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ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Save, To Save Income Tax

Issue 207

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Dibrugarh, Friday, January 1, 2016

Key schemes launched Narendra Modi in 2015

Arunachal Round up - 2015 Page 8

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 31

This could be possible due to timely submission of Utilization Certificates in respect of all schemes/projects/programs of the Ministry of Tourism sanctioned to the state government in the last couple of years.

Terming the development as a New Year gift to the people of the state, Chief Minister

ET CAPSULES Tarun Gogoi extended heartiest greetings and best wishes

Tarun Gogoi Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi extended heartiest greetings and best wishes to the people of Assam on the eve of the New Year.

In a statement here today, Chief Minister Gogoi, “Making Assam a leading State is the aim of my Government and I seek your continued support and cooperation in making this happen. I convey my best wishes to you all for the New Year.”

He said it is time to ‘take stock of our past accomplishments’ now and look to the future with ‘renewed optimism and dedication’.

“Let us resolve on this special occasion to strive hard to build a strong, vibrant and resilient Assam.” (Staff Reporter)

File photo of Parliamentary Secretary Mama Natung (left) with Union Tourism Minister Nabam Tuki urged the department to ensure that the fund is utilized judiciously and on time.

mentation to the state government, which would be forwarded to the Government of India on a regular basis.

divissions, craft bazaar with amphitheater at Ziro and infrastructure development in Yomcha sub-division.

"The department will have to commence the work immediately to ensure timely utilization of funds and to avoid cost escalation. As per rule the project should be commissioned within a maximum period of 30 months," he said.

Tuki called for constituting a Monitoring Committee for the purpose of providing feedback on the progress of imple-

Of the many projects sanctioned under the Integrated Development of New Adventure Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, some of the important ones are development of tourist complex at Nafra, rafting and angling centers in Seppa, development of Papu, Pasa and Pakke Valleys in East Kameng, tourism infrastructure in Sagalee and Doimukh sub-

A visibly happy Parliamentary Secretary of Tourism Mama Natung termed the development as key towards realizing the department's goal of making Arunachal Pradesh a tourism hub and the most sought after tourist destination in the country as well as in the world. He reaffirmed his commitment of creating world class tourism infrastructure to

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'India supports bid for political consensus in Nepal'

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2016 begins on a good note for tourism in Arunachal Pradesh 2016 has already begun in a good note for Arunachal Pradesh! Tourism in the state is all set to get a big boost this year with the sanction of Rs 97,13,67,718 thanks to the constant pursuance of the State Tourism Department headed by its Parliamentary Secretary Mama Natung.

The state government had submitted a proposal called 'Integrated Development of New Adventure Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh' for development of infrastructure and basic amenities necessary to tap the immense tourism potential of the state. Endorsed

by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, the proposal got the nod of the Union Tourism Ministry, which was intimated to the state government on Tuesday.

Of the total amount sanctioned, Rs 19,42,73,544, which is 20% of the sanctioned Central Financial Assistance (CFA), has been released for utilization by the state government as the first installment for starting the works.

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As the sun sets in for the last time in 2015, ‘The Eastern Today’ wishes all its readers, agents, advertisers and clients a very ‘Happy New Year’

Of the total amount sanctioned, Rs 19,42,73,544, which is 20% of the sanctioned Central Financial Assistance (CFA), has been released for utilization by the state government as the first installment for starting the works. facilitate all kinds and class of tourists inflow in the state.

"Days are not far when Arunachal Pradesh will be the prime tourist destination for all and in the sideline will generate ample job opportunities for the young unemployed youths of Arunachal Pradesh" he pinned high hopes. Natung further assured that his department would leave no stone unturned to ensure that the funds are judiciously and expeditiously used for development of tourism industry in the state.

Rules to ring in New Year in Guwahati A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 31

It won't be a 'dry' new year in Assam's main city Guwahati this time. As a special case, the Kamrup (metro) district administration has allowed bars, pubs and restaurants to remain open till later hours than usual on New Year's eve tomorrow.

The state government had earlier declared the first and last

day of every month, with the exception of December 31, 'dry day'. Usually, bars in the city remain open from 1300 hrs to 2200 hrs and wine shops, from 1400 hrs to 2200 hrs. The district administration would, however, keep a watch on these places and ensure that no law and order situation arises. Besides laying down several strict norms, the administration has made it mandatory for bars and pubs to ensure that no customer was allowed to drive

Maize cultivation brings to Assam Police to roll out smiles to Barkshetri farmers ambitious ‘Citizen Portal’ Ramen Kalita Nalbari, Dec 31

Though maize is an important crop in India and its position is after the rice and wheat the farmers in the state is still lacking the cultivation of maize. Despite the land of the state is fertile for maize cultivation the lack of initiatives by agriculture department and awareness the farmers are not interested for this cultivation. However the poor farmers of Na-Para areas in Nalbari district succeed to take place green revolution in the maize cultivation. The farmers of NaPara and its adjoining areas near the Brahmaputra river has been cultivating the maize since last six years. “We have been raising maize for last six years and getting encouraging production”, said Batsa Ali who is a progressive farmer of the village. However the NABARD this year explored the maize cultivation of Na-Para areas and came forward to help the farmer's providing necessary supports. The NABARD with the help of Janashakti Bikash Mancha, a leading NGO of the district identified the farmers of the areas who have been engaged in maize cultivation. While talking to this Correspondent Ajay Das of the NGO said that they identified 114 farmers of the areas and

from January 1 A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 31

A view of Maize cultivation at Barkshetri. have given them the technical support by the scientists of Nalbari Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK).Then the farmers were given free seeds, fertilizers to raise maize at an areas of 114 bighas. Fortunately the farmers encouraged in the efforts of NABARD extended their areas 3000 to 4000 bighas now. We encouraged in the efforts of NABARD and Janashakti Vikash Mancha and equipped with the technical knowhow of KVK to extend our crop areas own, said one Taizuddin Shikdar of the village. He further said that they are producing maize upto 12 to14 quintals per bigha and sold it at a price of Rs 1,200 per quintal. Shikdar added that the maize has a good market at Guwahati and Rangiya. As the growth of

the maize become much more healthy, the farmers expected surplus production by this time.

When this Correspondent visited the areas recently it was seen that thousands bighas of maize is in flowering stage which adds a scenic beauty in the river in areas. The district development manager of NABARD Debojyoti Biswas said that they developed the cluster under the scheme of farm sector promotion fund (FSPF). He added that the farmers are more interested to the new crop which they are raising twice in a season rabi and spring.

The chief scientist of Nalbari KVK Dr Mridul Deka said that the maize is an important of various package food, cosmetics items and animal feed.

Bringing policing closer to the people, Assam Police will roll out its ambitious "Citizen Portal" from January 1 as a pilot project by offering a host of services like tenant or staff verification, issue of character certificate and event request.

"We will initially offer only a few services during the pilot launching of the site.

The e-services will be available to citizens having internet connections, enabling them to avail the services without having to go to police stations," said Assam Additional Director General of Police (Communication) Anil Kumar Jha The portal, which will be launched tomorrow and its performance monitored for the first two months, is being developed under Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) project, he

said.

"The site will initially offer services like tenant, domestic help or employee verification, character certificate and requests for protest, strike, procession and organising events. Once the testing is successful, more online services will be opened," Jha said.

The address of the portal i s www.assampolice.assam.gov.in and all police stations having an internet connection are connected with the system.

He said that the next step would be to include registration of complaints through the Citizen Portal. "The biggest grievance against police stations that we get from the public is non-registration of complaints. By allowing complaint registration through the Citizen Portal, this bottleneck will go away.

Anyone will be able to file a

home in a drunken state. The bar owners have to get a taxi for such customers or inform the police, who will make the arrangement. Upping its ante against erring pubs and restaurants, licences of six pubs and bars were temporarily suspended today by the district administration. Notices have also been served to three others.

The civil and police administration of the city are taking steps to ensure safe celebration of New Year.

Nargis Fakhri to welcome 2016 in Dubai ANI New Delhi, Dec 31

Anyone will be able to file a complaint from anywhere and nobody needs to request anyone," Jha said.

In Assam, the CCTNS project implementation has been completed in 312 police stations and 154 offices of higher officials, with continuing digitisation of the FIRs across the state.

"In 2015, around 1.04 lakh FIRs have been registered across the state, of which over 96 per cent cases have already been digitised. The CCTNS system has also integrated the Vahan software with all police stations to directly upload the status of stolen and recovered vehicles," Jha said.

He, however, said 97 police stations were currently working offline as standalone units due to nonavailability of internet connectivity as most of them are located in remote areas.

Nargis Fakhri Bollywood actress Nargis Fakhri is all set to ring out the old year and ring in the new in Dubai.

Sharing a collage of pictures on her Instagram, the 36-year-old model wrote, "Here we go! NYC to DXB for some NYE fun #dubai @visit.dubai."

Responding to the post, one of her followers wrote, "@nargisfakhri in dubai. I'd love to say give us a shout as we are in Dubai but hey ho lol have fun."

Nargis will be soon seen in the upcoming flick 'Housefull 3,' that also stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan and Riteish Deshmukh in the pivotal roles and will hit the screens on June 3, 2016.

Arunachal Pradesh to host 3-day Kameng River Festival on the river bank

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Arunchal Pradesh's 3-day Kameng River Festival (KRF) which is scheduled to start from January 21 will be organised for the first time on the banks of the mighty Kameng, as reported by a English Daily.

Based on the theme, ‘Explore the Unexplored’, the tourism extravaganza has been organised by the East Kameng Social Welfare and

Cultural Organisation (EKSWCO) in collaboration with the East Kameng district administration and sponsored by the State Tourism Department. "The festival will offer adventurous and exhilarating sports like white water rafting, paragliding, zip-lining, rappelling and angling, both modern and traditional, including local fishtrapping. Besides, bamboo stilt walks, cycling to villages, greasy bamboo pole climbing, beach volleyball,

archery and paintball will be among a host of other attractions," said Ajit Tajo Sonam, Festival Director.

He further added that the festival would be a rare platform for the people of the district to promote the Kameng River and the endangered flora and fauna to the outside world. The KRF will create a larger platform to sensitize people on hospitality and the adventure tourism potential of the districts, Sonam said, flanked

by Khya Safar Pao,

EKSWCO Chairman and Mara Kocho, Marketing Manager, EKSWCO. The district is home to mainly five tribes - Nyishi, Hrusso (Aka), Sajolang (Miji), Puroik and Galo. It will also offer a wide range of accommodation facilities, including home stays, and a wide range of mouth watering delicacies at a reasonable price, Sonam added.

The KRF would be a people-centric festival and people from all strata of the society would participate in

it. Pao said wildlife meat would be banned in the food festival, which is a part of the main event, following a resolution adopted by the 38-year-old EKSWCO recently. Moreover, he said, the festival would be plastic free and only traditional bamboo-made utensils would be used. Referring to the cleanliness of Seppa, the district headquarters, Pao said funds had been allocated to construct public toilet in each colonies for use during the festival.

A file picture of Kameng River.

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A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 31

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY1

Governor conveys New Year greetings A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 31: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa greeted the people of the State on the festive occasion of New Year. Conveying his warm greetings and best wishes to each and every citizen of Arunachal Pradesh for a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2016, the Governor wished that the festivity of the New Year herald the year of extraordinary progress, abundance of peace, fellow feeling, tranquillity and prosperity and enhance the pace of all round development in the State.

In his New Year message to the people, the Governor said that for better future of all the people, particularly the younger generation, let

sources, while flowing with Digital India Mission.

While exhorting the people, the Governor advised them to create a strategic and efficient social infrastructure by placing priority on creating infrastructure for transport, roads, railways, air services, bridges, educational institutions, communication and other amenities with emphasis on addressing the needs of all sections of people in the coming year.

JP Rajkhowa us establish a new foundation for growth by revitalizing financial and capital markets and enhance the financial systems with a view to encouraging investment, creating a conducive environment and strengthening of the IT related human re-

Let us build strong linkages between industry, academia, and government, create an environment conducive to new industry and development of local skills, entrepreneurship through enhancing capabilities, foster entrepreneurs and facilitate greater opportunities for job

144 in Satajan area of Lakhimpur ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; Dec 31: Lakhimpur District Magistrate cum Deputy Commissioner Debeswar Malakar Imposed prohibitory order under section 144Cr PC restricting observation of picnic on 31st December, 2015 and

1st January, 2016 within a radius of 3 km in Satajan area. Through a press release, it is stated in support of the exercise of this power that due to large scale observation of picnic in and around Satajan local bird habitation and migratory birds’

habitation area and use of loud speaker by the picnic parties which caused noise pollution may threat to the very presence of the migratory and local birds.

This order will come into force with immediate effect and shall remain in force until further order.

creation. Explore planned, time-bound employment avenues for job seekers and restore sound fiscal policy relating to employment insurance. Enhance employment opportunities through regulatory reform and revitalization of existing industries, focusing on handloom, handicrafts, tourism, agri-horticulture based units in the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises sector.

Let us develop a compound, multi-track educational system for creating creative, hard-working, committed, multi-skilled manpower determined to face challenges internationally by introducing competitive principles and promoting University reforms and higher thrust through use of information

technology in education.

Let us take to heart that the Government and the State can forge ahead to keep pace with the rest of India only with the active co-operation and participation of every citizen of the State.

The Governor called upon the people to pledge to rededicate oneself to work hard, selflessly and with utmost sincerity, with true spirit of work ethics and work culture to make Arunachal Pradesh an ideal and prosperous State of our country on the joyous occasion of the New Year.

Once again, I wish my beloved people of Arunachal Pradesh a very Happy and Prosperous New Year 2016, the Governor wished in his message.

State Level Seminar at Golaghat Commerce College Golaghat, Dec 31: The Entrepreneurship and Career Guidance Cell of Golaghat Commerce College is going to organise a state level seminar on 29 & 30 January 2016. The main topic of the seminar will be "Present Education System and Students, Employment opportunities, Personality development and Self dependence". The seminar will be for college level students

where the Head of the Department of Modern Indian Language and Literature of Gauhati University Dr Dilip Bora, Secretary General of Shabdbharti Mohan Koirala and Career Counsellor Ranjan Baruah will be present as resource persons.

Interested participants can contact the coordinator of ECGC of Golaghat Commerce College Bhaskar Kakati.

Mothers Vision takes up exemplary works for Road safety eradicating drug abuses and cleanliness in West Siang week Aalo, Dec 31: A close scru- an unregulated society not movement and largely re- sacrificing their working, ET Correspondent Tezpur, Dec 31: Like in the past few years the district administration here in association with the District Transport authority has initiated to observe the road safety week from January 10. For the purpose an important meeting was held at the conference Hall of the District Transport Office conference hall today. Presided over by the DTO, Mahtab Ali the meeting was attended by members of Sonitpur District Road Safety conference, Dr. Durlav Saikia from Department of Heal, Sonitpur, officials from PWD (R), Police, traffic Branch among others. As per the decision of the meeting it was resolved to start the weeklong programme with the unfurling of flag at the campus of the office of the DTO, Sonitpur. During the programme, an awareness programme will be carried out through banner, distribution of hand bill etc. An official release said adding this time’s motto of the road safety week is “Road safety Time For Action” and urged all concerned including drivers, common people, students etc. to participate in the programme.

sponsible for controlling drug menace, night time nuisances through self patrolling, cleaning all sectors and colonies and awareness campaign on health and hygiene. They have worked to the extent of converting the dust heaps to flower gardens and put dustbins all around the streets of Aalo and market areas.

But sadly few sections of disgruntled youths have uprooted the sign board put up at self established office; a sad sign that is likely to upset the morale of the working women. Is it the price we pay to the mothers who are

waking and domestic engagements to take a lead role in such kind of social movement? Cannot we treat them as our own mothers?

We all hope that good sense will prevail upon our brethren to desist from such unwanted and demoralizing activities and come to terms with the noble role played by our mothers. We also appeal the members of the mothersâ•™ vision to march ahead with steadier strides and spirit with the dawn of the New Year. We all wish them a happy New Year and prosperous days ahead. (DIPRO)

Pre-centenary celebration of Assam Sahitya Sabha at Kalaigaon

Various FDR schemes proposed

by WRD and PWD

tiny of official documents reveals that heaps of NGOs and Welfare societies are registered under the Society Registration Act but remain dormant or work on the line to mitigate its own end without touching the core issues that plague our society. As such we tend to remain mute spectators to what is going on around in our society leaving administration and police to tackle all nuisances like drug abuses, flesh trades, thefts, cleanliness and other multiple teenage problems that are doing the rounds in present time that tends to take us to

at all conducive for peaceful society to live in unless a uniform thought pattern emanates from our social framework to work as cohesive unit to nip all vices in the bud.

The emergence of registered West Siang based NGO, Mothers Vision is a force to be reckoned with for the last three years in eradicating drug abuses and cleanliness in West Siang though its vicious and relentless campaigns. The NGO has garnered the support of the women of entire colonies, Sectors and villages to make it a vibrant

Shajid Khan Tangla,Dec 31:The two days long pre-centenary celebration of Asom Sahitya Sabha came to an end at Kalaigaon on December 27.The programme was organized at Kalaigaon public play ground by Kendukolai Sahitya Samaj.On the concluding day on December 27,ninety eight distinguished people hoisted same number of Sabha flags at 9 am to mark the beginning of the centenary celebration of Asom Sahitya Sabha.

Kalaigaon;DN Hazarika SDO(S), Udalguri; Nabin Chandra Boro, Inspector of Schools, Udalguri; former Kalaigaon MLAsMaheswar Boro and Mahendra M Rai Choudhury; senior social workers Kami Ram Saharia and Mahendra Saikia etc were among the distinguished people hoisting ninety eight Sabha flags, while Abul Hussain,president Kendukalai Sahitya Samaj of Kalaigaon hoisted the main Sabha flag.

Jagadish Sarkar, EM, BTC; Mukunda Ram Choudhury, MLA,

It was followed by painting and quiz competition for children and another

session “Ramdhenu” for youths.Noted journalist Mukut Raj Sarma anchored the flag hoisting and felicitation ceremony. Earlier on December 26 a memorial session was held in the morning to offer homage to departed souls of former officials and workers of Asom Sahitya Sabha.

At 3 pm another event “Akash” was organized for woman and girls of Kalaigaon area. Hundreds of woman and girls in and around Kalaigaon took part in the programme.Binu Deka Saikia and Bijuli Deka Das conducted the event.

Aalo, Dec 31: The members of Sub divisional Relief Assessment Committee Doimukh conducted spot verification on 03. 11.15 and 29.12.15 last respectively of various FDR schemes proposed by WRD and PWD forwarded to SDO Doimukh by the Director Disaster management through the DC Papum Pare , Yupia. During scrutiny and verification many FDRs which were technically not correct or not feasible on ground were rejected. The members of SDRAC comprised of Smti Tana Yayo Nabam ZPM, Y. Lotus Chair person A/S, O.Mengu ADO, B.Raju AE PWD ,Dr. T.Anya MO and N.Epo GB was lead by M.Pertin CO cum Chairperson of the committee and assisted by officers; Shri N. Apa,AE , Shri N. Teli JE WRD and PWD during the spot verification. (DIPRO)

Satajan Meen Palan Samity demands to allow the Satajan marsh for fish growing ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Dec 31: "Let the 'Satajan' marsh be allowed to the unemployed to use for fish growing instead of creating it a Bird's Park.

To create the marsh as Bird's Park, in the mean time Myadi Patta land of fifteen poor farmers has been evicted."-revealing this data thus demanded the Satajan Meen Palan Aru Udyan Khetra Samity to the State Government in a Press Conference held at North Lakhimpur Press Club. Demanding this, Secretary

Uttam Kumar Gogoi, President Dhaneswar Tamuli, Acting President Ajit Saikia stated that the crops land of Satajan had been becoming to be underwater during the period from 1985 to 2000.

Then the Pattadar farmers constituted the Satajan Meen Palan Aru Udyan Khetra Samity in 2000 registering under the State Govt. and had been developmental activities upto 2002. They alleged that a few persons with vested interest got involved in conspiracy against the Samity.

According to the Samity, a voluntary organization viz Ranganadi Prakriti Surakhya Samity, being associated with Green Heritage, misled the people and the administration and became barrier for the farmers with regard to use the ancestorial properties. They cleared that 66 Bighas of the area of Satajan marsh are of Myadi Patta and rest 52 Bighas were taken in liege from the Railway Department in between 2001and 2003 depositing revenue properly. Its certificate was

issued by CO of Nowboicha and the ADC of Lakhimpur.

Significantly, the then DC of Lakhimpur ordered the SMUKS to stop their fish growing activities as per the application of Ranganadi Prakrty Surakhya Samity and Bikash Samity. As a result the SMUKS filed a petition in the Guwahati High Court. The honourable High Court sentenced a judgement for the favour of the Samity. As per the verdict, though the CO of Nowboicha handed over the lands to the farmers, the

NEW CHAPTER

certificate has still not been issued till the date. In such circumstances, the antilobby becomes active when the Samity attempted to render fish growing activities and that is why a Contempt Case was filed again.

As a consequence, the High Court instructed the Government to finalise a decision regarding the issue after a PIL filed by Ranganadi Prakriti Surakhya Samity. So, the Samity demanded the Government to resolve the issue in no time.

Journalists in Dibrugarh release an audio CD "Mon Akahot Ure" by singer Dronjyoti Hazarika during a function held at GDPC, Dibrugarh today. Pic - UB Photos

ASTRO FOR YOU You feel lost and thoroughly depressed today. This will make you turn towards spirituality. You will devote more time to meditation and will pray a lot. Despite the adverse circumstances, you will make a good deal of material headway.

You will be very planned and focused, poised and practical in handling your affairs today. You’ll be able to identify the best strategy, course of action that the situations demand. This day you would be performing like a specialist, a real expert and will not fail to accomplish whatever you have set out to do.

Most likely you will be taking up several projects and assignments in course of the day.

The day will be dedicated to spending quality time with children. You will be overloaded with household responsibilities and will find it tough to deal with them. However, you will manage to do well and will be satisfied with the outcome. Avoid getting too sentimental if you are a parent; also, you may have to act tough with your kids.

A shopping spree with your darling is likely to be the highlight of the day, even though you will be paying for almost everything. Though you have decided to be this lavish out of sheer love, your sweetheart will more than return the favour with a sweaty thank you ‘return gift’ in the evening.

Don’t expect you’ll be handed everything on a silver platter. Especially today, you must put such expectations on the back burner. Today, you would do better to dig deep into your resources of persistence, as a somewhat less productive day awaits you. But do not let this momentary glitch upset you; stick to your plan and slog it out. Efforts made today will have a major bearing on the fruits you receive in the future.

You will charm people with your flexibility of thought and willingness to adjust today. Those under the spell of love will see an unexpected turn of events; but don’t panic, as things will eventually work out in your favour. Some quality family time is also on the cards. Strengthen the family bond by adopting your responsibilities and paying respect to family tradition and conventions.

For people you may appear to be a miser but when it comes to your closed ones you will never hold back or hesitate to spend. Today is a good day to take your loved ones shopping. You may overspend your budget but the spending will give you a feeling of happiness and contentment.

Life is the best teacher, they say. And today, you even experience this. You may learn to survive the neck-tight competition in the market. This may invite a lot of envy, but nothing shall bother you. Remember the adage, ‘To err is human, to forgive is divine,’ so, it’s fine even if you commit some errors.

You will enjoy the magic of the Midas touch today. In business, sheer brilliance will help you derive the best possible results in productivity and clinching new contracts. Your approach, in general, will be methodical, disciplined and systematic for most part of the day.

The day will be of paramount significance as you are likely to meet someone who will be associated with you for life. Also, relationships and relatives will keep you busy for major part of the day. You may not find it interesting, but you will not have any options either. A visit to holy places for some peace of mind is also likely. Back home, you will do what you would have preferred doing the entire day – spend time with your family and loved ones.

It’s a day you may want to spend with yourself. But it may still not bring the desired peace and tranquility. An unpleasant situation may force you to deal with reality. You now realise how much strength you derive from your devotion to God. You set irreproachable standards for yourself, but what keeps your subordinates from grumbling about it is the efforts you make to help them achieve perfection in their endeavours. You inspire, they aspire.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights

1-1-16 (FRIDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti 6-15 A.M-Gandhi Prarthana 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan (Students' Broadcast) 6-50 A.M-Zikir 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Live Phone-In Surar Satsori 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishimi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Chah Shramikar Aasor 8-00 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Brahmaputra Swasthya Sewa" (Sponsored

by Brahmaputra Diagnostics and Hospitals Pvt. Ltd.) 9-30 P.M-Film Songs 10-00 P.M-Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P

PAGE 3

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

Lomhom Thanga writes about one of the most influence district in the state of Arunachal Pradesh but the state had neglected this district ever since its inception

Changlang the Hottest District Of Arunachal Pradesh Changlang District covered with picturesque hills lies in the southeastern corner of Arunachal Pradesh, northeast India. It has an area of 4,662 sqr. Km and a population of 1,48,226 persons as per 2011 Census.

According to legend the name Changlang owes its origin to the local word Changlangkan which means a hilltop where people discovered the poisonous herb, which is used for poisoning fish in the river.

Changlang district is home land of facscinating and interesting tribes such as Tangsa, Singpho and Tutsa, and also found Nocte, Lisu (Yobin), Deori and few Adibasi tribes.

The Tangsa tribe comprises of a number of SubTribes, namely Lungchang, Muklom, Tikhak, Jugli, Mossang, Ronrang, Kimsing, Mungrey, Lungphi, Ponthai, Havi, Sangkeng, Longri, Sangwal, Langching, Hacheng, Thamkuk and Thamphang. They occupy

the southeastern hills of the district along IndoMyanmar border and Namchik basin.

The climatic conditions in this District vary from place to place due to mountainous nature of terrain.

The altitudes also varies from 200 meters to 4500 meters over the peaks from sea level. Places like Miao, Kharsang, Jairampur, Bordumsa and Diyun, which are located in lower elevations and in the valleys, experience hot and humid climate in summer during June-August. In the hill areas the climate is moderate and pleasant. December to February months are cold. January is the coldest month when the average maximum and minimum temperature is about 22.0 degree Celsius and 13.0 degree Celsius respectively. August is the hottest month during which temperature may occasionally exceed 30.2 degree Celsius.

The average maximum temperature is about 26.96 de-

gree Celsius and minimum 18.63 degree Celsius.

As far as religion is concerned, each tribe has its own traditional religious belief and practices. The Tangsas and Tutsas belief in existence of a supreme being called 'Rangfrah'. Besides this they also believe in a number of deities and spirits. However recently many of them have came under the influence of Christianity and Buddhism.

The Singphos are Buddhist by religion but they have not given up their own traditional beliefs of their ancestors as they had adopted the Buddhism as their religion.

Moh-Mol: Moh-Mol is basically agricultural related festival of Tangsas, which signifies end of an agricultural activity or beginning of crop season.

Since life and activity of tribal people revolve around agriculture, they adhere to utmost important to this festival. It is a gala of pomp and show of tradi-

tional colourful costumes, trict in the state of ornaments, art and crafts Arunachal Pradesh but the that enriched the pride of state had neglected this disTangsa's cultural heritage of trict since its inception, the the past. It therefore inspires ratio at which it stands in the younger generation every representations of governyear to inherit, protect, pre- ment Job is lesser than one serve and continue it to the percent at par with the other counterparts. Also the dislater generations further.

This district is famous for trict do not have bureaucrats at the top m a n y level who wrong reaLomhom Thanga could have sons like enotherwise countering of Assam Rifles with Naga push up the candidates durmillitants and Chakma ing the interviews. Yet the Hajong refugees issues. citizens have out of compulWith the advent of winter sion made a strides in horseason, the denizens lives in ticultural areas like tea and sheer panic over the cardamom cultivation. The millitantancy and para mili- district have recorded 2.7 tary confrontations. Amidst crores profit in large cardathis, the district have excel mom business in Khimyang in many areas like tea culti- circle of Changlang district vation and large cardamom during 2013-2014. plantations besides timber The road as well as digiand coal bussinesses. The tal communications is very Changlang district is re- bad which compels the disgarded as one of the main trict to place them in the last key district to have rated as four unlike the western disthe highest revenue tricts in the state. The infracontibutors to the state ex- structure development are chequer. This district is one at the turtle pace but with of the most influence dis- the completion of Bogibeel

A picturesque view of Changlang District. Pic - Dipankar Kakoty bridge, the TCL region is expecting to move faster in all fronts. Though the district have recieved a sanction for road construction under PMGSY and RIDF etc but it could cater to the needs as expected. The pangsau pass festival, Diyun festival and Namdapha festivals are some of the attractions in

the region where tourists throng in to enjoy the events with great pomp and gaiety during winter session amidst chaos and confusion created by anti social elements. The district had witnessed the first Deputy Commissioner since the bifurcation of the Changlang district from the then else whilst Tirap district from its

soil and the younger generations are enthusiast enough to work harder to get in this coveted post in the days to come. It seems, the face of the gloomy district are started to glaze or brighten little. The state government should look into making this highest revenue district into a source of inspirations as a trend setters.

Dulom village becomes an IT Department amends PAN Open Defecation Free Village rules for transactions exceeding specified limits Yari Dulom praised all for their efforts and good work and advised the youth to study hard and follow the footsteps of the older generation in taking the name of the place forward.

A View of Dulom village becomes an Open Defecation Free Village.

Daporijo, Dec 31: Dulom, a village about 8 kilometers from Daporijo in Upper Subansiri district achieved a milestone today by being declared an open defecation free village with the completion in construction of 24 Individual House Hold Latrines(IHHL) under the Swatch Bharat Mission(Rural). The declaration was made during a simple ceremony attended by the DC Komkar Dulom, Ex- Minister Yari Dulom, heads of departments and the public of the place at Dulom village.

Speaking on the occassion, DC Komkar Dulom thanked and appreciated the untiring efforts of the PHED department, the PRI mem-

bers and the public in making the SBM programme a success in the village. He stated that a change in the mindset and work culture of the PRI members of the village, which has been apparent in the past year, and the willingness of the people of Dulom village in adopting their village and taking it in a new direction towards development and change in order to improve the way of life was what had made the it achieve this milestone of being declared open defecation free village.

DC Dulom further encouraged the village people to work together with the aim of making the place clean and hygienic by using correct practices in rearing

pigs, installation of proper drinking water supply system and proper maintenance of the IHHLs and conduct of social service every second Saturday of the month to keep the place clean. He also encouraged the villagers to take up kitchen gardening and poultry rearing as a means of livelihood and as a source of supplementary income for the near future and also consider starting cardamom and orange plantations for the long run. Proper planning of time for different activities like gardening, plantation work etc and giving back to the community and village will go a long way in the development of the area, he stated.

Executive Engineer (PHED) N. Konia was appreciative of the quality of work and declared it the best in the district and hoped other villages would follow this example. He added that with the work seen, the contribution of the government could be considered minimal and it was the will of the village people and a change in their mindset which had made the village an example for others to follow.

The mood in the village was jubilant and full of expectations of changes to come in the future with one and all appreciating the efforts of the authorities and the PHED team in making the village open defecation free. The Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) was inaugurated in Dulom village with the start in construction of IHHL on 2nd October 2015(Gandhi Jayanti) and the completion of work within 3 months by December 2015.

New Delhi, Dec.31 (ANI): The government is committed to curbing the circulation of black money and widening of tax base. To collect information of certain types of transactions from third parties in a non-intrusive manner, the Department of Income Tax has now made it mandatory under Rule

114B of the Income-tax Rules to quote PAN where the transactions exceed a specified limit.

In a media release, the IT Department said that in case of transactions of sale or purchase of goods and service, PAN will be required to be quoted, irrespective of the mode of payment if the transaction exceeds

APSC Examination centre ET Correspondent Tezpur, Dec 31: With the rest of the district the main (Written) examination of APSC will be held in two centres at Tezpur Multipurpose Government Girl’s Higher secondary school and Darrang College here on January 3, 2016. For smooth conduct of the examination under the aegis of ADC, NA Laskar a meeting was recently held here at the DC

conference Hall. As per the decision of the meeting and the APSC board instruction use of electronic device like Mobile phone and any paper or book inside the Examination hall have been prohibited strictly. “If anybody found violating the role fixed by the APSC action will be taken�. This was stated through an official release issued to the media here.

Rs. two lakhs. It further stated that to ensure a balance between burden of compliance on legitimate transactions and the need to capture information relating to transactions of higher value, the government has amended Rule 114B to enhance the monetary limits of certain transactions which require

quoting of PAN. The department said that the changes made to the rules have been notified through S.O. No. 3545(E) dated December 30, 2015. It said that these changes will take effect from January 1, 2016. A notification to this effect is available on the website www.incometaxindia.gov.in.

Farewell function held in Tawang Tawang, Dec 31: A farewell function was held today in the office of Deputy Comm i s s i o n e r, Ta w a n g to bid adieu to Sri.Kesang Dhondup, Deputy Director (Art & Culture) Tawang, who retired on supera n n u a t i o n .

Sri.Kesang Dhondup served the Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh in various capacities for more than 34 years.

He began his career as a Junior Teacher in the year 1981, post which he joined as SCO in the year 1987. He had been serving as Deputy Director (Art & Culture) since 09.02.2015.

The function was attended by ADC(HQ) Sri.Lod Gambo and other officers/offic i a l s o f Ta w a n g .

DIPRO.

2015 : the year that was for Tirap district Many people say 'yesterday is gone and no more.

Tomorrow is yet to come and is uncertain. Today is yours and so have fun.' But I agree to disagree with these people when they say that. Can there be today without yesterday and tomorrow? In fact, the past is as important as the present because it inspires us as the future beckons invitingly.

We falter, make mistakes in life and indulge in misdemeanour and misadventure as we are humans.

It's in our present when we correct and rectify our follies and fallacies committed in the past. As the world readies itself to embrace the New Year and say one last adieu to the bygone year, I have been asked from many quarters to reflect back on the year that has gone by. In Tirap district the year 2015 dawned with hopes galore.

Everything started well and life was all hunky-dory. Development schemes went on smoothly uninterrupted and

without a hitch. The elected leaders went about their job confidently and efficiently.

The government departments carried out their assigned jobs smoothly. The villagers and other people in the district moved on with their normal chores unfazed and unperturbed. But the cruel fate had some other evil design for the district.

The district was literally hit by a bolt from the blue when the Dolphin Pawan Hans helicopter carrying former Tirap Deputy Commissioner late Kamlesh Joshi and two Pilots crashed in mountainous jungles between Thinsa village and Sanliam village killing all of them on the fateful morning of 4th August. In the aftermath of the most tragic chopper crash a pall of gloom descended on the people of Tirap district.

However, the grit and tenacity of the Tirap people lifted them to a life of normalcy soon after the most unfortunate and fatal acci-

dent. The people were quick clude all in this brief writto realize that 'the show up. The year 2015 witmust go on.' They resigned nessed the signing of the to the fact that God's ways historic peace accord beare inscrutable and the mor- tween the GOI and the coltal human beings are too lective leadership of the small and N S C N ignorant to (IM) which go against been Denhang Bosai has the will of received God. Fortuwith a great nately for the district, a sigh of relief by people beyoung and dashing IAS Of- longing to all sections of the ficer in Ravi Jha was posted society. Needless to say that as the new Deputy Commis- insurgency-related incisioner after the sad demise dents have dwindled of late Joshi who, soon af- thereby creating the muchter his joining prepared a needed conducive atmoroadmap for development sphere for all round develin all spheres. An equally opment in the district. Anyoung and dynamic Super- other tangible achievement intendent of Police in made by the district was in Jasmeet Singh, IPS was the field of games and posted whose relentless ef- sports. In the Tadar Tang fort has brought about a Memorial Football Tournasemblance of normalcy in ment held at Tezu, the Tirap the district in terms of football team not only marked improvement in humbled East Siang 2-1 in general law and order situ- the league stages but lost ation. Many milestones narrowly against strong were achieved during 2015 teams from West Siang and in Tirap district. But it is East Kameng 1-2 and 1-3 well neigh impossible to in- respectively. This remark-

able metamorphosis was enthused by the Thansen Wangchadong Memorial Football Tournament sponsored by Wanglin Lowangdong and his family in the month of September. The coach Noah Mongkung also played a stellar role in popularizing sports among the youth. The Kamlesh Joshi Memorial Badminton Tournament conducted by the Tirap district administration at Khonsa in memory of former Tirap DC Kamlesh Joshi was also a huge success in terms of participation and creating awareness on importance of sports and disaster management.

The administrative outreach camps held at Old Tupi and Bari-Basip under the aegis of Tirap district administration were also a great success from which the villagers residing in the interior areas were benefited immensely. Apart from these achievements the district also witnessed

some brilliant performances by some Nocte youths in different fields. The brilliant Ranphoa Ngowa cracked the most coveted UPSC Examination thereby creating a new hope for the youth of the district. A few more youths also cracked other competitive examinations during the year and thus bringing about a competitive spirit among the Tirap district youth. A young lady Ms Luni Bangsia from Khonsa village was recruited as a classical Bharat Natyam Dance Instructress in Kalashetra, Chennai which is not a mean achievement by any standard.

So, Tirap district did not only experience the worst of tragedy but also made rapid strides in the path of all round development and progress. However, the greatest achievement by the district has been the marked improvement of law and order scenario thanks to the peace accord signed be-

Minister Tirong Aboh from Tirap district during his swearing in ceremony. tween GOI and NSCN (IM) and of course, the effective action carried out by the district Police and all the security agencies in the district. Hopefully, a lasting peace and tranquility in the district will propel the insurgency-hit Tirap district to an

unfathomable height of progress and unprecedented development.

(The writer is DIPRO, Tirap and can be reached at denhangbosai@yahoo.co.in or at denhangdipro@gmail. com)

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

Bikul Bikash Gogoi, writes about the unexplored beauty of Jeypore Rain Forest which according to him is like a paradise on earth.

Jeypore Rain Forest where Mother Nature Is Still Virgin A must visit place in ones’ lifetime

“The gladdest moment in human life, me thinks, is a departure into unknown lands.” – Sir Richard Burton.

True to what Richard Burton once said in today's mechanical world where everyone is concerned about himself or about their family, getting frustrated with work pressure or about the everyday political drama a bit of relaxation is most needed task, and when January comes everyone plans for outing or for picnic and everything seems to be casual forgetting about

all other works and tension.

The burning topic in this era is Global warming but still there are few places in the world where Mother Nature is still virgin and unexplored. Places where indigenous communities have still maintained their age old traditions and culture.

Northeast India is one of such place, and one place in NE where nature his given all its beauty is Jeypore Rain Forest. This place which is near historic Jeypore has got full potential to become one of the tourist hotspot. The forest is

full of flora and fauna and the region is one of the richest biological values. Wildlife tourism and wildlife photographic tourism is one of the blooming sectors in this area and Jeypore rain forest has got every possible potentiality for both these sectors of tourism.

This forest covers an area of 10,876.68 hectares which has flora and animals of various type and home to the rare spices of Hoolock Gibbon. It also has seven spices of big tiger cat and other animals which include bear, spotted deer, slow loris, flying squirrels. And also various spices of bird, fish and butterflies. Jeypore Rainforest has every possibility to be developed to an ecotourism centre. Located at a distance of just 75 km. from Dibrugarh, for accommodation of tourist at Jeypore rain forest an Inspection Bungalow of Government of Assam is available at Jeypore. The rainforest festival, the first ever in India, is celebrated here. Activities include trekking, rafting, camping inside the forest, birdwatching, and elephant riding. Tourist and nature lovers from various places of India and abroad do visit the forest. The forest has got all potentials and the concerned departments too are paying attention to make it famous among the tourist but still lots more have to be done by the government and the public.

Ethnique Tourism fest 2015 starts tomorrow

Organisers busy giving finishing touch to a tree house for the Ethinique tourism festival at I-Card Jorhat.

ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 31: Ethnique tourism festival 2015, a tourism festival very unique of its kind will kick off tomorrow at I-Card premises at Baghchung under Jorhat district. Four youths from Leeds Beckett University, Poland namely Eddi, George, Joe, and Eion arrived for the festival this evening and a warm welcome was accorded to them by the Mishing tribe with Mishing welcome song at the entrance of the I-card premises. All four will interact with Mishing local people and know their culture. The Mishing are a hill tribe living in North West China who moved to

present day Arunachal Pradesh about a century ago. In about 1228 A.D. as the Ahoms crossed the Patkai hills the Mishings too crossed the Arunachal hills into the plains of Assam. They occupied the fertile river bank and came to be called as river friendly people and always tried to live in and around water bodies or riverside.

Their culture and folklore and life centered on the river which protected them from enemies and gave them economic security. They were scattered to different places after the 1950 earthquake.

Today 1.3million strong tribe live in over 2500 Mishing villages of Golaghat, Jorhat,

Sivasagar, Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Sonitpur, Lakhimpur, Dhemaji district of Assam and around Lohit, Lower Dibang Valley and East Chiang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Mishing are the second largest tribe in Assam which is neglected and marginalized. Unemployment, poverty and illiteracy are vaccine issues. Living in inaccessible river banks, Mishings are deprived of communication facilities, quality education and health care which is showcased in the form of tourism festival apart from traditional food items, tree-house, cultural dances, how they catch fish and harvest paddy.

Fish distributed at nominal rate at AAU ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 31: The department of fishery, Assam Agricultural University (AAU) is feeding 20% of the Jorhat people along with its employees with the

university’s own product on the last day of the year with fresh, tasty and of better quality which was sold at a very nominal rate at its sale counter of the department. 5000 kgs of local

and hybrid fish weighting in the range of 1.5kgs to 10 kgs was sold at Rs 80, a cost affordable to both lower and higher level of masses within the university area.

Bye Bye 2015 - A Flashback Another Year is about to end with sweet and bitter memories. It will not be wrong to acknowledge the year 2015 as “Year of Theft and Fire Incident” all throughout the year. In the entire year probably there could be hardly any month when incident of theft was not heard and hence the thieves kept the police administration busy.

The month of February and March will be always remembered for continuous fire incident which kept the firefighters busy. The situation was such that for an entire week the department has to shift their kitchen outside the premises of the office.

The incident of Court Road, Main Market, Arengapara and Near BOC can never be forgotten as crores of properties were destroyed. Even at the closing of the year, an-

other incident occured two days back near Old Jail Road.

Industrialist Mohanlal Jallan, ‘Man of Simplicity’ Madan Garodia & Founder of Assam Small Tea Growers Gangadhar Saikia. Indeed, the lost of these great humans is a lost to mankind.

Among the major events of the year 2015, the inauguration of Golaghat Stadium, D.T.O office, temples at Furkating and town, T h e new buildK u s h a l Amit Nagori ing of Konwar Goushala, Civil HospiDistrict Journalist Associa- tal has been under the tion Golden Jubilee will al- limelightfor both even and ways be cherished in days to odd events. The kidnapping come. Among the achieve- of Divyansh Agarwal made ments from the district, the everyone frighten but under students of School Level and the able leadership of SP College level have brought Prithvi Pal Singh and his laurels to the district both at team, little Divyansh was State and National Level. bought home safe and sound.

The making of ‘Zero Pesti- The well known Facebook cide’ tea by Sanjeev Tea can Love of Aboni Koch of too be never forgotten.

Borpathar and Shailley Koch of Germany became famous Apart from these the soci- overseas. But the brighter of ety has lost people like ‘Sav- the entire year of 2015 was iour of Poor’ Vijay that the border disputes were Dhandharia, Tea Pioneer & less in comparison to last

A young girl selects greetings card in a Guwahati outlet. Pic - UB Photos year. The business community faced strong competition from On Line Trade and Rising Haat Bazaar amidst the Town.

Lastly there could be no

special provision for stopping of killing of rhinos in Kaziranga National Park by poachers.

The people are praying and hoping ALL TO GO WELL in 2016.

PRSI confers Prestigious Awards on IOCL (AOD) Laxman Sarma Digboi, Dec 31: At the 37th All India Public Relations Conference which was organized recently by Public Relations Society of India (PRSI) in Ahmedabad. Professionals and companies were felicitated and adequately awarded for demonstrating excellence in public relations and corporate communication practices in their respective locations. Major public sector corporates, Government departments, multinational companies and private sector corporate contended for various categories of awards. RS Sodhi, Managing Director, Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (AMUL) and Dr. Ajit Pathak, the National President PRSI presented the awards to the winners. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (Assam Oil Division) won

two prestigious awards including the first prize in Best CSR Project in Women Empowerment category for Assam Oil School of Nursing located in Digboi AOD Hospital premises. This institution based in Digboi has transformed the lives of over 400 girls by preparing them as nurses to serve in the healthcare sector at various fronts and different places.

Established in 1986, Assam Oil School of Nursing now also offers B.Sc in Nursing.

Another award conferred upon IOCL (AOD) was for the category of Special/Prestige Publication in which a unique publication titled 'Digboi Revisited – selected readings from history of Oil & Gas in Digboi’ won a Silver award. The book is a collection of priceless letters, articles, tales; which lay embedded in old journals and

books in Digboi archives and is researched and edited adding live to it putting adequate taste by Sabeena Chowdhary, Manager (Corporate Communications). The jury for PRSI awards comprised of Mr. Wajahat Habibullah, former Chairman, National Minorities Commission; Ms. Deepak Sandhu, former Chief Information Commissioner & former Head PIB; Ms. Stuti Kacker, Chairperson of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and former Registrar , IIMC along with Prof.

Shashidhar Nanjundaiah, Dean-India Today Media Institute and former Director of Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication, Pune.

Meanwhile, various scholers, learned personalities across Digboi and other places of Digboi exalted the noble accomplishment of the piece

Mrs Sabeena Chowdhary the Manager (CC) AOD Digboi receiving the said awrad at the 37th All India Public Relations Conference organised recently by Public Relations Society of India (PRSI) in Ahmedabad.

entitled' Digboi Revisited' and congratulated the AOD Management on the success of one of its pivotel Department and Mrs. Chowdhary in particular for her innova-

tive outlook thus making a sincere and dedicated effort in escalating the picturesque of Digboi a step ahead towards serving the global interest.

ASHA Convention Organized in Dibrugarh A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 31: A Convention for the 1132 accredited Social Helath Activist (ASHA) workers to acknowledge their contribution particularly in the field of maternal health was organized by the district health society and national health mission today here at Dibrugarh.

Inaugurating the occasion by lighting the ceremonial lamp, the deputy commissioner MS Manivannan commended the ASHA workers for their yeoman service in providing proper health care and guidance particularly to pregreant mothers and infants in the remote and inaccessible areas of the district. He stated that

the ASHA workers has a pivotal role to play in making the district Anemia free success-

fully transforming the picture of maternal, child and adolescent health in the district.

Dibrugarh DC MS Manivannan delivering his speech during the ASHA convention. Pic - DIPRO.

Inter University Youth Festival from January 3 at Tezpur University ET Correspondent Tezpur, Dec 31: The 31st Inter University Youth Festival christened as "Brahmaputra Mahotsava 2016" for the Eastern India will be held at Tezpur University from January 3 with a five day long programme under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities and with support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. Dr. Rajib Kumar Doley, Director, Centre for Inclusive Development, Tezpur University and Dr. Rajeev K. Doley Director, Centre for Inclusive Development, Tezpur

University informed this news paper here that Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports will be the Chief Guest and Ram Prasad Sarmah, Member of Parliament, Tezpur Constituency, Prof Birendranath Datta and Prof. Furqan Qamar, Secretary General, AIU will be the Guests of Honour in the Inaugural Function to be held on January 3, at 3pm. This will be followed by cultural programme and regional seminar. Next day that is on January 4 the programme will begin with staging of one act play, presentation of

western group song, western vocal (solo), classical instruments (NP), poster making, Skit, Folk Tribal Dance, Debate and Quiz competition, cartooning, clay modeling and installation etc. The programme of January 5 includes presentation of skit, classical dance and vocal, mime, p h o t o g r a p h y, R a n g o l i etc. On January 6, Mime, Light Vocal, Folk Orchestra, Mimicry etc. will be the major attraction of the day. The curtain of the mega event will fall on January 7 at 10 Am with a valedictory programme.

Two killed in Sokolating Tea Estate, Manager held ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 31: Two persons were killed, after three unidentified youths shot down the cashier of Sokolating Tea estate and tried to get away with a cash amounting to Rs 2.5 lakh, while carrying the amount ment for its division garden to Basbari Division owned by the Halmira Group Limited from its headquarters under Pulibor police station

here this evening. The three at first killed the cashier inside the garden road, identified to be one Sumon Telenga (30), and then tried to flee however garden labourers after hearing the gun shots rushed towards the fleeing three and caught hold of one and killed him on the spot by the mob and recovered the cash along with the gun i.e. the 9mm pistol with car-

tridges. After the incident, irate labourers of Sokolating Tea Estate have been blocking the NH 37. The manager of Sokolating Tea Estate, Rupam Phukan has been picked up by police while the labourers demanded to know why they did not provide security to the cashier while carrying such a huge amount to a remote distance.

He expressed optimism that this convention will provide a proper platrform in harnessing their hidden talent.

The Deputy Comissioner presented the best ASHA Aawards to Kunja Changmai, Pushpanjali Keot, Nilima Hazarika, Sewali Sonowal, Sumitra Rajwar, Kamal Kayathya and Farida Begum for their outstanding contribution.

The occasion was also addressed by the additional Deputy Commissioner Ajanabh Chaliha and in charge Joint Director, Healtrh Services Dr Paban Swarnakar. The occasion was inaugurated with a special song composed by NHM dis-

trict Media Expert, Debanga Kashyap Gogoi and rendered by the ASHA workers. The Asha workers rendered Jeng Bihu, Jhumur, group dance, Diha Naam and a short play at the occasion. The convention observed one minute silence in memory of the ASHA workers who had expired since 2005 and lit 10 lamps on the occasion.

The District programme Manager NHM Monisha Buragohain and District Data Manager Chiranjeev Borgohain dwelt on the role of Asha as helth worker and social activist and various scheme supported by Asha and their performances.

National Seminar at Tezpur College ET Correspondent Tezpur, Dec. 31: A UGC sponsored national seminar on Emerging Directions, Opportunities and Challenges in Higher Education in India: with special Emphasis on Undergraduate Level of education will be held at Tezpur College here on January 22 and 23 with a two day long programme. In a press release, the organisers said that the seminar will provide a proper forum for the various stakeholders of the higher educational sector in the form of researchers, scholars, academicians, administrators and students to discuss and exchange views will be helpful for the development and upliftment of the sector. Organizers urged the participants to submit their abstract by January 5 and the paper

by January 15. “Maximum word limit for the full paper is 200 and in Times New Roman font and 12 point size. The title of the paper should be in bold followed by the full affiliation of the author including email and contact numbers and the maximum number of key word is five.” The release said adding the selected papers of the seminar will be published in an edited volume with ISBN.

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

Flashback of 2015 70 percent votes cast in Manipur Assembly by-elections till noon An estimated 70 percent votes were polled in the bypoll, the SEC said. While there were 26,537 voters in Thangmeiband Assembly constituency, an estimated 28,214 were eligible to cast their franchise in Thongju Assembly segment, the SEC said.The Chief Election officer O Nabakishore, also the Chief Secretary of

Manipur, said that in addition to the three observers deputed by the Election Commission of India, micro-observers and sector Magistrates have been monitoring the election process today.O Nabakishore said that voters who are not in possession of voter identity cards have been allowed to exer-

cise their franchise by showing any one of the 12 identity-proof documents recognised by the ECI like passport, driving licence, PAN card, smart card issued by RGI, pension document, passbook issued by bank, service ID, official ID issued to MPs and MLAs.In Thangmeiband Assembly constituency,

three contenders are - Kh Joykishan of BJP, Jyotin waikhom of Indian National Congress and GA Tonsana Sharma of Manipur Democratic People Front (MDPF). In Thongju assembly constituency, three contestants are - GA Tonsana Sharma of MDPF, Bijoy Koijam of INC and Th Bishwajit Singh of BJP.

The strong but unheard voice of Irom Sharmila At the start of 2015, Chief Minister Ibobi Singh drew flak after human rights activist Irom Sharmila, who has been fasting for 15 years demanding the repeal of AFSPA, was released from judicial custody but rearrested for continuing her hunger strike. Sharmila, better known as the Iron Lady, completed 15 years of hunger strike on November 1, with no hopes of her demand being met.

Nitish Kumar returned to power as Bihar CM In a show of strength, JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar took oath as Bihar Chief Minister for a third straight term at state capital's historic Gandhi Maidan in a ceremony witnessed by opposition leaders from across the country. Nitish Kumar kept

the key home portfolio along with public relations and general administration for himself. RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son Tejashwi Prasad Yadav took the oath immediately after Nitish Kumar, was allotted the portfolio of road construction

and later designated as Deputy Chief Minister, the youngest ever in the country at 26.Next in line to take the oath was Lalu's elder son Tej Pratap who was allotted the Health Department. Tej Pratap fumbled briefly while taking the oath before re-

gaining his poise with prompting from Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind. Senior RJD leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui got the other important portfolio of finance while JD(U) leaders Bijendra Prasad Yadav and Rajiv Ranjan Singh were allotted

the energy and water resources department, respectively.Grand Alliance of JD (U), RJD, Congress won 178 seats, while the NDA registered victory on 58 seats. Three CPI (ML) won three seats, while one Independent candidate also emerged victorious.

Manipur Governor Syed Ahmed passes away in Mumbai Manipur Governor Syed Ahmed passed away following a brief illness yesterday morning, a family member said. He was 70. Syed Ahmed is survived by his wife Syed

Hasan Tara, two daughters and a son. He passed away at the Lilavati Hospital in Bandra, where he was admitted for treatment of cancer last week, said his son Syed

Zeeshan Ahmed. A former Congress leader and Maharashtra minister, Syed Ahmed was swornin as governor of the northeastern state of Manipur on May 16 this year.

President APJ Abdul Kalam Died at 83 India's 11th President APJ Abdul Kalam died at a hospital in Meghalaya, where he had gone to deliver a lecture. He was 83.His body was today flown by an Air Force helicopter to Guwahati in Assam from where it will be taken to Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be present at the Delhi airport to receive his body.The former President, who was

in office from 2002 to 2007, had collapsed during the lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong, around 6.30 pm.

He was taken to the Bethany hospital. Doctors said he had suffered a massive cardiac arrest. The government has declared a seven-day national mourning as a mark of respect for the former President.Paying a special

tribute to Dr Kalam , PM Modi had said, "My mind is filled with so many memories, so many interactions with him. Always marveled at his intellect, learnt so much from him."Home Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted, "Deeply saddened at the sudden demise of the former president of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. He was an inspiration to an entire generation."

Quake hits India's Northeastern region, Bhutan The quake, measuring 4.6 on the Richter Scale, occurred at 10.27 pm had its epicentre in Assam's Darrang district bordering China," said an official of the

Meteorological Department.The earthquake was felt in some parts of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and adjoining areas of northeastern re-

gion, besides parts of Bhutan. It lasted for about 10 to 12 seconds. India's Northeast is considered the sixth major earthquakeprone belt in the world.

Major reshuffle in KMC parks to be under Bengal IPS cadre satellite scanner soon Kolkata, Dec 31: In a major reshuffle in IPS cadre in West Bengal, around 45 officials have either been promoted or transferred to various posts. According to a Home department notification released tonight, Additional CP (II) Jayanta Kumar Basu has been promoted as Special CP (II) in Kolkata Police.

The IGP (Law and Order) Anuj Sharma have been promoted to the rank of ADG (Law and Order), while Additional CP (III) in Kolkata Police, Jag Mohan have been promoted to the post of ADG (Enforcement Branch), among others. The DC (Central) KP, Bastab Baidya have been promoted to the post of DIG (Midnapore range). Manoj Kumar Verma, CP in Siliguri Police Commissionerate, has been promoted to the rank of Special IG from DIG, the notification said.

Among those transferred, Soumen Mitra, Special CP(II) KP, have been shifted to the post of Special CP(I)

Kolkata, Dec 31: The city parks are likely to come under better surveillance as the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has decided to bring all the 652 parks under satellite coverage using global positioning system (GPS). For this, the authorities are in talks with agencies who will help the civic body purchase the required software, authorities said. Talks are also on to determine the budget of the total plan and finalise the technicalities of the project. Debashish Kumar, member, mayor-in-council (parks and squares) ascribes the reason for taking such a decision to the need 45 officials have either been promoted or transferred to various posts. in KP. Dr R Shivakumar, Additional CP(IV) in KP, has been transferred to the post of Adl CP(I) in the same force. Jt CP (Traffic) in KP, Supratim Sarkar has been asked to take over as Jt CP (HQ). Joint CP (Headquarter) in KP, Rajeev Mishra

has been transferred as Addl CP(II) in the same force.

Jt CP (Crime) in KP, Pallab Kanti Ghosh has been transferred as Jt CP(Intelligence) in the same force. Jt CP (Armed Police) in KP, Debashis Boral has

been asked to take over as Jt CP (Crime) in the same force. DIG (Midnapore Range) Vishal Garg has been asked to take over as Jt CP (Special Task Force) in KP. Some districts have also got new Superintendents of Police. (Agencies)

State Govt moots geotextiles for road construction Tura, Dec 31: The State Government is looking at application of geotextiles for construction of roads in unstable areas and embankments for flood control. With this aim in view, a team from National Textiles Corporation Limited (NTCL) and State PWD made a site inspection of a road near Tura on Wednesday which will be taken up as a pilot project for construction with use of geocells. In this regard, a presentation was made to Chief Minister Mukul Sangma earlier on Tuesday afternoon by Director (Marketing), NTCL, Aloke Banerjee on application of geotextiles in the presence of senior PWD officials of Garo Hills at Circuit House, Tura with a promise of quality and sustainability. It may be mentioned that NTCL is

a Central PSU under the administrative control of Union Ministry of Textiles, incorporated in 1968 and is vertically integrated with 23 state-of-the-art mills of a wide range of quality products in yarn and fabrics. It has been supplying uniforms and sarees to various state governments, PSUs and private companies and is fully equipped in developing world class uniforms and technical textile solutions to Defence and Home Affairs ministries.

It has recently made entry into technical textile projects ranging from protective textiles to geotextiles. In the recent years it started coordinating with Northeastern states on use of agro and geotextiles to combat the challenges of civil engineering right from project identification and implementa-

tion. In his presentation Banerjee highlighted that the geotextile technology will help improve the stability of the soil, which would increase the viability and the strength of the road.

He said that the technology can be used for all-weather road as well as kutcha roads in the villages. The government will also look at the possibility for embankment project with use of geo-bags along the Jinjiram River in West Garo Hills, which is prone to flood and geocells for areas which are prone to landslide. The NTC has taken up embankment project along the Brahmaputra in Assam using the geo bag technology, which has been mooted for projects in Meghalaya as well. The NTC has expressed its keen interest to work with local contractors

to introduce the technology. They said that the new technology would increase the cost of construction initially to 10-15 per cent, which will provide more stability to roads as it would not require repair and maintenance for at least seven to eight years.

The Chief Minister instructed the PWD to tie up with NTC to look at possibilities for initiating a few projects in the State with textile technology. He said he was looking forward for a more effective partnership with the NTC for taking up ramie-considered to be the strongest natural fibre - as an alternative to jute textiles keeping in mind the potentialities of the farmers who grow this fibre plant. He suggested that the corporation consider the use of Ramie for their technical textile products.(Agencies)

for "better security". Talking about this innovative endeavour, he enunciated, "The satellite system will enable the parks to be monitored efficiently." The authorities concerned can keep an eye on the parks on real-time basis, he said.

The city parks overseen by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation have often come under the radar for lack of proper maintenance by the authorities. These parks often turn into dumping grounds where garbage accumulates, creating an altogether unhealthy atmosphere. Moreover, several reports have also appeared regularly about the anti-

social activities going on in these parks, especially at night. The civic officials have a harrowing time monitoring these parks.

Apart from a few parks, where security guards are deployed, other parks lack any sort of protection and security, KMC sources said. Only Elliot Park in the city has CCTV coverage.

But installing CCTV in all these parks is not possible as the cost for installing the same would be huge.

"It's costly to install CCTV in all these parks. The amount required to do so is immense," Kumar clarified. In such a situation, GPS and satellite surveil-

lance is cost-effective.

This system will also help KMC officials ensure that the parks are cleaned regularly and the greenery is properly maintained. Previously, officers had to visit the spot to inspect the parks individually and prepare reports on the basis of it. "It is very difficult to keep count of the number of parks in the city." an officer said. "This process is time consuming too. The officers now can sit in their offices and with one click of the mouse, get a detailed view of the parks and their condition," the officer went on to say.

(Agencies)

BJP predicts massive win for the party in the local elections Imphal, Dec 31: The Bharatiya Janata Party is confident about winning the upcoming local body elections in Manipur in a "never before" phenomenon. Addressing a group of journalists at its State Head Office located at Nityapat Chuthek, Imphal, President of Manipur Pradesh BJP, Th Chaoba Singh said that the party is gaining more popularity then the Indian National Congress in Manipur. The winning of Thangmeiband and Thongju assembly constituencies in the recently held by-elections is the example of BJP's acceptance and gaining popularity in the state. The BJP field its candidates in all seats across the state, while the

Bharatiya Janata Party is confident about winning the upcoming local body elections in Manipur Congress, which is in power since the last 13 years failed to file their candidates in some constituencies. The

Congress has filed not a single candidate for the local body election at Oinam Assembly Constituency,

said Chaoba. The winning of Thangmeiband and Thongju Assembly seats is a "big loss" for the Congress party and a lesson that their corrupt politics has no room in the state, said the President.

"BJP has taught a lesson to the Congress party in the last by-election and now the party will again teach the Congress party a lesson in the upcoming election of the local bodies", said a confident Chaoba. He further said that the Congress government led by Okram Ibobi Singh has not handed over the power to the local bodies even though there were many directives to devolve the power to the local bodies.

4 mysterious deaths in 2015: Justice awaited Shillong Dec 31: Four mysterious deaths reported in 2015 still elude answers with the relatives of the victims are yet to get justice. Almost 12 months into the mysterious death of PJ Marbaniang, the officer in charge of Patharkhmah police outpost, who was found with bullet injuries on his head at his official quarter on January 25 this year, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) had concluded it as a suicide case. But the relatives, who do not want to believe in the suicide angle, are eagerly waiting for a favourable verdict from the High Court of Meghalaya after a petition was filed by

the mother of the victim.

Though the magisterial inquiry probe report into the mysterious death of Shillong lady Victoria Kharkongor (39) at Dispur police station on July 5 cited the cause of death as suicide, the relatives and pressure groups, however, are skeptical about the angle.

However, the magisterial report revealed laxity on the part of the sub-inspectors of Dispur police station for the delay in taking Victoria to Guwahati Medical College and Hospital for more than 45 minutes. Hours before the counting of votes for the GHADC polls on October 15, a personnel of

MLP 2nd Battalion identified as Joseph Lalthlanmua Thlau was found dead with bullet injuries inside the battalion barrack at DC Office Complex, Ampati, South West Garo Hills. While the police maintained it was a suicide case, there was no high level probe into the death of the police personnel. However, replies to RTI queries revealed that the same weapon (Sten Gun Mark II with butt number 128) which was in the possession of the constable was issued to Naik Herwith N Marak on February 28 this year. The people are still clueless on the manner in which 25 year old

Mawramsong Khar Hujon died in Mumbai after he went missing on December 4 evening from Mumbai domestic airport without meeting his sister Pynshisha Hujon who was with him at the airport. A CCTV footage showed that Hujon was hurriedly walking in the direction of the highway, while his sister was waiting for him. However, the body of Hujon was found two days later at a railway track near Borivli railway station. But the relatives, who were not aware of the development, identified the body at Cooper Hospital only on December 11. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

PAGE 6

Flashback of 2015 Lok Sabha passed The Payment of Bonus (Amendment) Bill, 2015 Agencies New Delhi, Dec 31 The Lok Sabha on 22 December 2015 passed The Payment of Bonus (Amendment) Bill, 2015.

The Bill will allow doubling of wage ceiling for calculating bonus of factory workers. The Bill seeks to amend the Payment of Bonus Act, 1965.

The Bill 2015 was introduced in Lok Sabha on 7 December 2015.

PROVISIONS OF BILL It seeks to raise the eligibility limit for payment of bonus from a salary of 10000 rupees to 21000 rupees a month.

It seeks to raise this calculation ceiling of bonus to 7000 rupees per month or as per the minimum wage notified for the employment under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948 (whichever is higher).

It seeks to mandate prior publication of rules made by the Union Government in the Official Gazette to allow for more public consultation.

It will have retrospective effect and will come into force on 1 April 2015.

Typhoon Melor struck the Philippines Hundreds of thousands of people were evacuated from the central Philippines as a typhoon with winds of up to 150km/h (95 miles per hour) made landfall, dumping heavy rain that could cause flooding, landslides and storm surges, a u t h o r i t i e s warned.About 40 domestic flights were grounded, while 73 ferries and hundreds of fishing boats were ordered to remain in port as typhoon Melor hit the village of Batag on the northern tip of Samar island.

PM Modi concluded his three-nation tour to Russia, Afghanistan & Pakistan MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE VISIT TO RUSSIA,AFGHANISTAN AND PAKISTAN

Modi was in Russian for two days starting from 23 December 2015.

He along with Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, participated in the 16th India.

RUSSIA ANNUAL SUMMIT After successful completion of the dialogue both the countries signed 16 Agreements/MoUs covering critical areas like energy, education, security, research and development.

During a tête-à-tête, Putin gifted an 18th century sword from Bengal and page from Gandhiji's diary containing handwritten notes to Modi.

He met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and discussed issues related to security and bilateral cooperation.

He inaugurated Afghan Parliament House, on 25 December 2015, which was entirely built by India.

He announced 500 scholarships for children of slain Afghan forces.

He handed over three Mi 25 attack helicopters to Afghanistan Armed Forces.

After his visit to Afghanistan, he briefly stopped over in Pakistan. In Lahore, he met the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

With this visit, he became the fourth Prime Minister to visit Pakistanin the post independence period. The previous visits were by Jawaharlal Nehru (1953), Rajiv Gandhi (1988) and Atal Bihari Vajpayee (2004).

24 Agreements Signed Between India and China during PM Modi's Visit India and China have signed 24 agreements worth over 10 billion dollars in Beijing after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Chinese premier Li Keqiang. Business is the main focus of PM Modi's three-day visit to China. He met Indian and Chinese CEOs and address businessmen in Shanghai tomorrow.

(Agencies)

Maharashtra announced 10512 crore rupees aid for farmers hit by drought The Maharashtra Government on 16 December 2015 announced a 10512 crore rupees relief package for more than 15000 drought-hit villages in 14 districts of the state's Marathwada and Vidarbha regions.The package was announced by state Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in the assembly in Nagpur during a discussion on the drought situation.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RELIEF PACKAGE ØOf the 10512 crore rupees, 7412 crore rupees

will be direct financial assistance to cotton and soybean farmers in Vidarbha and Marathwada.

Out of the 7412 crore rupees, 2800 crore rupees will be given in the form of crop insurance to farmers and 1034 crore rupees aid will be given to those who have not insured their crops. Ø250 crore rupees will be granted for building farm ponds.

ØMaharashtra's flagship programme Jalayukta Shivar that aims to conserve water by building small dams and farm ponds will get 250 crore rupees. Jalayukta Shivar has so far covered 6200 villages and another 5000 villages have been identified. In the 6200 villages covered so far, farmers have generated water capacity of 24 trillion cubic metres. Ø750 crore rupees will be used to build 33000

wells.

Ø100 crore rupees compensation will be given

to paddy farmers at 200 rupees a quintal.

Ø1000 crore rupees will be released to give electricity connections for water pumps.

Interlinking roads key to India's growth: PM Modi Noida, Dec. 31: Carrying forward his agenda of infrastructure development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded his predecessor Atal Bihari Vajpayee's plan for putting India at parity with other nations and said that he believed that interlinking the country's road network is one of the keys for growth. Prime Minister Modi said Vajpayee initiated projects to bring about changes in the lives of rural India by increasing connectivity between villages. "Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji was responsible for two great things. Plan for putting India on the map, shoulder to shoul-

der with other nations with the Swarnim-Chaturbhuj Express Highway. And secondly, Vajpayee ji wanted India's potential fully realised, for villages to be on the same plane of comparison, For this, he launched the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna," he said in his addressing after laying the foundation stone for Delhi-Meerut Expressway. Prime Minister Modi also lauded Vajpayee for starting the Golden Quadrilateral Highway to provide connectivity to villages. He also highlighted the benefits that would be reaped merely because of the Delhi-Meerut Express-

"Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji was responsible for two great things. Plan for putting India on the map, shoulder to shoulder with other nations with the SwarnimChaturbhuj Express Highway. And secondly, Vajpayee ji wanted India's potential fully realised, for villages to be on the same plane of comparison, For this, he launched the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna,"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

way and said that it was not just an expressway but a road of development.

"This will be a hub of development with all towns in this range. Satellite

townships will be developed. Meerut, Dehra Dun will become more developed," he said. "7,500 crore worth project like this is bound to bring in more employment. Small time tea sellers, dhaba

owners will benefit immensely from this," he added. The Prime Minister reiterated that all the policies coined by his government were for the betterment of the nation's poor. (ANI)

Let Parliament work in 2016: PM to Opposition News Delhi, Dec 31: On the last day of 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message to the Opposition is loud and clear: let Parliament function. There can be no reason for those who once ruled the country for 60 years to stall the functioning of Parliament, the prime minister said. Addressing a public gathering after laying the foundation stone of the 14lane Delhi-Meerut Expressway, Modi said it was the duty of every Member of Parliament to work for the poor.

"People of India have elected us to discuss, debate, deliberate in Parliament. I urge the political parties to take a resolution for 2016 that they will

let Parliament function and work for the benefit of poor," the prime minister said. Hitting out at the Opposition, especially the Congress, the prime minister said that despite being "rejected" by the people, some parties had the audacity to stall the proceeding in Parliament.

"It's sad that those who were rejected by the people have held Parliament hostage and are not letting it function," Modi said without naming any party. Speaking about the Expressway, the prime minister said: "We are not merely constructing a road, this is a highway to development. This expressway will pave the way for a pollution-free future." (Agencies)

Delhi Govt. conducts coordination trial run of 'Odd-Even' formula New Delhi, Dec. 31: The Delhi Government on Thursday conducted a two-hour coordination trial run ahead of the 'Odd-Even' formula to be implemented from January 1 next year. Volunteers were seen holding placards to create awareness among the public in the two-hour trial run conducted between 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Muktesh Chander, Special Commissioner of Police, Traf-

fic, said that there was a good coordination between the Delhi Police and civil defence volunteers who were working under their guidance.

"There is a good coordination as the civil defence officers are working under the guidance of Delhi Police. They also have placards through which they are creating awareness in the public," Chander told during the trial run. "I am hopeful

that the people of Delhi will follow the 'OddEven' formula and those who will not follow, will get a challan of Rs. 2000," he added. The Department of Transport, Government of National Capital of Delhi, has issued orders prohibiting the parking of Odd Number non-transport four wheeled vehicles (motor cars etc.) on even dates and Even Number nontransport four wheeled

vehicles (motor cars etc.) on odd days from January 1-15, 2016. The Odd numbered non-transport four wheeled vehicles (motor cars etc.) would be allowed to park only on odd dates. Similarly, the Even numbered nontransport four wheeled vehicles (motor cars etc.) would be allowed to park on even dates only. It has been advised that entry and/or exit of vehicles to all parking lots, either for

use of general public or for staff, may be prohibited based on the restrictions imposed for the period from January 1-15, 2016. A notification to this has been sent to DDA, NDMC, North MCD, South MCD, East MCD, PWD, DMRC, CEO Delhi Cantonment, Divisional Commissioner (With a request to apprise all DMs/SDMs), Special Commissioner Traffic, Special Commis-

sioner (Enforcement) Transport Department, Special Commissioner (Planning) Transport Department and Joint Commissioner (Operations) Transport Department. The scheme, which will be implemented for 15 days, has been proposed to curb pollution in the national capital by restricting movement of private vehicles based on their registration numbers. (ANI)

The Department of Transport, Government of National Capital of Delhi, has issued orders prohibiting the parking of Odd Number non-transport four wheeled vehicles

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

NEIGHBOURS

REVIEW OF 2015 China's pivotal role in Paris climate talks China played an important role in the success of the Paris climate conference, and the meeting has provided a reference for China's participation in global governance, a senior official said.Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin made the comments days after nearly 200 countries adopted an agreement in Paris, which aims to limit the global average rise in temperature to less than

SUU KYI PARTY WINS HISTORIC MYANMAR ELECTION Ă˜Aung San Suu Kyi's opposition party has secured a parliamentary majority

Ă˜Victory comes exactly five yearssince she was released from house arrest Ă˜It can now elect president and form government in shift in power from army

two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and preferably less than 1.5

India-Pakistan show signs of thaw after year long bickering After year of bickering over range of issues including cross-border terrorism to ceasefire violations and failure of National Security Adviser (NSA) level talks, India and Pakistan have finally showed signs of thaw in year gone by.In the month of April this year, the suspected mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, was released from jail. Lakhvi was granted bail

in December last year but was kept in detention under public order legislation.

The bitterness between both the South Asian nations declined following a meeting between the Prime Ministers of the two countries on the sidelines of the climate change conference in Paris on November 30.

The melting between them served as ice breaker between the two nuclear neighbors. (Agencies)

PAGE 7

from developed countries for developing countries starting in 2020, aiming to end decades of rows between developed and developing nations over how to limit the effects of climate change.

"China has been engaged in climate change negotiations in a responsible and constructive manner, keeping in touch with both developed and developing nations," Liu saidChina has main-

tained close consultations with the United States and the European Union and played a leading role in safeguarding the interests of and solidarity among developing countries, Liu said. China aims to cut carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP by 60 to 65 percent from 2005 levels by 2030. It has pledged a 20-billion-yuan fund to help other developing countries combat climate change.

Nepal Earthquake Devastation April 2015 was the month to witness one of the most dreadful disasters ever.

India's neighbouring country Nepal suffered a deadly earthquake 7.9 magnitude.

The quake killed over 9,000 people and injured more than

23,000.Repair estimates are $160 million to restore 1,000 damaged and destroyed monasteries, temples, historic houses, and shrines across the country. Indian army launched its biggest ever overseas rescue opera-

Myanmar landslide leaves Scores dead Blogger's murder: al-Qaeda

degrees.The agreement also sets a target of $100-billion a year in financing support

claims responsibility Avijit Roy, a bio-engineer by profession, was hacked to death by assailants with machetes on the streets of Dhaka in February.The offshoot of Al-Qaeda in Indian sub-continent has claimed responsibility for the killing of secular Bangladesh-U.S. Writer-blogger Avijit Roy who was killed in Dhaka on February 26 this year.AQIS leader Asim Umar said his

organisation was responsible for the attack in a video posted on jihadist forums on Saturday, according to SITE, a U.S. website that monitors extremist groups.Avijit Roy, a bio-engineer by profession, had been threatened on social media for his secular writings. He was hacked to death by assailants with machetes on the streets of

the capital Dhaka in February. Critically injured, Avijit's wife Bonya survived the attack.In February last year, a purported audio tape from Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri dubbed Bangladesh government "anti-Islam and secular". He called on Bangladeshi Muslims to "wage a battle to protect Islam".

Landslide near a jade mine in northern Myanmar killed about 100 people, most of them villagers digging for green stones in a mountain of displaced earth, a witness and a community leader said Sunday. Many other people were missing.The collapse

occurred in the Kachin state community of Hpakant, said Brang Seng, a jade businessman, who watched as bodies were pulled from the debris and taken to a hospital morgue.An estimated 100 to 200 people are still missing as rescuers search the rubble for survivors.

tion "Operation Maitri".

India's response was started within 15 minutes of the quake.Thousands of lives were saved by Indian soldiers which saw a huge involvement of its prestigious Gorkha Nepali regiment.

India, China sign off most engaging year in ties India-China relations saw high- level engagements in 2015 and the two sides look to 2016 to step up cooperation in counter-terrorism and efforts to resolve their boundary dispute as they moved towards more interactive and less confrontationist relationship. This year saw a series of highlevel visits from both sides, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to Beijing, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Home Minister Rajnath Singh's visits to China and Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao's trip to India.

Bangladeshi court orders sedition probe against Khaleda Zia A Bangladeshi court ordered a probe whether a sedition charge could be imitated against former prime minister and opposition leader Khaleda Zia over her

alleged "slanderous comments" concerning martyrs of the 1971 liberation war against Pakistan. "The metropolitan magistrate court asked police to investigate

into the allegation under section 123 (A) of the Penal Code after obtaining required government clearance," a court official told media. The Section 123 (A)

suggests one to be "punished with rigorous imprisonment which may extend to ten years and shall also be liable to fine" for "condemnation of the creation

of the State (Bangladesh) and advocacy of abolition of its sovereignty". Legal experts said the government clearance was a pre-requisite for investigating or try-

ing anyone under the section which is generally known as "sedition charge". The stance of Pakistan, the Jamaat-e-Islami and the BNP is the same re-

'India supports bid for political consensus in Nepal' Kathmandu, Dec 31: Indian Ambassador Ranjit Rae said on Wednesday said the country will support the bid for seeking political consensus among the government, opposition and agitating Madhesi political parties in Nepal. The ongoing agitation and unrest in the Tarai was a "political problem", Rae said on Wednes-

day after receiving a memorandum from the Reporters Club Nepal. Stating that the standoff between the government and the agitating parties should be resolved through dialogue, Rae said: "We (India) support the bid on seeking political solution by parties and the government here and wish that it should be result-oriented

and meaningful." He said a broad framework for seeking solution has already been prepared, and if talks take place in a serious manner, a solution was near. The Indian envoy also urged all sides to maintain flexibility in talks. "We do not have other interest in Nepal besides its stability and development," he said. "We are

Pak, India cannot live like enemies: Sharif Karachi, Dec. 31: Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has invited India to hold talks with the country on all issues, saying that the two neighbours cannot live like enemies. Sharif said that India and Pakistan need to resolve all issues in a comprehensive way. His statement came while he was addressing a foundation stone-laying ceremony for the western route of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project here on Wednesday. The route will cover Zhob-Mughal Kot (N50) and Qila Saifullah-Wagum (N-70). Sharif also said that National Security Adviser Nasser Janjua had held meet-

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif ings with Indian officials to discuss issues and conflicts

between the two countries.

(ANI)

concerned because any unrest in Tarai has direct implications in India and instability in the neighbourhood has implications in India's development too," he said.

"Our only one interest in Nepal is its stability and peace," he said. "We want to see peace and stability in the region. If there is instability in Nepal, we will also

suffer, so we want to see stability in Nepal," Rae stressed.

The Indian envoy said no one can disturb the age-old relations between Nepal and India, but due to proximity, sometimes "ups and downs" may occur which can be resolved through talks. "The present standoff in the relations is tem-

porary and it will deepen automatically and it does not have any alternative too," he added. He also called for implementation of the power trading agreement and project development agreement signed by Nepal and India. "If a good project is implemented, it will give a positive message," said Rae. (Agencies)

Pak, Afghanistan set up hotline between military commandos Karachi, Dec. 31: Pakistan and Afghanistan have set up a hotline between their respective military commanders to improve relations between the two neighbours. The decision to set up a hotline between the directors general military operations (DGMOs) of the two countries was taken during Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif's visit to Kabul on Sunday. Chief military spokesperson of Pakistan, Lieutenant General Asim Saleem Bajwa, said that first contact between the DGMOs was made through the hotline. He said that both DGMOs discussed

Pakistan and Afghanistan have set up a hotline between their respective military commanders military to military issues, modalities, dates of meetings between corps commanders

of two sides and measures to enhance coordination along the border. (ANI)

Israel apologise for insulting Singaporean flag Singapore, Dec 31: A junior staff member at the Israeli Embassy here used a Singaporean flag as a table cloth at a party over the weekend, prompting the Mission to issue an apology over what it termed as "deplorable behaviour". Responding to the incident, the Embassy said it was "appalled" to learn of the staff member's actions. "The Director General of Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed that requisite strong disciplinary procedure will be adopted against the individual after his meeting

with the Singapore authorities, reflecting the severity with which Israel views this incident, especially in light of the close and friendly relationship between Singapore and Israel," the embassy said in a statement. Photos of the incident that took place on Sunday surfaced on the alternative news site 'All Singapore Stuff' on Monday. The images show the Singapore flag on a table purportedly at a condominium, with items strewn on it such as bottles and a pair of sunglasses, A police report was made on Sunday. The

A junior staff member at the Israeli Embassy here used a Singaporean flag as a table cloth.

Israeli Ambassador was summoned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Singapore, according to media reports.

Meanwhile, the MFA welcomed the Israeli Embassy's apology as well as its assurances that it would undertake the necessary disciplinary actions against the person in question. "The misuse of the Singapore flag is a serious offence," MFA said.

"All persons, including diplomats and foreigners in Singapore, must respect and abide by our laws and regulations," it said in a statement.(Agencies)

garding the 1971 genocide and the ongoing war crimes trial. She (Zia) simply reconfirmed her stance," said Shahriar Kabir, who heads a forum that have been cam-

paigning for the punishment of the major Bengalispeaking perpetrators of 1971 atrocities who sided with Pakistani troops during the war.

Pakistan's bureaucracy bloated, grossly inefficient

The government has failed to appoint permanent heads to some 12 ministries and divisions.

Islamabad, Dec 31: Pakistan's bureaucracy is bloated, over paid and grossly inefficient, said a daily which noted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut down his cabinet to streamline decision making. An editorial "When bigger is not better" in The News International said that the inefficiency of the countless ministries running the affairs of Pakistan is no secret, but the sitting government goes a step ahead to set new precedents. "The government has failed to appoint permanent heads to some 12 ministries and divisions."How any organization can function without a strong leadership and direction is beyond common sense, but affairs are being run, and targets are being met- such are the official claims. If this is true, that we are doing well without these missing managers; why do we need so many official posts to begin with?" The daily said that Pakistan is perhaps one of the few countries in the world that requires a horde of government officials to carry out a simple task. "Our bureaucracy is bloated, over paid and grossly inefficient..." It observed that

poor governance has caused ministries to become redundant and talents and skills of people go to waste.

"The Nawaz Sharif governance style remains colonial at best- the state machinery is run through a group made up of the prime ministers family members and close friends. The cabinet has reportedly met only three times in 2015. If ministerial duty is just a farce then why spend national exchequer on these ministries?" The editorial went on to say that the Finance Ministry has perfected the art of "concealing the true financial position of the government from the public and yet no one is held accountable for inefficiency or corruption".

It said that the government must prioritise and shake up its government structure to eliminate the unnecessary.

"Indian PM Modi cut down his cabinet recently, to streamline decision making.

"We have too many ministry portfolios and departments- we do not need this many ministers and secretaries. The international standard is to have a smaller cabinet, but in Pakistan these positions are less about management and more about rewarding party members."(Agencies)

Ex-Pak envoy says trade relation with India 'harmless' Karachi, Dec. 31: Former Pakistani High Commissioner to India Aziz Ahmed Khan has said that trade relations between India and Pakistan will not harm the latter's economy. Khan also said thattrade with China brought no negative impact to Pakistan's

economy. He was addressing a round-table talk on Pakistan and India relations jointly organised by the Pakistan Study Centre and Pakistan National Forum here on Wednesday.

Khan said interference in the affairs of each other should be avoided by both India and Pakistan. (ANI)

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

New Year New Year's resolutions are the perfect opportunity The New Year had just began and with the holiday season already upon us many people are indulging in retrospection and reevaluating some of their life choices. New Year's resolutions are the perfect opportunity for all those who have failed to start making the changes that they said they would make next week, next month, or perhaps when winter starts. Well, now's its chance to sit down and prepare a list of important lifestyle changes you want to make, and being the charitable and caring bunch since majority of people fail to stick to their resolution.

It's that time again when everyone rushes into declaring a New Year's resolution, only to break it in an hour, day, week or month. Let's face it, most of us aren't too great at maintaining the promises we make to ourselves every year. Also when it comes to celebrating the New Year, Indians - especially Hindus are unique to celebrate it as per different traditional calendars. Very few of us know that countries which haven't adopted the modern calendar are Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Nepal, Iran and Afghanistan. India, Bangladesh, Israel and Myanmar use other calendars alongside the modern Gregorian calendar and countries like Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Japan, North Korea and Taiwan use a modified version of the current calendar. Despite the different calendars, it is interesting to note that we tend to make New Year resolutions only with the modern calendar, not our traditional ones.

Regardless of what calendar we use, our New Year resolutions seems like a game we play with ourselves. Many a times this resolve (sankalpa) loses it strength, to which someone rightfully quipped, "A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other." Hope it is wrong, but we know why it is true.

Gender equality…an impossible reality A long way to go Promises to address gender gap are far from reality. In India, women do not seem to enjoy all the rights to freedom provided under the Constitution of India. According to a report by National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), a crime against women is recorded every 1.7 minutes in India. Every 16 minutes a rape case is recorded in this country and every 4.4 minutes a girl is subjected to domestic violence. Acid attacks also known as vitriolage is a violent attack especially on women. According to the report of NCRB, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal earned the dubious distinction of leading a list of states where crime against women in 2013 was highest. However considering the rate of crime committed per lakh of female population, Assam and Tripura top the list followed by Rajasthan. The crime rate was however much lower at 32.93 per lakh of female population. With 7.5 per cent share of the country's women population, West Bengal accounted for nearly 9.64 per cent of total crime against women by reporting 29,826 cases. The crime rate was 67.14 per lakh of female population. Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of rape cases (4,335) accounting for 12.1 per cent of total such cases reported in the country followed by Rajasthan (3,285 cases, 9.78%) and Maharashtra (3,063 cases, 5.52%). Rape cases have been further categorised as incest rape and other.Among the cities however, Delhi reported the largest no of rape cases at 1,441 which included 39 cases of incest rape - also highest among cities.

The cases of Kidnapping and Abduction have jumped by 35.6 per cent during 2013 over the previous year against 7.6 per cent increase during 2012.

18.7 per cent of total such cases reported in the country were from Uttar Pradesh (9,737 cases) alone followed by Bihar and Assam (8.52 per cent, 4,419 cases and 8.14 per cent, 4,222 cases respectively). Andhra Pradesh has reported 37.35 per cent (4,702 cases) of sexual harassment followed by Maharashtra with 29.91 per cent (2,632 cases) of total incidences during 2013. The highest crime rate of 56.39 per lakh of women population (as compared to the national rate of 20.1 per cent) was reported from Assam. The rate of cognizable crimes against women on all India basis was 52.24 per lakh of female population. But the rates were significantly higher in Assam at 113.93 per lakh of female population followed by Tripura (89.15), Rajasthan (83.13), Andhra Pradesh (76.25) and Haryana (75.04). Among 53 cities, Delhi (11449 cases) has accounted for 21.41 per cent of total crime against women in these cities followed by Mumbai (2946 cases; 5.51 per cent), Bengaluru (2608 cases; 4.88 per cent), Ahmedabad (2449 cases; 4.58 per cent) and Kolkata (2399 cases; 4.49 per cent). National capital Delhi has reported 29.41 per cent of rape cases, 35.1 per cent of kidnapping and abduction cases, 15.76 per cent of dowry deaths, 25.76 per cent of molestation cases and 28.3 per cent of incest rape cases among 53 mega cities, the NCRB report said. The rate of cognizable crimes against women was significantly higher in Vijayawada, Kota, Gwalior, Delhi and Jaipur at 279.7, 184.43, 165.23, 151.13, and 139.81 per lakh of female population respectively as compared to average of mega cities at 69.72 per lakh of female population.

Save, To Save Income Tax Dr. Kumud Goswami The coming three months are crucial to the income tax payers because during this period the tax liability will be finally assessed and the balance tax is required to be paid to the income tax authority. But those who have planned for payment of tax liabilities at the very beginning of the financial year i.e. the April last will be able to enjoy the coming three months also very comfortably compared to others who has not planned for payment of income tax. The impact and incidence of income tax falls upon the same person and it does not directly create any benefit to the income tax payers and it is progressive. But income tax payers (assessees) and non-assessees are enjoying lots of benefit indirectly from the govt. which are financed out of tax revenue. As such, the tax payers have to learn and practice some techniques so that tax liability can be minimized.

Since the taxpayers cannot escape from the tax burden, they have to learn the technique to make friendship rather making income tax as one of the very inevitable partners of life.

Some tips to the taxpayers especially who are having income from salary to be computed under the head Income from Salary as per the provisions of the Income Tax Act. As stated earlier headache starts to all the tax payers specially the salaried class from the end of December as only two/three months left for finalization of their tax liabilities. The salaried class people basically go on investing rather paying insurance premium and their provident fund contribution throughout the year ignoring the other modes of savings/investments to avail tax benefits. As a result, they face a stringent situation while the month of March is marching ahead with a huge tax obligation.

Since tax evasion is a crime we cannot resort to it rather we have to learn how to live together with the income tax. For making income tax a friend, the tax payers must think well ahead of finalization of tax liability instead of thinking about it from the month of December or so every year. They should plan for their next year tax liabilities from the beginning of the income year which starts from the month of March/April every year.

The Income Tax Act, 1961 and the Annual Finance Act are providing some incentive to the tax payers subject to fulfillment of some conditions as specified in the acts. It is up to the taxpayers how they can successfully capitalize those incentives. When a taxpayer takes these incentives as a vehicle to have a comfortable ride then they will also be able to learn how to make friendship with income tax. We are not advocating that the tax incentives available at present are adequate enough considering the day to day price rise in our country and also the exempted income slab prescribed for calculat-

of income tax incentives offered to different person and how to avail the opportunity with rational thinking and taking a timely decision.

Many of such tax incentives are available u/s 80 in different sub-sections of the Income Tax Act. One of such incentives available is deduction from the gross total income of the assessee u/ s 80C. Some small savings and investment vehicles are qualified for claiming this deduction subject to conditions.

Most common investment options which qualify for this benefit are employees own contribution to recognized provident funds, PPF deposit, purchase of NSC, amount deposited to some CTDs, purchase of units of Mutual Funds, life insurance premium paid on own and dependent family members' life, repayment of principal amount of house loan, amount deposited to NSS etc. The person can save in those modes all throughout the year without waiting till the end of the financial year.

The tax payers have to make their mind to make savings not for only getting some income out of it but also to save tax from it. Out of the above

Since tax evasion is a crime we cannot resort to it rather we have to learn how to live together with the income tax. For making income tax a friend, the tax payers must think well ahead of finalization of tax liability instead of thinking about it from the month of December or so every year. They should plan for their next year tax liabilities from the beginning of the income year which starts from the month of March/April every year. The Income Tax Act, 1961 and the Annual Finance Act are providing some incentive to the tax payers subject to fulfillment of some conditions as specified in the acts. ing tax liability. We are trying to highlight some

mentioned investment options; benefits arising

from some of it do not attract tax liability such as interest accrued on PPF, insurance maturity value etc. So, while we save for tax purpose we have to think for the taxability of the benefits what may accrue on its maturity or on accrual basis. Again, the tax payers should save on regular basis so that more accrual benefits can be enjoyed then investing at the end of the financial year. This behavior will help the taxpayer to take an informed decision and also to earn the full year benefit accrued on it. All the above stated investment vehicles are safe, ensure low but fix return and can be mortgaged for taking loan but with a less scope for its direct liquidation.

One more facility is given to the taxpayers to claim deduction from income is mediclaim insurance premium paid for his own and other dependent family members' life. The premium of such policy is required to be paid by crossed cheque or by money transfer during the previous year. Maximum deduction in the name of mediclaim premium is Rs.20000 can be claimed with additional deduction of Rs. 5000. The other benefit of this policy is to get cash less treatment or getting reimbursement of medical expenses. By paying a minimum amount as mediclaim premium the taxpayer can get relief from medical ex-

penses and can accept a fixed medical allowance from the employer.

Some other incentives provided by the Income Tax Act to the individual tax payers like deduction for interest income on saving deposit (u/ s80TT), making donation (u/s80G), taking educational loan (u/ s80E) etc .

When we talk about investment, there are lot many investment options available to the investors. Some of such options are very risky with scope to earn more and some are less risky with low rate of return.

The investment in equity security is risky and investment in corporate debt security is less risky but return is very limited.

There is one more variety of investment vehicle i.e. mutual funds with less risk but to earn somewhat higher rate than the market rate of return. The investors can judiciously select a combination of investment vehicles (portfolio) to minimize risk and maximize return apart from making some tax saving investment.

Making investment needs lot of thinking, constant observation, reacting at right moment and many more to create future benefit out of such investment rather savings. The saving should be considered as investment to capture the real benefits out of

it. We can take a guide from some animal with regard to making investment. A newly born cow starts its life within an hour of birth signifies to invest early. The Ants regularly store their food more than they consume reflecting that to create wealth over a period of time by maintaining regularity. The Kangaroos protect their baby in their mother's pouch even when she leaps which shows to be more cautious for safety reasons while making investment and this must be at the initiative of the investors. The Squirrel hides its nuts in different places indicating diversification to minimize risk and maximizing return. The fish hunter birds (Crane) remain standing in water for hours together to catch fishes signify patient while invests. The Giraffe has four chambers to store food in its stomach and when hungry it takes food from one of its chambers indicating liquidity when necessary. The investment behaviour of the people must be matched with the nature of the above stated animals for getting more and more benefits.

Dr. Kumud Goswami is a Professor in the Deptt. of Commerce, Dibrugarh University Email:goswamikumudchan@yahoo.co.in. a n d kumudgoswami@dibru.ac.in.

Ambitions Student Leaders party. All the medias, whether electronic or newspapers were vocal about them. We know the saying, Politics is the last refuge of the scoundrels. The way these student leaders earned notoriety amassing wealth raise our eyebrows. Bharat Narah could not bear the brunt of his fabulous wealth, fell down. We are of the views that there should be a thorough probe into earnings of wealth, as all the ministers and most of the M.L.As indulge in amassing properties quite disproportionate to their income. If found guilty, all these properties should be attached. The new student leaders joining politics will unveil there identity in course of time. Incidentally, it is reported in a section of the Press that three veteran AAMSU leaders are joining congress very soon, reports further suggested that they are all set to be fielded from Dhing. Naoboicha and Borpeta Sadar. None raises hue and cry, nor anyone calls congress communal.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

Sir, There have been much hullabaloo over the issue of AASU leaders joining political parties. Prafulla Kumar Mahanta with his associates formed Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and subsequently formed the government. Bharat Narah and Himanta Biswa Sarma switched over to congress and BJP later. In recent times, few AASU leaders joined the saffron

Dress code Sir As per media reports state level based Bihu Sanmilani Committe has introduced many reforms in celebration of stage bihu programmes across the state which are ought to be followed by every artists. Though there are many reforms which are applauding like no art-

ists can perform on stage after drinking alcohol. Bihu committees need to accommodate the artists etc; Though they also made dress codes that need to be followed i.e etnic dresses like Mekhela Chadar for women and Kurta -Dhoti for men . The introduction of Ethnic Dhoti for male artists would be a cumbersome one as unlike women who are used to ethnic Mekhela Chadar,today's generation hardly wear Dhoti. Through the columns of your esteemed daily I would like to urge the concerned committee to put off Dhoti in the dress code and introduce Pyjamas or Trousers instead.

Yours etc; Shajid Khan TDC 1st semester Arts Tangla College

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

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

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

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The early year 2015 will be also remembered as: Arunachal Round up - 2015 2015 had both good and bad memories however dominating news of the year was Games & Sports which will be remembered in the history of nascent state like Arunachal: where various budding sportsperson have brought laurel for the state: Kojum Taba, one of the promising weightlifters in the country, clinched two silver medals in 77kg weight category in the highly competitive 28th Asian Men, Junior Weightlifting Championship held in Bangsaeng, Thailand.

Jimjang Deru clinched three gold medals in 56Kg category to become Asian Youth Champion-2015 in his weight category.

Also the history was created in Archery by Sorang Yumi, Genung Tekseng, Maselu Mihu and Netan Drema Khrimey in beating Punjab in the final of the Women's Olympic Team Event to win Gold medal in the 35th National Games at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Ernakulam, Kerala, In the field of Tennis, Mingkhi Talom is ranked number one tennis player in the country in under 18 category.

He created history by becoming the first tennis player from Arunachal Pradesh to achieve number one ranking at the national's level in under 18 defeating Calvin Gonmai of Haryana by 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

State's top shuttler Laa Talar also brought laurel to the state by winning the 14th Union Bank All India Junior Ranking Badminton Tournament2015 title at Bangalore. ¨ The state government has recruited 92 persons in various ranks in state police under sports quota from the troubled Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts recognising talent in Games & Sports.

The early year 2015 will be also remembered as the most hilarious year as the APPSC aspirates de-

cided to sit in 72 hours liament (Lok Sabha) and hunger strike to seek former state Cabinet justice led by Ujum Minister Sobeng Tayeng Perying in connection in 23rd January, Setong with the question paper Sena, untimely death on leak incident which had January 25th has created raised concern over the vacuum in the state poliaspirants. tics who The APPSC h a d Bishnu Rana had susserved the pended four state as officials in the ranks of assembly speaker and Joint Secretary and Un- ministers in various cader Secretary over the al- pacities. legation.

The beginning of the In a sensational develop- year 2015 also rocked ment the state Special In- the media over the isvestigation Team (SIT) sue of Pre - Paid Elecarrested five persons. All tric Meters System inarrested persons are the troduced by power deofficials of Arunachal partment, Capital DiviPradesh Public Service sion Itanagar.

Commission (APPSC) The year also rejoiced namely Joram Nagu, Un- with opening of 20th der Secretary APPSC, Kra Daadi district Nima Tondrang, Joint which got bifurcated Secretary APPSC, Bate from Kurung Kumey Koyu, Deputy Secretary and creation of 21st APPSC, Debhasish Dey, Siang District dividing Private Secretary to Upper Siang district.

Chairman APPSC and In this year Arunachal Swaroop Bhattacharjee, also rejoice over hisPersonal Assistant to toric Indian Railways Joint Secretary respec- connecting Arunachal tively. with New Delhi, Prime While ushering in a Minister Narendra Modi new chapter of coop- flagged off the AC Exerative federalism in press Train between the country giving Naharlagun and New space to all regions and Delhi to mark the 29th states in policy framing statehood day of at the Centre, the Na- Arunachal. At the same tional Institution of time BhalukpongTransforming India Dekargaon passenger (NITI) Ayog was intro- train was flagged off by duced by NDA govt. re- Railway Minister Suresh placing the 65-years-old Prabhu via remote video Planning Commission link on Aug 10 in the runs by Congress and presence of Kiren Rijuji ended the decade-long MoS for Home at excessive centralization Bhalukpung. of power during Con- Like every year this year gress-run Governments also Arunachal was batat the Centre. tered by monsoon rains The year is good for and landslides where Tezu headquarter of Anjaw, Dambuk in L/ Lohit as The Girls NCC Diabng Valley, Kurung Pipe Band contingent of Kumey, Lohit and CapiGovernment Higher Sec- tal wrecked havoc that ondary School Tezu be- breached surface comcame first Girls NCC munication, submerPipe Band in India to gence of several areas participated at the 26th leading lost of lives at January 2015 Republic Capital and inundated Day parade in front of hundred of households United States President and cultivable land causBarak Obama and ing lost of crores of ruNarendra Modi PM of pees.

India with traditional The year also suffered Mishmi costume in New from severe financial Delhi. crisis leading Nabum The year too painted a Tuki CM to present the gloomy picture for both Vote on Account (estiof Lohit and the state mated expenditure) for due to demise of two four months beginning veteran public figure, 1st April, 2015 for the fiFormer Member of Par- nancial year 2015-16

along with the Supplementary Demands for Grants for the current financial year 2014 -15 in the first day sitting of the fourth session of the Arunachal Pradesh Sixth Legislative Assembly.

Tuki informed that the Vote on Account has been fixed at Rs 371.22 crore under plan and Rs 1415.08 crore under non plan, adding the estimates of expenditure in the Vote on Account for 4 months are based on salaries, wages, pension and other essential revenue expenditure. Opposition BJP led by its leader Tamiyo Taga staged a walkout from the Assembly protesting the tabling of Vote-onAccount by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki instead of a regular budget on March 5. Taga also accused the state Govt of siphoning off development funds and announced his party's decision to boycott the rest of the proceedings of the session.

April 02, Congress expelled senior leader Kalikho Pul MLA Hayuliang from party however was stayed after knocking Court's door. He alleged & launched a sarcastic attack on the Tuki led Congress state government on financial irregularities. Pul claimed that the state was going through severe financial crisis due to the financial mismanagement of the present government.

Situation was so bad that it compelled the Chief Secretary to order closing of the year on March 24 instead of March 31, Pul alleges. BJP demands imposition of financial emergency and resignation of CM on moral ground rocked the state throughout.

The year was good as Pasighat headquarter of East Siang district was selected 98 cities selected for the Modi government's flagship Smart Cities project.

Whereas Itanagar was declared crime capital of Arunachal, of the total 2884 cases recorded by the Arunachal Pradesh Police between 1 Sept

2014 - 2 Sept 2015, Itanagar is way ahead with 686 cases and 22 rape case in the Capital.

The year also hit the news after the appointment of J P Rajkhowa as a new Governor of AP on May 12 when Incumbent, Lt. General (Retd.) Nirbhay Sharma was transferred. A former bureaucrat, Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa (born in 1944) was the former Chief Secretary of Assam. He was a retired Indian Administrative Service (I.A.S) officer from 1968 batch. He did M.A in Economics from the Delhi School of Economics. ¨ Pawan Hans Dauphin Vt-phk helicopter crashed was also a newsmaker of 2015 where young IAS officer Kamlesh Joshi DC Tirap including Capt. M.S. Brar and Late Capt.

Rajiv Hoskote, the pilot and co-pilot who died in a chopper crash on Aug 4 in Tirap.

The year reported extreme sign of brutality in the state when A 36 year old mother was allegedly raped and murdered on (April 26) at Old Khamdu village under Jairampur Police Station. A henious case of sexual assault of minor girls has surfaced under Geku circle in Upper Siang.

According to a report received, one Oku Taku of Sumsing village under Geku circle of Upper Siang district. One Md Azhar Ali allegedly raped a 6-year-old minor girl Koloriang town in Kurung Kumey district.

Also at Seppa, Yangno Liyak & Achung Bagang brutally raped minor students of class V and VI of Govt School at the town. A Tangsa girl hailing from Assam was allegedly raped and murdered by unknown miscreants on August 29, last near Burma Camp, Lekhapani under Margherita police station of Tinsukia district, Assam. In a yet another dastardly act, a five-yearold girl was allegedly raped by a middle aged man at Seppa on October 3.

The year also top in dubious distinction of Arunachal in Poppy cultivation: Of the total 2,530 acres of poppy crop destroyed across the country by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) during 2014-15, the sparsely populated state with a population of just 13.82 lakh, as per official figures, accounted for nearly 40 per cent with 1,067 acres.

During 2013-14, of around the same acreage of poppy destroyed by NCB, 1,222 acres were in Arunachal Pradesh. ¨ However, more than Rs 60 crores turned over from Large Cardamom cultivation replacing Opium had brought smiles this year in the face of thousands of beleaguer villagers of Anjaw district. ¨ Lawlessness and barbarity also exposed the state's grim picture when at Aalo in West Siang police arrested 7 IRBN personnel for severely assaulting town magistrate and IRBN constable who were later dismissed from the services. ¨ The Wakro unit of the Cultural and Literary Society of Mishmis (CALSOM) along with ICare won their first battle in the fight against opium addiction when 20 opium addicts out of the 23 successfully completed the de addiction course at Treatment cum Rehabilitation Centre (TCRC) at Chongkham.

Also the year observed International Yoga Day on June 21 by organizing seminar on yoga for health, harmony and peace at State. Swatch Bharat Abhiyan initiated

by Narendra Modi PM also dominated as major campaign in the state to ensure clean and green India by 2019.

The year 2015 too echoed with massive Protest

rallies across Arunachal against SC verdict on Chakma and Hajong refugees ¨ The years also virtually dominated the media regarding alleged misused of government exchequer and sporadic demand of CM resignation over the issues. Senior Congress MLA Kalikho Pul, who was dropped from the Ministry on charges of anti-party activities alleged financial embezzlement by the state government to the tune of Rs 299.32 crore of central fund against relief and rehabilitation schemes in the past four years. ¨ Bandh, Rally, Dharna and protest against the Tuki government by BJP's Jan Andolan Movement and various groups had swayed the state including the United Organization of AP (UOAP) shouted slogans, "Lagao Lagao CBI Inquiry Lagao" "Resign Do.! Resign Do..!, Nabam Tuki Resign Do..!" with placards castigating the state government at Indra Gandhi Park Itanagar. ¨ Political unrest continued hit the news with dropped of Agriculture Minister Chowna Mein, PRIs and Cooperative Minister Kumar Waii, Women and Child Development Minister, Wanglin Lowangdong and Civil Aviation Minister Thangham Wangham. Also Four Parliamentary secretaries were dropped by the Chief Minister. They include Markio Tado who was handling Food and Civil Supplies, Pasang D SonaAnimal Husbandry and Civil Aviation, Mutchi Mithi-Horticulture and CT Mein-Environmental and Forests. ¨ The year rattled with The Gauhati High Court directive to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the alleged allegations of cor-

ruption against Arunachal Pradesh chief minister. The state BJP party which was demanding Chief Minister Nabam Tuki ouster from his post, the party welcomed the Gauhati High Court's judgment and demanded that the CM resigns on moral ground.

The Governor to immediately convene an Assembly session or pre-pone the already notified Assembly session which was supposed to began from Jan 14 to 18th was advanced to 16th Dec to move impeachment motion against Speaker as sought by the BJP legislators including two Independent MLAs so to resolve the 'prolonged political deadlock had completely jolted the political scenario where the 26 MLAs abstained the Assembly Session resulting sealed of Assembly Gate due to which the 34 MLAs held the impeachment motion of Speaker and no confidence motion against CM at the makeshift hall. ¨ The year end witnessed unprecedented law & order scenario in Capital where road were obstructed, Mithuns were slaughtered at Raj Bhawan road to forbidden 34 MLAs to meet Governor at Raj Bhawan. 26 MLAs also filed a petition in the High Court Guwahati challenging the pre pone of Assembly Session convened by the Governor and the illegal impeachment motion.

Though the Court had stayed the proceeding till 2 February 2016, however the joined review petition filed by 34 MLAs led by Kalikho Pul and Governor at High Court has heard and 'Stay Vacation Petition' on 4 January next to solve the long political deadlock of the state. The entire political uproar in the state has hogged the limelight of the year 2015.

Came a Long Way Without Using Publicity For over three decades Arunachal Christian Prayer Center has dedicated itself in seeking out divine best source/ method of healing & peace and sharing them with the world. Founded in 1980s, it shows in the history on how to put spiritual healthy life that work for human. There couldn't be better way to give a perfect health than divine touch. It endorsed many for their well being and each guest's basic desire are met and can be said as the fastest grower intercessory center of the nation. It also has annual visitors from every district of the tribal state as well as residing outside the region. After being in the service of mankind for many years it has established a name that is identical with truth and dependability.

The family behind the vision was late Reverend Dokar Riram and his families. For years they had been searching for a spiritual retreat zone for

a spirit filled individual.

In 1980s found what they were looking for, and invited few interested peoples to attend the first Yumri ever meeting in his house.

They were fortune to initiate those series of preparatory meeting that leads to realize the dream. A simple equation, they grasp the opportunity with opportunity. From this event, a journey was launched that has led to an unimaginable success. They started reaping the benefits that the establishment offered. Additionally their rewards for contribution rendered are recorded in the book of life.

However, their commitment towards adhering goals deserved to recalls timely. With over lifetime of inspirational leadership and sound management principles, Riram families had dedicated most of their life in helping people to achieve what they want and pre-

pare themselves for the eternity.

Each year new miracles, which have been meticulously seems are Taipodia added in their testimony. The continuous efforts of the researchers have resulted in patents for various techniques to live peaceful lives. Here scripture in never compromise! It is located in an ideal pristine environment away from pollutants at the bank of Jipu River 4 kilometers each away from Likabali town and NH52 DhimajiRuksin road. Many helpful activities are learning from their painstaking keepers. They generate saintly atmosphere by individual faith to faith experience and then share those noble essence to their community. The tone of their voice may be sometime straight, due to its richness in ingredient.

Over decades it has gained popularity, spread through visitors' mouth.

They did it by recommending it to their families & friends. Often in various names people called the 'healing center,' 'miracle center,' 'Jipu center,' and the 'mother prayer center.' Probably it is one of the most discussed or desired to visit in the time of need for divine intervention. Contains the blessing/solutions that are required by the people from all segments alike! Frequently people first experiment for themselves and family here then share them with others. Today, it has come a long way, from without engaging in publicity works and gets referred only in the books.

People are now more aware of the uses and benefits especially helping to choose the right path in the multitudes of decision. They have tested the potential of this sacred institute in their daily life.

(Writer can be reached a t yumritaipodia@gmail.com)

BUSINESS

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

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The year 2015 has gone by...it is a past now. Many new schemes were launched, the market was loaded with smartphones, cars, various gadgets etc amongst which some were able to gain a place between us and some were lost in the land of nowhere. On the first day of a new year, let us take a leap back and see what the year 2015 witnessed in the business sector.

Key schemes launched by Union Budget 2015-16: A look back Narendra Modi in 2015 MUDRA Bank Yojna (Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Bank) Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched MUDRA Bank (Micro Units Development Refinance Agency) in April to boost funding of small businesses which are the catalysts of employment in the country. MUDRA Bank will provide credit of up to Rs 10 lakh to small entrepreneurs and act as a regulator for 'Micro-Finance Institutions' (MFIs) in India.

Social security schemes: Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana /Atal Pension Yojana Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana will offer a renewable one-year life cover of Rs 2 lakh to all savings bank account holders in the age group of 18-50 years, covering death due to any reason, for a premium of Rs 330 per annum. The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana will offer a renewable one-year accidental death-cum-disability cover of Rs 2 lakh for partial/permanent disability to all savings bank account holders in the age group of 18-70 years for a premium of Rs 12 per annum per subscriber.

Atal Pension Yojana will focus on the unorganised sector and provide subscribers a fixed minimum pension of Rs 1,000, Rs 2,000, Rs 3,000, Rs 4,000 or Rs 5,000 per month, starting at the age of 60 years, depending

on the contribution option exercised on entering at an age between 18 and 40 years.

Smart Cities Mission: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban

aims at making IT enabled society that consumes IT enabled services. The aim is to develop digital infrastructure and make the role of IT in good governance, removing corrup-

of 10 years-- Sukanya Samriddhi Account-which can be opened in banks and post offices.

Half of the funds can be withdrawn for her higher education and marriage

Images for representational purpose.

Tr a n s f o r m a t i o n (AMRUT) The main objective of these ambitious schemes, worth Rs 4 lakh crore, launched by the Prime Minister is to provide a house to everyone by 2022, and develop Indian cities and towns as model cities and new engines of growth. And with the Smart Cities Mission, quality of life will be enhanced in 100 identified cities and towns by ensuring quality infrastructure, improving services through application of smart solutions and enabling a clean and sustainable environment.

These smart cities in turn will turn into triggers of growth in the region.

Digital India Initiative Prime Minister inaugurated 'Digital India' in July to make the country digitally literal. Digital India initiative

tion and generating jobs all pervasive.

Skill India: Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July launched Skill India Campaign during which he launched National Skill Development Mission, the new National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 2015 and all-India flagship scheme Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY). The government has set a target of skilling 40.2 crore people by 2022 and the initiatives are aimed at realizing this objective.

Sukanya Samriddhi Account (Small Savings Instrument for girl child) Government launched a a spcial deposit scheme for girl child of up to the age

as she attains 18 years of age. The scheme would mature on completion of 21 years from the date of opening of the account, and deposits can be made till completion of 14 years.

Gold Monetization Scheme, Sovereign Gold Bonds Scheme, Indian gold coin Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November launched the first ever 'India gold coin' bearing Ashok Chakra on the eve of Diwali. Besides the gold coin, Modi also launched the Gold Monetization Scheme (GMS) and Gold Sovereign Bond Scheme. The aim is to utilize the gold lying unproductive in lockers and institutions and bring it into circulation and reduce the gold imports.

(Agencies)

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on February 28, 2015 proposed no changes in personal income-tax rates for 201516 but extended benefits to middle-class by increasing the limit of deduction on health insurance premium from Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000, while presenting the Budget 2015-16. For senior citizens, it will go up from Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 and for those above 80 years, not covered by health insurance, deduction of Rs 30,000 towards expenditure on medical treatment will be allowed.

Combining these incentives with others including an enhanced deduction of Rs 1.5 lakh on account of contribution to pension fund as against Rs 1 lakh now, the relief of tax deductions under various sections, including 80C and 80CCD, go up to Rs 4.42 lakh. The transport allowance exemption has been doubled to Rs 1,600.

In the first full-year Budget of the NDA government that shunned populism, he announced a 5 percent reduction in cor-

porate tax over next four years, abolished wealth tax and replaced it with an additional 2 percent surcharge on super-rich individuals, while increasing service tax that will result in higher cost of variety of services.

With the levy of 2 percent additional surcharge, the total surcharge on 'superrich' individuals with an income of over Rs 1 crore, becomes 12 percent as against 10 percent now. In the case of domestic companies having income between Rs 1 crore and Rs 10 crore, it will be 7 per cent and 12 percent for firms with income above Rs 10 crore.

Budget 2015-16: Highlights 1.

Budget 2015-16 marks the beginning of co-operative federalism and empowerment of the states.

2.

Several new schemes announced.

3.

Micro Units Development Refinance Agency (MUDRA) bank to refinance microfinance institutions.

4.

Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana to

Images for representational purpose.

cover accidental death risk of rs. 2 lakh for just rs. 12 per year premium.

5.

Atal Pension Yojana for defined pension, government to contribute 50% of the premium.

6.

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana to cover both natural and accidental death risk.

7.

Proposal to cre-

ate senior citizen welfare fund.

8.

National Investment and Infrastructure Fund proposed.

9.

Tax-free infrastructure bonds for projects in rail, road and irrigation sectors.

10.

Setu(self-employment and talent utilization) mechanism to support start-up businesses.

7th Pay Commission proposes 23.55% hike in salary for central Govt. employees A 23.55 percent hike in salary, allowances and pension involving an additional burden of Rs 1.02 lakh crore has been recommended to central government employees and pensioners by the 7th Pay Commission which more than doubled the entry and top level pay while favouring a virtual OROP for civilians. The recommendations that will benefit

Images for representational purpose.

47 lakh central government employees and 52 lakh pensioners.The 7th Pay Commission will be implemented from January 1, 2016. The panel recommended a 14.27 percent increase in basic pay, the lowest in 70 years. The previous 6th Pay Commission had recommended a 20 percent hike which the government doubled while implementing it in 2008. The 23.55

percent increase includes hike in allowances. The entry level pay has been recommended to be raised to Rs 18,000 per month from current Rs 7,000 while the maximum pay, drawn by the Cabinet Secretary, has been fixed at Rs 2.5 lakh per month from current Rs 90,000. For the Secretaries it has been fixed at Rs 2.25 lakh as against Rs 80,000 currently. (Agencies)

Smartphones, Gadgets New Car launches of 2015 Key Economic Bills passed in 2015 launched in 2015 Apple unveils iPhones 6S, 6S Plus with '3D Touch' In September, Tim Cook unveiled two new iPhones, the iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus, a large screen display handsets with a new pressure-sensitive display with '3D Touch' gestures. The new iPhones were launched in India on Oct 16 with a starting price of Rs 62,000 for the 16GB variant.

Microsoft Windows 10 Tech giant Microsoft Corporation unveiled its new operating system, Windows 10 in the month of July replete with a redesigned web browser called Edge and Cortana, a Siri-like voice activated assistant. With this new product, Microsoft looked towards capturing the market lost to rivals Apple and Google.

Microsoft unveils Surface Book, Surface Pro 4, Lumia 950, Lumia 950XL In October 2015, Microsoft Corporation unveiled its first ever laptop, the Surface Book which the tech giant says if twice as fast as Apple's MacBook Pro. Along with this, the company also launched the Surface Pro tablet along with Lumia 950 and Lumia 950XL. The laptop is a 13.5-inch display with 267 pixels per inch and features a track

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pad made of glass while the Surface Pro 4 features a 12.3-inch screen with 267 pixels per inc.

From Camera to smartphone: Kodak launches MI5 Kodak, the once-leading manufacturer of cameras and photographic film products, jumped into the smartphone market by launching its first Android phone, MI5 at the Consumer Electronics Show, 2015 (CES) in Las Vegas. The MI5 featurs a 5-inch screen with 720x1280p display resolution and is powered by a 1.7GHz octacore processor along with 1GB of RAM. Android Marshmallow In August, internet giant Google revealed the sixth version of its Android operating system, Marshmallow and opened it to app developers for testing. And while it was not available for immediate download then, Google is slowly rolling it out now.

Google Nexus devices and Motorola smartphones were one of the first to experience with the new Android OS. Some of the major features of Android Marshmallow include Finger sensor, better battery life, App permission, etc.

Samsung launches Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge The year 2015 was one of the best years of South Korean electronics giant Samsung with the company making three big major launches - the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge. While the Note 5 was launched globally in the month of August, it was made available in India in September with a starting price of Rs 53,999 for the 32GB variant. The Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge were however launched in the month of April with a starting price of Rs 49,900. (Agencies)

Tata Nano GenX launched at Rs 1.99 lakh Tata Motors repackaged its most talked-about car Nano in May as GenX Nano. The car was launched with advanced technological features and was made available for sale across the country in over 450 Tata Motors sales outlets. The GenX Nano comes with a starting price of Rs 1.99 lakh for the XE variant and goes up to Rs 2.49 lakh, for the XT variant, in manual transmission. The XMA variant priced at Rs 2.69 lakh, and XTA priced at Rs 2.89 lakh with automated manual transmission (AMT). Following the launch, the existing range of the Nano will be phased out except for the CNG version.

Maruti Suzuki launches Baleno Eyeing top slot in the premium hatchback segment, country's largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India rolled out its latest model 'Baleno' in October. The car was launched at a price between Rs 4.99 lakh and Rs 8.11 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The car, which will be manufactured only in India, is the first car from the MSI stable that will be exported to Japan, he added. In domestic market, Baleno will be sold through the company's new premium network of showrooms, Nexa.

Hyundai Creta

launched in India, price starts at Rs 8.59 lakh Korean auto major Hyundai launch its most anticipated mass market sports utility vehicle Creta in India in July.

The Creta will be equipped with two engine options -petrol 1.6 dual VTVT and U2 1.4 CRDi & U2 CRDi VGT diesel engine options.

The price of the car varied between Rs 8.59 lakh to Rs 13.6 lakh depending on the petrol and deisel variant and the engine power. The vehicle comes with a 6 speed manual and automatic transmission (in 1.6 CRDi VGT). The SUV sports 17 inch dia-

3 lakh and Rs 4 lakh. Developed at an investment of around Rs 3,000 crore, the SUV-shaped small car will be powered by an 800 cc petrol engine. The company is looking to make India a regional hub for exporting the new car.

M&M drives in 'newage' XUV500 Mahindra & Mahindra in May unveiled an updated version of its sports utility vehicle XUV500, with the price starting at Rs 11.21 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

While the entry level variant W4 is priced at Rs 11.21 lakh, the highest trim W10 comes with a tag of Rs 15.99 lakh.

Luxury Cars: Audi

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mond cut alloy wheels, projector headlamps, LED positioning lamp, static bending, leather seats, 5 inch touchscreen audio system, anti lock braking system.

Renault unveils Rs 3lakh Kwid To take on Maruti and Hyundai in the entrylevel car segment, French auto major Renault unveiled Kwid in May priced between Rs

1) Audi RS 7 Sportback launched in India for Rs 1.4 crore 2) Audi RS6 Avant launched in India at Rs 1.35 crore.

3) New Audi 6 Matrix launched at Rs 50.65 lakh.

4) Audi A3 40 TFSI Premium sedan launched at Rs 25.50 lakh.

5) Audi launches 'S5 Sportback' in India priced at Rs 62.95 lakh.

Four key bills received Parliament's seal of approval in calendar year 2015, in a breakthrough for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's agenda of economic reforms.

The Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets (Imposition of Tax) Bill, 2015 /Black money Bill The Bill will apply to Indian residents and seeks to replace the Income Tax (IT) Act, 1961 for the taxation of foreign income. It penalizes the concealment of foreign income, and provides for criminal liability for attempting to evade tax in relation to foreign income. The Bill seeks to unearth unaccounted funds and assets stashed

by Indians abroad and provide for 120 percent tax and penalty in addition to 10-year jail term.

The Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2015 The Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2015 was passed by the Lok Sabha on 4th March, 2015 and by the Rajya Sabha on 12th March, 2015. The passage of the Bill thus paved the way for major reform related amendments in the Insurance Act, 1938, the General Insurance Business (Nationalization) Act, 1972 and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) Act, 1999. The amendment Act will remove archaic and redundant provisions in the legislations and incorporates certain provisions to provide Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) with the

flexibility to discharge its functions more effectively and efficiently. It also provided for an enhancement of the foreign investment cap in an Indian Insurance Company from 26% to an explicitly composite limit of 49% with the safeguard of Indian ownership and control.

The Coal Mines (Special Provision) Bill, 2015 With the passing of the Coal Mines (Special Provision) Bill 2015 by the Rajya Sabha , the Bill gets the approval of the Parliament.

Earlier the Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 04th March, 2015. The Bill has replaced Ordinance issued by the Government, the first as on 21st October, 2014 and then reproduce on 26th December, 2014 after the apex court cancelled the allocation of 204 blocks. Moving the Bill, Coal Minister Sh. Piyush Goyal said that the Bill aims at transparent allocation or auction of coal mines.

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2015 This Bill amends certain provisions of the MMDR Act, 1957. The Amendment Bill, 2015 became necessary to address the emergent problems in the mining industry. In the last few years, the number of new Mining Leases granted in the country has fallen substantially. In addition, second and subsequent renewals have also been affected by certain Supreme Court judgements. As a result, the output in the mining sector has come down drastically, leading to import of minerals by users of those minerals. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

Features

Page 11

TRAVEL & TOURISM Today, is the first blank page of a 366 page book. Dig within, and discover what you would like to have happen this year. New Year is that we should have altogether a new soul to celebrate and celebrating the new born year without a picnic trip is unthinkable.

The Eastern Today has listed a few picnic attraction preferences, so that you can read the given below articles and choose your picnic destination accordingly.

Top Charted Picnic Spots in Assam Making choice has always been a difficult job for many people and they seem to seek suggestions and help from friends and other resources elsewhere.

One common question that often arises among the people who are planning to go for a picnic in Assam is that of selecting a good place for the purpose.

Needless to say that there are a number of Picnic spots in Assam and it is all about finding the right spot which meets the convenience and satisfies your expectations.

While choosing a good picnic destination in Assam and its nearby places, you need to consider few things depending on what kind of people will be forming the intended group will it be simply of

young guys or accompanied by both elders and other age group of people.

You also need to consider the distance of travel, facility available on the destination and various other things so as to make the outdoor party enjoyable, comfortable and worthy to be cherished later. So, here is a list of few popular places in Assam which always remains crowded by people from distant places in the state whenever the picnic season arrives. We are listing the name of these places only as a reference so that you can find it useful to refresh your memory and recall the names of the destination available. These are not the ultimate list but a few suggestions to intended parties.

Aaithan: This is one place which has become more like a tradition for the people residing in and around Dibrugarh to visit on special occasions for picnic. It is a sacred place which is situated at the bank of the river Brahmaputra. People come here to worship the Black Goddess also known as the 'Koli Ai Thaan' in Assamese dialect. Even though it is visited by people for religious purpose and beliefs, it also remains busy with people thronging the area in groups from distant places to enjoy picnic parties mostly during the Christmas and New Year Celebrations.

Bogibill: This is another place which is often selected for picnic and

Avail the beauty of Choraideo. Source: letsseeindia.com

mostly people from nearby places of Dibrugarh come here for outdoor celebration during the winter season. It is situated at Dibrugarh around the bank of the river Brahmaputra.

Among the most common domains of visitors to this place includes students of various schools and colleges. The local people also come here in flocks to enjoy a feast together.

Choraideo: Be it an excursion or a picnic in Assam, the choice of visiting Choraideo will always find its place. It is located in the historic Sivasagar district of Assam which is popular for the historic monuments and the large Maidam of the Ahoms. The scenic beauty and lush green fields are some of the key factors which attracts people there.

Disang-Mukh: Considered to be a popular destination for tourists, it also serves the purpose of a busy picnic spot in Assam.

As the name already suggest, it means the Mouth of the Disang river which is a tributary stream of river Brahmaputra. This is mostly a place inhabited by the Mishing tribes and is known to be full of natural and scenic view.

Akakhi Ganga: It is lo-

cated in the Nagaon District which is approximately 55km away from the main town. Many people may not know, but there is a waterfall of considerably lofty height which is known as the Aakashi Ganga Waterfall.

It is a holy place as well as an important archaeological site. It is a beautiful place that attracts a lot of picnic enthusiasts of the state. People also enjoy the view of the elephants that roams freely within the region surrounded by lush green environment.

G e r u k a m u k h : Gerukamukh is one of the most beautiful picnic spots located in the north-west direction. Tourists visiting this site can also visit Gerukamukh Subansiri, the largest tributary of Brahmaputra River. Dotted with thick and dense forests, the river touches the plains from the hills, offering an ideal site for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Popular for angling and nature walks, the site is frequented by a large number of tourists during winters.

The government of Assam in association with National Hydro Electric Power Corporation is implementing a Mega Hydro Electric Power Project,

Aaithan, an ideal picnic spot. Source: assamportal.com to meet the energy needs of the adjoining districts.

Tengapania: Tengapania situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River is one of the famous picnic spots in the destination. The beautiful site, bounded by Dhakuakhana, Machkhoa and Disangmukh, draws attention of tourists.

The site is located at a distance of 24 km from Sibsagar, which is well connected with Majuli and Jorhat. Simaluguri Junction is the closest railhead that provides easy access to Tengapania.

Chandubi Lake: This is an ideal destination for tourists to relax and reju-

venate themselves from the stresses of routine city life.

Its main attraction lies in the natural lagoon that has formed in the lake. There are ample opportunities to have fun in the area and people often come here for picnic or on a day's trip.

There are provisions to go fishing and rowing in the calm and placid waters of the lake as well. Situated at a distance of about 64 km from Guwahati, Chandubi Lake can be easily reached by buses operating regularly from the centre of the city.

In addition to all these places, there are many more names that can be

included and there will be a long list of such picnic spots in Assam if we continue to pen down all of them here. Dilli Ghat in Namrup, Kaziranga, Mou-Chapori, Bor Xil, Kaliabhomora and many other locations can be mentioned as regular destinations for picnic lovers.

Even though places really does not matter much when people go out in groups to celebrate and have feast on outdoors, but it may turn out to be an added excitement and contentment if the area is full of scenic view, calmness and healthy environment.

Unveil the Picnic Spots in Arunachal Pradesh The literal meaning of Arunachal Pradesh is a "land of the dawn-lit mountains". Located in the easternmost part of the Indian Territory, this wonderful getaway is home to verdurous valleys, and unprecedented aestheticism.

Gushing waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, and picturesque mountain tops enhance the astounding scenic beauty of this treasure trove of unmatched allure.

Surprisingly the natural beauty of this tranquil destination is unspoiled and there are lands which are purely virgin. Devoid of the maddening chaos of the mundane city life, Arunachal has a tranquil environment and salubrious weather that adds to its serenity.

So, whether you are an energetic adventurist or a spiritual enthusiast, you will have a host of options to choose from on your magical journey to Arunachal Pradesh. Welcome to the Indian abode of virgin sun rays!

Ziro

Pradesh. The native tribal people of this place spend an easy lifestyle where the perplexities of mundane city life hardly bother them. The undulating terrains are perched with deep green forests which add to its scenic view.

Walking through the pine forest edging the paddy field will soothe your strained nerves. Along with its own attractions, Ziro is the gateway to a number of other attractive spots. Kardo Hills, Talley Valley, Talley Wildlife Sanctuary are the best of them. Ziro Putu is a perfect spot to have a bird's eye view of the entire Ziro Valley. Do not miss the 25 ft high and 22 ft wide Shiva Lingam at Kardo Hills. Talley Valley is located 32 km away from Ziro and offers the best trekking route by the bamboo, orchids, ferns, and rhododendron forests.

Talley Valley Reserved Forest and Talley Wildlife Sanctuary are situated at an elevated level and rivers like Karing, Subansiri,

Bhalukpong beauty. Source: assamtimes.org Ziro is an ideal place for Sipu, and Pange flow trekking in Arunachal through them. Apart from Pradesh. It is situated on a being home to the endanplateau and known to be gered snow leopard, Ziro is one of the most beautiful home to many other rare hill stations in Arunachal and exotic animals making

it a wildlife lover's delight.

How to reach:-Tezpur is the nearest airport to Zero, whereas, NorthLakhimpur is the nearest Railway Station.

Itanagar One of the most popular tourist destinations in Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar is the state capital and a well connected city. The township is situated at an altitude of 350 m above sea level. Apart from the state administrative headquarters, the city presents a number of rich architectural wonders. The historical Ita Fort is made of special bricks and is significant from a socio-cultural point. For a simple holidaymaker to an archeologist, this place can be of great value to be explored. The legendary Ganga Lake (Gyakar Sinwi) is a famous picnic spot in Itanagar which is 6 km from the heart of the city. Jawaharlal Nehru Museum is a wonderful repository of indigenous tribal culture of Arunachal.

Gompa Buddha Vihar is an astounding yellow roofed shrine. One can have a glimpse of the surrounding countryside from the gompa premise. Buy some local artifacts, wall paintings, herbal dyed yarns and bamboo/cane-made attractive utility items from Craft Centre and Emporium. Polo Park, Indira Gandhi Park, and Zoological Park are some of the evening leisure walk spots.

How to reach: By Bus: - Regular luxury bus services are available from Guwahati. It will

take approx 11 hours to reach.

By Air: - From Guwahati to Naharlagun (Itanagar) Pawan Hans Helicopter Service is available for making the travel convenient, whereas Tezpur is the nearest airport.

Pasighat Pasighat is at a distance of 270km from Itanagar and known to be the oldest town of Arunachal Pradesh. It is the headquarter of East Siang District and situated at a height of 152m. Siang River, the main tributary of Brahmaputra flows by Pasighat. The snowcapped mountain peaks, rockstrewn mountains and a variety of flora and fauna present abundant options to explore natural wonders. Pasighat-JenggingYingkiong-Tuting Tourist Circuit is the best option to have a look at the main attractions of Arunachal Pradesh. Siang River is a prime destination to enjoy water sports, especially river rafting. This expedition is quite challenging and begins at Tuting in Upper Siang. Do not miss to visit the Daying Ering Wild Life Sanctuary which is a popular sightseeing spot in Pasighat. It is also the confluence point of Dihang and Lohit rivers with the Brahmaputra.

Jengging is 195km away from Pasighat and known for Mouling National Park where rare species of animals are found roaming in their natural environment.

How to reach:- Bus services are available from Guwahati, Lakhimpur and Itanagar. The nearest air-

ports are Lilabari of North Lakhimpur, and Mohanbari of Dibrugarh.

Roing Whether you are planning for a tour with your better half or with your buddies, the diverse land of Roing will present you ultimate satisfaction. This picturesque valley is situated on the bank of Dibang River.

Geographically this tranquil tourist spot is located in the Dibang Valley District of Arunachal Pradesh.

Nehru Van Udyan is a breath-taking forest park set on the riverbank at Deopani. While going from Roing to Bismaknagar, you can see the vibrant orange orchards.

How to reach: There is direct Arunachal Pradesh State Transport (APST) bus service from Tinsukia to Roing. Private buses/ taxis are also available at Tinsukia. The nearest airports are at Dibrugarh (Mohanbari) and Guwahati (Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) in Assam.

Bhalukpong The gateway to Arunachal, Bhalukpong is only 56 km away from Tezpur Town.

Located in West Kameng District, this is a historical place where one can look back to the days of the Mahabharata. Nestled amidst the dense forest and rinsed by the Kameng River, the region is a popular picnic spot. For the adventure lovers, there are abundant scopes to explore the region to the fullest.

Different levels of trekking can be enjoyed here. You can enjoy rafting on

A view of mesmerizing Ziro. Source: images.indianexpress.com Kameng River or get involved in angling on the bank of this mighty river.

Have a glimpse of Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary which is very close to Bhalukpung. If you are visiting the place in March, you can enjoy the local Nyethidow Festival.

How to reach:- Nearest airport is Tezpur/ Guwahati. Tezpur is the nearest railway station.

Bus and taxi are available from both the stops.

Tezu Another must-visit tourist spot in Arunachal Pradesh is Tezu, the headquarter of Lohit District. Well connected by road from Tinsukia, this is the land of picturesque landscape. Undulating hillocks, gushing blue water, and rocky mountains make it an ideal getaway. Add to that the local Mishmi tribe and you will get to know about a completely different world. There are a num-

bers of tribes in this district and many of them are yet unaware about the complexities of city life.

During festive season their traditional games, dances, and sports are ideal option for merrymaking. Riding (elephants), rafting, angling, mountaineering, hitchhiking, etc. are the entertainment options in Tezu.

How to reach: - Direct Arunachal Pradesh state transport (APST) bus service connects Tinsukia with Tezu. Nearest Airports are Dibrugarh and Guwahati.

Aalo 297 km from Itanagar, Aalo is a picturesque valley at the confluence of Sipu and Siyom River.

Surrounded by hills and beautiful orange orchards, this is another exotic nature getaway in Arunachal Pradesh. This is the headquarter of West Siang District and

offers all basic amenities.

For sightseeing or nature walks, there are places like Ramakrishna Mission Campus, Patum Bridge, Bagra Village, Donyi Polo Temple etc.

The Kamki Hydrpower Dam is 25km from Aalo and a beautiful place to visit. Siyom hanging bridge is a 70m long bamboo and cane bridge. If you are zealous enough, go for rafting under this bridge.

How to reach: - From Itanagar, hire a private vehicle and you can reach here without any trouble.

Finally, it is a fact that every corner of Arunachal Pradesh is enchanting and distinctive. But, capturing all the enchanting beauty of this mystic land in one single trip would be a challenge. Also, while exploring the secret gems of this mesmeric getaway one may miss out on some key attractions if not properly guided.

cmyk

cmyk

"Finishing the year as the number-one ranked Test bowler is like an icing on the cake that I have managed to build over the past last 12 months. I always wanted to get there one day. There can't be a better way to finish the 2015.”

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

PAGE 12

India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin

Indian Sports in 2015: A Lookback at Best Moments «Rohit Sharma Recommended for Arjuna Award by BCCI

Agencies Mumbai The year 2015 saw India achieve tremendous success in various sports. Be it defeating South Africa in a Test series for the first time in over a decade, Saina Nehwal taking the top spot in the badminton rankings or Sania Mirza winning grand slams just for fun, the country made a lot of progress in the world of sports.

Here are the best sporting moments for India to remember:

The Board of Control for Cricket in India nominated Rohit Sharma for the Arjuna Award on April 26. The Mumbaikar rewrote the world record of the highest individual ODI score in an innings last year by blazing 264 against Sri Lanka at the Eden Gardens in November 2014.

« Saina Nehwal Becomes World No. 1 Saina Nehwal became the first Indian woman to become world number one after Carolina Marin lost in the India Open Super Series semifinal in March. As a result, Saina climbed to the top of the rankings. She lost the number one ranking but regained it in August.

« Satnam Singh Makes NBA History

Satnam Singh became the second second Indian-origin basketball player after Sim Bhullar to feature in the NBA. He was the first Indian to be drafted into the NBA League when Dallas Mavericks picked the Punjab hoopster to feature on its roster on June 26.

« Vijender Singh Starts Professional Boxing Career With a Bang Vijender Singh beat Britain's Sonny Whiting to win his first professional boxing bout on October 10. He went on to win his next two fights against Dean Gillen and Samet Hyuseinov to complete a hat-trick of victories.

« India Win Bronze in FIH Hockey World League Final

India under Virat Kohli beat South Africa 3-0 in the four-match Test series. The Proteas had not lost a Test series away from home since 2006 and not lost one to India since 2004. Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja were the stars taking 31 and 23 wickets respectively to script a memorable series victory.

ANI London: Lionel Messi capped off a spectacular year for Barcelona on a high note by scoring in his 500th appearance for the Catalan club and helping them claim a 4-0 win over Real Betis.

The Argentine talisman scored Barca's second goal after an own goal by Heiko Westermann put the Catalan side ahead in the 29th minute. The goal was his 425th for the club. Subsequently, Luis Suarez scored twice after half-time to surpass Neymar as the competition's leading scorer with 15. The 4-0 win has also taken Barca's season tally to 180, taking over from Real Madrid's milestone mark of 178 in 2014.

Barca are leading on goal difference from Atletico Madrid, who claimed a 2-0 win over city rivals Rayo Vallecano.

« Sania Mirza-Martina Hingis Win Wimbledon Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis won the women's doubles title in Wimbledon after a stunning comeback.

They overcame second-seeded Russian duo of Ekaterina Makarova and Elena Vesnina 5-7, 7-6, 7-5 in the summit clash that lasted two hours and 47 minutes. They later proved their success was no flash in the pan as they also lifted the US Open crown in September. In all, the duo won seven further titles and the International Tennis Federation crowned the duo as doubles world champion. In the process, Sania Mirza became the World No.1 in doubles tennis « Abhishek Verma Makes History in Archery World Cup Final Abhishek Verma bagged India's first ever Archery World Cup Final medal in the compound section as he won the silver medal after being pipped by Turkey's Demir Elmaagcli in the summit clash. The 26-year-old, an Asian Games individual silver medallist, beat Mario Cardoso in the semis.

India put up a magnificent show to clinch the bronze medal at the FIH Hockey World League Final by defeating Netherlands in a thrilling penalty shootout in Raipur. The win ended the year on a high for the home team after their impressive show in the Commonwealth and Asian Games in 2014.

« Virat Kohli's Boys Conquer the Best Test Side

Thirimanne during the 3rd ODI against New Zealand Messi steals limelight in 500th Barca match

« Force India Secure Best-Ever Fifth-Place Finish in Formula One Team Standings Force India secured their best ever finish in Formula One after they finished fifth in the 2015 season. Nico Hulkenberg sixth-place finish in the Brazilian Grand Prix ensured that the team would break in the top five for the first time in their seven-year history. The team finished 10th in its maiden season in 2008 and was sixth in 2013 and 2014. They took their their tally to 120 points, 44 ahead of sixth-placed Lotus.

Ashwin ends stellar year Dibrugarh win by an North Lakhimpur enter final as top-ranked Test bowler innings and 19 runs ANI Dubai: Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has finished a spectacular year on a high note, achieving the number-one spot for first time in his career in the latest ICC Test rankings on Thursday. Ashwin has become the first India bowler since Bishen Bedi in 1973 to achieve the milestone, finishing 2015 as the most successful bowler with 62 wickets in nine Tests, and this is reflected in his ranking after he started the year in 15th position and slowly but surely moved to the top of the chart.

Dale Steyn had started the

Durban Test leading Ashwin by four points and now trails the India off-spinner by the same margin. Ashwin said, "Finishing the year as the number-one ranked Test bowler is like an icing on the cake that I have managed to build over the past last 12 months. I always wanted to get there one day. There can't be a better way to finish the 2015." "Replicating what Mr Bedi did is something I am very proud of. The former India captain was a master at his craft and I am very humbled to follow in his footsteps," he added. Meanwhile, Australia captain

Steve Smith leapfrogged Kane Williamson of New Zealand, England's Joe Root and AB de Villiers of South Africa into the top spot with unbeaten knocks of 134 and 70 in Melbourne. Smith, who was also named in the ICC Test and ODI Teams of the Year, is the third Australia batsman in the last decade after Ricky Ponting (2005 and 2006) and Michael Clarke (2012) to finish the year as the number-one ranked batsman. Ashwin, for the second time in three years, also finished as the number-one ranked Test allrounder.

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 31: Dibrugarh won by an innings and 19 runs against Bongaigaon in the two day Nuruddin Ahmed Senior inter- district cricket tournament at DDSA stadium here today. In the first innings, Dibrugarh resuming at 164/ 7 were all out for 192 in 61 overs. Jyotiraditiya Chetia remained unbeaten at 94 runs off 204 balls with the help of nineteen boundaries. For Bongaigaon,

Sunil Ranjan Gogoi took six for 64 in 21 overs while Sujay Tarafadar claimed four for 36 in his 16 overs.

Dibrugarh managed a lead of 86 runs on the basis of first innings. In the second innings, Bongaigaon were shot out for a meagre total of 67 runs in 31.5 overs.

Manish Das and Anmol Prasad contributed 16 runs each. For Dibrugarh, Prasanta Sonowal bagged six wickets while Dipak Gohain took three.

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 31: North Lakhimpur College defeated Digboi College by 16 runs in the second semifinal of the inter-college cricket tournament organized by Dibrugarh University Sports Board at DU playground here today. Opting to bat, North Lakhimpur College were bundled out for 153 in 34.4 overs. Manob Thakuria scored 33runs off 72 balls with the help of five boundaries.

Munna Narah scored 23 runs off 35 balls hitting two fours and one six while Jitumoni Borgohain contributed 22 off 16 balls with the help of three

boundaries and one six. For Digboi, Govind Dorjee took three for 24 in his seven overs while Shekhar Gowala claimed two. Chasing the target, Digboi college were bundled out for 137 in 35.2 overs. Tultul Bora scored 43 runs off 45 balls hitting five boundaries while Govind Dorjee contributed 21 runs off 37 balls with the help of one boundary. Hiren Bordoloi and Jitumoni Borgohain scalped three wickets each for North Lakhimpur college. Tomorrow, DR college, Golaghat will take on North Lakhimpur college in the final.

Benteke helps Liverpool sink Sunderland ANI London: Christian Benteke scored the decisive goal as Liverpool ended the year on a high note with a 1-0 win over Sunderland in their Premier League clash. The Belgian striker continued to prove to be Sunderland's nemesis as he has now scored six times against Sam Allardyce's team. Benteke had also scored against Leicester on Boxing Day to earn three crucial points for his side. With the win, Liverpool are seventh in the league standings, five points behind the top four.

Meanwhile, Sunderland are reeling in 19th position, seven points adrift of safety.

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