nationalist middle class resulted in new legislation on religious and social reforms after independence.

The religion was reformed and modernized to make it a part of the morality of Indian nation state. Now, how to imbibe the philosophy, symbolism and theology of tolerance intrinsic in the various faiths within the ambit of modern secular state? The Gandhian "moral maturation" based on Sarvadharma Sambhav may be an integrative process of assimilation which can also smudge the demarcation between the traditionalist, religious and the

secularists.

There was an institutional separation of the state from any religious body while simultaneously engaging the state with religion at the level of law and policy. The enactment of the Hindu Code Bill in 1955 alongside the making of the Indian Constitution was justified precisely by the nationalist-modernist project and it's craving to secularize.

The liberal-democratic doctrine of freedom of religion does also recognize that such right will be limited by other basic human rights. However, there has been certain lag in the readiness of the different communities to accept reforms intended to rationalize the domain of personal law. The Directive Principles of the Constitution declares that the state should endeavor to provide a uniform civil code for all citizens. However, any state sponsored reform towards this objective is possible only when the communities themselves are ready to accept them.

There have also been movements among the minority religious communities for the reform of religious laws and institutions. In the earlier decades of the last century, the culmination of various campaigns for a uniform set of personal laws for all Muslims in India was reached with the passing of the Shariat Act by the Central legislature in 1937. Thus, even while resisting the idea of a uniform civil code on the ground that this would be destructive of the cultural identity of religious minorities, the Muslim leadership in India has not derided state intervention altogether. It is pertinent to mention that the democratic state to protect cul-

A file photo of Bollywood actor, Irfan Khan. (Photo: static.dnaindia) tural diversity cannot be easily attuned to the unitary rationalism of the language of rights. The struggle for progressive change in social practices sanctioned by religion must be fought within the religious communities themselves.

Is the principle of neutrality attempted to exclude the conflicts of plural cultural values from the political arena? The arguments for special rights for cultural minorities and oppressed groups come fairly close to upholding some sort of cultural relativism. Probably, the 'challenge of multiculturalism' is sought to be met by asserting the value of diversity itself and making room for divergent ways of life within a fundamentally agreed set of Universalist values. Are the classificatory devices of modern nation states responsible for the inability of people to negotiate, through a continuous democratic

process? Again, the political representation also often looked as if awfully fraternized in prevailing mold of demands from a democratic and secular state.

In the process of abating the impasse of cultural and Universalist rights, the political niceties of modernity has ostensibly led to ethnoreligious revivals all over the world. The traditional religiosity being the ultimate source of morality cannot be ignored for the Universalist principles of religious tolerance and coexistence. Is rationality morally neutral? However, both modernity and religiosity may equally result in intolerance in society if there are compound and exclusive formations of morality.

There have been multiple religious reform movements largely in search of more compatible forms with modernity, national state and industrial capitalism. The sacredness

of life has declined with extensive use of the Enlightenment values and the unlimited power of human reason. The canonical version of religion have gradually become the official and attained the right to represent a religion. The secularization through enlightenment values is seen as an elitist profession imposed from top neglecting the traditional tolerance values within the religious value systems. However, any individual or communitarian endeavor can be an innate source of morality - whether a crude version of traditional observance, ideological formulation or a reformist one fitting the needs of the socio-economic stages in society.

(Indrajit Borah is a freelance writer based in Delhi. He can be reached at indrajitborah @yahoo.co.in.)

Violence in Chhatisgarh: State or Naxal?

A simmering and tense situation in Chhatisgarh can be managed, but it'll require careful intervention.

The Indian state of next to her as well. This story, been particularly vocal about Chhatisgarh has for long however, stood on flimsy such instances of violence been a center of Naxal and ground as pictures right after against women in Sukma state violence. For decades the encounter depict her in and Bijapur, went on a hunnow, the state government oversized and bunched-up ger strike after being denied has been involved in a bru- pants, a clean and ironed uni- the ability to visit the village tal tussle with Maoist form, with no telling bullet or meet with the family. A groups, with armed violence holes or other indication of demonstration was also outside the ensuing from both ends. Ci- participation in an encounter staged Chhatisgarh Tourvilians in increasism Board office in ingly militarized Padmapriya Govindarajan Kolkata, with the villages and districts fall prey to the anger with authorities. An investi- activists demanding justice. of both sides when one mis- gation by Scroll.in that pieced The mother, Madkam takenly assumes them to be together an account from the Lakshmi, was distraught and a member of the other. As a family and neighbors paints filed a petition with the Chhatisgarh High Court, reresult districts like Bastar, a harrowing story instead.

Bijapur, Sukma, and others, Hidme was allegedly dragged questing an inquiry into foul are constantly under threat. out of her home by men play. The court finally orOn June 13, Madkam dressed in police uniforms dered the exhumation of the Hidme, a woman from the and beaten up when she re- body, which was supposedly Gompad village of the sisted. Her mother was appar- buried with salt and sand to Sukma district in ently hit until she was uncon- hide evidence of the torture Chhatisgarh, who belonged scious and neighborhood inflicted. to the Adivasi (tribal) com- women who intervened, beg- Madkam Lakshmi's account munity was found dead with ging and pleading, were seems to suggest that the multiple injuries, allegedly threatened and pushed away. men who dragged her daughin a Naxal uniform. The po- Hidme's body was brought ter away both knew her and lice announced that she was back under plastic, hours knew that she was not ina member of Naxal Platoon later, and reportedly showed volved with Maoist groups.

Rather, she says, they were 8, killed in a police encoun- signs of a brutal rape. ter and found with a gun Activist Soni Sori, who has men who used to work with

the Maoists and reports being shocked to find them in police uniforms. This however seems to be a common strategy employed by the state enticing Maoists and surrendered Maoists to join the police forces and provide intelligence.

For years, this took on a terrifying shape when the state supported the vigilante group Salwa Judum, which drew local men into the ranks of Special Police Officers (SPOs).

The SPOs directly took on Maoist groups and violence escalated to a near civil war situation. In 2011, the Supreme Court declared this to be unconstitutional and called for the disbanding of Salwa Judum. It also ordered immediate compensation to victims from both sides.

However, this compensation was not forthcoming and the group was in fact reconstituted in different ways. Currently, men like those Madkam Lakshmi describes form parts of the District Re-

serve Groups of the state and are eager to turn on not just known members of Maoist groups, but also former and retired members who are no longer involved in any threatening activities.

This deteriorating situation has been observed not just in these areas, but also the state capital of Raipur, as noted by the Congress Party, which staged a walkout from the Monsoon Assembly session of Chhatisgarh after being provided unsatisfactory answers on the issue. While members of different parties engage in angry debates over whose regime allowed violence to escalate the most, the Ministry of Home Affairs agreed to the creation of a tribal battalion to counter Maoists in the Bastar area, which is among the most militarized zones in the country.

Known as the Bastariya Battalion, this will comprise solely of members of scheduled tribes from the region

About Health - Sector

Image for representational purpose (Photo: nlreda)

Sir, Through this column of your esteemed daily we like to draw the attention of Himanta Biswa Sarma who is holding number of Portfolios. He, might find little time to devote to an important portfolio, the Health-ministry. It was Mr. Sarma, who could bring the Health-Sector, during previous congress regime to the track from a deplorable state. His successor, we must concede destroyed the good works of Mr. Sarma. Now that a new government was installed at Dispur and with Mr. Sarma at the helm of the Health department, we notice some remarkable lacunae still plaguing the department. A small boy contracted HIV virus in transfusion of blood in GMCH. Thereafter, we could learn that still brokers in the Blood-Bank enjoy a heyday. We are also in the dark, about the action taken against the erring persons. It is good, however, to read about the doctors who failed to join their new places of assignment put under suspension. Still there are many corrupt officials who indulge in selling the medicines meant for the patient of government hospitals. In the hospitals of

rural areas also in urban ones patients are required to buy their own medicines, barring a handful exception. In our opinion, all the corrupt officials including some big guns should be caught. Properties disproportionate to one's income as envisaged by the Chief-minister should find its manifestation in letter and spirit in health department as well. We must emphasize on the issue, equipping each Medical college of Assam with sophisticated Nucleic Acid Amplification Test with which HIV Virus in human bloods could be detected. All the blood banks in the Medical college Hospitals of Assam should be equipped with the said system. Only the other day, a Gynecologist misbehaved a pregnant woman in GMCH. This is unfortunate.

and will be a wing of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). In order for recruitment to be made a little easier and truly have local representation, requirements like height and weight have been relaxed a little. The idea behind it is to increase the efficiency of counter insurgency forces by tapping into local knowledge on terrain. The initiative will also make joining the Maoists a less tempting option for local unemployed youth.

It is important to remember, however, that violence in Chhatisgarh is not just from the end of the Naxal insurgency, but from state police forces as well. This is particularly important given that, in the past, neither side has been remotely lenient to people they suspect of belonging to the other. Ultimately, these forces need to be trained and deployed with care. Courtesy: The diplomat

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

Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786001 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Yours etc Email : Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

p O

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The Bollywood actors that made to headlines with their controversies Controversy and for their heroes. FollowBollywood seems to be ing are the few like the two sides of the Bollywood actors who same coin. With each were recently in the news passing day, we get to for their controversial hear one or the other con- statements and acts: troversies that are cre- Salman Khan: Salman ated by our Bollywood Khan aka Bollywood's bad boy stalw a r t s Gwshad Basumatary recently which grabbed often creates uproar in the attention of the nation the country landing them when his controversial in trouble and drawing statement hit the news widespread condemna- headlines creating uproar tion from across the among his fans and follength and breadth of the lowers and the nation as country. However it is a whole, who thought that amazing to note that de- the actor's remark was spite the controversies totally in bad taste. The these actors land them- trouble for our Bajrangi selves in, no matter how Bhaijan began when he in serious the matter is, their a recent interaction with die-hard fans and follow- the media for his recently ers on the other hand released movie Sultan, never leaves them alone told that he had to toil and comes out in support very hard during the

shooting and every time when he was done with the shoot, he felt like a 'raped- woman'(in jest?) who can't walk properly.

That's it! This particular remark was enough to stir a controversy nationwide where the forum like the National Commission for Women (NCW) had to butt in.

This is not the first time when Sallu Bhaiyya got into trouble. His off the screen life is tainted with myriad controversies ranging from love affairs to legal issues.

Rishi Kapoor: This veteran actor too recently landed himself in trouble when he stirred a controversy by his tweets in a social media. The actor in his tweets slammed the Congress for naming the

various landmarks, places and institutions of the nation after Gandhis. In one of his tweets he said, "Change Gandhi family assets named by Congress. Bandra/Worli Sea Link to Lata Mangeskhar or JRD Tata link road.

Baap ka maal samajh rakha tha (sic)." The Congress too didn't stay mum and responded to the actor alleging that it was a mere tactic adopted by him to stay in good books of those in power. Though the real intentions behind the actor's tweets were not known, but it was sure that his comments didn't go well with those in opposition prompting them to name a toilet after the actor to ridicule him.

Aamir Khan: When it

comes to controversy, Mr. Perfectionist, Aamir Khan too doesn't seem to be perfect at all to avoid it. Last year while speaking at the Ram Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards, the actor sparked a row when he allayed his fears against the growing intolerance in the country. His statement meanwhile was not taken lightly by those at the helm of affairs and among his peers and drew sharp reactions.

Senior actor, Anupam Kher, slammed Aamir heavily for his intolerance remark. Some politicians too didn't spare the actor and criticized him severely and even went on to suggest that he should leave India and accept Pakistani citizenship.

What's In It For Rich Arabs In The Middle East To Fund ISIS? Who controls the glo- forces the investors to bal economy today? invest in comparatively The United States of 'safer' business-oriented America, China or the countries and, ultimately, benefactors of ISIS? makes the rich Arab Today, stock Markets countries richer and the are driven by the sen- poor Arab countries timental insecurity of poorer. No wonder why investors and share- Iraq, Syria and Iran are holders, where any glo- going through political bal terupheavr o r i s t Vihaan Bhatnagar als, leadactivity ing to a affects the stock mar- shortage in their oil exket and the global ports and a poorer economy on a motive- economy, thereby, motidriven business. Has vating the youth to join anybody not ques- extremist organisations tioned why terrorist dis- such as the ISIS or the ruptions do not take Taliban in order to attain place in the United 'civil liberties' and a 'balArab Emirates, Saudi anced' political life (conArabia (the recent at- trolled by the preaching tack in Medina has of an 'extremist version' been explained in the of Islam).

Arabs seem to be influencing highly sentimental Muslims to 'save their religion' by 'spreading their religion', so that these benefactors can invest heavily and make large profits, at times by black marketing oil exports due to a sudden fall in its prices. So, is it possible to link terrorism to targeted stock market crashes and capital investment? Yes, the intention of the financiers of these terrorist activities is deemed to attract more and more investors. Probably that is the reason why fastgrowing nations, such as India, are the next major targets of the

Image for representational purpose (Photo: s.newsweek) article) Qatar, or Kuwait anymore? Let us see why.

The United Arab Emirates has self-sufficiently built itself as a major tourist and business destination, unlike other Middle East countries which are majorly dependent on the production and export of oil. Moreover, private organisations of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar, which are accounted as the key benefactors of the Islamic State, keep their businesses safe from any terrorist disruptions. How? An observational research gave an insight to how such business organisations finance terror and increase sentimental insecurities among investors.

Unsurprisingly, it

Poverty, I believe, is not a direct cause of terrorism, neither is it any major cause of the indirect causes.

For instance,"Basque Country of Spain, which has endured terrorism for almost half a century as groups persistently generate violence as a way to promote Basque independence, is one of Spain's richest regions" says Alberto Abadie, public policy professor at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. Even the blasts in Medina show that terrorism is not poverty-driven, as Saudi Arabia is home to some of the richest people among Persian Gulf countries.

I believe that terrorism in the Middle East is just a facade of spreading Islamic extremism. Rich

ISIS. Rumors stated that Myanmar's fastgrowing economy might also get it listed in the organisation's targeted countries.

"A recent report suggests ISIS may now be looking to recruit from the historically persecuted, Rohingya Muslim minority, some of whom are still desperately fleeing Myanmar to live as refugees in neighboring countries. If this recruitment happens, this could lead to the unravelling of this newly democratic country and its muchlauded reforms since 2012," reports Huffington Post.

However, there is a major possibility that refugees who opt to fight for 'civil liberties' may not choose to 'spread' Islamic extremism, through the influence of

the Caliphate, which, I believe, is undoubtedly is overpowered by its financiers. In the wake of falling oil prices, these financiers most willingly want to reduce competition, and thus opted for the 'terror approach'. And with businesses in the MiddleEast getting affected by the phenomenal growth of other countries such as India and Myanmar, their next target list is visible. Certainly, the Venezuelan food crisis has given an opening thought to the organisation to throttle the United States' economy.

"Although Latin American countries might be far from current events in Europe and the Middle East, the region cannot escape the consequences of Islamic terrorism. Venezuela, for instance, is an oilrich western nation with an important geostrategic position.

This brings the country under terrorists' attention, especially as a place to attack the United States and other countries. There might be no hard evidence linking ISIS to Latin America, but there are growing suspicions that the group has penetrated the region. In recent days, Trinidad and Tobago's government has strengthened its security measures with US assistance.

This came once they realised that several Trinidadians had recently joined the terrorist group", reports PanAm Post.

The economy, surely, is affected to a great extent. "Chicago is an example. While no one was injured in the city on Sept. 11, 2001, when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., those events severely affected real estate markets in Chicago. Abadie and Dermisi looked at three of the most distinctively tall buildings in Chicago, as well as other nearby commercial buildings and found the attacks caused a significant in-

crease in their vacancy rates. The high vacancy rates persisted through mid-2006, the end of the study period," reported Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government.

What's the impact? Global economic peace is disturbed and those who benefit from these activities, keep benefiting until found and excavated.

So, what can we do about it? Honestly, nothing. All that I can say, is not to fall prey to such extremist organisations who assure 'freedom'. They will give you all you need - food, liberty, revenge - because they are funded well but remember that you shall always be indebted to such terrorist organisations, which is not a good deal!

Economically, such terrorism is as good as a cactus because it will survive without its water (funding), but not or long until its roots are cut. No matter how hard Syrian President Assad tries, such terrorism has to be curbed by first seizing its funds and then taking mobilised military actions. If global economic peace has to be restored, first, investment to rich Arab countries have to be cut down, which itself is daunting.

Has man spoilt global security by organising its economy into too many unnecessary factions? Surely, earning enormous money profits today are leading to much more greater casualties. What used to be a way of 'understanding human choices', has become a way of disrupting lives, increasing insecurities, and still maintaining the economic balance by shifting capital from one's market reign to another's terror reign.

The choice lies with the investors now, either get hurt sentimentally or invest intelligently. Only when drastic economic reactions to such activities seize, will there be global economic peace.

Courtesy: Youth kiawaaz

Hrithik Roshan (L) and Salman Khan we get to hear one or the other controversies that are created by our Bollywood stalwarts which often creates uproar. (Photo: media2.intoday) Hrithik Roshan and Kangana Ranaut: These two actors recently hogged the limelight when they slapped legal notices to each other creating yet another controversy in Btown. Speculations are rife that both the actors kept their affairs post Krishh 3 (2013) in tight wraps, but their relationship surfaced

in the media when Hrithik got separated from his wife Sussanne in 2013. The controversy erupted when the Queen star in an interview hinted the Bang Bang star as her 'ex' prompting Hrithik to send a legal notice to her demanding an apology for damaging his image.

However justifying her

Queen tag, she too responded to him by sending a 21-page legal notice charging him with threat and criminal intimidation.

With both the actors not wanting to go soft on each other, it will be worth watching what their next move would be. Gwshad B a s u m a t a r y : gw7bty@gmail.com

TRUTHOSOPHY Tagam Mibang Human health is in the best state when the diet is fully vegetarian.

As it is ordained,

Cosmic Intelligence makes human perceive and understand pain and death of fleshly animate being which are not meant for consumption as food because, the flesh is same as

our own and toxic for body and health.

38 years of being non-vegetarian and lone 1 year as complete vegetarian made me fully realise it all.

From 'Sultan' To 'Housefull 3', The Horrid Ways Bollywood Targets People With Disabilities Being a person with disabil- (everything is moving ex- persons with disabilities worthless, limiting their poity, and working as counse- cept me)". lor for persons with disabili- Don't you think that this is tential completely. Using ties and disability rights ad- disability harassment disability straight away in vocate I have always raised where an undue attention comparing disabled bodies my voice against discrimina- is drawn towards a disabil- with non-disabled ones by tion and stereotyping of dis- ity just to create a situation ridiculing the former, like in abled people. for laughter? To me making the dialogue from Sultan, Disability metaphors and fun of someone on the ba- puts an ableist tag on the analogies abound in our cul- sis of his or her disability, whole context. This interture but disappointingly, for instance, is nothing pretation of differences as Bollywood continues to less than harassment. And defects is the true root of shut out persons with dis- the greater problem here is ableist acts that cause far many to feel ability with that harass- too b l a t a n t Abha Khetarpal ers neither marginalised, discriminated ableist diaeven know and devalued. logues and storylines, which nor feel guilty that they are Though disability as a coobjectify disabled bodies. making disabled persons medic trope dates back to Recently I heard a dialogue uncomfortable.

When the slapstick days of the siin the movie "Sultan", where asked about criticism of lent film era in Bollywood, it Salman Khan, with a charac- this movie by some news- has remained a staple ever teristic bhai-like style papers, the directors since. Let me remind you of says,"Shah Rukh Khan ke unashamedly said, "If the the fact that disability is mazak mat udao. Manne janta (public) is happy, then NOT a cute fun analogy. It is a part of many people's bahut pasand hai" (Don't that is the ultimate high". make fun of Shah Rukh Whether it was in Golmaal lives and identities. No one Khan. I really like him) and (Tusshar Kapoor with his should ever dare to use the then adds, "Jab woh ladki ke speech disability and term with an agenda to aankh mein aankh daal ke Paresh Rawal and his wife charmingly appropriate it for dekhe na, toh andhi ladki bhi as a blind couple), Mujhse whatever other purpose pat jawe"(When Shah Rukh Shaadi Karogi (Kader Khan pops into one's head. looks straight into the eyes of as a person with a different When people use 'disabila girl, even a blind girl cannot disability, every day), ity' in this manner, it explains resist his charm).

Judaai (Upasna Singh with a good deal about how that This seemed to me not only speech disorder), the person thinks of disability offensive but also humiliating, and I strongly condemn the reference to disability in this dialogue, which I feel, was scripted only with the intention of generating a few laughs. I completely fail to understand what is so funny about it.

Housefull 3 also targets disabled people in a bizarre and offensive way. The portrayal of three non-disabled men, who pretended to be blind, deaf and a wheelchair user, as a ruse to get married to three rich girls pushes forth the idea that disabled are A still from the film Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (Kader anomalous and they must Khan as a person with a different disability, every either be pitied or laughed at. day), (Photo: cdn.youthkiawaaz) However, what was most upsetting was Jackie Shroff's portrayal of a father con- present day Housefull 3, and the unthinking concerned about his daughters and now this disgusting tempt with which they redating men with disabilities, dialogue (in Sultan), human gard disabled people. Honand his constant refrain limitations have consis- estly speaking, quite often about how he wants them to tently been exploited, to movies in Bollywood are marry only 'normal boys'. At create a comic effect. Most seen to exhibit a fundamenone point Sandy (Akshay analogies to disability are tal lack of understanding as Kumar), pretending to be often limited, careless, and to what disability actually is. wheelchair user, dives at overly fixed, and the large- In a bizarre way, such usage Bakul's (aka Jackie Shroff's scale reach of such films delegitimises disabled idenfeet, saying: 'Wheel payna only further perpetuates tity. It's also about some people taking undue advanpapaji' (touching feet with prejudice and ignorance. wheels not with hands). At Let me be very clear. We tage of the experiences of one point Sandy (Akshay can't afford to laugh at cer- other people's lives and usKumar), pretending to be tain things. Period. And the ing them for easy, unaware wheelchair user, dives at practice of using people's reference. My final submisBakul's (aka Jackie Shroff's disabilities for comic relief sion is that making fun of feet, saying: "Wheel payna is nothing less than per- disabilities, joking about depapaji" (touching feet with petuating ableism. Like formities and imitating wheels not with hands). And many other 'isms', racism, someone's limitations can at another point he says, sexism, et al, ableism is too, be easily termed as 'Being Courtesy: "Sab kuchh chal raha hai sirf a belief system or a set of Inhuman'. main hi nahi chal raha hun practices which considers Youthkiawaaz

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

BUSINESS

Rs 4,000 crore loans to Lanco put on hold by bankers New Delhi, Jul 18: Lenders to the debt-laden Lanco Infratech are delaying the disbursal of loans worth about Rs 4,000 crore meant to complete its thermal power plants at Anpara in (in Uttar Pradesh), A m a r k a n t a k (Chhattisgarh), Vidarbha (Maharashtra) and Babaandh (Odisha).

Though the infrastructure company has agreed to sell off these power plants in order to reduce debt, the cost overruns on many of them have led to bankers being sceptical on lending further money to the troubled group. Investor, are interested in buying the power assets of the

Talks on mobile service quality to be started by TRAI Pune, Jul 18: In a bid to improve customer experience in the world's second largest mobile market, Telecom Regulator TRAI is planning to start consultation on quality benchmark for voice and data services in a fortnight. According to sources, the regulator's efforts to address the Quality of Service (QoS) norms is likely to come in the form of a consultation paper that would address both voice and data aspects. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in its frequent call drop test found most operators fail to meet service quality benchmark. At present, the tolerance limit for call drops is 2 per cent which means 98 per cent calls made on a network in a quarter should be completed and not get disconnected automatically. Telecom operators have contested the tests and said they are compliant to benchmark at overall circle level and that Trai's test does not give correct picture of their network performance.

Though the sources did not disclose further details, Trai Chairman R S Sharma had earlier said the regulator will look at monitoring network performance at tower level for which a system is in the works. With regard to data services, TRAI had, earlier this month, launched an application to help consumers check real-time Internet speed on their handsets and report the same to the regulator.

TRAI will leverage the data collected from subscribers to fix new QoS norms for data services.

(Agencies)

HCL Tech appoints C VijayKumar as chief operating officer Pune, Jul 18: IT services company HCL Technologies on Saturday announced President Infrastructure Services, C VijayKumar as the newly elected Chief Operating Officer. IT major in its statement said, "A role of Chief Operating Officer has been established to accelerate growth in the core business.

C VijayKumar, currently President, Infrastructure Services will take on this additional responsibility and continue to report to Anant Gupta, President and CEO." It further stated that the initiative will strengthen its '21st Century Enterprise strategy', which is essentially a blueprint for re-aligning IT consumption formats to outcome-based, service-oriented and lean solutions. (Agencies)

company, according to lenders. An e-mail sent to the company went unanswered. "Not all banks want to sanction the capex required by the company. A lack of consensus on sanctioning the loan will put other lenders in a tight spot, which will further delay the project.

Lanco is one of the few companies which is cooperating with bankers to amicably resolve the debt issue by selling off their assets," said a banker in the consortium. Despite the sale of Udupi power plant to Adani Group last year for Rs 6,300 crore, the consolidated debt of Lanco rose a little over 12% to Rs 42,330 crore,

ON HOLD enders to the debtladen Lanco Infratech are delaying the disbursal of loans worth about Rs 4,000 crore meant to complete its thermal power plants at Anpara in (in Uttar Pradesh), Amarkantak (Chhattisgarh), V i d a r b h a (Maharashtra) and Babaandh (Odisha).

A lack of consensus on sanctioning the loan will put other lenders in a tight spot, which will further delay the project.

Though the infrastructure company has agreed to sell off these power plants in order to reduce debt, the cost overruns on many of them have led to bankers being sceptical on lending further money to the troubled group.

Despite the sale of Udupi power plant to Adani Group last year for Rs 6,300 crore, the consolidated debt of Lanco rose a little over 12% to Rs 42,330 crore, as on March 2016.

as on March 2016.

Though the company wants to sell its Anpara plant, the matter is stuck due to the UP elections.

Bankers said the UP government does not want the sale of the power plant before the elections. It will have about 5,000 mw of thermal power once all its projects are complete. In 2015, the company had secured the lenders' approval for cost overrun proposals for four of its under-construction thermal projects. The consortium of lenders acquired 51% in the 500 megawatt Teesta hydro power project as an interim measure before the company inducts a strategic investor.

Besides the power plants, there are not many assets that can be monetised. The group's real estate assets called the Lanco Hills project in Hyderabad reported a revenue of Rs 164.6 crore during 2015-16 selling about Rs 104 residential units during the year. The company is also developing 163 km of national highway, for which it has got into concessional agreements with the National Highway Authority of India.

The company reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 265.6 crore in 201516. Net sales stood at Rs 8,170 crore as compared to Rs 9,467 crore in the previous year. (Agencies)

Up to 28% cut in TabCab fares as taxi apps speed ahead Mumbai, Jul 18: Radio cab companies, which are finding difficult to get bookings due to stiff competition from taxi aggregators including Ola, Uber, TaxiForSure, are fighting back.

TabCab, which runs radio cab operations in Mumbai, is offering a discount scheme to regain its market share.

The company is offering discounts up to 28% for hiring sedans in its fleet.

The cab operator has Toyota Ethos and Maruti SX4 as part of its fleet.

"Etios will get an 18% price cut whereas the luxury segment featuring like SX4 will get a whopping 28% discount. There will be no hidden charges as the offer is valid for the entire day,

hence say goodbye to surge pricing and say no to ride time charges," an announcement by Indranath Majumder, Project Director, TabCab, said. Surge pricing and ride-time charges are levies by cab aggregators. Due to stiff competition, the cab aggregators also ferry commuters for fares even less than auto rickshaws. However, they also charge surge pricing when the demand is high availability of cabs is less. TabCab, being an approved radio cab service, has to get its fares approved by the government authorities unlike the flexibility enjoyed by the cab aggregators, whose fares are dynamic and change sev-

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: autojunction) eral times during the day.

Even for lowering the fares, an approval from State Transport Authority is needed for radio cab operators. "TabCab is ensuring that there is no hidden fee after the journey has ended. It is a practice with all aggregators to lure the customer quoting only

the kilometre usage charges whereas they discreetly charge 'Ride Time Charges' extra Rs 1 per minute and which can surpass the base fare itself many times, knowing the traffic conditions of Mumbai," said Majumder. Last month, Meru had slashed fare due to stiff competition

from other aggregators.

For Meru, the new or cheaper fares are for a period of six months on an experimental basis.

Even the black-and-yellow as well as cool cab owners and drivers have been claiming drop in their daily business due to app-based taxi operators. (Agencies)

Pre-paid data tariffs of Airtel cut giving up to 67% more data Mumbai, Jul 18: Telecom major Airtel announced it was increasing data benefits by up to 67 per cent, in effect cutting data tariffs for pre-paid customers. Under the revised data benefits, the Rs. 655 4G/3G monthly recharge pack will now offer 5GB data vs 3GB earlier, amounting an increase of 67 per cent in data benefit. Similarly, the Rs. 455 pack that offered 3G/4G data with a cap of 2GB will now offer 3GB of data

increase in benefits by up to 48 per cent. The Rs. 25 2G pack now offers 45 per cent more data at 145 MB, as against 100 MB earlier. The Rs. 5 one day 2G data pack benefits are increased by 48 per cent to 30 MB.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: financialexpress) at the same tariff - an increase by 54 per cent.

Moreover, 2G/3G/4G sachet packs also see

"Added data benefits on monthly packs will boost data consumption amongst existing users by offering more value and sachet Packs will drive affordability and help bring first time us-

ers online," Airtel said.

"These refreshed data packs will help drive consumption and boost the uptake of mobile internet in the country."

"Given the deepening smartphone penetration and Airtel's roll-out of data networks across India, we believe these packs will also drive affordability and bring new users online," Bharti Airtel Director Operations (India and South Asia) Ajai Puri said in the statement here. (Agencies)

ONGC, MIDC talks for desalination plant Navi Mumbai, Jul 18: ONGC and MIDC are in talks on developing the Rs 400-Rs 500 crore 20 MLD desalination plant that would ensure selfsufficiency for the oil and gas giant at Uran. ONGC is looking at long-term supplies at several of its plants in the country, wherever feasible, as in Hazira for installing desalination plant. Preliminary talks have been held and a highlevel MIDC team is scheduled to visit the plant site in the coming week to do a reconnaissance study. MIDC is the principal supplier of 17 MLD to ONGC, but since last year the supply has been irregular on occasions and ONGC wants sustained

and regular supplies as plant shut down or lack of demand for treated water affects the processing units. MIDC has signed MoU with Singapore government for sharing technology on recycle of water use that would help it to compete in open bidding for the prestigious project, said MIDC sources.

Treated drinking water is used for 24x7 production process of oil refining and value addition of natural gas at the Uran unit.

ONGC took a severe hit last year in June when production process suffered and even plant had to be last shut, said sources. A day's loss is pegged at several crores.

This season, it gets around

PAGE 10

Dabur, DRDO join hands to educate farmers of medicinal plants in the cold desert areas

Dabur India Head - Healthcare Research, Dr JLN Sastry. (Photo: beautynewsindia) Haridwar, Jul 18: Leading Ayurvedic FMCG firm Dabur has tied up with DRDO to promote sustainable cultivation of high-altitude medicinal plants in Ladakh. Dabur India has signed a pact with DRDO's unit Defense Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), Leh, under which both organisations will educate farmers and help enhance livelihood opportunities in the cold desert area. DIHAR Director Bhuvanesh Kumar said: "The first step towards the goal of implementing conservation & environmental development benefits in LehLadakh will be a baseline survey of the area for cultivation of highly endangered medicinal plant species." Dabur India Head Healthcare Research Dr JLN Sastry said: "We are pleased to be the initiator

of this developmental programme, which will not only help in growing and cultivating high altitude medicinal plants to prepare Ayurvedic medicines but also provide an alternative source of income to the farmers living in the often neglected high altitude mountain areas."

Under this tie-up with the unit of Defence Research & Development Organisation, Dabur will also impart training to the villagers on sustainable cultivation of herbs.

Jivanti Welfare and Charitable Trust (JWCT), Dabur India Ltd's CSR arm, had approached DIHAR & Pragya an NGO operating from LehLadakh, with the primary focus on helping the local community in LehLadakh while also augmenting the population of medicinal herbs in the country. (Agencies)

TECHINOLOGY LG X Screen smartphone unveiled in India today

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: maktechblog) Mumbai, Jul 18: LG X Screen smartphone will be launched in India on Monday. The phone was first showcased in the month of March earlier this year. LG X Screen comes with a 4.93-inch HD display. It also features a second screen which remains active always. The unique fea-

ture of the phone is its secondary display (1.76inch) which showcases quick notifications without any halt. The resolution of secondary display is 520 X 80 pixels. The phone is backed by Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor. It has 2GB RAM and 16GB storage capacity.

(Agencies)

ANOTHER IN THE RACE LG X Screen smartphone will be launched in India on Monday. The phone was first showcased in the month of March earlier this year.

LG X Screen comes with a 4.93-inch HD display. It also features a second screen which remains active always.

Images for representational purpose. (Photo: upload.wikimedia) 13-14 MLD which is short of the requirement. The project aims to supply treated water through a costly reverse osmosis membrane treatment that

ensures only water to permeate and filters out the dissolved solids. High pressure is required for the process and yields fairly pure water, but a further

disinfection treatment is also done if required which largely implies exposure of the treated water in open storage tanks for sun rays oxidation. (Agencies)

The unique feature of the phone is its secondary display (1.76-inch) which showcases quick notifications without any halt.

The resolution of secondary display is 520 X 80 pixels. The phone is backed by Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor. It has 2GB RAM and 16GB storage capacity.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

Features

PAGE 11

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE What is Obesity?

Obesity is a condition where a person has accumulated so much body fat that it might have a negative effect on their health.

If a person's bodyweight is at least 20% higher than it should be, he or she is considered obese. If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is between 25 and 29.9 you are considered overweight. If your BMI is 30 or over you are considered obese. If you're wondering what your ideal weight might be, take a look at our article, how much should I weigh?

What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?

The body mass index (BMI) is a statistical measurement derived from your height and weight.

Although it is considered to be a useful way to estimate healthy body weight, it does not measure the percentage of body fat.

The BMI measurement can sometimes be misleading - a muscleman may have a high BMI but have much less fat than an unfit person whose BMI is lower. However, in general, the BMI measurement can be a useful indicator for the 'average person'.

Why do people become obese?

People can become obese for many different reasons. Lets look at some of the most common ones: 1) Consuming too many calories.

These days people are eating much more food than in previous generations.

This used to be the case just in developed nations - however, the trend has spread worldwide.

Despite billions of dollars being spent on public awareness campaigns that attempt to encourage people to eat healthily, the majority of us continue to overeat. In 1980 14% of the adult population of the

USA was obese; by 2000 the figure reached 31% (The Obesity Society).

In the USA, the consumption of calories increased from 1,542 per day for women in 1971 to 1,877 per day in 2004. The figures for men were 2,450 in 1971 and 2,618 in 2004.

Most people would expect this increase in calories to consist of fat - not so! Most of the increased food consumption has consisted of carbohydrates (sugars). Increased consumption of sweetened drinks has contributed significantly to the raised carbohydrate intake of most young American adults over the last three decades. The consumption of fast-foods has tripled over the same period.

Various other factors are also said to have contributed to America's increased calorie and carbohydrate intake: " In 1984 the Reagan administration freed up advertising on sweets and fast foods for children - regulations had previously set limits. " Agricultural policies in most of the developed world have led to much cheaper foods. " The US Farm Bill meant that the source of processed foods came from subsidized wheat, corn and rice. Corn, wheat and rice became much cheaper than fruit and vegetables.

2) Leading a sedentary lifestyle With the arrival of televisions, computers, video games, remote controls, washing machines, dish washers and other modern convenience devices, people are commonly are leading a much more sedentary lifestyle compared to their parents and grandparents.

Some decades ago shopping consisted of walking down the road to the high street where one could find

the grocers, bakers, banks, etc. As large out-of-town supermarkets and shopping malls started to appear, people moved from using their feet to driving their cars to get their provisions. In some countries, such as the USA, dependence on the car has become so strong that many people will drive even if their destination is only half-a-mile away.

The less you move around the fewer calories you burn. However, this is not only a question of calories. Physical activity has an effect on how your hormones work, and hormones have an effect on how your body deals with food. Several studies have shown that physical activity has a beneficial effect on your insulin levels keeping them stable. Unstable insulin levels are closely associated with weight gain.

Children who have a television in their bedroom are much more likely to be obese or overweight than kids who do not, researchers from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, LA, reported in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine (December 2012 issue).

3) Not sleeping enough Research has suggested that if you do not sleep enough your risk of becoming obese doubles.

Research was carried out at Warwick Medical School at the University of Warwick. The risk applies to both adults and children.

Professor Francesco Cappuccio and team reviewed evidence in over 28,000 children and 15,000 adults. Their evidence clearly showed that sleep deprivation significantly increased obesity risk in both groups.

Professor Cappuccio said: "The 'epidemic' of obesity

is paralleled by a 'silent epidemic' of reduced sleep duration with short sleep duration linked to increased risk of obesity both in adults and in children. These trends are detectable in adults as well as in children as young as 5 years."

Professor Cappuccio explains that sleep deprivation may lead to obesity through increased appetite as a result of hormonal changes. If you do not sleep enough you produce Ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite. Lack of sleep also results in your body producing less Leptin, a hormone that suppresses appetite.

4) Endocrine disruptors, such as some foods that interfere with lipid metabolism.

A team from the University of Barcelona (UB) led

by Dr Juan Carlos Laguna published a study in the journal Hepatology that provides clues to the molecular mechanism through which fructose (a type of sugar) in beverages may alter lipid energy metabolism and cause fatty liver and metabolic syndrome.

Fructose is mainly metabolized in the liver, the target organ of the metabolic alterations caused by the consumption of this sugar. In this study, rats receiving fructose-containing beverages presented a pathology similar to metabolic syndrome, which in the short term causes lipid accumulation (hypertriglyceridemia) and fatty liver, and eventually leads to hypertension, resistance to insulin, diabetes and obesity.

Poorly balanced diets and the lack of physical exercise are key factors in the increase of obesity and other metabolic diseases in modern societies. In epidemiological studies in

humans, the effect of the intake of fructose-sweetened beverages also seems to be more intense in women. (From - "New Data On Fructose-Sweetened Beverages And Hepatic Metabolism").

Although there appears to be a consensus on the negative effects of fructose-sweetened beverages there is still some debate over the effects of fructose versus high fructose corn syrup - two studies of note are: " AMA Finds High Fructose Syrup Unlikely To Be More Harmful To Health Than Other Caloric Sweeteners " Fructose Sweetened Drinks Increase Nonfasting Triglycerides In Obese Adults " Fructose effect on the brain may promote obesity - researchers from Yale University School of Medicine compared the effects of fructose and glucose on the brain with MRI scans and found that high fructose diets may be behind the current obesity epidemic.

In an article published in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association), the authors said they found that regions in the brain that regulate appetite became active when people consumed glucose, but remained inactive when they ingested fructose. When those regions become active, they release hormones that produce feelings of satiety (fullness) - in other words, the hormones tell you to stop eating.

5) Lower rates of smoking (smoking suppresses appetite) According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) "Not everyone gains weight when they stop smoking. Among people who do, the average weight gain is between 6

The Benefits of Yoga Like yoga, the osteopathic approach to wellness focuses on your body's natural tendency toward health and self-healing.

"The purpose of yoga is to create strength, awareness and harmony in both the mind and body," explains Natalie

lywood, California.

While there are more than 100 different types, or schools, of yoga, most sessions are typically include breathing exercises, meditation, and assuming postures (sometimes called asana or poses) that stretch and flex various muscle groups.

to heal itself," says Dr. Nevins. "Yoga is a great tool for staying healthy because it is based on similar principles."

Physical Benefits "The relaxation techniques incorporated in yoga can lessen chronic pain, such as lower back pain, arthritis,

Representational image (Photo: examinedexistence) Nevins, DO, a boardcertified osteopathic family physician and certified Kundalini Yoga instructor in Hol-

"As an osteopathic physician, I focus a lot of my efforts on preventive medicine and practices, and in the body's ability

headaches and carpal tunnel syndrome," explains Dr. Nevins.

"Yoga can also lower blood pressure and re-

duce insomnia."

Other physical benefits of yoga include: " Increased flexibility " Increased muscle strength and tone " Improved respiration, energy and vitality " Maintaining a balanced metabolism " Weight reduction " Cardio and circulatory health " Improved athletic performance " Protection from injury Mental Benefits Aside from the physical benefits, one of the best benefits of yoga is how it helps a person manage stress, which is known to have devastating effects on the body and mind. "Stress can reveal itself in many ways, including back or neck pain, sleeping problems, headaches, drug abuse, and an inability to concentrate," says Dr. Nevins. "Yoga can be very effective in developing coping skills and reaching a more positive outlook on life."

Yoga's incorporation of meditation and breath-

ing can help improve a person's mental wellbeing. "Regular yoga practice creates mental clarity and calmness; increases body awareness; relieves chronic stress patterns; relaxes the mind; centers attention; and sharpens concentration," says Dr. Nevins. Body- and self-awareness are particularly beneficial, she adds, "because they can help with early detection of physical problems and allow for early preventive action."

Beginners Welcome Because there are so many different kinds of yoga practices, it is possible for anyone to start. "Whether you're a couch potato or a professional athlete, size and fitness levels do not matter because there are modifications for every yoga pose and beginner classes in every style," says Dr. Nevins.

"The idea is to explore your limits, not strive for some pretzel-like perfection. It is a great way to get in tune with your body and your inner self."

Courtesy: osteopathic

Representational image (Photo: financialtribune) and 8 pounds. Roughly 10 percent of people who stop smoking gain a large amount of weight - 30 pounds or more."

6) Medications that make patients put on weight According to an article in Annals of Pharmacotherapy, some medications cause weight gain.

"Clinically significant weight gain is associated with some commonly prescribed medicines. There is wide interindividual variation in response and variation of the degree of weight gain within drug classes. Where possible, alternative therapy should be selected, especially for individuals predisposed to overweight and obesity."

(The Annals of Pharmacotherapy: Vol. 39, No. 12, pp. 2046-2054. DOI 10.1345/aph.1G33) 7) Is obesity self-perpetuating?

The longer a person is overweight, the harder it becomes for them to lose weight. Many have wondered whether obesity itself becomes a permanent state, i.e. does obesity promote obesity?. Researchers from the University of Michigan and the National Council of Science and Technology (COINCET) in Argentina, reported in the Journal of Clinical Investigation that in animal experiments, obesity seems to become

a self-perpetuating state.

They found that the "normal" body weight of mice that become obese starts going up; their bodies' perception of normal weight becomes a heavier than before, regardless of whether they are made to go on diets which had made them lose weight.

Senior author, Malcolm J. Low, M.D., Ph.D., said "Our model demonstrates that obesity is in part a selfperpetuating disorder and the results further emphasize the importance of early intervention in childhood to try to prevent the condition whose effects can last a lifetime. Our new animal model will be used in pinpointing the reasons why most adults find it exceedingly difficult to maintain meaningful weight loss from dieting and exercise alone."

In addition to this study, research published in the journal Nature Communications in 2015 suggests that weight loss is harder when we carry more fat.

The scientists suggest that the more fat we carry, the more our bodies appear to produce a protein that blocks our ability to burn fat.

8) Obesity gene A faulty gene, called FTO, makes 1 in every 6 people overeat, a team of scientists from University College London reported in the Journal of Clinical In-

vestigation (July 2013 issue).

Lead researcher, Racher Batterham, explained that people who carry the FTO gene variant tend to eat too much, prefer high-energy, fatty foods, and are usually obese. They also appear to take much longer to reach satiety (feeling of being full).

Led by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, four Institutes from the National Institutes of Health have come together to promote We Can!ÂŽ-Ways to Enhance Children's Activity & Nutrition.

We Can! is a national education program designed for parents and caregivers to help children 8 to 13 years old maintain a healthy weight. The evidence-based program offers parents and families tips and fun activities to encourage healthy eating, increase physical activity, and reduce time spent being inactive.

Currently, more than 140 community groups around the country are participating in We Can!programs for parents and youth. These community groups include hospitals, health departments, clinics, faith-based organizations, YMCAs, schools, and more.

Courtesy: edicaln ewstoday

Nail-biting and thumb sucking might actually enhance immunity against allergies, says study.

Is your toddler addicted to "bad habits" such as thumb-sucking or nailbiting? Worry not, as according to a study, she or he is less likely to develop allergic sensitivities in the long run.

The findings showed that children with both thumb-sucking or nailbiting habits were less likely to be allergic to things such as house dust mites, grass, cats, dogs, horses or airborne fungi.

"Our findings are consistent with the hygiene theory that early exposure to dirt or germs reduces the risk of developing allergies," said Malcolm Sears, professor at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada.

"While we don't recommend that these habits should be encouraged, there does appear to be a positive side to these habits," Sears added in the work published in the journal Pediatrics.

In the study, the researchers tested the idea that these common childhood habits would increase microbial exposures, affecting the immune system and re-

ducing the development of allergic reactions also known as atopic sensitisation - the tendency to be "hyperallergi".

The habits were mea-

sensitisation but among those with one oral habit, only 40 per cent had allergies.

Among those with both habits, only 31 per cent had allergies.

Representational image (Photo: momjunction)

sured in a longitudinal birth cohort of more than 1,000 New Zealand children at ages 5, 7, 9 and 11.

Atopic sensitisation was measured by skin-prick testing at 13 and 32 years old.

The researchers found 31 per cent of children were frequent thumb suckers or nail biters.

Among all children at 13 years old, 45 per cent showed atopic

This trend was sustained into adulthood and showed no difference depending on smoking in the household, ownership of cats or dogs or exposure to house dust mites.

However, the study did not find associations between the oral habits and development of asthma or hay fever, the researchers noted.

Courtesy: India nexpress

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DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, JULY 19

PAGE 12

Lee Beard reveals what Vijender unlearnt to be WBO champ PTI New Delhi, Jul 18 : Vijender Singh has had to unlearn a few tactics from his amateur days in his unbeaten journey to the WBO Asia Pacific title, reveals the Indian boxing star's renowned British trainer Lee Beard who "makes it hard for him in the gym to make him more spiteful and angry in the ring".

Speaking to PTI, Beard, who has worked with the likes of Floyd Mayweather Sr besides being the assistant trainer to former world champion Ricky Hatton, detailed Vijender's rise to the WBO title that was won amid frenzied fans here on Saturday.

"All his amateur experience has been a huge help for him because he has won on some very big occasions - Olympics, World Championships.

By the time he turned pro, he had already learnt to deal

with pressure. He was smart and skillful even before he came to me. I have only added to his game, made him think differently," Beard said.

"I have tried to make him punch harder and harder and use his jab more. His footwork used to slow him down because as an amateur he used to run around in the ring.

The main thing he has unlearnt is the footwork from amateur days with regards to running around the ring. It's no good for a 10-round bout," he added.

Beard, who fondly calls Vijender just V, said another aspect of the Indian's game he has tried to improve is his defence.

"He is more fluent now, there is bit more rhythm. His defence is also so much better now. Now when you see him in the ring, it is not easy to connect to him because he is

Vijender Singh walking, turning, his defensive jab has improved a lot.

His all-round understanding, his patience and control over the fight has improved.

"He can't be reached that easily. I have educated him

about energy because in Olympics it is just three rounds so the pace is very fast. But in pro, you have to slow it down a bit.

"When I spoke about energy with him I said 'V, there is a glass of water

here, when you drink it the level goes down, imagine that is your energy. So if you are in the fight, and every time you throw a punch, it is like you are drinking and the level will go down.

So you have got to be careful that you don't empty it before the final bell'," explained the Manchesterbased coach.

Beard said he could see a world champion in Vijender the day he met him first in Manchester last year.

"When I first saw him, it took just 15 minutes for me to gauge that he will win a world title. I looked into his eyes and I saw a fire. Whatever he seems to focus on, he gets it.

Of all the fighters I have trained, he is one of the best when it comes to learning, he is an extremely quick learner," he said. .

Sania ready for Manipuri duo Milan and Olympics but not Soram join Delhi Dynamos predicting medal

Sania Mirza and Salman Khan PTI Mumbai, Jul 18 : Ace tennis player Sania Mirza is geared up to represent the country in next month's Olympics but she refused to predict winning a medal in the Rio Games.

Sania will pair up with young Prarthana Thombare in women's doubles and with Rohan Bopanna in mixed doubles in the Games, and she says she will prepare for the Olympics the same way she does for every big tournament.

"You try and play every tournament, play every match at merit, give your best and hopefully come back with a medal.

If you don't (win a medal) then you try again. You cannot sit and predict what is going to happen," she told PTI in an interaction when asked about chances of clinching a medal in Rio. Sania's autobiography 'Ace against odds' was launched by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan here last night.

Asked about her chemistry with Bopanna, Sania said, "It's been very good. Me and Rohan have known each other for a

very long time, we have played a lot together. So we are looking forward to playing together in Olympics."

The women's doubles world number one player said one has to inspire himself or herself to achieve success in the Olympics but the biggest inspiration was to play for the country.

"You have to be your own inspiration, you have to be there because you want to be there (in the Olympics). The biggest inspiration is for playing for your country and there cannot be bigger inspiration than that," she said.

Sania, however, said that she was not preparing differently for the Olympics.

"As tennis players, we can't really prepare (ourselves) for one thing that comes you know. I am playing in Canada a week before the Olympics.

This will be my third Olympics, we prepare for it the same way we prepare for every big tournament that we play, be it Wimbledon or US Open. So, we are looking forward to it," said the 29-year-old.

Stakes high as Russia doping report released Monday AFP Toronto, July 18 : The report to be released today into allegations of widespread statesponsored doping in Russia has already sparked rumblings it could trigger the "nuclear option" of a full ban of Russia from the Rio Olympics.

With the August 5 start of the Summer Games less than three weeks away, anticipation of the report by Canadian lawyer Richard McLaren had the Olympic movement on edge.

Some world sports leaders decried what they saw as a preemptive strike from others pushing for a Russian ban before the findings were revealed in a press conference scheduled for 9:00 am (1300 GMT) in Toronto.

McLaren was tasked by the World Anti-Doping Agency with investigating wide-ranging allegations made by former Russian anti-doping laboratory director Grigory Rodchenkov in a May article in The New York Times.

Rodchenkov, now living in the United States, claimed that even Russian secret services

took part in an operation to manipulate Russian doping test samples at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.

Mclaren said in June that the early results of his work had found "credible and verifiable" evidence to back the allegations.

"Kicking the Russia team out of the Rio Games would be the nuclear option," former WADA president Dick Pound told the Sunday Times in June.

"But it's not impossible."

Russia is already barred from international athletics by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) could rule as early as Tuesday on an appeal by 68 Russian athletes who say they should be allowed to compete in Rio. - Fair legal process European Olympic Committees (EOC) president Pat Hickey reacted angrily at the weekend to an e-mail seeking support for a blanket ban on Russia before McLaren's report was issued.

PTI New Delhi, Jul 18 : Delhi Dynamos have roped in Manipuri duo of Milan Singh and Soram Poirei with an aim to fortify their defence and also reach out to the sizeable North Eastern football fans in the capital.

Soram is an exciting goalkeeper making his ISL debut while Milan is a dynamic central midfielder who might well become the fulcrum of new coach Gianluca Zambrotta's plans for the upcoming Hero Indian Super League.

Milan has come on loan from DSK Shivajians although he has added to his reputation by turning out for North East United in ISL's opening season.

Porei has been the stubborn custodian for newly promoted Aizwal FC. It will be his first foray into the country's premier soccer league.

"I am very pleased to have Soram and Milan on my team.

These two players are really talented and I look forward to working with them. Their names were discussed over the last couple of days. We believe that they fit perfectly in our plan for the upcoming season," Zambrotta said.

Milan started his senior career in 2010 with the Pailan Arrows where he played for three years be-

Milan Singh and Soram Poirei fore moving to Shillong Lajong for another threeyear stint. He was then signed up by NEUFC first, and then by DSK Shivajians. He has scored 10 goals in his professional career and has also turned up for the India Under-23 side for six times.

"I have played only one season in the league and have a very strong desire to prove myself in the ISL. I am very excited to have joined DDFC and feel that I belong to this city. I might be from Manipur but my heart beats for Delhi as a number of people from the North-East live here and I believe they will come out in full support for me and my team," said an elated Singh who just turned 24 this May. Milan will be joined by his childhood friend Soram who made his professional debut with Pune FC. He played with

them for two years before joining Shillong Lajong FC. He then had a one-year run with Pailan Arrows. He went on to join Bengaluru FC on loan for two years before donning Aizawl FC colours during the recently-concluded season of the I-League.

"It is my first year in the ISL and I am really looking forward to it. It is a very big opportunity for me to play for such a great club. It is a platform for me to learn and shine under the new coach Zambrotta. He is a legend and under his tutelage I believe I will learn a number of new things," 23year-old Porei said.

Incidentally, Milan and Porei have been the best of friends since childhood having played together in the past for Shillong Lajong and Pailan Arrows.

Romai edge past Rupjyoti Sangha Sports Reporter opened their account In the beginning of the Dibrugarh, July 18: through Striker Bhaskar second half, Rupjyoti Romai Tea Estate Foot- Gogoi in the 36th Sangha’s player ball Club defeated minute. Bhaskar con- showed some agility in Rupjyoti Sangha, Jokai nected a pass from the field but could not 2-1 in convert any t h e Senior Division Football Tournament g o a l . league R o m a i encounter of the ongo- Kunel Sonowal and came into the match in ing first Monuj Patra found the back of the the 81st minute and and Boga Das senior di- net. Amit Karmakar of strikes the winning goal vision football tourna- Romai equalized the through Amit ment organized by goal in the 38th minute. Karmakar.

Dibrugarh District Sports In the first half, both the Tomorrow, Milan Jyoti Association at the DDSA teams toiled hard. At Sangha will play Jalan stadium here today. lemon break both the Nagar Tea estate FootRupjyoti Sangha teams locked 1-1. ball club.

Thai badminton star Ratchanok cleared of doping AFP Bangkok, July 18 : Thai Badminton star Ratchanok Intanon broke down in tears and spoke of her relief today after being cleared of doping, ending fears her Olympic dreams had been scuppered.

The 21-year-old shuttler, who is beloved in Thailand and remains the kingdom's best chance for a medal in Rio, tested positive for a banned substance in May after a tournament in China.

But the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Monday cleared her after ruling that the substance had been administered to treat a tendon injury and was allowed.

"I was confident in my innocence and I am glad that I received justice. I will practise and hope to bring a medal back for Thais," she told reporters at a press conference in Bangkok.

"The Olympics is my dream," she added, before bursting into tears.

Rumours of the positive test result first surfaced in the Thai media last week, leaving fans on tenterhooks.

In a statement published Monday, the BWF said Ratchanok tested positive for triamcinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid which is banned in most circumstances.

However if administered directly into a muscle tendon for medical rea-

Ratchanok Intanon sons it is allowed under the BWF's rules.

"The panel concluded that because the route of administration of the substance in the medical treatment process was intratendinous -- an authorised administration route -- no violation of the regulations was committed," the BWF said.

Patama Leeswadtrakul, president of the Badminton Association of Thailand, said doctors had been treating Ratchanok for pain in her right hand and back.

"We said it was used honestly to cure her injuries," she told reporters.

The 21-year-old star has charmed the Thai public -- who affectionately call her Nong May -- with her girl-next-door demeanour despite the fame and riches of sporting success.

In 2013 she became the youngest ever world

champion. She was briefly ranked number 1 after winning Singapore Open in April but has since slipped to fourth.

A medal favourite in Rio, she will carry the Olympic hopes of a country with few topclass athletes.

She has caught the imagination of Thais as much for her rags to riches back story as oncourt heroics.

Her parents are migrants to Bangkok from the country's poor northeast who worked in menial jobs at a badminton centre on the outskirts of the city.

While they worked, Ratchanok played badminton unlocking her talent at the age of six.

In a recent interview with AFP in Bangkok she said she was "100 percent confident" of bringing home a medal from the Rio Olympics.

Rahat rocks England before Vince hits back AFP London, July 17 : Pakistan's Rahat Ali removed England's top three batsmen as the first Test at Lord's hurtled towards an exciting climax on Sunday's fourth day.

At lunch, England were 90 for three in their second innings, needing a further 193 runs to reach their victory target of 283.

James Vince was a Testbest 41 not out and the recalled Gary Ballance 15 not out after Rahat had taken three wickets for 36 runs in eight overs.

England captain Alastair Cook launched the chase with a four off the very first ball of the innings when he cut a loose Mohammad Amir delivery to the boundary.

All the pre-match focus had been on Amir, mak-

ing his return to Test cricket after six years out at the scene of his 2010 spot-fixing crime.

But it was fellow left-arm quick Rahat who stunned England.

His back-off-a-length ball had left-hander Cook (eight) edging through to wicket-keeper Sarfraz Ahmed.

Cook's opening partner Alex Hales made a brisk 16 before carelessly chasing a wide ball from Rahat outside off stump, with Mohammad Hafeez holding a good catch at first slip.

Rahat had taken two for eight in 13 balls and England were 32 for two.

Joe Root, England's new number three, got off the mark with a back-foot cover drive for four off Rahat and also drove him

Pakistan's Rahat Ali through the same region, off the front foot, for another boundary.

But with a man set back for the shot, the star batsman fell into a hooking trap when he paddled a

short ball from Rahat to Yasir Shah at deep square leg.

Root was out for nine and England were 47 for three.

Vince too had gotten off

the mark with a coverdriven four off Rahat.

Yet to play a major Test innings, Vince was almost out on nine when his edged drive off Rahat flew to Younis Khan at second slip.

Younis dropped the low one-handed chance and just failed to cling on to the rebound.

Vince struck three fours in as many balls off Wahab Riaz, the third of Pakistan's three left-arm quicks.

And the Hampshire batsman made it five fours in six balls faced when an edge over point and more authoritative cut off legspinner Shah, England's first-innings tormentor, took him to 39.

That saw Vince in his fourth match at this level, surpass his previous Testbest of 35 against Sri Lanka

a Chester-le-Street in May. Earlier, Pakistan added just one run to their overnight 214 for eight as Stuart Broad had both Shah, out for a Test-best 30 and Amir caught behind.

Pace-bowling allrounder Chris Woakes led England off the field after taking five for 32 for a match haul of 11 for 112.

England now needed to surpass their record fourth innings-winning chase in a Lord's Test of 282 for three against New Zealand in 2004 if they were to go 1-0 up in this four-match series.

Only the West Indies, with 344 for one in 1984, had ever made more in the fourth innings to win a Test at Lord's.

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