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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 11

Vol. 1

Issue 340

Dibrugarh, Thursday, May 19, 2016

Price -

5.00

Pages- 12

PAGE 5

DIG (East) visits Khonsa: takes stock of 11 dead in landslides in situation in the aftermath of SP's action Assam in the last 24 hours In the aftermath of Superintendent of Police Jasmeet Singh, IPS assaulting a civilian Lankham Wangsu on 16th May, the DIG (East) Apur Bitin visited Khonsa on 18th May and attended a public meeting convened by the action committee. After a patient hearing from the public leaders, PRI leaders, action committee members, students' organizations and Women's leaders, the DIG assured to take a stern action against the erring Officer if found guilty during the investigating process. He and the Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha appreciated the people for maintaining law and order by resorting to peaceful and

ET CAPSULES

Traffic warden manhandled Itanagar, May 18 :A traffic warden, identified as Dora Tayu was manhandled by a civilian driver near Nyokum Lapang tri-junction in Itanagar at around 10.30 am today.

The traffic warden, identified as Dora Tayu was on duty and controlling traffic at the tri-junction near Nyokum-Lapang when the driver in the car with registration number AR 01E 6661 decided to break traffic rules and make a dash for it.

When the traffic warden tried to stop him, the driver took hold of the warden’s neck and tried choking him in view of several vehicles driving by. According to Tayu, the driver also hurled racial abuses at him.

The driver bolted off through the heavy traffic and took the road that leads to PSector, while Tayu gave chase for some distance.

Soon after, the warden called higher authorities to take note of the incident.

Accordingly, Officer incharge T Bage informed that a case has been registered Vide no. 141/16 US 332 IPC for voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty. (Staff Reporter)

Road mishap Itanagar, May 18 : A young man identified as Techi Rakesh, aged around 20 years, lost his life after the vehicle he was driving swerved off the road and went down a hill near Jollang today.

Reportedly, Rakesh was returning from a party at around 5.30am with two other friends in a red Terrano when the car swerved, rolled down the hill and turned upside down. (Staff Reporter)

democratic process of registering their strong protest.

Both of them told the people that there would be no levity and complete transparency and impartiality would be maintained during the investigation. They appealed to the people not to take the law in their hands and cooperate with the investigation that would unearth the truth. A factual report is being sent by the DIG to the higher authorities.

Earlier, the public leaders, members of action committee, PRI leaders Women's organizations and students' leaders submitted memorandums to the DIG urging him to take strong action against the erring SP Jasmeet Singh. They also

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Extending open support to the leadership of Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, 10 executive members of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), Arunachal Pradesh today tendered resignations from their designated posts and from the primary membership of the Indian National Congress Party.

The former executive state NSUI members said that the decision came soon after they witnessed that Chief Minister

AAPSU expresses utter shock over assault on senior BJP leader in Tirap A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 18

All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) expresses utter shock at the reported incident involving assault on a citizen by SP of Tirap, Jasmeet singh. “The union strongly condemns such inhumane act by an officer holding such a responsible position. Mere transfer shall not serve the purpose. Immediate suspension should be initiated

Lohit gears up to lay red carpet welcome to CM Pul Bishnu Rana Tezu, May 18

Lohit all set to lay red carpet welcome to CM Kalikho Pul for his maiden visit to the district after being taken over Chief Minister of the State.

District Administration has geared up its machineries for adequate arrangement. Circuit Houses, Halipad, Roads and other readymade amenities for inauguration has been given complete facelift.

Dr Mohesh Chai, local legislators and Danish Ashrap, (IAS) DC have been working around the clock for the reception of the CM and the dignitaries including Pema Khandu, MLA Mukto, Kamlung Mosang, Minister WRD, Muchu Mithi, PS PWD & Sports & Youths Affairs, Chow Zingnu Namshoom, PS Tax & Excise, Paknga Bage, PS Home, Laisam Simai, MLA Nampong, Pasang Dorjee Sona, MLA Mechukha and Tesam Pongte, MLA Changlang North respectively.

ET Correspondent Namsai, May 18

Flood waters of the overflowing Noa-Dehing River, fed by torrential rain in the past few days, have inundated several areas in Namsai district of Arunachal Pradesh.

The flood water inundated Mahadevpur-I, MahadevpurIV and Kakoni villages besides submerging paddy fields in Namsai district, an official

Pul immediately addressed long-pending grievances of the education sector and the student community in particular.

Appreciating Pul’s visionary leadership, they said, “We have seen in Kalikjo Pul, a man of great vision and determination, who follows the actionoriented approach of governance.”

Those who have resigned include state general secretaries Takar Rei and Tato Gingha, state secretaries Taje Dupit, Ashok DUlom, Peli Bui Tai Tania, Tatu Rie and Raju Dajum, and state spokesperson Tamar Rabo.

against such erring officers followed by strict inquiry so that such instances are not repeated in the near future”, stated in a press release issued

by Kamta Lapung, President of AAPSU. Lapung also allegedly said that, “the state has witnessed incidents of similar nature in the past whereby innocent citizens had to face police brutality especially from IPS officers on deputation in the state”.

Contd. on Page 3

Tezu MLA Dr. Mohesh Chai (3rd from left) monitoring the preparatory works to organise CM’s rally. Pic - Bishnu Rana

Dr Chai discloses that the CM visit is comprehensively focused for the development of Tezu–Sunpura constituency.

The area is in backseat of development following incomplete Lohit Bridge which has failed several deadlines of completion. CM himself will physically inspect the bridge during his visit ensuring the public of its early completion.

Meanwhile, The CM will

report said on Wednesday.

Besides, five bamboo spurs out of 14 constructed on May 10 were washed away by flood water at New Silatoo threatening the Mahadevpur town.

Water Resources Development (WRD) officials are constantly monitoring the situation. The embankment and spur at Nampong in Piyong circle are also badly affected by the flood water of the river, the report said.

unveiled several officials building including College Library, ‘Angel House’ at Brahmakumaris Rajyoga and Education Centre, newly build SP office, OPD at Zonal Hospital, newly build Session Court and Women Hostel building DUDA. Later in the evening the CM will address the public gathering at a huge makeshift structure build at Jubilee Ground.

ET Correspondent Hailakandi, May 18

11 people have died due to landslides in southern Assam's Barak Valley region this morning after heavy rain over the last 24 hours in the state, particularly in the southern part.

Six people, including two children, died this morning at Ramkhal Punji in the Cachar district.

In another incident at Ramchandi Tea Garden in the Hailakandi district, a five year old boy died in a landslide. His parents sustained serious injuries.

Four people also died in a separate landslide incident on the Assam-Mizoram border.

Train services between Guwahati and Silchar in the Cachar district have been suspended indefinitely and

A 2-wheeler wades through the water logged street of Anil Nagar in Guwahati. pic - UB photos there have been breaches on many roads including crucial national highways at many places.

The weather department has put out a heavy rain warning for Arunachal Pradesh for

tomorrow which means that other parts of Assam could be affected too.

So far six districts and 70,000 people have been affected by floods and landslides.

Hardcore ULFA cadre 5 persons including 4 student sustains injuries during road arrested Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, May 18

Several areas flooded as Noa-Dehing river overflows

10 state NSUI members resign, support Pul A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 18

demanded that the IO should be of not below the rank of an SP. The members from different sections urged the DIG to book the SP under nonbailable sections for causing grievous injuries to Lankham Wangsu without any provocation.

Lankham Wangsu is now admitted in a city hospital in Dibrugarh with multiple injuries. They demanded that the SP Jasmeet Singh who has been transferred from Khonsa should be suspended immediately. The Action Committee has urged the DIG to initiate action to facilitate completion of the investigation process by 20th May failing which a peaceful and democratic movement would be launched including calling of 24 hours Tirap bandh.

In a major setback to ULFA (I), security forces on Wednesday arrested a trained ULFA cadre from the jungles of Singwang under Manmao police station in Changlang district. The Myanmar-trained cadre has been identified as Hemant Rajkhowa alias Anirudh Asom. Security forces have also recovered huge quantity of arms and ammunitions including 1 nos MQ assault rifle, 1 nos magazine, 32 live rounds, 1 nos Chinese grenade and a detonator. According to sources, intelligence agencies, based on an input launched an operation at wee hours of Wednesday during which troops of Assam riffles and Arunachal police achieved this success. The condition of ULFA camps in Myanmar is not good and as a result several cadres are fleeing away, added sources.

accident at Tinsukia Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, May 18

Altogether five persons including four students have been injured in a road accident due to collision between an auto and a truck on Tuesday evening. The accident occurred at Makum road in the town around 3.30 pm.

The injured have been identified as Jaya kanoi, Harshita kanoi, Sanskriti Poddar - all from Budding Buds School while another student has been identified as B. Biswash of Makum.

According to sources, the auto was going in the Makum direction while a truck was coming from the opposite direction. Suddenly there was a collision between the duo, sources added. It may be

One of the injuried person. Pic - Sidharth Singh mentioned here that on one side where truck drivers are driving rough, on the other side

auto drivers often are overloaded with passengers and driver loose control.

Despite multiple extensions and missed Commissioning of projects must deadlines, construction of 176 dwelling units be absolutely according to

by NPCC nowhere close to completion schedule : Governor to NHPC A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 18

The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation, Itanagar, Executive Director Shri Shyamal Mitra called on the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 18th May 2016. Shri Gobind Baidya, General Manager, NHPC, Tawang and Shri K. Riram, Deputy Manager accompanied the Executive

Direction in the meeting. The Executive Director and General Manager, NHPC, Tawang briefed the Governor on the NHPC projects in the State and Tawang District.

The Governor emphasised that there must be a balance between development and the environment considerations.

For overall and large interest of the State and Region, Contd. on Page 3

Jiko Linggi Roing, May 18

Despite multiple extensions and missed deadlines, construction of 176 dwelling units under Integrated Housing and Slum Development Programme under the scheme JNNURM being executed by the National Projects Construction Corporation Ltd. (NPCC) at Roing is nowhere close to completion; Contd. on Page 4

Dwelling units constructed under IHSDP

Election results would bring cheers to the public exchequer Mayukh Goswami Mangaldai, May 18

Speculation and analysis on exit poll is all over and it is the time for counting of votes and declaration of results. The results will definitely add colors to the political career of 126 candidates who will be emerged winners where as all other candidates will be surrounded by frustration and possibilities of gloom political future ahead. Amongst the loosing candidates majority of them will not only suffer politically but also economically as they will not even be able to get back their amount which had been deposited along with their nominations of polls. This means the mega democratic phenomenon which incurred

loss to the government exchequer with several crores of rupees at the end of the process has something to cheer about. As per the official statistics, collected with 539 candidates in the first phase and 523 in the second, this time a total of 1062 candidates contested in 126 assembly constituencies of the state. Out of the 126 seats, 16 seats are reserved for ST where as another 8 seats are reserved for SC and as such other 102 constituencies are opened for all.

In these reserved seats there are a total of 149 contesting candidates with 53nos from SC and other 96 nos from ST . On the other hand a total of 913 candidates have contested in 102 unreserved seats .

According to the sources in the

A view of BJP office in Guwahati, a day before counting.

Pic - UB Photos election department , the amount fixed officially as security for a general candidate is Rs 10,000 where as there is

50% relaxation in case of a candidate belonging to SC or ST category . Hence an amount of Rs 7,45,000 have been

collected as security from candidates in the reserved seats while nearly an amount of Rs. 91,30,000 have been deposited by candidates belonging to unreserved category.

Meanwhile as per the election norms security deposit of a candidate will be forfeited if he failed to secure one sixth of the votes polled in the respective seat. If we look back to the statistics of the votes acquired by candidates in the last few polls in the state, it will be clearly found that in most of constituencies only the winning candidate and his nearest rival candidate managed to secure above the one sixth quantity of votes.

In the last assembly election in Darrang election district consisting of four assembly constituencies, the security

money of 20 contesting candidates out of the total of 28 candidates amounting to Rs 1,80,000 were forfeited .

The candidates whose security money were forfeited belonged to major political parties including INC, BJP, AGP, AIUDF and BPF. This time also there is every possibility of security deposit of around 30 candidates among the 40 contesting candidates in the district being forfeited. In such a situation from the statistics of previous election results in the State as a whole security deposit of around 800 candidates are likely to be forfeited and thus the government exchequer will be richer by about Rs 75,00,000 immediately after the announcement of the result .

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ET Bureau Khonsa, May 18

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Organisations donates books to Golaghat students of Prayash Academy ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 18: Under the efficient leadership of Maheswari Yuva Sangathan in association with Maheswari Sabha and Maheswari Mahila Sangathan Golaghat, four number of valuable book sets consisting of 6 books to each student of class 12 was donated to leading Junior College of Golaghat, Prayash Academy. One set was donated to Library and another set was given to boy named Bishwajit Bora of Commerce and a girl named Rashmi Rekha Saikia of Arts.

The books were donated

by Shanti Devi Ladha in

memory of Ramdev Ladha. The Principal Jatindra Saikia and teachers appreciated the initiative of the organisation

and said it will be helpful to the students. It is to be known that motive behind this project is to help the needy students

who are good in studies and to provide some help for their HS exam. Meanwhile members of MYS were also present.

Justice denied to assassinated journalist of Assam Parag Kumar Das, regretted Digboi media fraternity on his 20th death anniversary ET Correspondent Digboi, May 18: ‘Justice delayed is justice denied’ implied significantly in the case of the assassinated Parag Kumar Das, the former editor of Asomiya Pratidin a radical journalist, human right activist and one of the founders of human rights movement in Assam way back in 1996, the Digboi media fraternity regretted the state judicial machinery here last evening at Digboi Swahid Bedi during a ceremonial programme held to mark the significant lapsatation of 20 years of death anniversary of the said media icon of Assam.

Team Digboi journalists accorded floral tribute, and offered condolence besides lightening ceremonial lamps at Digboi Swahid bedi and remembered the

immortal soul of the soil who has left behind a true definition of journalism for the future scribes by dint of his impartial and fearless spirits of unearthing what was concealed for the sake of designing a positive public opinion – an essence for the success of democracy in Assam and well as country as whole.

Speaking on the occasion, Punya Saikia the learned state literary pensioner and a social worker of Digboi reiterated the significance of the day as a reminder of the gross failure of the state machinery in providing justice to the bereaved family members of the scribes even after 20th years of the inhuman act. According to him “Justice delayed is justice denied”, further regretted the working of the judicial system which has acquitted the prime accused in the grue-

some act on the ground of inadequate solid evidence.

Beside the journalists, other speakers in the programme including Shyam Lal Salhotra, a social worker of Digboi has also threw immense light on the potentiality of a pen which can make and unmake a king in a democratic setup besides paying his tribute to the Journalist who according to him died a true death that would inspire the rest to be relentless, impartial, independent and fearless in their selfless services to the society. He also lambasted the existing legal system that acquits the wrong doer to do justice to the right doer.

It may be recalled here that in the fateful afternoon of May 16, 1996 as Parag Das was bringing home his young son from school in

Chandmari, Guwahati, he was assassinated by four men. An unassuming, erudite man, Das was one of the founders of the human rights movement in Assam and a tireless activist who fought for the rights of the indigenous peoples of Northeast India. Before he found himself calling as a rights activist and radical journalist, Das was the manager of the Guwahati Stock Exchange His public execution in broad daylight elicited outrage in Northeast India. The four accused of assassinating Das were surrendered members of United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA), who formed the core of the "secret killings" strategy, comprising certain members of the security forces and surrendered militants that created terror in Assam from 1996 until 2001.

Dibrugarh all set for ‘counting day’ A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, May 18: Dibrugarh District administration has completed all preparation for the counting of votes on May 19, 2016. In a press conference here today, the Deputy Commissioner M.S. Manivannan & SP Bir Bikram Gogoi informed that the strong rooms will be opened at 7am and counting of postal ballots will be completed before 8am.

DC informed that counting of votes in EVM will begin at 8am and counting of all seven LACs, Moran, Dib, Lahoal, Chabua, Naharkatia, Duliajan & Tingkhong will be held in Govt Boy's HS School.

“There will be 14 tables in each round and no mobile will be allowed in the counting venue,’’ Manivannan told reporters at DC conference hall.

Police has arranged adequate security arrangement in the town with the help of QRTs & army.There will be 3-tier security in the counting venue. Bir Bikram Gogoi said that crackdown is on against illicit liquor & gambling and pillion riding has been banned. He added that appeal has been made to all to maintain law & order during victory celebration.

Golaghat administration all set for counting of polls

Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 19-5-16 (THURSDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Hindi Language Lesson 6-30 A.M-Vidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali(Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Surar Satsori (Request Programme of Assamese Songs) 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan 7-15 P.M-Karpumpuli 8-00 P.M-Parikrama 9-30 P.M- Kramasha-"Jangam",Written by Debendra Nath Acharya Sd-/H.O.P

A bird rescued by residents at Dhelaghat Tea estate in upper Assam’s Tinsukia district. The ill bird was locally treated by the residents and later released. Pic - Sidharth Singh

ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 18: Like the other parts of the state, Golaghat is also going to witness the ultimate political game tomorrow as the counting of polls for the assembly election will commenced tomorrow which will decide who will form the next government in the state.

Golaghat district administration is all set for the counting of polls. All necessary arrangements have been made by the administration. The EVMs are kept at the strong room located at Golaghat Commerce College premises. The

the officials and others who are engaged in this task have faced some problems performing their duty due to continuous rains for the past few days. Tomorrow two high profile ministers of Tarun Gogoi government, Ajanta Neog and Bismita Gogoi will be able to see their lucks.

Ajanta Neog has contested from 95 Golaghat LAC representing the Congress party against BJP candidate Bitupon Saikia and Bismita Gogoi Laya Madduri, DC, Sonitpur and Sangjukta Parasor, SP, Sonitpur address press representing the Congress meet regarding election counting purpose at Tezpur DC Office. Pic - UB Photos party from Khumtai LAC counting of polls for the place at the Commerce Security measures have contested against BJP95 Golaghat LAC and 96 College where the strong been beefed up near the AGP alliance candidate Khumtai LAC will take room was set up. strong room. However Mrinal Saikia.

Joypur forest personal Padmasree arrest 1 person for Rongbong Terang ill illegally cutting trees ET Correspondent Naharkatia, May18: Various organisation are planting trees and other carrying other activities to save the mother earth while on other hand few anti-social elements are trying to destroy this mother earth, which has come to notice with the arrest of Kapil Baruah, who was caught by the Joypur forest party yesterday.

Joypur forest officials launched an operation inside Joypur rain forest at a location near Namrup Dillighat where they succeeded in nab-

bing a person named Kapil Baruah, while other people managed to flee away from the spot. The personals also got few woods from the person.

Later Kapil Baruah also name Krishna Boro, Babu Ghowola, Rubesh Tati, Kiran Garh and Sanjoy Sharkar the persons who are also associated in this illegal activities with him. A massive search operation in search of the other people has already been launched. Such cutting of trees inside the rain forest has been running for long time.

Sushanta Roy Diphu May 18: Prolific writer and previous president of Assam Sahitya Sabha, Padmasree Rongbong Terang will leave for Chennai tomorrow from Guwahati for improved treatment after sudden deterioration of his physical condition, at his Diphu residence.

Professor Terang whose attending physician is suspecting blood loss due to contagion inside intestine has referred him to a specialty hospital of Chennai, has left for Guwahati today.

Rongbong Sir, as he is popularly known in this

hilly town has hardly taken ill and at 79 is a familiar figure that does his own vegetable shopping and takes regular morning and evening stroll.

News of his illness was a rude shock for numerous admirers of Prof Terang; among others Chief Executive Member of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council; Tuliram Ronghang rushed to Prof Terang’s residence and assured him of all possible help today. “We will undertake all medical expenses of Rongbong Sir and see that he doesn’t have to care for money for his remedial, I have extended some financial

help already, let us hope Sir recovers quickly” Tuliram Ronghang said.

News! News!

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

PAGE 3

International Nurses Day observed at Diyun Ram B Sunar Diyun, May 18: To make the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of the modern nursing, the International Nurses Day was celebrated at CHC, Diyun, Changlang District, Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday.

In the morning, the programme instigated with hoisting Nurses day flag by Dr M K Thakuria, followed by candle lightening and oath taking ceremony, thereafter awareness programmers in which all working nurses and doctor took

part.

The open lectures delivered by Dr. M K Thakuria, the Medical

Officer In charge, Diyun CHC, where he appreciated the hard work and services of the nurses. The

other speaker Sangeeta Deori, Staff Nurse, CHC Diyun talking about the importance of nurses and

services rendered by nurses towards the society.

She added that "as the society expects more from the nurses, we must carry out our duties with full devotion, sincerity and dedication". Besides she was also stated the purpose of the International Nurses Day. During the address the Medical Officer, nurses and other staffs of CHC Diyun has appreciated Sangeeta, for her valuable sketch art and making the photograph of Florence Nightingale and presented to the Hospital on International Nurses Day.

should be give top priority, he stressed.

The Governor also emphasised on financing Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs) of Ziro, Aalo and Pasighat for civilian purposes and simultaneously take up other ALGs in different parts of the State as they are strategically very important.

Commending the DoNER for the NEC funded North Eastern Region Community Resource Manage-

ment Projects (NERCORMP) in the State, which have hugely benefited the indigenous population, the Governor suggested extending the projects to four other drug addiction affected districts of Namsai, Lohit, Anjaw and Dibang Valley. He added that interior and border districts like Upper Siang, West Siang, Upper Subansiri, Kra Daadi and Kurung Kumey must also be taken up under NERCORMP or any other such compassionate schemes.

The Governor, who has been emphasising on strengthening the infrastructure for Higher Education, sharing his observations during his visits to Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat and Dera Natung College, Itanagar said that these two very pioneer institutes of higher education of the State are in dilapidated condition while first Women College of the State is running in temporary arrangement. He wished that if any proposals are sent from these colleges, those must be taken with sympathetic view.

The Governor also asked the DoNER Secretary to relook and work out to restart the projects which are halted due to financial hitch. He also asked him to review the projects, which are sanctioned but not yet started since long time.

The Governor emphasised for proper monitoring mechanism and public auditing to ensure quality of work and to weed out bogus reporting.

During the meeting, the DoNER Secretary briefed the Governor on the programmes and schemes taken up by the ministry. He also highlighted many windows for availing funds and schemes for rural development.

At the request of the Governor, the DoNER Secretary assured to support and provide funds to the NGOs working against drug addictions.

Secretary to Governor Dr. Joram Beda and Additional Secretary to Governor Shri BS Hada were also present in the meeting.

Buddha Jayanti on May 21 at Theravada Buddha Vihara, Itanagar A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 18 :The Buddha Jayanti Joint Celebaation Committee 2016 will organise the auspicious ocassion of Buddha Jayanti on May 21 at Theravada Buddha Vihara, Itanagar. The Theravada Buddhist Society (TBS) Itanagar and Itanagar Buddhist Cultural Society (IBCS) with support of the

Tamang Welfare Society (TWS) are all set to organise the auspicious day with traditional religious fervour.

Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Shri Wangki Lowang has consented to attend the occasion as Chief Guest and Venerable Bhikkhu A. Pannasara Thera will be the resource person of the function.

Preparation for the celebration is going on in full swing at Theravada Buddhist Vihara, Itanagar.

Major highlights of the day will include dhamma sabha, religious procession from Thuptan Ga-Tseling Monastery (Gonpa), blood donation camp, distribution of charity, lighting of lamp etc

DMO Inaugurates Health SubGovernor for more NERCORMP in the State Centre at Darka Village Give priority to connectivity: Governor to Secretary DoNER

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 18 : The Secretary to Government of India, Ministry of Department of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Shri Naveen Verma called on the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 18th May 2016. They discussed various developmental issues including connectivity and socio-economic projects for the State.

The Governor, while expressing his serious concern on various types of connectivity of the State, requested the DoNER Secretary to give priority to road connectivity. Providing a list of 12 (Twelve ‘Orphan Roads’ to him, the Governor asked him to consider these roads on priority. Considering the roads in Arunachal Pradesh as defence roads of immense importance for National Security, it

Aalo, May 18 : The long due Health Sub-Centre at Dark, the biggest village under West Siang, constructed on Self Help basis was inaugurated by District Medical Officer, Dr. Marbom Basar at Darka amid cheer and applause today. The village has more than 200 households with around 7000 population and three ASMs function for the single village.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Basar disclosed that few staffs along with essential equipments and medicines will be arranged to make it functional with a week. The demand for Sub-centre

and PHC in a later stage is quite essential considering the population of the village but it has to fulfill certain guidelines like record on functioning, registration of patients, treatments etc.

The land for such establishment may be donated by the people for demarcation and agreement so that matter is recommended to the government for early consideration. The Sub-centre will not only benefit the people of Darka only but cater immediate medical first aid needs for accidental cases on the roadsides. Shri Ibom Ete, Drug Inspector who

came on the way from Itanagar to supervise the construction of Sub-centre on self help basis lauded the GBs and youth of the vllage for their keen participation and contribution. The HGB of the village said that the villagers are ready to give the land and urged the DMO to expedite budgetary support for construction of permanent Sub-centre in an appropriate location and up gradation as PHC considering the genuine need of the village. Dr. Kengo Ori DFWO, PRI Members, Public and ASHAS from Aalo and Darka village also attended the function.

Newly elected Zilla Parishad Chairperson NDRF on disaster awareness to the staff of DC Office Pasighat from Daporijo 24th Assembly Pasighat, May 18 : "Tips and training provided by the NDRF for quick response in case of any disaster with local resources will minimize injuries and save lives", said Isha Khosla, DC East Siang.

She was addressing the staffs and officers who were attending the community awareness program on Disaster Management by 12 BN NDRF led by Assistant Commandant Deepak Kumar in the conference hall of DC office. She appealed all to be attentive especially the magistrates who will be on the ground in case of any disaster.

The NDRF team briefed in detail about its raising, their feature, capabilities and

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 18 : Newly elected Zilla Parishad Chairperson from Daporijo 24th Assembly Constituency Togam Lariak handed over a computer set and printer for the Peoples’ Party of Arunachal (PPA) office, which was received by general secretary (organization & mobilization) Tarang Tajo on Wednesday.

On the occasion, Lariak said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Kalikho Pul and with his vision to develop the state, lapse of developmental activities which

were affected during the recent political turmoil would soon be filled up.

“I am very sure that under the coalition government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and MoS Kiren Rijiju at the centre will provide all developmental schemes for the state,” added Lariak Stating that the previous government did not give any importance towards Panchayati Raj of the state, he opined that with the endeavour of the incumbent CM, and PPA Chairman Kamen Ringu and president Kahfa Bengia, the state’s Panchayat will be given

more opportunities and priority.

Appreciating the initiative taken by Lariak, party general secretary Tajo said that the PPA Government is open for all individuals and will work for the welfare of the society in the future too.

Urging the entire public of the state to extend swift support to the Pulled Government, Tarang said, “It is not about which party is ruling the state but is about the development of the state which has to be understood by all sections of society in the greater interest of the state.”

strength, works in creating awareness, levels of response plan, procedures to

AAPSU expresses utter shock over assault on senior BJP leader in Tirap Contd. from Page 1

He also added that “we urge the ‘men in uniforms’ to be patient and more humane in their approach. Further, it is being witnessed that since the last many years, UPSC officers serving the state on deputation are not sincere in executing their duties”.

“These officers who are basically not from AGMUT cadre are often rude and noncooperative with the local populace who come to them with their grievances. There

have been instances of rude behaviour and verbal abuse by such officers. Arunachal Pradesh is a 100% tribal state with varying culture & lifestyles” said Lapung.

Speaking on UPSC officers, he added that, “the UPSC officers should understand that they are not here to holiday or for short term vacation. They are here to serve the people with utmost sincerity and dedication. The union would like to caution such officers not to harass the common citizens and be more polite and gentle in their approach”.

call NDRF etc. They informed that their motto is Service to Humanity. The

Force is capable of dealing with natural, manmade or CBRN (chemical, biologi-

Commissioning of projects must be absolutely according to schedule : Governor to NHPC Contd. from Page 1 the NHPC must ensure adequate compensation to the affected people, including the people in downstream by providing alternative livelihood, quality land, resettlement and other facilities as per norms and guidelines of Govt. of India.

Agricultural fields, endangered species of flora and fauna, like Orchids and Black necked Cranes should be preserved as well.

The Governor advised the NHPC officials to take extra steps to expedite the project work and take in confidence of the village elders, Gaon Burahs, Panchayati Raj functionaries and elected representatives.

The Governor stressed that the

commissioning of projects must be absolutely according to schedule and there must be no cost or time overrun.

The Governor said that till big projects are commissioned, small and medium size hydro project must be taken up to meet the power requirement and such small projects should be supported by the state Government.

The Governor, who has been stressing on Higher Education in the State, asked the NHPC to expedite the process of setting up of the proposed Science and Technology Collage in Tawang District at the earliest under Corporate Social Responsibility.

Shri BS Hada, Additional Secretary to Governor was also present in the meeting.

cal, radiological and nuclear) disasters. They are creating awareness so that locals can take care of themselves before the professional teams arrive. They said that in case of any disaster, people should keep calm and not panic. All should find any object to cover their head and neck.

Through power point presentation, documentaries and by practical demonstration, the team demonstrated various techniques in rescuing unconscious, severely injured, fractured persons during any disaster. Various tools and machineries used for rescuing people during disaster was also demonstrated on the occasion.

(DIPRO)

Advt

LOST I have lost my B.A. Graduation Certificate (Under DU Admit No 7268/ Registration No. 9216) of 1988-89.

Sri Iswapran Chowdhury Moran

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

PAGE 4

Both BPF and UPP parties claims winning majority seats in BTAD: Who will win?

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 18: Both parties Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) and United Peoples Party (UPP) claimed of winning majority seats ahead a day counting in the BTAD region and government would be formed by them at Dispur. The ruling party in BTAD, BPF an alloy partner of BJP-AGP contested in 13 seats in the region while UPP party alliance with Congress contested in 14 seats and expressed their

confidence of winning majority seats in the election.

Former Rajya Sabha MP and UPP president Urkhao Gwra Brahma exuded his confidence of winning 6-7 seats in the region getting mass votes from different communities. He has claimed that Congress party alone will win 5052 and government would be formed by Congress with no doubt.

Reacting to the exit poll’s prediction of government forming by BJP led alliance parties said that

it was not so easy to get majority seats from grand alliance of BJP led parties in the state, Brahma adding said that as per peoples’ view and exit poll, BJP alone will get 40-45 in the state, AGP will win 6-8 seats while BPF will score 2-3 seats. ‘Majority seat winning was confirmed in today’s time as common voters are expressing their view after the election. I, hope the result will focus on the actual figures of voters voting rights in the state. The Congress party

Assam Rifles extends help to people of Dima Hasao ET Correspondent Haflong, May 18: Dima Hasao, especially the areas around Haflong have received over 500 mm of rain in two short spells each of 22-25 April and 15-18 May. It has till date led to loss of five lives, including a 10 year old girl student on 17 May. The people have been inconvenienced by the disruption of road and rail traffic during both these periods. The continuous disruption of electric supply added to the people’s woes as work of banks and offices was affected. The importance of ATMs and mobile telephones in today’s world got highlighted during these days, stated a press

release issued by Assam Rifle on May 18th at Haflong.

The Assam Rifles HQ in Haflong in conjunction with DIPR has been using social media to keep people informed of the weather forecast and precautions to be taken.

The Assam Rifles and Army along with some NGOs of the District have provided humanitarian aid in these tough times. Soldiers with JCB of the Assam Rifles have been clearing landslides on a war footing. They have also provided mobile charging points to the people in all Company Operating Bases. The relief provided to residents of Ditokchera

area by Assam Rifles with Highlanders (Bullet Bike riders) and by Territorial Army to the passengers of Sampark Kranti train has been appreciated by the people, the DC, SP and the NE Railways.

In an interesting way, the recently installed first debit and credit ATM of the SBI in the NE Region at Sarkari Bagan HQ of the Assam Rifles came to the rescue of Haflongites.

The money deposited in the ATM by the Assam Rifles was transferred to maintain cash stocks in other ATMs. The Assam Rifles and Army are being true Friends in need of the Hill People of Dima Hasao.

Kokrajhar all set for counting ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 18: Kokrajhar, heart of BTAD administration is all set for counting of Assembly polls for three constituencies in the district and Indo-Bhutan border areas have been kept closed contact with necessary security vigil arrangements for the day.

Altogether 23 candidates are in fray for three constituencies i.e-30Kokrajhar east, 29Kokrajhra west and 28Gossaigaon and counting of votes would held at Basic Training Centre for Kokrajhar east LAC, Gossaigaon sub-divisional headquarters for Kokrajhar

west and Gossaigaon LACs in the district. Madhav Prasad Sarma,Kokrajhar Deputy Commissioner (DC) and District Election Officer told that all kinds of preparations to hold the counting have so far completed including security deployment in the district. He said that election Observers for the counting have reported and 144 CRPC has also clamped in the district to meet healthy situation in the district, besides IndoBhutan border area also kept on closed observation involving SSB jawans from India part and Bhutan government will keep close

guard toward Bhutan side.

Over 150 counting personnel had already been appointed and imparted training as per the guideline of the ECI and adequate security arrangements, included three tier security deployment have been made to thwart any untoward incidents during the counting day. The strong room would be opened at 7 am tomorrow and firstly, postal ballots will be talked for counting which will begin at 8 am, later the EVM would be taken by 8.30 am and expected all counting functions would be completed by 12.30 pm to 1pm in the district, Sarma said.

AGP tries to end controversy regarding Sarbananda Sonowal A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 18: The AGP today attempted to end the controversy regarding Sarbananda Sonowal as the chief minister of Assam, and said that it is a mere technical issue which former AGP president and chief minister Tarun Gogoi had raised, “Sonowal is already the CM candidate of the BJP led alliance, and that will always stay. Mahanta was just saying that, if the alliance comes to power, a meeting needs to be

held where Sonowal’s name would be proposed and all the allies will agree. It is just a small formality and it is being blown out of proportion by a section” said AGP leader Dilip Patgiri.

“The Congress is slated to lose power, and though the figures might not be as high for the BJP as has been projected in the exit polls, it is certain that the BJP led alliance will come to power and for this the state congress leadership must take the blame”, said a Congress leader.

He further added that in the North bank, the Congress has done extremely badly. “If the upper Assam results appear similar, then the tally of the Congress might even go below 30 seats,” he added.

However the Congress has continued to disagree with the exit poll results. “All the exit poll results will be proved wrong, and we will comfortably get over 65 seats,” said APCC spokesperson Apurba Bhattacharjee.

Rain disrupted normal life of people in Lakhimpur and Dhemaji district along with Arunachal Pradesh ET Correspondent Dhemaji, May 18: Due to the continuous rain since last three day in both the district and hilly terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, paralyzed the life of the people in the area.

Both the district of Assam are situated on boarder of Arunachal Pradesh, and most of the tributaries of

river Brahmaputra flows through it, few days back due to continues rain 12 villages in Dhemaji district and 10 in Lakhimpur were flooded by Jiadhal river and Ranganadi river, gradually the rise in water of tributaries along with Brahmaputra is creating threat in the mind of people of both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. “Due to

the rain the cutting of road to three district of Arunachal Pradesh, upper Subansiri, West Siang and Upper Siang for up gradation to four lanes connecting NH15 in Assam via Silapathar town in Dhemaji district is creating hindrance in vehicular traffic, carrying essential commodities to the remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh”, said source.

alone will win single largest majority seats which will pave way to form fourth consecutive government in the state.

The dream of BJP led alliance parties would not be fulfilled because common voters supported to the Congress during the election’, Brahma said.

Former Assam Minister, MLA and senior vicepresident of BPF party Pramila Rani Brahma said that her party is winning 12 seats of contesting 13 seats in the election and BJP led alliance parties are winning majority seats to

form next new government in the state.

She said that her party got majority votes from different corner of communities in the election that is why their winning largest seats were confirmed in the region.

‘We have full confidence of winning 12 seats in the region out of contesting 13 LACs. The BJP led alliance parties are winning majority seats in the state with no doubt and government would be formed by alliance party in the state’, Pramila said.

Five days Pathana chanting to mark 2560th Buddha Jayanti at Namsai Indrajit Tingwa Namsai, May 18: The Pariyatti Sasana Buddhist Vihara at Namsai is holding a five day Tipitaka Abhidhamma Pathana chanting starting this morning at 7:50 am.

The chanting will be carried on continuously for the entire period of five days and conclude at 7:50 am on 22nd May. The abbot of the temple Ven. Aggadhamma Mahathero informed that six senior monks have come from Bodh Gaya and are assisting in the chantings. Altogether eight monks will perform the sacred chantings. He further revealed that the Pathana is a very important aspect of Buddhist and it is one of the seven

volumes in the Abhidhamma Tipitaka.

The Pathana is said to have been recited by Lord Buddha after his enlightenment and before reaching his ultimate goal of becoming the ultimate Buddha.

Apart from the chanting, twenty one novices are going to be ordained (Pabajja SamaneraKhamsang) and two monks will be given higher ordination (Upasampada). About twenty monks have gathered at the temple for the ceremonies. Devotees from in and around Namsai besides those from nearby Assam are expected to throng the programme.

On the occasion of

2560th Buddha Jayanti celebrations on 21st May Ven. Aggadhamma Mahathero informed that a procession and prayer for world peace will be conducted. Such type of a programme has been organised in the temple after a gap of almost a decade. But the abbot said that now it will be organised for three consecutive years up to 2018.

The Pariyatti Sasana Buddhist Temple premises in the heart of Namsai town is spread on an area of about four hectares and adorned by temples, stupas, statues and fruit trees. A total of seventy persons including monks, novices and temple boys reside in the monastery.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 18: The Government of Assam has prohibited the possession of any intoxicants by any person or group of persons and bans sale, giving or distribution of spirituous, fermented of intoxicating liquors or other substances of alike nature at hotel, eating house, tavern, shop or any other public or private place on 20th May, 2016 (post counting period) and has been declared as dry day.

All bonded warehouses, IMFL Retail off and on shops including club on, hotel on and country spirit shops will remain closed during the dry day.

During this period the storage of liquor by individual shall be curtailed.

Hence, during the above period the restrictions provided in the Excise Law on the storage of liquor in unlicensed premises shall be vigorously enforced.

Steps shall also be taken to prohibit sale of liquor

in adjoining areas of the concerned constituencies so that there are no chances of clandestine movement of liquor from those areas where the restrictions has not been in operation.

APSC declare results of Combined Competitive Govt. declared dry day on post (Main) Exam., 2014 counting period of election

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 18 : The Assam Public Service Commission is pleased to declare the results of the Combined Competitive (Main) Exam., 2014 on today the 18th May, 2016.

A total of 1536 candidates appeared in the said examination out of 2O48 candidates' Based on the said results of the C.C. Exam., 2014, a total of 371 candidates are declared to have qualified to appear the viva-vote interview against 180 posts of ACS and Allied Services at the ratio of 1:2 plus the number of

candidates who secured equal marks at the bottom line of each category with due regards to the prescribed reservations as per the terms of the advertisement. Out of the 371 candidates called for viva-voce, 126 candidates belong to women category and 8 candidates belong to Persons with Disabilities (PWD).

The Commission has decided to hold the vivavoce interview tentatively w.e.f. 15.06,2016 onwards.

The results could also be downloaded from the APSC's website www.apsc.nic.in

Any violation of the order shall be dealt with under the relevant provision of Assam Excise Act and rules & under the provision of Section 135 C of Election rules to perspective const ituencies.

Despite multiple extensions and missed deadlines, construction of 176 dwelling units by NPCC nowhere close to completion Contd. from Page 1

instead the housing units for dwelling is of inferior quality and is falling apart even before its completion.

The construction on the project began in 2013 and was expected to be completed by 2014.

However the work has dragged on and continues to be so.

On behalf of the public sector company, NPCC a private contractor by the name of M/S T&T Projects Ltd based in Guwahati is undertaking the project worth around Rs. 9 crore. And the third parties involved in the construction of the project as sub-contractors including the political heavy weight, former Roing MLA, Laeta Umbrey, who incidentally is the land donor too.

The departmental sources, Department of Urban Development & Housing, Roing informed that, “Construction is far below the expected quality of work and will refuse the handing over of the project, unless it meets the requisite criteria of the CPWD specifications”.

Time and again urban housing department agency pointed out to the Project Manager, NPCC about the shoddy construction. On 26th August’2014 vide its letter no.: DUD/IHSDP-16/ (Vol-II)/2012-13/11302 Er. Taring Darang, Joint Director-cum-SE explicitly reiterated, “the sanitary toilets constructed are substandard/ low quality and not followed the CPWD specification which need total rectification”.

Deputy Director, Urban Development & Housing, Roing too noted through its correspondence: DD/ UD/RNG/PLG-36/ IHSDP/2012, Dtd. Roing the 15th July’201 that the “progress of work far exceeded in lagging behind the set dateline” of 31/03/2015.

The letter to the project manager, NPCC also includes stern observations of the deputy director like, “even before the completion of the project it is seen that most

ICGC of DHSK Commerce College organizes Awareness Generation Programme for Competitive examinations A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, May 18: An awareness generation programme on competitive examinations like UPSC/ APSC/Banking was organized by the Information and Carrier Guidance Cell (ICGC) of DHSK Commerce College at the L.P. Dutta Library Hall of the college. A group of 80 HS 2nd Year students of the host college and the neighbouring colleges par-

ticipated the programme.

The progtramme was inaugurated by Dr. K. M. Bhagawati, Principal of DHSK Commerce College.

Academy of Civil Services a leading coaching centre of Dibrugarh sponsored the programme.

Mr. Shafi from Kerala and Mr. Ashif Rahman from Academy of Civil Services, Dibrugarh attended as resource persons. Both of

them explained in details about the intervention strategy of “How to Crack the UPSC/APSC/Banking Examinations”.

The Programme was coordinated by Keshabananda Haloi, Assistant Professor and Coordinator, ICGC of DHSK Commerce College. The programme was concluded with a vote of thanks by Assistant Professor K. Haloi.

of the constructed dwelling houses are covered with vegetation and are falling apart’’.

Speaking about the fate of the project, in the same letter official puts in, “at the present pace at which the construction of work is going on and its qualities, the undersigned fears that as and when the project work are completed in full shape, most of the dwelling units will not be fit enough to hand over to the beneficiaries”.

Site inspection by chief engineer-cum-director vide inspection report: DUD/PLG (Inspection)335/2015-16/5348-52 Dtd. 10th Feb. 2016 too spoke poorly about the execution of the project and called upon the construction company to complete the construction by its third deadline extension of 31st March’2016 from 1st April’2015.

Further extension to the project has been declined. “We are not releasing funds till the contractor provides us with quality work and no more extension of deadline will be granted.

About 50% fund has been released to the contractor”.

Sources also informed that during the brief president’s rule in the state, the department had thought of recommending CBI investigation to the shoddy execution of the work.

However, on ground, one of the sub-contractor who has worked on the project confided to this correspondent that he is yet to receive his share of money for the work he has completed.

Young lady of Gogamukh receives Humanity Achiever Award 2016 ET Correspondent Dhemaji, May 18 : Along with other part of the state, Lakhimpur and Dhemaji district is moving pace to pace in the field of education and other achievement. At the time when youth of Narayanpur under Lakhimpur district topped in UPSC Examination, Bhanita Das a young lady of Gogamukh under Dhemaji District brought

fame for the district and state by receiving Humanity Achiever Award 2016, which she received on 10th May last at Muktadhara Auditorium, New Delhi.

Das was capable to reach this destination under the guidance of Nebedita Foundation, a NGO working in the district.

Last year the lady even achieved second position in Women Home Maker India.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

Nagaland unit of AAP launched

The Nagaland Unit of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Kohima, May 18: The Nagaland Unit of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has been launched at Dimapur in the presence of AAP National Executive Committee member and observer North Eastern States, Habung Payeng. Altogether 13 officials were elected to the executive body of the state unit of AAP with Dr S Amos Longkumer as the coordinator and Riikhietuonuo as secretary.

Interacting with media persons in Dimapur on Tuesday, Habung Payeng said that Naga people were fed up of regional party and wanted a change. He said that Congress party was also non-existent as its elected members have joined the regional party

government due to some personal interest. Therefore, he said AAP would be the alternative party for the people seeking a change, adding that "AAP builds leaders and does not look for leaders."

AAP spokesperson Lemwang Chuhwanglim said that the launching of AAP party in the state was an achievement for young people. In a state where people talk only of issues instead of tackling them, AAP will let people see what and how much the party does for the state, he said. The AAP's first and foremost objective will be on the education of the rights of the people as many are not aware of their rights and schemes, the party workers said. (Agencies)

Tibetans observe 'disappearance' anniversary of Panchen Lama in Dharamsala Dharamsala (Himachal Pradesh), May.18: Tibetans living-in-exile in Dharamsala on Tuesday observed the 'disappearance' anniversary of the second-most powerful figure in Tibetan Buddhism, Panchen Lama, who has been missing since he was six.

Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, who was appointed the 11th Panchen Lama by the 14th Dalai Lama, 'disappeared' on May 17, 1995.

Tibetan activists say he has been kept at a secret location by the Chinese government ever since which appointed Gyaincain Norbu as the new Panchen Lama.

Regional Tibetan Youth Congress, Tibetan Women's Association and Students for a Free Tibet (SFT) jointly organised a 'Letters to Panchen Lama' event at the main square of Mcleodganj district to commemorate the day.

"We are gathered here, we do not know his whereabouts, we do not know his address and we do not know where to send it, so through these letters, we are trying to create awareness about Panchen Lama, we are trying to tell the world that he has been abducted for too long and we are

trying to tell the world that China has forcefully disappeared Panchen Lama and we do not know about his address," an activist, Lobsang Tseten, said.

In 1995, after the Dalai Lama named a boy in Tibet as the reincarnation of the previous Panchen Lama, the secondhighest figure in Tibetan Buddhism, China put that boy under house arrest and installed another lama in his place. Many Tibetans spurn the Chinese-appointed Panchen Lama as a fake.

Traditionally, high lamas, Buddhist priests, can take years to identify a child deemed to be a reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, a search usually limited to Tibet.

Tibetans fear that China will use the issue of the Dalai Lama's religious succession to split Tibetan Buddhism, with one new Dalai Lama named by exiles and one by China after his death.

China says its rule has brought the much-needed development to poor and backward Tibet.

Exiles and rights groups accuse China of failing to respect Tibet's unique religion and culture and of suppressing its people. (ANI)

Tura by-poll: overall turnout percentage 77.66 Shillong, May 18: With the polling process completed to elect the successor of Purno A Sangma from Tura on Monday, the focus now shifts to counting of votes to be taken up on May 19.

All preparations for counting of votes have been completed, Election Commission sources said here on Tuesday.

The overall voting percentage in the by-poll held on Monday is 77.66. There is a slight increase in the percentage of female voters (77.83) compared to their male counterparts (77.48). Informing this here on Tuesday, the Chief Electoral officer FR Kharkongor informed that the administration would set up counting centres at Williamngar, Baghmara, Resubelpara, Tura and Ampati.

Two companies of central para-military forces would be deployed on the counting day and all the counting centres will be under the surveillance of CCTV cameras, he said.

According to Kharkongor, the winning

candidate has to take permission from the Deputy Commissioner for holding victory procession.

In 2014 Lok Sabha poll the voting percentage was 78.14.

In 2009, the percentage was only 67.68 This time, Williamnagar Assembly segment recorded the lowest turnout (67.79 percent), while Mahendraganj recorded the highest (84.32 percent).

While Williamnagar is the constituency of Congress Minister Deborah Marak, Mahendraganj is represented

by Dikkanchi Shira, who is the Congress candidate for Tura by poll.

The plain belt of Garo Hills witnessed over 80 percent turnout.

West Garo Hills district as a whole recorded a turn-out of 78.16 percent, while South West Garo Hills witnessed had 83.74 percent. The Ampati Assembly constituency represented by Chief Minister Mukul Sangma saw a turn- out of 83.26 percent.

(Agencies)

PAGE 5

Railway services in NE hit Agartala, May 18: Torrential rains and heavy landslides have once again disrupted rail services in southern Assam, Tripura, Manipur and Mizoram, officials said on Wednesday. "Railway workers have been working round-the-clock to clear the debris in many places in southern Assam's Dima Hasao district. The huge mudslides together with stones covering a large portion of railway tracks at Fidhing and other places are being cleared," a Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) official said.

He said it would take another three or four days to clear the debris and make way for trains.

"We are expecting to restore rail services in the

region by the end of this week," he said. NFR officials and engineers accompanied by district administration officials camped at the spot, 300 km south of Guwahati, to supervise the clearance work.

Due to heavy rains, huge landslides occurred in the Lumding-Badarpur hill section in southern Assam on Monday night NFR chief public relations officer Pranav Jyoti Sharma said four major trains running between Guwahati and Silchar, including the SilcharSealdah Kanchanjunga Express and the SilcharNew Delhi via Guwahati Poorvattar Sampark Kranti Express, were cancelled until the removal of mudslides.

Similar such disruptions

Thousands of passengers, bound for Guwahati and the rest of the country, were stranded in southern Assam's Badarpur, Silchar and Lumding areas after the disruption of railway services. The Guwahati-Silchar railway line is the lifeline for southern Assam comprising four districts, known as Barak Valley, and the mountainous states of Tripura, Manipur and Mizoram.

These states are heavily dependent on this railway line for supply of foodgrain, fertilisers, petroleum products, construction materials and other commodities.

The 437-km LumdingSilchar and BadarpurAgartala gauge conversion works, which was

sanctioned in 1996, were completed earlier this year.

The project was hit by insurgency from 2006 to 2009 and works could only gain speed after that turbulent period.

In the first phase, the 210km Lumding-Silchar gauge conversion project was completed last year.

In the second phase, the 227-km BadarpurAgartala gauge conversion was scheduled to be completed in March but was completed three months earlier. With the completion of gauge conversion work right up to Agartala, the Tripura capital was connected with the country's broad gauge railway network through Guwahati at a distance of about 600 km.(Agencies)

'Make in Manipur' campaign gains momentum

No relief for ex-Syiem of Hima Mylliem

Imphal, May 18: The Manipur government has decided to take up the 'Make in Manipur' campaign on a grander level.

Information official said the focus is on providing employment to youths, generation of revenue and self reliance.

Department of Commerce and Industries official said most of the unemployed youths do not have money hence attention will be given to micro and small enterprises through community mobilisation. Officials have been asked to involve community and work transparently to achieve universal cover-

age.

Clusters will be formed to involve themselves in Income generation Activity (IGA) . The government has decided to extend help in marketing and provide back up. As the state is rich in agriculture, horticulture, handloom, forest, fisheries and animal husbandry related activities, the youths will be advised to involve themselves in such activities.

'Make in Manipur' initiative undertaken as part of the 'Make In India' campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be monitored at the district levels by the Live-

Torrential rains and heavy landslides have once again disrupted rail services in southern Assam of railway operations had occurred for two weeks in the same areas until May 6.

The Kanchanjunga Express was introduced between Silchar and Sealdah in Kolkata via Guwahati and the Silchar-New Delhi via Guwahati Poorvattar Sampark Kranti Express com-

lihood Business Incubators (LBIs) and Common Facility Centers (CFCs) which will be established at a cost of Rs 15 crore.

The centres will be responsible for providing training and assist the youths in building up their infrastructure.

Each district has its own unique characters like Ukhrul is famous for lemon, Tamengong for oranges hence activities will be confined to availability of resources. On a larger scale to target the international market by exploiting the geographical proximity to the South East Asian countries, the government has set up M/

menced earlier this year fulfilling a long-standing demand of the people to link southern Assam with other parts of the country. The railway line from Guwahati passes through southern Assam connecting land-locked Tripura's capital Agartala and parts of Manipur and Mizoram with the rest of India.

S Manipur Food Industries Corporation, which will help farmers in producing aromatic and medicinal plants in their own land with financial assistance from banks and supplying planting materials.

Gene Bank has been developed at Chothe in Bishnupur district.

In a vast land of about 500 acre various plants like stevia, lemon grass, ginger, turmeric have been planted by involving about 2000 people.

Food Park will be established at Nilakuthi in Imphal East and five acres of land has been allotted for it.

Fragrance and Flavour

Development work will be taken up in a 30 acre land at Ningthoukhong Awang, Bishnupur District.

Training for it has already started by selecting 25 graduates. Ten handloom clusters will be formed in each district at a total cost of Rs 16 crore to cover 18,500 weavers. Marketing and exposure are required hence the government has decided to organise Industrial Expo annually at Lamboi Khongnangkhong, Imphal West and the first expo was held in April last. The area will be developed for the annual event. (Agencies)

Seven get four years imprisonment for publicly torturing woman in Tripura Agartala (Tripura), May 18: A local court has convicted seven persons and sent them to jail for four years for thrashing a woman in public after tying her to a pillar.

The incident occurred two years ago on the outskirts of Agartala, the state capital.

"The court under IPC Section 143, 147, 123, 342 and 354 (B) has found them guilty and according prescribed punishment of 3 months jail for 143, one year for

147, six months for 123, six months for 342 and four years for the 354 (B). Moreover, each has been fined with Rs 10,000 or six months imprisonment. Even the women found guilty will have same term of imprisonment," said Public Prosecutor Bhaskar Debbarma.

Soma Majumder (Debnath), a 37-year-old housewife was assaulted and molested by a group of people, including women, who tortured her

inhumanly at Tata Kalibari on October 6, 2014. According to report on October 5, some youths were consuming alcohol in public, which led her husband protested. But these youths forced him to drink alcohol.

The following day she was called to a local club and beaten and molested in full public glare by several people including some women. No one from the crowd came forward to her rescue. The issue came to light when

a local television channel aired the incident, triggering a major political storm against the Left Front government.

People cutting across party lines strongly protested the incident.

After the incident, the victim went to a local women police station where cops refused to lodge her complaint and later after the then Governor had to intervene she was able to lodge an FIR against 20 persons.

Today the court has

Modi likely to flag off AgartalaKolkata train on May 27 Agartala, May 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to flag off the much-awaited regular train service from Agartala to Kolkata and Agartala to Silchar in Assam next week. Official sources said on Tuesday the Prime Minister is likely to flag off the Agartala-Sealdah and Agartala-Silchar trains and lay the foundation stone of the 15-km-long railway line between Agartala and Akhaura in Bangladesh during his visit to Shillong on May 27 to inaugurate the twoday plenary session of North Eastern Council.

Tripura was added to the broad gauge map of the country in March but introduction of the new trains to connect Tripura with the rest of the country was held in abeyance due to election code of conduct in Assam, which would end on May 19,the sources said. NF Railways earlier announced that new trains could be intro-

Modi likely to flag off Agartala-Kolkata train on May 27 duced any time after May 19.

The Rs 968 crore project for laying the track for Agartala -Akhaura railway line was settled in January 2010 when Bangladesh Premier Sheikh Hasina met the then prime minister

Manmohan Singh in Delhi. The entire cost of the project would be borne by India though only 5 km of the 15-km long track would be in its side and the rest in Bangladesh, NF Railway sources said.

The railway line is likely

to enhance trade between the two countries and connect the land locked north eastern region with Bangladesh railways.

It would also reduce the distance between Agartala and Kolkata from 1650 km to 550 km, the sources added. (PTI)

found seven person including three women guilty and ordered their imprisonment for four years along with fine of Rs 10000 each or another addition six months in jail.

A total of 46 still photographs, recovered materials - rope, sandal along with a video footage showing the humiliation of Soma by tying her to a pillar in public were sent to Forensic Laboratory in Guwahati for verification. (ANI)

Shillong,May 18: The High Court of Meghalaya on Tuesday said that the earlier interim order to KHADC to monitor the functioning of Syiemship by the acting Syiem of Hima Mylliem Ricky Nelson Syiem will continue.

The High Court issued this order while responding to a plea submitted by the ousted Syiem of Hima Mylliem Latho Manik Syiem seeking an interim relief.

Ricky was appointed as the acting Syiem by the Council after suspending Latho.

In the order on May 2, the single bench of the High Court of Meghalaya had ordered that G. Syiemiong, Joint Secretary of the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), in addition to his other duties, shall be given responsibilities of ensuring proper administration of the Syiemship by the acting Syiem of Hima Mylliem. When the case came up for hearing on Tuesday, the counsel for the respondents was granted time for filing affidavit for objection in the main petition.(Agencies)

Parl Secy ordinance faces legal hurdles Shillong, May 18: Legal hurdles have hit the early nod of the Meghalaya Governor to the Ordinance on Parliamentary Secretaries approved by the State Cabinet a month ago. An official source said on Tuesday that since a PIL in this regard is pending before the High Court, the Governor will take more time before giving his approval to the Ordinance as legal provisions will have to be examined.

It was on April 13 that the cabinet amended the Meghalaya Parliamentary Secretaries (Appointment, Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2005 and approved the Meghalaya Parliamentary Secretary (appointments, salaries, allowances and miscellaneous provisions) Ordinance 2016 to save the parliamentary secretaries from disqualification as the earlier law had equated the Parliamentary Secretaries with Ministers of state.

The Cabinet, after clearing the Ordinance, approved the deletion of clause 5 of the Meghalaya Parliamentary Secretaries (Appointment, Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2005 which had equated the rank and status of Parliamentary Secretaries to that of Ministers of State.

The Ordinance, however, is yet to get the clearance of the Governor even after a month.

Earlier, the Rules Committee of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly has also decided to amend a portion of the rule which had equated the Parliamentary Secretaries with Ministers of State. In April, when the matter was reported in the media, Independent legislator from Jirang and Parliamentary Secretary Lamboklang Mylliem in charge Taxation resigned from the post citing legal reasons while the remaining 17 Parliamentary Secretaries continue to hold the posts. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

PAGE 6

India successfully test fires Prithvi-II missile Chandipur (Odisha), May 18: India successfully test fired its indigenously developed Prithvi-II missile from Chandipur, off Odisha coast on tuesday. The medium range missile is capable of carrying 500 kg to 1000 kg of warheads and is thrusted by liquid propulsion twin engines.

As part of a user trial, the 4,600 kilogram missile with a strike range of 350 kilometer, the sur-

face-to-surface PrithviII test was carried out from a mobile launcher from launch complex-3 of the Integrated Test Range at around 9:40 hrs.

The battlefield missile has flight duration of 483 seconds and a peak altitude of 43.5 kilometres. The launch activities were carried out by the Strategic Force Command and monitored by the DRDO scientists.

India successfully test fires Prithvi-II missile The first missile to be developed by DRDO

under India's Integrated Guided Missile Devel-

opment Program, Prithvi-II was inducted into India's armed forces in 2003. The last user trial of Prithvi-II was successfully conducted on February 16, 2016 from the same test range in Odisha.

Pakistan had earlier said that it will acquire advanced technology to improve its defence and will also raise India's latest development at the International arena. Adviser to the Prime Min-

ister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has said that Islamabad will continue to upgrade its defensive capabilities.

Assuring that Pakistan would raise its voice at the international level against India's defense developments, the diplomat alleged that India is enjoying the cooperation of the United States, as Washington thinks a strong India is vital to contain China. (ANI)

SC allows 30 pvt. 'Raghuram Rajan toh bahana hai, Arun operators to apply Jaitley nishaana hai': Congress for Haj permit

The Supreme Court allows 30 pvt. operators to apply for Haj permit New Delhi, May 18: The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed 30 private operators to apply for Hajj permit before the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The Centre has assured the apex court that it has extended time limit to apply for operators from May 19 to May 27. A total quota of 36,000 seats has been allotted to Private Tour Operators for Hajj-2016. The quota in terms of PTOs' Policy 2013-17, approved by the Supreme Court, will be distributed among qualified PTOs as per details given below: (a) 70 percent of the Hajj

2016 PTO seats (25,200) will be allocated equally to eligible PTOs under Category-I. (b) 30 percent of Hajj 2015 PTO seats (10,800) will be allocated to eligible PTOs under Category-II at the rate of 50 seats per qualified PTO. The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey, and can support their family during their absence (ANI)

New Delhi, May 18: Asserting that the all-out attack by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Raghuram Rajan was just a ruse as the real target was Arun Jaitley, the Congress on Wednesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had unleashed a ploy to sideline the Finance Minister.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi never had any faith either in democratic values or in constitutional statutory institutions. The BJP and the RSS always want to weaken the constitutional and statutory institutions and that is why Subramanian Swamy was brought in as part of a conspiracy," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told ANI. Accusing the Prime Minister of having no faith in his Cabinet colleagues, he added that External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and other Union Ministers were sidelined at first and now it was the Finance Minister's turn.

"As they say in Hindi, Raghuram Rajan to

bahana hai, Arun Jaitley nishaana hai. We deprecate and condemn this systematic attack on constitutional institutions.

Rajan, who is a great economist and has done commendable work for this country, is taking strict action against bank defaulters," Surjewala added.

He also claimed that the Prime Minister had sanctioned the attack on Rajan, as he was scared that his 'crony' friends are going to face severe action on default of payments to banks by the RBI. "Modi ji stop attacking constitutional institutions, stop using and misusing individuals like Swamy to decimate the authority and authenticity on institutions because the whole country is watching you," he said.

Reiterating that Rajan must be removed from his post at the earliest, Swamy had earlier this week written to the Prime Minister, asserting that he was shocked by the wilful and deliberate attempt by the RBI Governor to 'wreck' the Indian economy.

"When the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) started to decline due to induced

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala recession in the small and medium industry, he shifted the target from WPI to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which has not however declined because of the retail prices.

On the contrary, it has risen. Had Dr. Rajan stuck to WPI interest rates would have been much lower today, and given huge relief to small and medium industries, instead, they are squeezed further and consequent increasing unemployment," Swamy said.

Appealing to the Prime Minister to take action, Swamy added that he could not stand to watch seeing someone appointed by the UPA regime who is 'against In-

dian economic interests' to be kept in this post when there are so many other nationalist minded experts available.

Speaking to ANI later on his letter, the BJP leader held Rajan and not the NDA Government responsible for India's failing economy.

"Our industrial growth is running in minus. What he is doing right now is killing a sick patient instead of healing him. No matter how many times I wrote to him and warned him, he has not budged from his ways. He is a UPA appointee. Why should we keep him?

Must terminate him immediately," Swamy said.

(ANI)

NGT issues notice to Delhi Adityanath dubs SP a 'sinking ship' Police over non-payment for nominating Amar Singh to RS of water bills

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued a notice to the Delhi Police New Delhi, May 18: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued a notice to the Delhi Police over the findings of an RTI application that water bills worth Rs. 232 crore has allegedly not been paid.

The move came after the NGT heard a petition filed by an activist Sanjay Kumar, who submitted his application citing the RTI report. Meanwhile, the NGT also issued a notice to the Delhi Jal Board, Delhi Government and Delhi Pollution Control Committee over the issue of non-payment of water bill.

An RTI filed by an advocate had earlier revealed that several police stations have not paid theirwater bills for years and their outstanding charge run in several

crore.

Some of the bills are so old that even their late payment charges are in crore.

The RTI Zonal revenue office in Giri Nagar attached outstanding bill of Amar colony and Sriniwas Puri police stations, saying the outstanding figure stands at Rs. 26.26 crore including Rs. 21.33 crore as late fee.

Similarly, the Kalkaji Police Station has an outstanding bill of Rs. 1.74 crore out of which a major portion of Rs. 1.23 crore is late fee.

However, the Delhi Police had earlier claimed that they are yet to cross check the figure as the department has various building and units working under it across the city. (ANI)

Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), May.18: Taking a dig at the ruling party in Uttar Pradesh for nominating Amar Singh for the Rajya Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party ( BJP) leader YogiAdityanath on Wednesday said the Samajwadi Party (SP) is a 'sinking ship', adding it is good that all those destined to sink would sink together.

"SP doobta hua jahaz hai, accha hai saare doobne waale log ek saath aakar doobein (SP

is a sinking ship, it is good that all those who want to sink are coming together," he told media when asked about Amar Singh.

He also said that the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh has been deteriorating and blamed the state government for it.

Earlier, senior SP leader and UP Minister Azam Khan had expressed disappointment over the party' decision to nominate Amar Singh, saying the whole incident was 'unfortunate'.

"As far as I think, this whole incident is unfortunate. Netaji malik hai aur malik ke faisle ko chunauti dena mere adhikar chetra ke bahar hai (Mulayam Singh is the party chief and to challenge his decision is beyond my rights)," Khan told reporters.

The Samajwadi Party yesterday announced the names of seven party candidates for the Rajya Sabha elections scheduled for next month, which included name of Amar Singh.

The party's central parliamentary board, at a meeting in Lucknow, said that aside from Amar Singh, the other nominees are Beni Prasad Verma, Sanjay Seth, Sukhram Yadav, Vishambhar Prasad Nishad, Arvind Singh and Revti Raman Singh.

Singh was expelled from the party for six years in February 2010. Ever since his expulsion period concluded earlier this year, there have been speculations of his return to the party. (ANI)

Ryan International student, a victim of hit-and-run case, no more

Ryan International student, a victim of hit-andrun case, no more Gurgaon, May 18: A class three student of the Ryan International School, who was allegedly hit by a van after being dropped on the wrong side of the road by a school bus on May 9, succumbed to her injuries at the Medanta hospital here on wednesday.

The girl, who had fallen on the ground from the impact of the incident and suffered swelling in the brain, was under constant supervision by the doctors in the intensive care unit after she slipped into coma. The incident took place on May 9 when the school bus, running allegedly without a

conductor and an attendant - mandatory for school buses, dropped the girl on the opposite side near Krishna Colony in Sector 9.

A speeding car hit the girl Jiya when she was crossing the road. The sevenyear-old girl's parents registered a complaint at Sector 4 police outpost.

The school administration had, however, said that there was no negligence on their part. Ryan International School Principal Peeya Sharma had earlier said that the school would bear all expenses of the child's treatment. (ANI)

Bihar scribe murder: CBI examining Bihar Govt.'s request to take over probe

CBI examining Bihar Govt.'s request to take over probe Gaya, May 18: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday examined the request by the Bihar government to take over the case of the murder of senior scribe Rajdeo Ranjan, from the state police. This development comes after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar gave his consent for a CBI probe into the murder case.

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

"I demand from the government a CBI probe and

a secured future for my children and me. The culprit must be given stringent punishment," she said.

The state police had earlier said that it would continue its investigation till the top investigating agency takes up the case. 42-year-old Ranjan was allegedly shot dead by criminals near the Siwan railway station earlier on Friday.

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

'Lady Singham' Manjul AAP tables Draft Bill for full Statehood Saini takes charge as in public domain, seeks suggestions Lucknow's SSP

New Delhi, May 18: Chief MinisterArvind Kejriwal led- Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday made public the draft Bill seeking full Statehood to Delhi and commenced firstof-its-kind online public consultation exercise by inviting Delhiites to give their opinion on the constitutional status of the national capital.

"Delhi Govt has made a draft bill seeking full statehood status. We have uploaded the draft bill on our website, also welcome suggestions till June 30," said Kejriwal while addressing a press conference here.

According to reports, AAP

Chief MinisterArvind Kejriwal has made available the draft on Delhi's statehood in public domain to invite suggestions and possible amendments, prior to sending the same to the Centre for con-

sideration and thus build public pressure to table the bill in Parliament.

To attain statehood for the national capital was AAP's one of the most prominent

promises made during the Assembly elections which swept it to power last year.

Kejriwal on April 30 took to the micro blogging site and announced that his government was ready with a draft Bill aimed at obtaining full-fledged Statehood for the Capital.

"Draft Bill for Statehood of Delhi ready. Will be soon placed in public domain for comments n suggestions from public (Sic.)," Kejriwal had tweeted.

Last year, the Kejriwal's idea of holding a referendum on the issue was dubbed unconstitutional by constitutional experts and later on was shelved. (ANI)

Lucknow, May 18: Manjul Saini, who is popularly known as 'Lady Singham' in her work circles, today took charge as Lucknow's first lady Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).

Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav led-Uttar Pradesh Government had on Monday evening appointed Saini as the new SSP of the state capital.

The 2005 batch officer has replaced Rajesh Pandey, who has been attached to the DGP office.

Saini is the first woman officer in the history of the state to take charge of Lucknow. She was earlier posted in Etawah, the hometown of Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav.

The Chief Minister's office confirmed in a tweet that her repositioning would take place as decided. She has studied physics at Delhi University's St. Stephen's College and was a gold medalist at Delhi School of Economics. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Pakistan rejects U.S. demand for talks on nuke programme freeze NATO alliance expected Islamabad, May 18: In recent talks between two countries on non-proliferation issues, Pakistan has turned down a U.S. demand to start negotiations on a treaty that bans production of fissile materials used in making nuclear weapons.

At a meeting of the Pakistan-U.S. Working Group on Security, Strategic Stability and Nonproliferation, the American delegation asked Islamabad to start negotiations on Fissile Material Treaty (FMT), reports.

Islamabad has long been resisting Washington's pressure to freeze its nuclear programme by agreeing to sign the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) which aims at placing a ban on the production of fissile

Al-Qaeda commander, four others killed in US drone strike in Afghanistan Kabul, May 18: At least five militants, including an al-Qaeda commander were killed during separate drone strikes in Afghanistan.

The Afghan Ministry of Defense (MoD) in a statement said the airstrikes were carried out in southern Zabul and northern Kunduz provinces, reports the Khaama Press. The alQaeda commander killed in the airstrike has been identified as Mullah Mohammad Ali. The statement said that that the militants were involved in major terrorist attacks and atrocities committed against the citizens of the country. The airstrike targeting the militants including Taliban comes amid concerns that the terrorist network is attempting expand foothold in the country.

The Afghan and U.S. forces have meanwhile, stepped up counter-terrorism operations against the terrorist groups including the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorist group in the country.(ANI)

N. Korea nuke test possibility concerns S. Korea Seoul (South Korea), May 18 : Delivering a lecture in Seoul, South Korea's Unification Minister Hong YongPyo has flagged his government's concern over North Korea going ahead with another nuclear test.

Minister Pyo highlighted the fact that North Korea has conducted four nuclear tests and may soon go ahead with a fifth nuclear detonation, the Xinhua news agency reports.

North Korea also known as DPRK was widely expected to carry out another nuclear test before or after the historic Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) congress that lasted for four days through May 9.

South Korea's military claimed that the DPRK had already completed preparations for another atomic bomb test at its main Punggye-ri nuclear test site in northeastern DPRK where the country conducted all of its four nuclear detonations. (ANI)

materials, including uranium and plutonium.

Pakistan in response underlined its preference for broader Fissile Material Treaty (FMT) that addresses the asymmetries in existing stocks adding its position would be determined by its national interests and the objectives of strategic stability in South Asia, said a joint statement issued by the Foreign Office.

The eighth round of the working group, which is part of the strategic dialogue, was co-chaired by Pakistan's Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry and Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Rose Gottemoeller.

Islamabad believes the treaty must include exist-

Pakistan rejects U.S. demand for talks on nuke programme freeze ing stocks otherwise the imbalance of power in the world would simply be enhanced.

According to reports, Pakistan reluctance to sign the treaty is also attributed to the discriminatory policies of the West on civilian nuclear coop-

eration.

However, rejecting talks on the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty in its current form and conditions, Islamabad assured Washington that it would not be the first in its region to resume nuclear testing.

It also expressed its sup-

port for the objectives of Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).

The meeting between the two groups was held amid the backdrop of recent missile testing by India that, according to Pakistan, would disturb the strategic balance in South Asia.

Both sides also recognised their interest in strategic stability and discussed their respective concerns over nuclear and missile developments in South Asia, the Foreign Office's statement said.

Pakistan also expressed concerns on growing conventional imbalance, and reiterated its longstanding proposal for the Strategic Restraint Regime (SRR) in South Asia.

According to the state-

ment, the US delegation recognised Islamabad's significant efforts to harmonise its strategic trade controls with those of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and other multilateral export control regimes.

Islamabad also expressed its confidence regarding its credentials to become full member of the export control regimes, particularly the NSG and the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

The statement said Pakistan stressed the need for access to peaceful uses of nuclear technology as a socio-economic imperative and indicated its interest in cooperation with the U.S. on peaceful applications of the nuclear science in areas such as health, agriculture and water.(ANI)

Minorities in Pakistan Punjab battling human rights abuse Lahore, May 18 : Safeguarding of human rights in Pakistan, or more specifically in its largest Punjab province, is complex, given the nation's demographic diversity, huge population and a democracy that is an admixture of both Islamic and secular laws.

Pakistan's Constitution like any other provides for fundamental rights, but whether they are guaranteed is debatable because, every now and then, we hear of cases of religious discrimination against Christians, Hindus and non-Sunni Muslims, targeted terror-related sectarian and communal violence, caste discrimination in the corridors of power and electoral restrictions.

Pakistan's founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah wanted a Pakistan to be a moderate secular state blended with Islamic values and principles, but what we have seen over the past 69 years, is a nation amending its Constitution several times to give the Islamic fundamental element a dominant say in politics and society.

The government claims to have launched several initiatives to promote religious pluralism and curb rising sectarian and religious violence, but factually, religious violence, particularly against the minorities, be they Ahmadiyyas, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and Zoroastrians, is common throughout Pakistan.

They face violence, intimidation, periodic charges of blasphemy, which in Pakistan, carries a death penalty.

Extremism and terrorism have become political weapons against Christians, Hindus, Ahmadiyyas, Shia, Sufi and Sikh communities, especially in Punjab.

These attacks are usually

blamed on religious extremists, but certain laws in the Pakistan Criminal Code (PCC) and government inaction have allowed attackers to surge higher. Sunni militant groups are known operate with impunity against minorities, and it is quite common to see law enforcement turning a blind eye or appearing helpless to prevent such attacks.

Pakistan, in fact, is turning into a human rights graveyard. Experts say that using extremists and terrorists, and by default, the armed forces or even the ISI, as instruments of societal suppression is aimed at facilitating and ensuring the dominance of the Punjabi lobby over others.

Pakistan's Christian community, which forms approximately 1.5 percent of the country's population, has often been accused of blaspheming the Quran and Prophet Mohammad.

Some notable incidents involving blasphemy accusations were as follows: On October 28, 2001, in Lahore, Islamic militants killed 15 Christians inside a church. On September 25, 2002, two terrorists entered the "Peace and Justice Institute", Karachi, where they separated Muslims from the Christians, and then executed eight Christians by shooting them in the head.

In November 2005, 3,000 militant Islamists attacked Christians in Sangla Hill in Pakistan and destroyed Roman Catholic, Salvation Army and United Presbyterian churches. The attack was over allegations of violation of blasphemy laws by a Pakistani Christian named Yousaf Masih.

In August 2006, a church and Christian homes were attacked in a village outside Lahore. Three Christians were seriously

injured and one missing after some 35 Muslims burned buildings, desecrated Bibles and attacked Christians.

On August 1, 2009, nearly 40 houses and a church in Gojra were torched on the suspicion that Quran had been burnt there. While police watched, 8 victims were burned alive, 4 of them women, one aged 7.

Eighteen more were in-

"Terrorists were not so focused on our community as they are now They would have thought more people would gather at Easter. Perhaps, it is time for the government to turn their attention towards us also."

An aggrieved Pope Francis was so taken aback by the tragedy that he issued a statement from the Vatican condemning it in the stron-

Minorities in Pakistan Punjab battling human rights abuse jured. In April 2014, a Christian couple from Gojra, Shafqat Emmanuel and Shagufta Kausar, received death sentences.On March 27, 2016, during Easter Sunday celebrations in Lahore's Gulshan Iqbal Park, a suicide bomber killed 80 Christians and wounded another 340.

Ashiq Masih, the padre of the Lahore Church, then said, "The government is responsible for this incident. It is for the government to ensure that these bad people do not carry out malicious acts against Christians."

Ikram Arif, a witness to the tragedy, said, "I saw bodies without heads, legs; I saw bodies with intestines falling out, many injured men, women and children. I even picked up the blown off leg of an infant who must have been about six months old."

Christ Church Vicar Irshad Ashnaz said then,

gest possible terms, and demanded immediate remedial action by the Pakistan government.

Pakistan civil society also condemned the incident and laid the blame for at the government's doorstep Farrukh Haideri, a lawyer, said, "The government has failed to provide protection to the people."

Pakistani Christians are convinced that they are becoming increasingly victimised since the launch of the US-led international war on terror in October 2001.

Churches and Christian residential colonies have almost always been targeted on false blasphemy charges.

Salamat Gill, the Bishop of Lahore, has said, "There has never been any brutality from our side. Whenever there has been violence, it has been from the other side.

I demand that religious scholars take action

against this; the government should take action, the army chief should take action. How are we going to suffer like this?"

Human rights violations against the minority Ahmadiyya community have been systematic and allegedly state-sponsored to gain the support of Islamic fundamentalists in Pakistan. In 1984, the martial law-run government promulgated the anti-Ahmadiyya Ordinance XX that added Sections 298-B and 298C in Pakistan Criminal Code.

These draconian sections relate to the misuse of epithets, descriptions and titles etc.reserved for certain holy personages or places, and are punishable by imprisonment that may extend to three years, and also be liable to pay a fine.

Through this ordinance, Ahmadiyya Muslims were deprived of most of their basic human rights and their freedom of faith.

There has also been severe persecution of Hindus by Muslims in Pakistan since its formation in 1947. Increasing Islamisation has caused many Hindus to leave Hinduism and seek emancipation by converting to other faiths such as Buddhism and Christianity.

The Hindu population in Pakistan is estimated to be around 1.5 percent of the total population from a high of 23 percent in 1947.

Pakistan's citizens have had serious Shia-Sunni discord as well. Some see the April 1979 execution of deposed President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on questionable charges as the precursor of Pakistani Shia-Sunni strife.

Attacks on minorities are generally attributed to banned militant organizations of Deobandi or Ahl-e-Hadith (Salafi) backgrounds. (ANI)

Ex-PM Khaleda Zia appeals to Bangladesh SC for stay on graft case trial

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia

Dhaka, May 18 : Bangladesh Nationalist Party Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia has appealed to the nation's Supreme Court to stay the trial proceedings of the Zia Charitable Trust graft case.

Earlier, the High Court dismissed two revision petitions of Khaleda, seeking a stay on the trial,

and paved way for a lower court to continue with the trial.

Today, she filed two separate petitions against the High Court order seeking a stay in the trial proceeding, reports The Daily Star.

The Supreme Court is yet to set a date for the hearing of the petitions. The BNP chief filed two separate revision petitions

with the HC challenging a lower court order that rejected her two applications in the graft case lodged by the ACC on August 8, 2011.

One of the applications was filed for re-cross examination of the investigation officer of the case while the other for scrutinising the case diary.(ANI)

to outline support to Afghanistan

NATO alliance expected to outline support to Afghanistan Kabul, May 18: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization alliance during the upcoming foreign ministerial in Brussels is expected to outline future support to Afghanistan.

"On 20 May 2016, our Foreign Ministers will meet with their Resolute Support partners and the Afghan Foreign Minister. We expect Ministers to outline our future support for Afghanistan, along three strands of activities, through our commitment to sustain the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission to train, advise and assist the Afghan security forces and institutions beyond 2016," Khaama Press quoted NATO official as saying.

Asserting that the meeting will take place less than two months before the Warsaw Summit, the official said that the alli-

ance expect to continue to support the financial sustainment of the Afghan security forces, including through 2020 and to develop a longterm strong political partnership and practical cooperation with Afghanistan.

The move comes as NATO and its partners had last Wednesday reaffirmed commitment to support financial sustainment of the Afghan National Security Forces at plenary meeting of the Afghan National Army Trust Fund Board.

NATO and Resolute Support Partner Foreign Ministers last December had agreed to work towards national decisions to be announced at, or prior to, the Warsaw Summit confirming financial commitments to support the Afghan security forces until 2020.

(ANI)

Madhesi agitation: Federal Alliance to protest for 10 more days in Kathmandu Kathmandu, May 18: Federal Alliance which is an alliance of 30 parties including constituents of the United Democratic Madhesi Front has decided to protest for 10 more days in Kathmandu.

Their demands include provisions for proportional representation and rewriting of the recently promulgated constitution.

A meeting of the Alliance held this morning made the decision that effect, reports. The Alliance has also decided to intensify

its protest programmes in Tarai and Hill as well.

The Alliance, which had protested two consecutive days outside Singha Durbar, the country's main administrative centre and one day outside Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's official residence in Baluwatar, has decided to stage demonstration at Ratna Park of the Capital. The Alliance resorted to fresh protest with an aim to exert pressure on the government to address their demands.

(ANI)

Twin IED blast in Peshawar kills one, injures 17

Twin IED blast in Peshawar kills one, injures 17 Peshawar, May 18: A constable was killed and 17 others were injured when two remote-controlled bombs detonated one after another inPeshawar's Mithra area on Wednesday morning.

An improvised explosive device (IED) targeted a police convoy injuring two people. As people and investigation teams arrived at the site of the attack, another blast occurred, killing one police official and injuring several others.

Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) Abdul Majid Marwat was quoted, as saying that the injured in-

cluded 11 Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) members, Counter-terrorism Department personnel and police and six civilians.

The injured have been shifted to Lady Reading Hospital, while additional police personnel have been deployed in the area.

Around 4.5 kilograms of explosive material was used in the bombs, SSP Abdul Majid Marwat said. Rescue 1122 officials claimed to have shifted six injured to the hospital. A DSNG van and Rescue 1122's vehicle were damaged as a result of the blasts.(ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

Kashmir's Re-emerging Militancy New policy for women Maneka Gandhi unveils Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi unveiled the draft National Policy for Women 2016, A which focuses on issues like housing, issues related to single women, and cyber crime against of women.

The policy has been put up on the ministry website for recommendations.

(Photo: easpd.eu) The new policy will enable the government to recognise single women - "divorced, widowed and unmarried women" - as independent entities. Noting the last national policy on women was formulated was in 2001. This policy has come after 15 years.

Unveiling the draft policy, which has been revised after a period of 15 years, Maneka Gandhi said the new policy moves away from a welfare-based approach for women to a more rights-based approach.

"This policy is coming after 15 years. In these years, many things have changed and the most important of them is women's attitude towards challenges. The policy will focus on increasing trends of crime against women, including rape, trafficking and dowry, along with the expansion of new work opportunities for career women."The draft has been made in consultation with a lot of women, lawyers, journalists, bureaucrats and non-working women to see what we can do in terms of defining government action in the next 15-20 years. The policy will be finalised after consultation with all the stakeholders including NGOs and civil society among others. As far as education is concerned, the policy seeks to focus on increased enrolment and retention of adolescent girls in schools through the provision of gender-friendly facilities like girls' toilets and higher recruitment of women teachers. In order to achieve higher participation of women in governance and decision-making, the policy talks about establishing a mechanism to promote female presence in all the three branches of the government - the legislature, judiciary and the executive.The draft also deals with developing protective measures for dealing with the increase in cyber crimes targeting women. It is to be noted that the ministry will also create an advisory council for women to advise the government on issues related to their entrepreneurship as the current business chambers are largely "male-dominated".

Blood donation Gift of life Every year our nation requires about 5 crore units of blood out of which only a meager 80 lakh units of blood are available. According to a 2012 World Health Organisation (WHO) report, only nine million units are collected annually, while the need is for 12 million units.

Delhi NCR alone faces a shortage of 100,000 units per year. The shelf-life of donated blood is 35 to 42 days.

There is a constant need to replenish stocks in our blood banks. The problem could be addressed if only two percent more Indians donated blood. In India, the ratio of usage of blood components to whole blood is 15:75, while globally it is 90:10 and there are many reasons.

Many blood banks in India still lack the needed facilities to make blood components and thus most of them issue whole blood; thus, contributing to the shortage of blood and unnecessarily overburdening the patient cause harm at times, as blood transfusion reactions are more common in with whole blood transfusions. At present, India follows a procedure of mandatory licensing under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules for blood banks. According to National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), only 500 blood banks in India can be termed as "big banks" collecting more than 10000 units annually. Nearly 600 of the rest are "small banks" collecting around 1000 units a year. Most of the 2433 blood banks are moderate collecting 3000-5000 units of blood a year.

There has always been blood shortage in most of the blood banks because the blood banks fail to organize voluntary blood donation camps on a regular basis and depend mainly on replacement donors. As a result, there is always pressure on patient to procure blood when needed. According to the protocol specified by NACO, 25% of all blood collected by a blood bank has to be kept aside as buffer stock, to be used only in the case of an emergency. However, according to NACO out of India's 2 433 blood banks, only 20% are able maintain the buffer stock. Statistics show that there are 234 million major operations in India, 63 million trauma-induced surgeries, 31 million cancer-related procedures and 10 million pregnancy related complications which require blood transfusions. Apart from these there are also disorders like sickle cell anemia, thalassemia and haemophilia that require repeated blood transfusions.

The issue of blood shortage is also due to lack of voluntary donors, though the figure has been rising, particularly in states such as Assam, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh.

Government should promote and assign ambassadors to promote the cause and ensure easy accessibility to go and donate at various locations. Acknowledge students who are regular donors and contribute to this noble cause. Promotion through hoardings and electronic and print media should be done at a regular intervals so that the practice of donating blood becomes a way of life. More than 1 million new people are diagnosed with cancer each year. Many of them will need blood, sometimes daily, during their chemotherapy treatment. Ideally, there should be enough blood units in a blood bank for everyday requirement for optimum functioning of the health-care system. However, non availability of sufficient blood units is a major problem. The blood banks rely heavily on the replacement donors due to lack of required numbers of voluntary donors to maintain stock. Blood banks keep their pressure on doctors, nurses, and the relatives of the patient, and urge them to send replacement donors to maintain their stock.

After years of setbacks, a new kind of militancy is taking shape.

For the first time in more However, as Pakistan's than two decades, public stranglehold over the support for militants militancy tightened, it not fighting the Indian state is only became more Islamrising and being articu- ist and pro-Pakistan but lated in the open in the the easy access to money Kashmir Valley. Militants and weapons resulted in are hero-worshipped and the "cause" receding to massive crowds are par- the background while ticipating in their funer- criminal activities took als. center-stage. Kashmiri At a recent local cricket support for the militants toura n d n a - Sudha Ramachandran t h e ment miliat Tral in south Kashmir, tancy waned and Pakistan three of the 16 teams - the was blamed for their Burhan Lions, Aabid woes.

Khan Qalandars and By the mid 1990s, miliKhalid Aryans - bore the tancy was clearly in denames of suspected cline. Bitter internecine Hizbul Mujahideen mili- fighting among the militants. The Burhan Lions tant groups and India's for instance draw their counterinsurgency operaname from 21-year-old tions weakened the miliBurhan Muzaffar Wani, tants. But also, with pubthe hugely popular poster lic support evaporating boy of the militancy in the militancy lost its jusKashmir today. tification. The people in Youth like Burhan are whose name the militants part of the new generation had picked up arms had of militants operating in deserted them. the Valley. Unlike their V i o l e n c e - w e a r y predecessors, they are Kashmiris turned their educated, well-to-do, not backs on the militancy. averse to revealing their Some turned to the demoidentity and adept at us- cratic process, others to ing social media. Photo- mass protests in the hope graphs and videos of their of addressing their grievspeeches calling on Kashmiri youth to pick up arms against India are immensely popular.

A month ago, two of Burhan's associates, Waseem Malla and Naseer Ahmad Pandit, were gunned down by security forces at Shopian in south Kashmir. Tens of thousands of local Kashmiris converged at their burial site. They shouted anti-India, proIslam and pro-Pakistan slogans, and sang eulogies about their "martyrdom." So large was the crowd assembled at the burial ground that the funeral rites had to be performed six times to enable mourners to participate and pay their respects.

"This is not an isolated ances. Even during the incident but a growing 2010 protests that saw trend in Kashmir over the many Kashmiri youngpast year," a senior officer sters shot dead or grievin the Indian Army's ously injured, militancy Northern Command told was not seen to be an opThe Diplomat. tion; calls for a return to The public outpouring of arms evoked little public grief and support for mili- response. tants is worrying as it is But things appear to have evoking memories of the been changing in the Valearly 1990s when anti-In- ley over the past year. As dia militancy was at its the crowds at funerals inpeak in Kashmir. In its dicate, militants are early years, militants and emerging heroes again militancy enjoyed enor- and worryingly for India's mous mass support. Mili- security establishment, tants were looked upon as Pakistani militants operatheroes. Civilians braved ing in the Valley are gainbatons, bullets and ha- ing popularity too. rassment - even torture by In late October, when Abu security forces - to protect Qasim, a Pakistani who their "boys." was the Lashkar-e-Taiba's

divisional commander in the Valley, was shot dead, three districts in south Kashmir shut down to protest his killing. More than 30,000 people marched in his funeral procession and residents of Kakapora, Khandaypora and Bugam villages even fought for the honor of burying his body in their soil.

Public support for militants has also been on display during armed encounters between the militants and security forces. Civilians converge at sites where search operations or gun battles are in progress and engage in slogan shouting and stone pelting to divert the troops' attention so that militants can escape. So "serious" is this problem that the government has issued advisories calling on civilians to stay away from encounter sites.

While reports on the militancy are figuring frequently in the Indian media, security analysts insist that the situation is not as grave as it was in the early 1990s. Neither the number of militants, at-

Public support for militants has also been on display during armed encounters between the militants and security forces.

Civilians converge at sites where search operations or gun battles are in progress and engage in slogan shouting and stone pelting to divert the troops' attention so that militants can escape. tacks by militants nor fatalities is as high as it was even a few years ago. The number of active militants, for instance, has fallen from several thousand in the 1990s to some 200 today. As for "terrorism-related fatalities" in J&K, which "were sustained at over 2,000 per year for a full decade between 1993 and 2003," these were only 117 in 2012, 181 in 2013, 193 in 2014 and 174 in 2015, with civilians accounting for a small fraction only.

Importantly, the security forces continue to hold the advantage. Military officials point out that "militancy suffered an

Image for representational purpose (Photo: i.dailymail) unprecedented setback in the January-March period [this year], with 27 terrorists being eliminated, the highest number for the period in the last six years."

What should be of concern, however, is the rising mass support for militants, which, according to the army officer who spoke to The Diplomat, is acting as a "force multiplier." Additionally, "antiIndia forces are drawing benefit from the use of social media, which the older generation of militants lacked," he said, pointing out that within minutes of the security forces launching a cordon-and-search operation in an area, the news "circulated aggressively" on Whatsapp or Facebook and thousands are mobilized to converge at the site.

Unlike their "heavy presence" in the virtual world, the new recruits to militancy in Kashmir are less active on the ground, the army officer said. Drawing attention to the changing demographic composition of the militants - 60 percent of them are local youth, in contrast to the past when foreign militants dominated - he also pointed out that the militancy is more active in south Kashmir, which is further away from popular infiltration routes from Pakistan. Access to weapons, in the circumstances may be more "problematic" for the new militants, he said.

Still, it may be too early to dismiss the capacity of the new militants especially since they have an expanding pool of disgruntled Kashmiri youth to recruit from in the com-

ing years.

Public disillusionment with India's democratic institutions and judicial mechanisms is soaring as is anger with discrimination. Thousands of young Kashmiris study, work and live in cities outside J&K. They are deeply conscious of the prejudice that colors the way other Indians and Indian institutions perceive and treat them. As a Kashmiri student in an engineering college in Bengaluru pointed out to The Diplomat, while protests in Srinagar, even peaceful ones, result in the deployment of soldiers who shoot to kill, violent demonstrations in other parts of India are dealt with by police who use batons or water cannons.

A string of events and developments over the last couple of years has deepened Kashmiri anger with the Indian state. In 2013, Afzal Guru, a Kashmiri, was hanged after a flawed judicial process for his alleged role in the 2001 terror attack on the Indian Parliament. Following the victory of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2014 general elections, violence targeting Muslims has grown significantly and communal polarization is serious. These issues are discussed in every home in Kashmir.

The decision of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join hands with the BJP to form a coalition government in J&K is unpopular and is widely seen by Kashmiris, including PDP supporters as a "betrayal" given the BJP's anti-Muslim outlook and its commitment to revoke

Bachchan-Family And Income - Tax

Bollywood Actor Amitabh Bachchan (Photo: zeenewsIndia)

Sir, In his pinnacle of success, he is an international figure. His acting talent, undoubtedly is one of the best in India and in the international level, too, he earns myriad of accolades. Number of times, he received the best actor award that includes this year too. He is the apple of the eye for many cine goers. His actions, words are worth emulating. He is a perfect role- model for many of us. From our adolescent stage, we got mesmerized by his superb acting. Particularly, in the advertisements, be it Social consciousness, in the upholding of patriotic views, there is none next to him. Unambiguously, one can accept him as one, who not only excels in acting but also in running show like 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'.

He is no other than our dear Amitabh Bachchan. But it pains us to note that such an otherwise immaculate person,

too, is not above controversy. We know that the amount collected by way of income - tax is used in nation building and for benevolent works of the poor. We fail to understand why an actor like him should evade tax involving litigation with the Income Tax authority on the amount he earned on 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'.

Another disturbing point, relates to figuring his name in Panama-paper-leaks, Amitabh Bachchan and his daughter-inlaw, Aaicharyya Rai Bachchan's names too are in the Panama-papers. It is a shame that the Bachchan family are stooping to low in evading tax if the news of involvement of their names in Panama papers prove true.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

Article 370 of the Indian Constitution which confers special status on J&K. During the election campaign to the J&K state assembly in late 2014, the PDP campaigned against the BJP and even positioned itself as the only Kashmiri party that can halt the BJP's "invasion" of the state. Yet the lure of political power prompted it to join hands with the very party it had so bitterly criticized earlier. Those who are most disillusioned with the PDP-BJP unholy alliance are the soft separatists who constitute the PDP's core support base. It is they who are now tilting against democratic politics. Some of those who joined the militant ranks over the past year are PDP activists, who worked for the party in the elections.

Democratic politics and politicians are once again the target of public derision in the Valley. It is militancy that will gain from this sentiment.

Clearly, Kashmir is at an important turning point.

Its youth are drawn to the militants but not as yet to the path of militancy. The flow to the militant ranks is still a trickle. Preventing it from becoming a flood will require India to address the political issues underlying the conflict. Courtesy: the diplomat Dr.Sudha Ramach andran is an independent journalist/researcher based in Bengaluru, India. She writes on South Asian political and security issues and can be contacted at sudha.rama chandran@live.in.

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, Dibrugarh786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

JOBS & career

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

Various Jobs in NEIGRIHMS, Shillong Last Date: 23/05/2016.

Applications are invited from eligible candidates for filling up the following posts for recruitment in North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health & Medical Sciences [NEIGRIHMS] : 1. Staff Nurse : 20 posts (UR-10, OBC-6, SC-2, ST-1) 2. Estate Manager : 01 post (UR) 3. Junior Perfusionist : 01 post (UR) 4. Health Inspector : 01 post (UR) 5. Health Educator : 02 posts (UR) 6. Senior Stenographer : 01 post (UR) 7. Radiographer : 06 posts (UR-5, OBC-1) How to Apply : Complete applications may be sent in the prescribed proforma to the Recruitment Cell, Establishment Section-III, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health & Medical Sciences, P.O Mawdiangdiang, Shillong-793018 superscribing "Application for the post of .........." within 30 days of publication of the advertisement in the Employment News (published on 23/04/2016) i.e. last date of receipt of applications is 23/05/2016.

Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat Last Date: 31/05/2016.

Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat is going to fill up the following posts under respective projects/schemes of AICRP presently functioning in different stations including Jorhat campus of Assam Agricultural University.

1. Junior Administrative Assistant Pay: Rs 5200-Rs 20200, GP= Rs 3300 Educational Qualification: Graduate in Arts/Science/Commerce 2. Junior Laboratory Assistant Pay: Rs 5200-Rs 20200, GP= Rs 3300 Educational Qualification: Graduate in Science/ Home Science 3. Computer Programmer Pay: Rs 8000- Rs 35000, GP= Rs 4900 Educational Qualification: Master Degree in Computer Application 4. Typist Pay: Rs 5200 - Rs 20200, GP = Rs 2500 Educational Qualification: Passed HSSLC Examination 5. Sr. Mechanic Pay: Rs 8000- Rs 35000, GP= Rs 4300 Educational Qualification: Passed HSLC Examination+ ITI Trade certificate in Motor Mechanic 6. Driver Pay: Rs 5200-Rs 20200, GP= Rs 2500 Educational Qualification: HSLC Passed + Valid Driving License for Heavy & Light vehicles.

7. Technician Pay: Rs 5200 - Rs 20200, GP = Rs 2500 Educational Qualification: Passed HSLC Examination+ ITI Trade certificate in Tractor Mechanic 8. Tractor Operator cum Mechanic Pay: Rs 5200 - Rs 20200, GP = Rs 2500 Educational Qualification: HSLC Examination passed+ certificate in Tractor Mechanic+ valid tractor driving license Application Fee: Application fee is Rs 300/ for general candidates and Rs 150/ for SC/ST Candidates.

How to apply: Application form can be downloaded from university website.

Application along with fees should be sent Director of Research [Agri], Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat within 31.05.2016.

Page 9

Arunachal Pradesh Police Constable (Driver) Recruitment Arunachal Pradesh Police.

Last Date: 19/05/2016.

Office of the Director General of Police, Government of Arunachal Pradesh has invited applications for the recruitment of 108 Constable (Driver) vacancies in Arunachal Pradesh (Civil Police/ IRBN).

Name of the Post: Constable (Driver) Civil Police: 05 Posts 1. APST: 04 Posts 2. General: 01 Post IRBN: 103 Posts 1. APST: 74 Posts 2. APST EX-SM: 08 Posts 3. General: 21 Posts Age: Candidates age should be between 18-28 years as on 01-01-2016. Age relaxation is applicable as per rules.

Educational Qualification: Candidates should possess Class-VIII for APST and Class-X passed for Other candidates with valid driving license for LMV/ MMV/ HMV. Selection Process: Candidates will be selected based on physical standard test, physical endurancy/ efficiency test, written test, Medical Exam, trade test & interview. How to Apply: Eligible candidates may submit their application in the prescribed format along with attested copies of qualification, proof of age, caste, permanent residential certificate, valid driving license of LMV, experience, 4 recent passport size colour photographs, self addressed envelope, treasury Challan by post or hand to Asst Inspector of Police (E), PHQ Itanagar-791113, Arunachal Pradesh from 25-04-2016 to 19-05-2016 up to 16:00 hrs.

UPSC Indian Forest Service Examination Last Date: 27/05/2016.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will hold preliminary screening test for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination 2016 for recruitment to the Indian Forest Service Officers commencing from 07/08/2016.

The pattern of the Indian Forest Service Examination 2015 has been changed and candidates for IFS Examination 2016 needs to appear in the Indian Civil Service Examination (Preliminary) 2016 for the same. Therefore candidates needs to apply for Indian Civil Service Examination 2016 to appear in Indian Forest Service Examination 2016.

Name of Examination: Indian Forest Service Examination 2016 No of Posts : 110 approx.

Age : Not less than 21 years and not more than 32 years as on 1st August 2016.

The upper age is relaxable for SC/ST/OBC and certain other categories of candidates to the extent specified in the Notice.

Educational Qualification: Bachelor's degree of any recognized university with at least one of the subjects namely Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics and Zoology or a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Forestry or in Engineering or an equivalent qualification.

Physical Standards: Candidates must be physically fit according to the Regulations given in notice.

Number of attempts: The maximum number of attempts permissible to different categories of aspirants, who are otherwise eligible, will be as (i) General Category - 6 attempts, (ii) OBC - 9 attempts (iii) SC/ST - No limit Application Fee: Candidates applying (excepting Female/SC/ST/PH candidates who are exempted from payment of fee) for Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination are required to pay a fee of Rs.100/- either by depositing the money in any Branch of SBI by cash, or by using net banking facility of SBI, State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur/ State Bank of Hyderabad/State Bank of Mysore/State Bank of Patiala/ State Bank of Travancore or by using Visa/ Master Credit/ Debit card.

How To Apply: All applications must apply Online from 28/04/2015 to 27/05/ 2016 only upto 11.59 PM. at http://upsconline.nic.in/mainmenu2.php. Details of the examination and instructions are available at UPSC Online website.

Wanted a Science Teacher (Zoology) in Assam Jatiya Bidyalay at Noonmati, Guwahati 781020 Wanted a Science Teacher (Zoology) against leave vacancy on purely temporary basis in Assam Jatiya Bidyalay at Noonmati, Guwahati 781020.

Eligibility: Graduate with major and M.Sc. in concerned subject.

55% marks in aggregate in HSLC, HSSLC and Degree taken together. Assamese medium schooling background. Upper age limit: 45 years. Candidates may appear in walk-in-interview with all testimonials at 9 am on 09.05.2016 (Monday) at Assam Jatiya Bidyalay campus, Noonmati, Guwahati 781020.

Sd/- Secretary, Assam Jatiya Bidyalay, Management Committee, Noonmati, Guwahati-781020.

Engineer & Officer Jobs in Power Grid Corporation of India, May 2016 [45 posts] Last Date: 31/05/2016.

Power Grid Corporation of India is looking for Bright, Committed and Energetic candidates in the area of Telecom, Finance & Accounts and Company Secretary (CS) as per details given below : 1. Engineer / E2A No of posts: 12 posts (UR6, OBC3, SC2, ST1) Pay: Rs. 20600 - 46500 Age : 33 years 2. Assistant Officer (Accounts) / E1 No of posts: 31 posts (UR16, OBC8, SC5, ST2) (PwD1) Pay: Rs. 16400 - 40500 Age: 30 years 3. Assistant Officer Trainee (Company Secretary) / E1 Trainee No of posts: 02 posts (UR1, OBC1) Pay: Rs. 16400 - 40500 Age: 28 years Application Fee : Rs. 400/ in the form of A/c Payee Demand Draft in favour of "Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd." Payable at New Delhi (Preferably drawn on State Bank of India). SC/ ST/ PwD / ExSM candidates are exempted from the above mentioned application fee.

Apply Online: Apply Online from 03/05/2016 to 31/ 05/2016 at Power Grid Website only. Please visit http://www.powergridindia.com/_layouts/ PowerGrid/User/Content Page.aspx?

PId=166&LangID=English for more information and online application.

‘The Eastern Today’ has taken an initiative to present Questions & Answers to help the aspirants in their competitive exams (SSC, Banks, Insurance, etc.).

1). The National Technology Day is being celebrated every year on May 11 by the Ministry of Science & Technology with theme "Technology enablers of Startup India". The event is celebrated in a) Bangalore b) Mumbai c) Ahmedabad d) New Delhi e) Varanasi Answer: d) New Delhi 2). Which state, recently, has been announced the 'Agri Business Policy2016'.The policy announced subsidies for food processing projects and loans for those wanting to establish food processing units. a) Maharashtra b) Gujarat c) Haryana d) Madhya Pradesh e) Uttar Pradesh Answer: b) Gujarat 3). Which state became the first state in the Northeast to introduce a financial literacy course through the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in schools? a) Tripura b) Manipur c) Nagaland d) Assam e) Meghalaya Answer: c) Nagaland 4). India is currently developing infrastructure projects worth ______ billion dollars in the South Asian region to improve connectivity. a) $3 b) $5 c) $7

d) $9 e) $11 Answer: b) $5 5). Who was appointed as Additional Solicitor General (ASG), recently? a) Atma Ram Nadkarni b) Narendra Kumar c) Vijay Malhotra d) KiranNadkarni e) None of the above Answer: a) Atma Ram Nadkarni 6). Which among the following asset management companies has appointed SankaranNaren as a Director on the Board of ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company, with effect from April 2016? a) IDBI b) HSBC c) ICICI d) IDFC e) DHLF Answer: c) ICICI 7). Actress Priyanka Chopra has ranked ___ in the list of 'Millennial Leaders around the World' by 'U.S. News', an American media company. a) 12 b) 15 c) 9 d) 21 e) 32 Answer: c) 9 8). Who among the following actress has been ranked number one on the 'Times 50 Most Desirable Women 2015'. a) DeepikaPadukone b) Priyanka Chopra c) Sunny Leone

d) KanganaRanaut e) Katrina Kaif Answer: b) Priyanka Chopra 9). Which state has recently, received the Best Indian Destination for Wildlife Award. The award was presented by the Lonely Planet Group. a) Madhya Pradesh b) Karnataka c) Haryana d) Maharashtra e) Telangana Answer: a) Madhya Pradesh 10). Name the webbased on-demand home beauty and styling startup that was recently acquired by classifieds platform Quikr. a) Urbanclap b) LocalOye eye c) Amber d) Salosa e) None of the above Answer: d) Salosa 11).The Uttar Pradesh government gave approval forthe development of nearly 200-km long bicycle highway from a) Aligarh to Agra b) Agra to Etawah c) Kanpur to Lucknow d) Agra to Mathura e) None of the above Answer: b) Agra to Etawah 12). According to a World Health Organisation report released recently, which city is the most polluted city in the world?

a) Iran's Zabol b) India's Gwalior c) India's Delhi d) India's Patna e) India's Raipur Answer: a) Iran's Zabol 13). Government body National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority has fixed the ceiling price of ______ drug formulations including those for the treatment of cancer and diabetes. a) 39 b) 42 c) 54 d) 61 e) 65 Answer: c) 54 14). Who was elected unopposed as the ICC's first independent Chairman for two years? a) Mustafa Kamal b) Shashank Manohar c) Adnan Zaidi d) Sharad Pawar e) None of the above Answer: b) Shashank Manohar 15). Who among the following accepted the Indian Olympic Association's offer to become the Goodwill Ambassador for Rio Olympics? a) Amitabh Bachan b) Sharukh Khan c) Kamal Hasan d) A R Rehman e) Sonu Nigam Answer: d) A R Rehman 16). Who among the following is the author of the book "Chaos and Caliphate: Jihadis and the West in the Struggle

for the Middle East"? a) Neil Jordan b) Charlie Jane Anders c) Patrick Cockburn d) Emily Henry e) Amber Sparks Answer: c) Patrick Cockburn 17). UN report has forecasted India's economy is projected to grow _________ % for the year 2016. a) 7.1 b) 7.2 c) 7.3 d) 7.4 e) 7.5 Answer: c) 7.3 18). Who among the following has been recommended for the Dronacharya Award by the Hockey India? a) Nihar Ameen b) Swatantar Raj Singh c) Harbans Singh d) CR Kumar e) None of the above Answer: d) CR Kumar 19). Tony Coziercricket writer, commentator and journalist,died aged 75.

He belongs to which country? a) West Indies b) Australia c) New Zealand d) Zimbabwe e) England Answer: a) West Indies 20). Who among the following recommended for Arjuna Award by Hockey India? a) Ritu Rani b) VR Raghunath c) Dharamvir Singh d) Only A and B e) All the above Answer: e) All the

above 21). Which state government recently announced that the government is going to build 7,52,863 toilets in the next four years? a) Andhra Pradesh b) Odisha c) Bihar d) Maharashtra e) Himachal Pradesh Answer: c) Bihar 22). Which state government declared drought in over 29000 villages of the state, most of them in parched Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. a) Madhya Pradesh b) Maharashtra c) Telangana d) Gujarat e) Haryana Answer: b) Maharashtra 23). International Criminal Court Day is observed on a) May 13th b) June 17th c) April 13th d) May 15th e) August 15th Answer: b) June 17th 24). The world's largest cargo plane, the Antonov An-225 Mriya, landed for the first time in India. In which airport the flight has landed? a) LokpriyaGopinathBordoloi International Airport b) LokNayakJayaprakash International Airport c) Indira Gandhi International Airport d) SardarVallabhai Patel International Airport

Image for representational purpose (Photo: flckr)

e) Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Answer: e) Rajiv Gandhi International Airport 25). Who has appointed as the member of President's Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships by US President Barack Obama? a) Manjit Singh b) Priyatam Singh c) Manipreeth Singh d) Amarpreeth Singh e) None of the above Answer: a) Manjit Singh 26). Recently, who among the following has been appointed to the ICC Cricket Committee as its member? a) GautamGambhir b) SauravGanguly c) Rahul Dravid d) Sachin Tendulkar e) VVS Lakxman Answer: c) Rahul Dravid 27). Which bank has launched the country's first contact less business credit card in

association with Jet Airways for small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) and their employees? a) Axis Bank b) ICICI Bank c) RBL Bank d) City Union Bank e) HDFC Bank Answer: b) ICICI Bank 28). Which state has been awarded the best family destination in the Lonely Planet Magazine India Travel Awards 2016? a) Karnataka b) Madhya Pradesh c) Kerala d) Maharashtra e) Tamil Nadu Answer: c) Kerala 29). Airtel launched its 'Platinum 3G' servicesrolling out a new 3G service across 60 towns in a) Assam b) Andhra Pradesh c) Karnataka d) Nagaland e) Haryana Answer: a) Assam

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

BUSINESS

Rise is wholesale prices after 17 month Ludhiana, May 18: Wholesale prices turned positive after 17 months in April on the back of strengthening costs of food items - mainly pulses, potato and sugar.

Data released by the commerce and industry ministry on Monday showed the wholesale price index rose 0.34% year-on-year in April compared to a decline of 0.85% in March, dashing hopes of any immediate cut in interest rates. The widely watched retail inflation rose 5.4% in April, faster than previous month's 4.8% rise.

The consumer food price index increased 6.3% in April from previous month's 5.2%, data re-

lect agricultural commodities time to time due to supply shocks can be quite destabilizing for inThe widely watched re- flation and inflationary tail inflation rose 5.4% expectation in India, in April, faster than making management of previous month's 4.8% food inflation a much rise. more challenging job The consumer food than previously beprice index increased lieved," said Sinha in his 6.3% in April from pre- note. Experts are looking at the June-September vious month's 5.2%. southwest monsoon Manufactured product rains, which will provide price increased 0.7%. clues to the trajectory of this fiscal, which will be food inflation in the contingent upon the mon- months ahead. Forecast soon and how it plays of above normal monsoon out," said Sunil Sinha, rains has triggered hopes principal economist at of a robust harvest and a India Ratings. "A spurt in revival in rural demand. potato and sugar prices in "In comparison to CPI, April 2016 shows that the the WPI inflation is less aberration in prices of se- relevant for monetary

A KICK IN THE STOMACH'S OF COMMON MAN Wholesale prices turned positive after 17 months in April on the back of strengthening costs of food items mainly pulses, potato and sugar.

Wholesale price of pulses rose an annual 36.4% in April, while potato jumped 35.5%.

Data released by the commerce and industry ministry on Monday showed the wholesale price index rose 0.34% year-on-year in April compared to a decline of 0.85% in March, dashing hopes of any immediate cut in interest rates.

leased by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) showed. Wholesale price of pulses rose an annual 36.4% in April, while potato jumped 35.5%.

Manufactured product price increased 0.7%.

Food products rose

8.7%, while sugar prices shot up 16% during the month. "Ind-Ra believes a rate cut in the Reserve Bank of India's June 2016 policy review is ruled out. Although the agency still expects at least one more rate cut

policy considerations.

However, it carries important signals, some of which have raised alarm bells," said Shubhada Rao, chief economist at Yes Bank. "Food inflation is heating up and could exacerbate further in the near term before the salubrious impact of the anticipated above normal monsoon starts to play out from H2 FY17 onwards. While still relatively subdued, input prices for both agriculture and industry are ascending at a fast pace largely on account of hardening of global commodity prices. The lagged adjustments are likely to provide an upside bias to data revisions," she said.

(Agencies)

Yamaha motor Luxurystation.com brings luxury to your opens motor doorstep at 'affordable prices' cycle assembly plant in Lagos, Nigeria ANI New Delhi, May 18: Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd. announced establishment of its motorcycle assembly plant and modern showroom at the Amuwo Odofin Industrial Scheme in Lagos, Nigeria. The plant opening is the result of the successful testing and full activation of the Yamaha Motor's assembly line which rolled out Yamaha motorcycle models designed for commercial use and commutes. The Governor of Lagos State, Akinwumi Ambode was invited to commission the assembly plant and showroom, accompanied by President, CEO and Representative Director of Yamaha Motor Hiroyuki Yanagi, the Chairman of the management board, CFAO Group, Paris, France, Richard Bielle.

CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria's Managing Director Olivier Levigne said the plant has the capacity for uninterrupted daily production with the target of 70,000 units by 2018, while the showroom exhibits other Yamaha Motor products such as outboard engines, personal watercraft, allterrain vehicles, generators and Yamalube lubricants, all of which are distributed in Nigeria exclusively by CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria. Fujii Hisashi, Deputy Managing Director and also Marketing Director of the company, said: "In addition to the plant and showroom, Yamaha Motor will launch two initiatives: the Yamaha Technical Academy, which will provide technical training and support services, and the Yamaha Riding Academy, which will contribute to motorcycle riding safety in the country."

The joint venture was founded on the manufacturing and marketing expertise of Yamaha Motorand CFAO's business experience and vast distribution network in Nigeria spanning over 113 years.

ANI New Delhi, May 18: Luxurystation.com is an initiative by Kapila Gupta, to provide a platform to luxury retail consumers in India to shop brands that they don't have access to at a price which is significantly more competitive than buying from a retail/ brand store and even to places where stores do not exist. Understanding the consumer is a key, luxury consumer isn't just about looking to buy a product but a complete experience of buying luxury products. Hence Luxurystation.com is not just an online platform but an attempt to offer a more experiential commerce. It is will this intent that they have structured themselves differently from other online players and focused on very key fac-

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: livemint) tors in detail that influence buying decision of a luxury consumer.

Luxurystation.com is the first and probably the only platform to offer inventory within India which allows to them to deliver within a timeframe that the consumer wants. It has deliv-

ered products same day in NCR and within 48 hours in other parts of India. It is the first and the only platform to offer home viewing services wherein selected products can be viewed at the comfort of their home not just on the website but in actual. You

can choose the products, call them and they will send the selected products to your place. Service is largely limited to NCR but will soon be available in Mumbai too. In order to provide a similar experience, Luxurystation.com is also participating in luxury exhibitions, particularly charity led, in cities, which do not have access to luxury stores/ shopping malls, but the latent demand for luxury products exist. The online luxury portal is the first and probably the only platform to offer both new and pre- owned products, which not only expands target audience but also develops a user base that is willing to spend on luxury products online and then giving them the opportunity to sell the products back to the por-

tal. This is another way to authenticate the brands and provides added comfort to the consumers.

Even in Pre-owned section, unlike so many websites that are mushrooming by the day,Luxurystation.com is probably the only one to offer the sellers to direct sell to the website than just consigning on the website.

This obviously means investments by the website which many competitors in this segment find difficult to do. By creating a unique platform that caters to an ever-increasing demand for luxury fashion in all parts of India, we aim to be the preferred online partner to both the global luxury brand and its discerning Indian customer and provide the most authentic luxury buying experience.

Haldiram's in converse with PEs to sell stake, may raise $200m Mumbai, May 18: In what may be one of the most anticipated investment deals in the Indian consumer market, snackfood manufacturer Haldiram's has held initial talks with top-tier private equity funds for a possible $200 million or Rs 1,300 crore capital infusion, people familiar with the development said. Capital International, Everstone Capital, General Atlantic Partners, WestBridge Capital, and TA Associates are among those who have made overtures to pick up a minority stake in the business, combining Nagpur and Delhi branches of the company.

The deal, if and when it goes through, is likely to value the snack manufacturer at around $1 billion, or Rs 6,700 crore, sources cited earlier said.

Haldiram's operates out of three major hubs - Delhi, Nagpur and Kolkata - af-

ter the Agarwal family split the business geographically among themselves in the 1990s. They are all descendant of Gangabhisan Haldiram Bhujiawala who started what is now Haldiram's with a sole shop in Bikaner, Rajasthan back in 193. Despite clocking robust growth over the past two decades, the promoters have desisted getting external financing so far. The deal is likely to have a large secondary transaction wherein existing and new investors will exchange shares for capital and money won't come into the company. Haldiram's may fetch a three to four time multiple on revenue.

This is slightly suppressed due to the lack of an obvious exit and the regionbased market demarcation which has impacted a full throttle growth. "Taking these factors into consideration, a 15-20 times on

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: s3.india) operating profit and 3-4 rate entities, one of the times on topline revenue sources cited earlier in the maybe the reasonable valu- report said. These two ation," said a banker privy branches also control the to the ongoing fund-raising Haldiram's trademark while process. This financing the Kolkata business runs round is expected to see the operations mostly within Delhi and Nagpur outfits - West Bengal. One of the which account for three- private equity investors forth of the operations -- said on the condition of get the investors on board anonymity that the discuseither together or as sepa- sions have progressed with

"the field narrowing down to a few investors". The structuring of a potential deal was still to be worked out with investors preferring to plough funds in a combined entity. The capital infusion could be a combination of fresh equity allotment and a secondary share purchase. The Delhi unit is the largest in the Haldiram's network and also has a sizable (roughly 20%) business coming through retail outlets and restaurants. The Nagpur branch, which is the second biggest, had tested the private equity market in the past but didn't strike any deal. Haldiram's works on a 17-18% operating margin driving through tight working capital management, where most of the business runs on cash and little credit, said an investor who had explored investment opportunities in the past. (Agencies)

Paytm appoints Ruchita Taneja Aggarwal, Priya Karnik for new initiatives

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: paytm) ANI New Delhi, May 18: Paytm, India's largest mobile payments and commerce platform has announced the appointment of Ruchita

Taneja Aggarwal as its lead of banking operations, whereas Priya Karnik will be working on products for Bank. Both Ruchita and Priya were previously asso-

ciated with Citi in leadership roles; while Ruchita was Director-Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS) and Singapore Head - Regional Product Sales, Priya's last role with Citi was as a Director- Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS) - Regional Implementation. Speaking on their appointments, Vice President-Paytm, Amit Sinha said, "We at Paytm, are committed to keep enhancing our services and product portfolio by bringing more experience and talent into our team. We are confident that with them on board, we will be able to drive greater growth and success for the organization." "Paytm is one of the most renowned Indian companies today, and joining

the team is a source of immense pride and delight for me. I will be looking forward to work with this extremely talented bunch of professionals and play my role in the company's continued success," added Ruchita.

Holding an MBA from SP Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai, Ruchita brings almost 14 years of experience in the field of payments and finance. She has been integrally involved in execution, ideation and planning of new business strategies at Citi Transaction Banking as a part of her job responsibilities, and has led sales of complex, multi-country working capital solutions to corporate in India and Singapore. For her efforts,

she was also named the Best Woman Sales Director at the first-ever India Women in Sales Awards, 2015. "It is no secret that Paytm is expanding and diversifying at an exponential rate. Joining the organization gives me an unparalleled opportunity to work with some of the most well-known industry thought leaders who are trying to build something new and unique. I am very excited to be a part of Paytm, and am eagerly looking forward to growing in tandem, both professional and personally, with the organization," added Priya. Paytm's latest recruitment follows the recent appointment of Vipin Surelia as the Vice PresidentRisk and Compliance at the company.

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Rs.275.3 crore net profit posted by Bandhan Bank

Founder and chief executive officer of Bandhan Bank, Chandra Sekhar Ghosh. (Photo: indilens) Kolkata, May 18: Bandhan Bank reported a net profit of Rs.275.3 crore for the seven months ended March 31.

The former microfinance entity, which started operations in August, clocked a deposit base of Rs.12,088.8 crore and a net interest income of Rs.932.7 crore. "The transformation of the microfinance institution into a universal bank has been smooth," founder and chief executive officer Chandra Sekhar Ghosh told reporters. Bandhan is targeting a 30 per cent growth in its business in the current fiscal. It posted a total income of

Rs.1082.7 crore with CASA (Current and Savings Account) at 21.6 per cent. Bandhan's net nonperforming assets were 0.08 per cent and Tier I capital adequacy ratio was 26.7 per cent.

Bandhan now operates in 29 states and union territories with a network of 670 branches and 20,600 employees. It plans to further promote small branch formats. "Our experience has shown that a physical branch inspires confidence and we are locating these branches within residential areas for better accessibility by people," Mr. Ghosh said.

(Agencies)

Rs326cr loss posted by Dena Bank as bad loans provision rise 200% Bengaluru, May 18: State-run Dena Bank reported a net loss of Rs 326.39 crore in the quarter to March due to increase in provisions for bad loans which soared 200 per cent to Rs 1,094 crore. The bank had reported a net profit of Rs 55.82 crore in the same period last year. In the December quarter, the mid-sized lender had reported a net loss of Rs 662.85 crore. "Losses are mainly due to increase in the provisions for NPAs on account of asset quality review and fresh slippages," bank's chairman and managing director Ashwani Kumar told reporters. Provisions for NPAs rose 200 per cent to Rs 1,094.24 crore from Rs 365.93 crore in the year-ago quarter, while total provisions stood at Rs 560.08 crore as against Rs 321.98 crore. For the full year, the bank reported a net loss of Rs 935.32 crore as against a net profit of Rs 265.48. The bank's net interest margins slipped to 2.12 per cent from 2.22 per cent. Kumar sees some more hit on the margin going ahead due to shift to MCLR-based lending rates but expects. The

NIM to marginally improve to 2.25 per cent in FY17. Gross non-performing assets increased to 9.98 per cent from 5.45 per cent while net NPA stood at 6.35 per cent as against 3.82 per cent.

Fresh slippages in the quarter stood at Rs 1,635.89 crore out of which Rs 323 crore came from the AQR. Cash recoveries stood at Rs 360.11 crore, while the bank upgraded Rs 179.06 crore of loans and wrote off Rs 452.70 crore during the quarter. Its total SMA and restructured portfolio rose to at Rs 12,000 crore. "I think, except one or two accounts which may give troubles, we do not have any lumpy accounts now," Kumar said, adding the focus will on recovery going ahead.

During the year, the bank sold Rs 442 crore of bad loans to asset reconstruction companies. Deposits increased to Rs 1,17,431 crore while advances grew to Rs 85,811 crore. The bank is targeting credit growth of 15 per cent and deposit growth of 13 per cent. Kumar said the bank has tied up with Reliance Jio to launch mobile wallet for its customers. (Agencies)

HEAVY LOSS State-run Dena Bank reported a net loss of Rs 326.39 crore in the quarter to March due to increase in provisions for bad loans which soared 200 per cent to Rs 1,094 crore.

The bank had reported a net profit of Rs 55.82 crore in the same period last year.

In the December quarter, the mid-sized lender had reported a net loss of Rs 662.85 crore.

Provisions for NPAs rose 200 per cent to Rs 1,094.24 crore from Rs 365.93 crore in the yearago quarter, while total provisions stood at Rs 560.08 crore as against Rs 321.98 crore.

The bank's net interest margins slipped to 2.12 per cent from 2.22 per cent. Kumar sees some more hit on the margin going ahead due to shift to MCLR-based lending rates but expects.

The NIM to marginally improve to 2.25 per cent in FY17. Gross non-performing assets increased to 9.98 per cent from 5.45 per cent while net NPA stood at 6.35 per cent as against 3.82 per cent.

Fresh slippages in the quarter stood at Rs 1,635.89 crore out of which Rs 323 crore came from the AQR. Cash recoveries stood at Rs 360.11 crore, while the bank upgraded Rs 179.06 crore of loans and wrote off Rs 452.70 crore during the quarter. Its total SMA and restructured portfolio rose to at Rs 12,000 crore.

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

PAGE 11

Dhoni heaps praise on Supergiants' bowling post victory over Daredevils Dinda finished with the figures of 3-20 while Adam Zampa also bagged three wickets giving away mere 21 runs in his quote of four overs.

In reply, Supergiants' play was disrupted by rain and they were declared winners by the DuckworthLewis method after posting 76 in 11 overs.

Dhoni said his bowling department performed as a unit in the match, which helped them to seal victory against the sixthplaced IPL team.

"I think the fast bowlers also bowled well. They gave the platform where the spinners could put the pressure on the opposition

Mahendra Singh Dhoni batsmen. This is something that we were lacking. The fast bowlers were not able to put much pressure upon

Bailey felt Coulter-Nile's bouncer like `hit with a truck` ANI Johannesburg, May 18 :Rising Pune Supergiants star batsman George Bailey, who was struck over a helmet byDelhi Daredevils' Nathan Coulter-Nile bouncer in the Indian Premier League clash, has said it was like a `hit on the face with a truck`.

The former Australian T20 skipper walked away from a major blow when Coulter-Nile delivered a ball in the seventh over that deflected off Bailey's top-edge and struck into the grille of the helmet,Sport24 reported.

The impact of the bouncer was so strong that Bailey's helmet got partially disintegrated and fell just to the sides of the stumps.

Reflecting on the incident, Bailey said he was

George Bailey glad to have one of those mandated British Standard helmets on.

He revealed it was clearly visible that some of the opposition's players were disappointed to see helmet not rolling on to the stumps.

Following the hit, CoulterNile was seen apologizing Bailey, under whom the

Australian pacer made his T20 debut in 2013.

Earlier, Cricket Australia had mandated British Standard helmet against pacemen in the wake of Test batsman Phillip Hughes' death after being knocked by a bouncer during a domestic match in Sydney in November 2014.

Kings XI's Stoinis joins growing list of Aussies returning from IPL cricket.com.au reported.

Stoinis has notched up a total of 146 runs in his five innings and bagged eight wickets for the Kings XI, which are out of the contention for the IPL playoffs.

Marcus Stoinis ANI Melbourne, May 18 : A day after Kings XI Punjab'sGlenn Maxwell was sent home due to a side strain, team-mate Marcus Stoinis has also joined the

list of Australian players leaving the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).

The 26-year-old all-rounder declared `family issue` as the reason behind his withdrawal from the tournament,

Vettel outpaces Rosberg to finish quickest in Barcelona F1 Test

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ANI Johannesburg, May 18 : Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel fended off Mercedes driver Nico Rosbergto emerge as the fastest driver in the opening day of the first in-season test of the Formula OneWorld Championship inBarcelona.

The 28-year-old was one tenth of a second faster than Rosberg, who is currently at the top of the F1 point table with a comfortable lead of 39 points

over Kimi Raikkonen.

Meanwhile, McLaren's Jenson Button finished third and was half a second behind Vettel, Sport24 reported.

The opening test session, which was participated by a total of 10 drivers, took place just two days after the Spanish Grand Prix, which was won by Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who become the youngest winner in F1's history.

With the withdrawal, Stoinis becomes the sixth Australian player to have left the IPL early this season after Mitchell Marsh, skipper Steve Smith, Shaun Marsh, John Hastings and Maxwell, who were all ruled out of the tournament due to their respective injuries.

Smith, Mitchell Marsh and Maxwell are expected to get fit ahead of next month's Caribbean tri-series, which will also feature South Africa.

which the spinners could have really relished. It is good to see them bowl as a unit together and also a bit of luck. Yes, you need

a bit of luck in the game.

Overall, I felt that the bowling department did really well," Dhoni said after the win.

India's limited-overs skipper insisted his bowlers performed to their strength and hopes it would provide them with some comfort level ahead of the next match.

"I feel overall we bowled to our strength today. We know bowling is the department where we face a bit of challenge. and we are bit worried as to who is our best bowling option, who is the one who can give us wickets

with the new ball, whether he can still deliver in the death over.

Something that was always there, but it is good to see us coming into action, doing well.

What really happen is it will give us comfort level for the next season," he said.

With the win, Dhoni's side have also dented Daredevils' hopes of making it to the play-offs.

Supergiants, who are already out of the contention for the play-offs, will play their last inconsequential match against Kings XI Punjab at the same venue on Saturday.

ANI Kolkata, May 18 : Kolkata Knight Riders' all-rounder Andre Russell has been ruled out of the side's crucial match against Gujarat Lions due to a leg injury.

The West Indies cricketer walked off the field during the side's nine-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore with a suspected injury to his left leg, ESPNcricinfo reported.

The 28-year-old is the third-highest wicket-taker of the tournament, having scalped 15 wickets so far.

He has also notched up a total of 188 runs for Knight Riders.

Andre Russel

Gautam Gambhir' side, who have to win both of their remaining matches to confirm their place in the playoffs, are currently standing second with 14 points.

They will play against Gujarat Lions at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.

IOC: 31 caught in retests of 2008 Beijing Oly samples AP London, May 18 : In a major doping crackdown stretching back eight years, 31 athletes in six sports could be barred from competing in this year's Olympics after they were caught in retesting of drug samples from the 2008 Beijing Games, and other positive cases could emerge from the 2012 London Games.

The International Olympic Committee opened disciplinary proceedings yesterday against the 31 unidentified athletes from 12 countries who competed in Beijing and were planning to take part in the Rio de Janeiro Games in August.

"This is a powerful strike against the cheats," IOC President Thomas Bach

said. "They show once again that dopers have no place to hide."

The IOC said it also planned to reanalyze drug tests from the 2014 Sochi Winter Games after allegations samples were tampered with as part of a state-sponsored Russian doping program.

The positive cases from Beijing emerged from the recent retesting of 454 doping samples with "the very latest scientific analysis methods," the IOC said.

The Olympic body stores samples for 10 years to allow for retesting with improved techniques, with athletes caught facing retroactive disqualification and loss of any medals.

The IOC said it could not immediately identify the

International Olympic Committee athletes caught in the Beijing retests for legal reasons, saying it would inform the relevant national Olympic committees in the coming days.

"All those athletes infringing anti-doping rules will be banned from competing at the Olympic Games" in Rio, the

IOC said after a teleconference meeting of its policy-making executive board.

Results of retesting of 250 samples from the London Olympics will be announced shortly, the IOC said. Those tests were also aimed at athletes planning to compete

in Rio. The IOC said it would also undertake a "wider retesting program" of medalists from both the Beijing and London Games.

Samples of athletes who could be promoted to medals following disqualification of drug cheats will also be retested.

The IOC also asked the World Anti-Doping Agency to launch a "fully-fledged investigation" into allegations that the drug-testing system in Sochi was subverted

by Russian officials.

The IOC said it would ask the Lausanne antidoping lab and WADA to proceed with analyzing Sochi samples "in the most sophisticated and efficient way possible.

Sri Lanka in search of more Headingley heroics AFP Leeds, May 18 : Kaushal Silva has urged Sri Lanka to fill the void left by Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara when they return to the scene of one their greatest triumphs for the first Test against England at Headingley tomorrow.

Two years ago, Yorkshire's headquarters ground was the stage where Sri Lanka clinched a dramatic victory off the penultimate ball to secure their first Test series win in England.

But their first tour of England since that campaign sees them without Sangakkara and

Jayawardene, both now retired from international duty.

"We did well here," said Silva, an opening batsman who played in that victorious 2013 team, at Headingley on Tuesday.

"We were thrilled with that, but this is a new series.

"Sanga and Mahela have left now. So it's time for all these youngsters to take their responsibility and do their jobs.

"We need to make sure we put up at least 300 ... to put ourselves in the game."

Sri Lanka will also be without injured paceman Dhammika Prasad, whose five second-in-

nings wickets played a key role in the tourists' 2014 victory at Headingley.

"He is one of the key bowlers, and obviously we'll miss him," said Silva ahead of the threeTest series.

"But we have other very talented bowlers," he added of an attack that also includes Suranga Lakmal and Nuwan Pradeep, as well as the decidedly sharp Dushmantha Chameera.

Sri Lanka will again be captained by Angelo Mathews, with the allrounder's excellent hundred paving the way for their success at Headingley two years ago.

The once feared pitch at Headingley, in Leeds, northern England, is now generally a good surface to bat on, albeit one with pace and bounce, and overhead conditions largely determine how much assistance a seam attack will receive.

Yorkshire coach Jason Gillespie said it was important bowlers avoided a "pretty length".

"Sometimes if fast bowlers see the ball whizzing through to the keeper at chest height a bit of ego then comes into play," the former Australia quick told the Sunday Times.

"It is that 'pretty length'.

It looks good but is it ac-

tually challenging the batsmen and putting him under pressure?"

England have a poor recent record at Headingley, with just one win and four defeats at the northern venue since 2007.

In their first Test campaign since a series win in South Africa, England will have to decide whether to give a debut to Nottinghamshire's Jake Ball, who has made an impressive start to the county season, or retain Steven Finn as the third seamer behind James Anderson and Stuart Broad -- now the world's number-one ranked Test bowler.

Raina returns as Lions hope to roar against Russell-less KKR PTI Kanpur, May 18 : Skipper Suresh Raina's return could not have been better-timed as Gujarat Lions, jolted by the tournament's biggest ever defeat, seek to revive their campaign when they face off with Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League here tomorrow.

The Knight Riders will be handicapped by the absence of in-from allrounder Andre Russell, and Gujarat Lions will look to capitalise on the void at the Green Park, which will be hosting its first-ever IPL match.

In the pecking order, KKR are placed in second position with 14 points and a good positive net run rate, despite being humbled by Royal Challengers Bangalore by nine wickets in their last match.

note and even occupied the top spot for a while, experienced their worst day when they suffered a 144-run humiliation at the hands of Royal Challengers Bangalore last Saturday.

The two-time former champions have won seven matches and lost five in 12 outings so far, and a win tomorrow will definitely bring them closer to a play-off berth.

In their maiden season, the Lions are at the moment occupying the fourth place with 14

Blazing centuries from AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli left the Lions attack bruised and battered, and a shaken batting line-up was sent packing for 104 runs.

The time has come for Lions to regroup and the presence of Raina, who missed his first-ever IPL game since its inception in 2008 because of the

Suresh Raina points, but their net run rate is inferior to Knight Riders. They have also won as many games as

the Gautam Gambhirled side.

Lions, who started the season on an impressive

birth of his first child, could work in their favour, considering that the left-handed batsman has been prolific in this slam-bang league over the past nine seasons.

Half of their worries will be taken care of if the dazzling opening combo of Dwayne Smith and Brendon McCullum fires.

Raina, Aaron Finch and Dwayne Bravo make the middle order look quite formidable, while bits and pieces players such as Ravindra Jadeja and Dinesh Karthik form the lower order of Lions' batting.

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ANI Visakhapatnam, May 18 : Rising Pune Supergiants skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has admitted that his side were lacking in bowling department so far, but is glad to see them finally returning to action during his side's 19-run win over Delhi Daredevils in their Indian Premier League (IPL) clash at the ACAVDCA Cricket Stadium last evening.

Opting to bat first, Delhi Daredevils failed to counter Supergiants' bowling attack and were restricted to 121 runs in their stipulated 20 overs.

Man of the match Ashok

Leg injury forces KKR's Russell out of Gujarat Lions clash

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, MAY 19

Page 12

FASCINATING FACTS 1.

Banging your head against a wall burns 150 calories an hour.

2.

When hippos are upset, their sweat turns red.

Rumpelstiltskin Once there was a poor miller who had a very beautiful daughter. One day, he went to the king's court and claimed that his daughter could spin straw into gold. The king ordered the miller's daughter to come to the palace. He took her to a room full of straw and said to her, "You must spin all this straw into gold tonight, or you shall die!" The miller's daughter was locked in the room alone. She did not know what to do and began to cry.

Suddenly, a dwarf came out of nowhere and asked her, "Why are you crying?" When she told him the story, he said, "Don't worry, I will spin the straw into gold, but what will you give me in return?" "I will give you my necklace!" she promised. The dwarf spun all the straw into gold.

The next day, when the king saw this, he was astonished and pleased. He became greedier. He took the girl to a bigger room and said, "Spin all this straw into gold or you shall die!" She was locked inside again, and once again she began to cry. The tiny man came into the room once more.

He said, "If I spin all the straw into gold, what will you give me this time?" She gave him her gold, ring and he sat through the night and spun all

the straw into gold.

The third morning, the king was very happy to see the room full of gold. He took her to the biggest room filled with straw and said, "If you spin all this straw into gold, you shall become my wife!" The girl was

expecting to become the king's wife. The tiny man spun all the straw into gold in the night.

The next day, the king was pleased to see the gold. He married the girl and soon they had a baby.

The tiny man came to the

Spin all this straw into gold or you shall die!" She was locked inside again, and once again she began to cry. The tiny man came into the room once more. (Photo: 1.bp.blogspot)

locked up and once again, she began to cry. This time, when the little man came to her, she said, "I do not have anything to give you, sir! What will I do?" He said, "Promise me that you will give me your first born child when you become the queen!" The girl agreed to do so, because she was not

queen to take her baby away but she had forgotten about the promise. She cried and begged him to leave her baby alone.

The tiny man said, "I will not take your baby if you can guess my name! I will give you three days!" Saying this, he disappeared. The queen tried to remember all kinds of names.

The next night, when he came, she told him all the uncommon names she could think of, "Perhaps your name is Shortribs, or Sheepshanks, or Laceleg," but he always answered, "That is not my name." The next day the queen sent her servants all over the country to get all the possible names of the people. That night, the dwarf came to the queen again but she could not guess his real name.

On the third day, one of the queen's servants went into the forest to find the little man. Deep in the woods, the servant found him dancing and singing happily in front of a fire. He sang, "Today I bake, tomorrow I brew, the next I'll have the young queen's child.

Ha, glad am I that no one knew, that Rumpelstiltskin I am styled!"

The servant went back to the palace and told the queen the name of the dwarf.

That night, when the little man carne to the queen, she was already prepared. The tiny man challenged, "Do you give up?

Shall I take your child away?" The queen smiled and replied, "Is your name Harry? Is it Conrad? Perhaps it is Rumpelstiltskin!" Hearing his name, the tiny man screamed, "How could you possibly know my name?" Saying this, he ran away, deep into the forest never to be seen again.

3.

People say "Bless you" when you sneeze because when you sneeze, your heart stops for a mili-second.

4.

If you try to suppress a sneeze, you can rupture a blood vessel in your head or neck and die.

5.

Wearing headphones for just an hour will increase the bacteria in your ear by 700 times.

6.

Like fingerprints, everyone's tongue print is different.

7.

A crocodile can't move its tongue and cannot chew. Its digestive juices are so strong that it can digest a steel nail.

8.

Donald Duck comics were banned from Finland because he doesn't wear any pants.

9.

Leonardo da Vinci could write with one hand and draw with the other at the same time.

10.

Chewing gum while peeling onions will keep you from crying!

CRAFTY CRAFTS Jumping Origami Frogs Here's what you need: 1 square sheet of origami paper 4 green cupcake liners (optional) Number stamps and stamp pad (optional) Here's what to do: 1. Cut a square sheet of paper in half lengthwise.

2. Fold each rectangle into a frog as follows: 3. Fold the rectangle in half to mark the center line; unfold it.

4. Fold, then unfold each corner toward the center line to create two X-shaped folds. c. Bring one short edge to the center; tuck in sides to create a triangle. Repeat on other side. You now have a diamond with an opening in the center.

5. Rotate it so that the center line is parallel to you.

6. Fold the top left corner to meet the top middle point of the diamond. Repeat with remaining corners to get small diamonds at the top and bottom.

7. For the feet, fold each small flap in half so that the points face out.

8. Fold the top two feet in half again, toward the center.

Flip over.

Jumping frogs is a perfect craft for any children.

(Photo: creativejewishmom.typepad) 9. Bring the outside right corner to the center. Repeat with the opposite corner.

10. Fold up the bottom; tuck it under the two side flaps.

Flip over.

11. Fold the bottom half up so the bottom and top feet overlap, then fold it in half back down. Flip over.

LITTLE SCIENTIST Try Some Lava In A Cup

A clear drinking glass 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon salt Water Food coloring (optional) What to do Fill the glass about 3/4 full of water.

Add about 5 drops of food coloring - I like red for the lava look.

Slowly pour the vegetable oil into the glass. See how the oil floats on top - cool huh? It gets better.

Now the fun part: Sprinkle the salt on top of the oil.

Watch blobs of lava move up and down in your glass!

If you liked that, add another teaspoon of salt to keep the effect going.

How does it work?

So what's going on? Of course, it's not real lava but it does look a bit like a lava lamp your parents may have had. First of all, the oil floats on top of the water because it is lighter than the water. Since the salt is heavier than oil, it sinks down into the water and takes some oil with it, but then the salt dissolves and back up goes the oil! Pretty cool huh?

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