facebook.com/easterntoday
@easterntoday
For business, mail at: md.easterntoday@gmail.com
cmyk
cmyk
www.eastern-today.com For your copy of The Eastern Today in Khonsa please contact: Dalam Studio Near parking stand Khonsa
ASSENG/2015/64205
Ph. No.-08471896580/ 07085295635
Vol. 1
Issue 264
Dibrugarh, Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Price -
5.00
Pages- 12
ULFA team meets Union Budget : FM announces Union Home secretary BUDGET SPECIAL - PAGE 6
9 pillars for transforming India Agencies New Delhi, Feb 29
The government, Jaitley said, will also focus on infrastructure investment, financial sector reforms, fiscal discipline and tax reforms to reduce compliance burden.
The ULFA leaders discussed with Mehrishi their charter of demands, including recognition of six communities in Assam -- Moran, Muttock, Tai Ahom, Koch Rajbongshi, Sootea and Tea Tribes -- as Scheduled Tribes (ST).
Allocation for rural sector - Rs 87,765 crore. Rs 2.87 lakh crore will be given as Grant in Aid to Gram Panchayats and Municipalities as per the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission A sum of Rs 38,500 crore allocated for MGNREGS. 300 Rurban Clusters will be developed under the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission 100 per cent village electrification by 1st May, 2018. A new Digital Literacy Mission Scheme for rural India to cover around 6 crore additional household within the next 3 years.
Allocation of Northeast states increases by at least Rs 4,009 crore ET Bureau Guwahati, Feb 29
With Union budget 201617, BJPled government has padded up for the assembly elections of Assam slated for spring this year. Allocation of the Northeastern states has been increased from Rs 29087.93 Crore on 2015-16 to Rs 33097.02 Crore in 2016-17. The budget has restored 90:10 funding pattern for several schemes. There was bitter protest from Northeastern chief ministers demanding restoration of earlier funding pattern where 90 percent comes as grant and 10 per cent as loan. BJP has recently stitched electoral understanding with Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF), which is ruling the sixth schedule area of Bodoland and Union budget has announced Rs 100 Crore for Bodoland. BPF however had sought Rs 1000 Crore package from the Centre. Recently Prime minister, Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah visited
ET CAPSULES
Fuel prices revised
Bodoland. Chief Minister, Tarun Gogoi attacked union budget and said, "I knew they are not going to give anything to Assam. They even failed to restore North East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy, 2007 (NEIIPP). Registration under the schemes of NEIIPP is stopped since December 1, 2014. There was hope that region may get a new industry promotion scheme in the union budget. Assam Pradesh congress committee President, Anjan Dutta told ET, "This is poll oriented budget which hardly has anything concrete for the region. The budget did not state anything on farmers committing suicide in the country; it has nothing for the flood and erosion problem of the Assam." He added for Bodoland budget just announced a package of Rs 100 Crore. Contd. on Page 4
Allocates Rs 50 crore to BTC, 30 crore to KarbiAnglong council and Rs 20 crore to Dima Hasao territorial council A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 29
In presenting a very calculated and balanced budget, the BJP led NDA government also kept in sight the Assam election slated to be held this year in April, and accordingly announced Rs 100 crore package for the sixth scheduled councils of Bodos, Karbis and Dimasa. Union budget 2016-17 has made provision of Rs 50 crore to BTC, 30 crore to KarbiAnglong council and Rs 20 crore to Dima Hasao terri-
torial council.
Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said that the Union Budget 2016-17 has been a great disappointment as it has virtually nothing for Assam and the North East as a whole.
Contd. on Page 4
State environment, forest and tea tribes welfare minister Atuwa Munda inaugurated two new civil sub-divisions at Moran and Naharkatia on Monday. Now, the district will have three subdivisions.
cmyk
The revision in fuel prices comes on a day when Finance Minister Arun Jaitley presented the Union Budget for 2016-17 in the Parliament. (ANI)
Contd. on Page 4
The Rajkhowa-led ULFA faction had begun unconditional talks with the central government in 2011, despite
The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was formed in 1979 with the demand for a 'sovereign' Assam. Since then, the group has been involved in subversive activities that led to the Centre banning it in 1990. The Rajkhowa faction joined peace talks with the government on September 3, 2011 after an agreement for Suspension of Operations was signed among the ULFA, central and state governments.
Former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister P.K. Thungon awarded over three years jail P.K. Thungon convicted for obtaining undue benefit in the allotment of shops PTI New Delhi, Feb 29
Former Union minister P.K. Thungon was on Monday awarded a three-and-a halfyear jail term in a graft case relating to allotment of government shops in 1993-94. Apart from the jail term, special Central Bureau of Investigation judge Sanjeev Aggarwal also imposed a fine of Rs.1 lakh on Thungon, who was also a former chief minister of
Arunachal Pradesh. The court has convicted Thungon for the offences under section 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code read with section 13d (iii) (if while holding office as a public servant, obtains for any person any valuable thing or pecuniary advantage without any public interest) and 13(2) (criminal misconduct by public servant) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The court acquitted two other accused—Lakhpa
Tsering and Krishna—in the case. Thungon was the minister of state for urban affairs and employment at the time of the alleged offence when the Congress government was led by Prime Minister P.V. Narsimha Rao. Apart from them, the then urban affairs and employment minister Sheila Kaul, and Tulsi Balodi were also accused in the case. Proceedings against Kaul and Balodi were abated as they died during the pendency of
trial. The court, however, has also found Kaul guilty in the case for conspiring and committing the illegal act. “Vide separate judgment... it was found that there was a clear cut conspiracy between accused 1 (deceased Kaul) and accused 2 (Thungon) for committing the illegal act or to commit the offence punishable under the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Contd. on Page 3
development, lackadaisical life in hospital after attitude of govt is apparent escaping rape attempt Maksam Tayeng Pasighat/Itanagar, Feb 29
It is to be noted that this view this move can be seen by the saffron party as a strategy to woo tribal votes for KaribiAnglong and Dima Haao which have been Congress stronghold.
Dibrugarh district gets two new civil sub-divisions The minister inaugurated the newly created Moran sub-division at a programme held at Tiloi rural market complex auditorium in the presence of exUnion DoNER minister Paban Singh Ghatowar, Moran MLA and parliamentary secretary Jibantara Ghatowar and Lahowal MLA Prithibi Majhi. Terming it a historic day for the people of Moran, Munda said with the creation of the new sub-division, administrative functions will be now decentralized and will facilitate easy access for the general public.
The delegation include ULFA 'general secretary' Anup Chetia, who was deported from Bangladesh last year after 17 years of incarceration.
The delegation include ULFA 'general secretary' Anup Chetia, who was deported from Bangladesh last year after 17 years of incarceration.
strong opposition from the hardline wing led by Paresh Baruah, who is believed to be in Myanmar.
Union budget keeps in sight aspirations from poll bound Assam Sunpura is in backseat of Minor girl battles for
Montu M. Gogoi and Bikul B. Gogoi Moran/Naharkatia, Feb 29
New Delhi, Feb. 29: The government on Monday lowered the price of petrol by Rs 3.02 per litre while the price of diesel was raised by Rs 1.47 per litre. The revised prices will take effect from the midnight of February 29 and March 1.
A delegation of ULFA leaders, led by its 'chairman' Arabinda Rajkhowa, today met Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi and reviewed the progress of their ongoing talks.
It was decided that the formal tripartite meeting of ULFA leaders with the Home Secretary and representatives of government of Assam will be held in the middle of March, a Home Ministry spokesperson said.
In a bizarre incident of rape attempt to a minor girl of 14 years age on the eve of Nyokum festival on 25th February last at Itanagar, the illfated girl (name and identity kept secret by publication) fell from a steep slope while fleeing from the attempt but injured severely who is now undergoing treatment at R.K. Mission Hospital.
Pathetic road condition at Sunpura Bishnu Rana Tezu, 29 Feb
Sunpura an oldest circle in Lohit district is still struggling with complicated issues. Despite being adjacent to Sadiya district of Assam the circle poised in various fronts that
includes absence of circle officer since last year deteriorating administrative services. The circle is created way back in the year 1982 regrettably no required development is seen till day. Contd. on Page 3
According to sources, victim was asked by her friend one Rumik Yani to go to Nyokum festival where a guy one Shan Sonam came with a bike and picked them and taken them to the museum sides. While her friend Rumik Yani sided away, the victim was attempted rape but she retaliated and fought back, and while fleeing away from the clutch of Sonam, she fell from a steep 100 miteres
slope as it was dark night around 8.30 PM. She remained and laid almost death and unconscious there on the spot who was seen and saved by locals and her parents were informed on 26th only. After a case was registered with case No.16/6 U/s 365/354/376(1)/511/325 IPC, Shan Sonam, S/o Tago Sonam, Vill. Waii was arrested on 26th itself. Meanwhile, Adi Baane Kebang Youth Wing led by President Aling Pinggam and General Secretary Er. Toi Modi has strongly urged the concern authority not to grant any bail to such habitual offender and demanded for stringent punishment to Sonam. The girl is going to have a serious operation tomorrow and her case of survival is uncertain now, added Pinggam who has urged everyone to decry such offenders.
Team Rangoon reaches Pasighat Shahid didn’t disappoint fans, showed his glimpses Spl Correspondent Pasighat, Feb 29
The much waited team Rangoon, Shahid Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut with Farah Khan and Producer-Director Vishal Bardwaj finally reached Pasighat today to whom fans welcomed with huge gathering in front of Hotel Serene.
Naharkatia MLA Pranati Phukon lights the ceremonial lamp during the function at Naharkatia Nagaon Tinali. Pic - Debojit Sonowal
Farah Khan reached in the afternoon with Vishal Bardwaj, while Shahid and Kangana reached this evening at around 7.10 PM. The fans of Shahid and Kangana started gathering in front of Hotel Serene from 2-3 PM onwards to catch a glimpse of Bollywood actor and actress. Contd. on Page 3
Actor Shahid Kapoor greeted by fans after reaching Pasighat today. Pic - Maksam Tayeng
cmyk
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday (February 29) listed 'nine pillars' including tax reforms, promoting ease of doing business and ensuring fiscal discipline that will transform India. Unveiling the Budget 201617, he said the pillars also include emphasis on governance reforms. The other pillars, he added, include focus on agriculture and rural areas with a view to doubling farm income by 2022. Besides, he said, government will lay greater emphasis on social sectors, education and skill building and job creation for building a knowledge based and productive economy.
PTI New Delhi, Feb 29
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
PAGE 2
ASTRO FOR YOU Aries The stars are sending out a warning today, and it will prevent you from getting cheated. Even though you manage to remain a step ahead of people, you are likely to make a few enemies along the way. Taurus All those to who come in contact with you today will be clear, and appreciative about whatever you tell them. At work your superiors are likely to be responsive and helpful. Al said and done, you are not likely to face any difficulties or disappointments today. Gemini Your health interests will take precedence over career. There are indications that you will spare more time working out at a gym. Those in the field of marketing and advertising will have a fabulous time. Cancer You will be in a joyous mood. You will be de-lighted in whatever task you do. Financial matters will confound you, with even a petty issue causing tension. Leo Today, your anger may erupt abruptly. This makes it very likely for you to get carried away irrespective of your surroundings and circumstances, both at work and at home. Virgo Stay clear of a coalition when it comes to business ventures. Alone, you can manage an entire stampede. By your own you are, by far, the best administrator of your department. Today, find yourself being the general and uniting people under your banner to achieve greater success. Libra Beware of overspending today. Those of you having close ties abroad may find them beneficial. Ganesha says you should always remain optimistic. Scorpio You shall probably realise the fact that seeing is believing. Learn to trust your own eyes more than what you hear. Don’t get lost in the crowd. Strive to stand out and be in the spotlight. Sagittarius The day is bright and the seas are calm today. For a change, you shall spend time with your life partner and help them in household chores. Even routine jobs like cooking and cleaning will weave an intricate bond between you two. Capricorn Today, you’ll bandage some old wounds and make efforts to restore old relationships. But, your struggle to improve rapport may not be as successful as you want it to be. Aquarius You are a polished diamond. Adversities come and go, yet you remain unruffled. Today, you manage to please your boss, and beloved, and that is a feat! It is yet another day of contentment. Pisces Your inherent dynamism and energy will sparkle forth today. Freelancers will be struck with inspiration, and will conjure masterpieces. Pleasant surprises await you in the evening.
KMSS demands to abolish the Lower Subansiri Hydro Electric Power Project at Gerukamukh: Padayata concludes ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Feb 29: Krisak Mukti Sangram Sangram Somity(KMSS) and Gana Mukti Sangram, Asom(GMSA) strongly demands to abolish Lower Subansiri Hydro Electric Power Project(LSHEPP) constructed at Gerukamukh of Dhemaji District by NHPC. The two organisations
raised this demand again yesterday after they had concluded their 'Padayatra' to Gerukamukh. It is here to be noted that the two organisations initiated a protest program- the Padayatra against NHPC demanding the closure of the LSHEPP, one of the biggest big dam project in Asia. They started the Padayatra on February 25 from Lakhimpur and reached
Gerukamukh yesterday. On the other hand Dhemaji District Administration had tightened the security of the Project launching iron barricade one kilometer ahead of the project before the micsil arrived. The protestors started shouting anti big dam slogans at that spot being unable to break the security web of the Project and submitted a memoran-
dum to PM Narendra Modi through Utpal Borah, one of the Magistrate of Dhemaji District Administration. The organisations demanded the PM to release within seven days the Expert Committee's Report on the Project, to take steps in order to resolve the flood and erosion problems of the state etc. At least four hundred protestors took part in the program.
National Science Day celebrated in Doodooma ET Correspondent Doomdooma, Feb 29: National Science Day (NSD) was celebrated at Learners' High School (LHS) which is located at Shanti Nagar in Rupai Siding, a part of greater Doomdooma, keeping pace with the rest part of the country.
ET Correspondent Golaghat, Feb 29: All Assam College Employees' Association's General Secretary and Office Superintendent of Debraj Roy College, Golaghat, Mani Kalita today passed away at International Hospital, Guwahati. Mani Kalita (59) was associated with politics also and he was the founder treasurer of BJP Golaghat District Unit. He left behind his wife, two sons and two daughters. Mani Kalita's death was a great loss for DR College teachers and employees association, Assam College Teachers Association of Golaghat Zone, College Employees Association and Assam College Principal Council.
Army nabbed One ULFA (I) terrorist
On the occasion the Science teacher and the assistant headmaster of the School, Bireswar Choudhry and two other teachers of LHS Dhiraj Dubey and Chandan Biswas prepared the students to organize a Science Exhibition in the School Campus. The principal, Varghese Panjikaran Anthony inaugurated the exhibition where more than 30 Science Exhibition were displayed. The headmaster of the
All Assam College Employees' Association General Secretary passed away
The National Science Day celebrated Learners' High School at Doomdooma. Pic - Manoj Kumar school, Abhijit Khataniar explained the importance and aim of NSD. "The world need more and
more scientists who could benefit the human and the universe” said Khataniar. Assistant teacher of
Doomdooma Bangiya Bidyalya, Shailen Sharma was also present in the science exhibition.
ET Correspondent Rangia, Feb 29: Based on specific information, Army launched a joint search operation with Assam Police on 28 Feb in Budhipara village of Goalpara District. One ULFA (I) terrorist was apprehended on 29 Feb 2016 and was identified as Bhukannath. One 7.65mm Automatic Pistol, live rounds & magazine, was also recovered from the individual. The individual apprehended is suspected to have been involved in kidnappings and other acts of terror. It is pertinent to mention that the Army has increased the vigil and is carrying out domination activity in the area of the forthcoming assembly elections, to ensure that terror groups like ULFA (I), NDFB(S), GNLA, MTFA etc. wouldn’t succeed in their nasty plans.
Protest against illegal acquiring of garden land A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb. 29: Assam Chah Mazdoor Sangha and All Assam Tea Tribe Students’ Association jointly staged a dharna in front of the Deputy Commissioner office against allegedly illegal acquiring of land belonging to Tea tribe peoples at Bokel tea estate by a group of people.
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 1-3-16 (TUESDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Songs) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 10-30 A.M-Presentation of General Budget 2016-17 by the Honorable Union Minister of Finance at the Parliament preceded by Pre Budget Discussion and followed by Post Budget Discussion 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani (Youth Programme) 8-00 P.M-Ekalabya (Sponsored Programme of KKHSOU) 8-30 P.M-Talk-"Bhasha Shikshat Byakoronor Bhumika" by Dr. Ramesh Pathak 9-30 P.M- Live Bilingual Phone In Programme on General Budget 2016-17 Sd-/H.O.P
Around five hundred protesters holding play cards and banners protested in front of the DC office and blocked the Mancotta road for hours which disrupted the traffic. The organization alleged that 30 to 40 bighas of tea tribes land were illegally and forcefully acquiring by a section of people.“On Feb 19, a meeting was organized at Bokel Tea estate and the matter was discussed in the meeting. Later, we have submitted a memorandum to Deputy Com-
DHARNA...
missioner M.S Manivannan seeking his help to stop the illegal acquiring of land,’’ said Lakhindar Kurmi, AATTSA, Publicity secretary of Dibrugarh district. He said if our demand were not met immedi-
“A section of people go
the quarter of the garden workers duped them by giving lumsum amount and occupied the land from them. The group has been very active and have a mutual understanding with the official of district administration,’’ Keot alleged.
However, Bokel Tea estate owns by M.K. Shah Co Pvt Ltd. and the quarter were allotted to the permanent workers of the tea garden. Keot said the garden owners filed civil suits against the illegal occupant but it would take long time.
Sonitpur Emergency Management Exercise 2016 ET Correspondent Tezpur, Feb 29 : The Sonitpur Emergency Management Exercise-2016 (SEMEx-2016) under the District Disaster Management Authority, Sonitpur was conducted with a week long programme concluded yesterday evening. This was the first exercise of its kind organised in Sonitpur district. This exercise was designed to harness the strengths and capabilities of the district emergency responders, educational institutions, hospitals, humanitarian agencies etc. with the Motto “Be prepared…Stay Safe”.
All Adivasi Students Association of Assam dharna in Golaghat. Pic - Amit Nagri
ately then we would intensify our movement. Nobin Chandra Keot, Secretary of ACMS, Dibrugarh branch alleged that for several years a process has been going on to acquired the garden land.
The programme mainly focused on learning and capacity building exercise with eight parallel tracks was held at various venues for the first three days of the event while the table Top Exercise was con-
ducted at Tezpur College Indoor Stadium and all participants led by respective team leaders from various collaboration/ local agencies met along with the District Disaster Management Authority, Sonitpur to practice stimulated scenarios to identify bottlenecks in emergency communication and execution with a focus on the drill scheduled for the day. To showcase mock drill a Fire incident was simulated at DTO Office with over 40 injured victims and an earthquake incident was simulated at Bengali Girls High School and more than 60 students were trapped in the school building and 35 students were injured and the response agencies were alerted and Police, Fire, NDRF and EMS responded accordingly to the situation as per the training received by the agencies
Emergency Management Exercise-2016 conducted with a week long programme concluded on Sunday at Sunitpur. during SEMEx 2016. A debriefing session called " Hotwash" along with valedictory was held on the concluding day. The SEMEx 2016 was a successful event and the
training and the Drill brought together the major responders, testing real time interagency communication and coordination at all levels of the organisations.
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
PAGE 3 Ball of fire reaches out to people Bomdila, 29 Feb: A medical camp was organized by the Bomdila Battalion under the aegis of Ball of Fire division in remote Salari village under Nafra circle in the district the day before. The camp was organized keeping in mind the location of the village and the very limited medical facility available for the villagers. Three Medical Officers of Army as well as one civil doctor along with 18 Nursing assistants attended the patients from Salari, Rahung, Jerigaon and Saddle villages. Interestingly, apart from the free medical checkups and distribution of free medicines, refreshments for patients and their escorts were also arranged. Patriotic movies were also screened for the kids, patients and attendants who awaited their turn. Taking note of the tremendous response from the locals and the request made by the village elders, Commander 351 Infantry Brigade Brigadier Shailender Singh, SM, assured to organize such events and camps at strategic places in the district to counter the diseases that might affect the villagers during the monsoon season. (DIPR)
Tirap district administration launches eviction drive, dismantles 16 buildings Bank Colony, KhonsaNaharkatia roads to ensure widening of Township roads at par guidelines.
ET Correspondent Khonsa, Feb 29 : A major eviction drive of illegal structures was carried out by the District Administration at Khonsa on Monday to clear up illegal structures
on government land. A total of 16 illegal structures consisting of Motor Garage, Pan Gumti buildings and bamboo structures were dismantled.
Structures were dismantled at Khonsa _ Longding roads starting from PHED office Point to Kendra Vidhalaya, Khonsa. Next Eviction Drive shall be carried out in
ADC Ngamjang Wangsu, Town Magistrate CO Asan Kri, PWD Engineer, OC accompanied by a police personnels & 36 Bn CRPF team carried out the eviction drive. The District Administration, Khonsa appealed all the illegal dwellers of Khonsa township whoever encroached main roads to dismantle from road side to avoid forcefully eviction by govt and extend fullest support to carry out eviction drive for proper construction of township roads. Some permanent structures which falls under govt land are likely evict in the next round.
Arunachal Youth Organisation demands implementation of Governor’s order A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 29 Addressing the media persons at Press Club, Arunachal Youth Organization (AYO) demanded the state government to immediately implement the Office Memorandum from Raj Bhavan for cancelling all the officiating, functional and out of turn promotions in government departments today. Claiming that none of the government departments are com-
plying with the order of governor dated February 10 last, AYO also criticised the formation of All Arunachal Affected, Functional Government Employees Forum (AAAFGEF) and their demand placed to the governor on February 17 last which according to them is “Totally illegitimate, ridiculous and against the greater interest of people of Arunachal Pradesh.” Also, dwelling on a represen-
tation made to the chief secretary in October, 2015 wherein AYO had demanded for transparency in DDO powers conferred upon department heads of district headquarters of all departments, the members claimed that the chief secretary has miserably failed to work in this regard. Furthermore, AYO while claiming that Capital Complex alone has about 108 government quarters which have been
illegally destroyed and private building has been constructed at the same site, appealed on the governor and the state government to immediately order for initiating eviction drive all over the state against illegal encroachment of government quarters. Meanwhile, AYO has also appealed to the Nyishi Elite Society and All Nyishi Students’ Union to refrain from giving the issue a communal colour.
Sunpura is in backseat of development, Brihottar Asomiya lackadaisical attitude of govt is apparent Yuva Manch filed suit against ATDFBA Contd. from Page 1
When enquired about the actual facts the staff from CO office outburst with ground realities citing complete collapse of administration. “Only a single clerk is running the entire circle. The sensitive border area is most vulnerable to land dispute and other untoward incident. The circle need immediate up gradation to SDO as Assam counterpart has SDO post. CO is too small to liaison with SDO of Assam to settle any dispute. Unfortunately even no CO is posted for a year. This way how we could protect or save our border, at the same time administration at the rural pocket has suffered badly? Ques-
tion a staff in the state of anonymity from Sunpura.
Aggravating most main road of Sunpura from Kali khola (Tezu side) which is merely 15 Km in distance is in worst condition. The road beyond Tri – Junction of Trans Arunachal Highway to check gate is completely damaged. If rains the road is almost like crossing a river, dotted potholes, ponds like situation resulting driving or riding a bike are made impossible. “The department has done pretty little to address the crisis causing tremendous hurdle for the citizens of Sunpura and other commuters. When we can see proper road? This 9
class of road have to be upgradation to double lane in order to avoid repeated submergence during rainy season. The lackadaisical attitude of government is quite noticeable”, alleges another citizen. The circle must be upgraded to ensure status – quo in the border else land dispute with Assam counterpart and backwardness of the circle could be the root cause to encourage encroachment by Assam side. “Sadiya being declared as new district of Assam comprehensive development is visible in the form of good road and infrastructures. However the Arunachal part is in the backseat of development”, rues other local citizen.
Spl correspondent Tinsukia, Feb 29: In a bid to pressurize district administration and police, Brihottar Asomiya Yuva Manch (BAYM) submitted complaint against All Tinsukia District Footpath Business Association, for illegally collecting of money from poor people who are running small business in footpath to earn bread for their family. “It came to light that few persons like Jayanta Sen Gupta, are collecting money from people who are running temporary business in footpath to feed the their family. These people has formed an organization in
ABK E/Siang conducts wildlife awareness at Kiyit, seizes illegal IMFL on the way back Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Feb 29: While continuing their extensive awareness drive across various villages in the district as a part of sensitizing the local Adi tribal community for minimizing the prevailing unabated hunting system, an awareness programme on protection, preservation & conservation was organized at Kiyit Village under Mebo Sub-Division, some 35 KM from here today. The awareness programme was organized by the Adi Baane Kebang East Siang Unit along with its Women Wing being attended by public of Kiyit and its surrounding villages with participation of Gaon Buras from Kiyit, Ngopok, Borguli and Seram. Obang Tayeng, Range Officer, Mebo Forest Range under Pasighat Forest Division while attending the programme as resource person laid emphasis on shunning hunting as wanton killings of wildlife and destroying forest resources by our people have already jeopardized the environment. He also clarified some misun-
CM flags off the contingents for 2nd National level North East Games
the name of All Tinsukia District Footpath Business Association and collecting money illegally under this banner”, alleged Chandan Handique, President of Brihottar Asomiya Yuva Manch (BAYM) in a press release. He also further stated that, they have learnt cheating poor people by saying that they will get their issues done with the amount they have collected. “However, we have lodged complaint with both district administration and police so that strict action be taken against such people indulged in illegal activities” added Chandan Handique.
A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 29: The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Kalikho Pul, flagged off the contingents today leaving for 2nd National level North East Games 2016 to be played at Imphal, Manipur from 2nd March to 7th March 2016 in the premises of Sangey Landen Sports Academy. Pul, in a communiqué stated that Games and Sports will be given priority by the state government with the up gradation of infrastructure, training equipments and man power of national standard not only in the Sangey Laden Sports Academy but also in the district and subdivisional level in phased wise manner”. He directed the Secretary of Sports, Dani Salu to prepare an estimate for up gradation of sports infrastructure, training equipments and faculties & man power requirements including the food items and submit it to the Govt. immediately as it will be kept in annual agenda of the govt., he said.
The Chief Minister exhorted the contingents “to give best possible performance playing with utmost discipline and technique and win Gold medals for the state”. He also told them that certificate and medal will not only remain a good memory for them in life but it will also be helpful for getting sports quota of 10% in govt. job reservation. He further said that winning or losing is a part of the game and one should not get demoralize when you lose a game. He further urged the participants to keep themselves physically fit and to take utmost care of their health. He advised them to constantly practice and also to regularly practice Yoga, Pranayam and Meditation to remain physically fit and mentally focus. He further opined to introduce Yoga, Pranayam and Meditation in all the schools of the state where hostel facilities are available. The Chief Minister informed that he has sanc-
tioned Rs 54 lakhs for the transportation, food, lodging and other expenditure for the contingents leaving for Imphal this evening. He also donated Rs 5 Lakhs from his own resources exclusively for the participating contingents. Dani Salu, Secretary (Sports & Youth Affairs) thanked the chief minister for personally boosting the moral of the contingents. It was informed that altogether 130 contingents including officials are going to Imphal to participate in the 2nd national Level North East Games 2016 and will be participating in 7 out of 8 disciplines namely in Athletic, Badminton, Boxing, Football, Judo, Table Tennis and Weight Lifting. The contingents will be lead by Mala Linggi, Deputy Director of Sports & Youth Affairs as Chief the Mission. On the occasion legislators, Markio Tado, Dr Mahesh Chai and Gora Makhik, Chairman SAYA were present among others.
Arunachal Elite Forum alleges Arunachal Governor of taking side A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 29 A newly formed organisation called Arunachal Elite Forum (AEF) with its President Taba Taku alleged that Governor J P Rajkhowa have been biased towards former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and more supportive towards incumbent Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, in a press conference at the Press Club today. Citing the S R Bommai case as an example, AEF President stated that, “As per the famous S R Bommai case, the nine judge bench of the Supreme
Court gave verdict that as and when the President Rule is lifted the previous government should be automatically revived and if needed, the governor can ask for floor test.” Adding that, “We are not taking the side of any political group but as an intellectual group we have to point out the wrong,” Taku went on allege that the President’s Rule (PR) was imposed to topple Tuki government and that “Tuki is facing serious injustice from governor’s end.” Further, maintaining that “the
governor should have taken a neutral stand,” Taku added that, “Even if the government - prior to PR was not restored, the legislative assembly should have been kept in suspended animation till the Supreme Court gives it verdict.” Meanwhile, highlighting on the aims and objective of the newly formed organisation, Taku maintained that AEF will seriously take up the demand for reviewing article 371 (H) at par with the article 371 (A) and (G) as enjoyed by Nagaland and Mizoram respectively.
Team Rangoon reaches Pasighat Contd. from Page 1
The other crew members have already touched Pasighat 2-3 days ago. The shooting of
the film will begin from tomorrow and the places like Partung, Komlighat, Kebang, Bodak village will be toured by the team to shoot the scenes. The district administra-
tion and police had a tough time managing the crowd this evening and department of tourism, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh led by DTO N. Talong is coordinating
the film team. The newly opened Serene Hotel led by its Managing Director, Indira Pertin Taloh gave all possible hospitality to impress upon the team Bollywood
Former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister P.K. Thungon awarded over three years jail Sensitizing the local Adi tribal community for minimizing the prevailing unabated hunting system, an awareness programme on protection, preservation & conservation was organized at Kiyit Village.
derstandings nurtured by villagers over functioning and activities of forest (T) and wildlife department. Urged the people to protect, preserve and conserve the rich biodiversity as the unabated hunting and felling of trees would cause huge damage of mother nature thereby im Besides ABK East Siang President, Okom Yosung, General Secretary Tajing Taki, Women Wing President, Yalem Taga Burang,
Secy. Opak Takuk Ering, ABK Block President Oling Ratan and Councilor PMC Ponung Lego, Gaon Buras like HGB Ngopok Maliyang Perme, HGB Kiyit Tokong Tayeng etc also spoke in the meeting. The meeting concluded with good note for immediate need of banning hunting by Airguns which has been viewed potential threats for even small birds. By Airguns, wanton killing of birds has been reported and this has to be brought down,
said the maximum attendants. Meanwhile, while going back, around 7 cases of illegal IMFL and beer were seized and destroyed by ABK East Siang and Women Wing team from a small shop named Sibya Rani Gur Shop in between Kadang and Sibya River in between Ngopok-Motum villages. The shop has been warned not to repeat the illegalities, said WW President Yalem Taga Burang.
Contd. from Page 1
lotting shops and stalls in 1994.
“Since accused Sheila Kaul has already expired and the proceedings against her has stood abated, therefore only accused P.K. Thungon stands convicted under the 120B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC read with the provisions of the PC Act,” the judge has said.
According to the CBI, the five accused had allegedly conspired during September 1993 to June 1994 for dishonestly and fraudulently obtaining undue benefit in the allotment of shops on economical license fee basis in contravention of rules governing such allotments.
In July 2015, Thungon was awarded a four-and-ahalf-year jail term in a 1998 graft case relating to misappropriation of central funds. A case was registered by the CBI in 1996 against Kaul, Thungon, Tsering, Krishna and Balodi for allegedly hatching a conspiracy in al-
The CBI had claimed Kaul and Thungon allegedly committed offence of criminal breach of trust to cause undue pecuniary advantage to their relations and friends, Tsering, Krishna and Balodi and dishonestly allowed these three to convert to their own the
government shops entrusted exchequer. to the minister. The CBI said the case was It had said that in pursu- registered after the Supreme ance to conspiracy, Kaul Court in 1996 directed it to abused her official position probe the allegations of coras minister and in the capac- ruption and bribery in the ity of custodian of govern- matter of out-of-turn allotment shops, dishonestly and ment of government shops without any public interest and lodge cases against the sanctioned allotments of offenders. The three shops three shops without calling were alloted on 9 April 1994 for any tenders of applica- and 12 May 1994, the tions from general public on agency had said. mere recommendation of The court had framed Thungon in a market oppo- charges against the accused site Red Fort. in March 2009 for the offences of criminal conThe agency had also al- spiracy read with criminal leged in the chargesheet that breach of trust by public Kaul caused huge pecuniary servant of the IPC and unadvantage to Tsering, der relevant provisions of Krishna and Balodi and cor- the Prevention of Corrupresponding loss to the state tion Act.
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
PAGE 4
KNCA slams CEM for restoring rape accused in KAAC ET Correspondent Diphu, Feb 29: Karbi Nimso Chingthur Asong (KNCA) alleged that Tuliram Ronghang, Chief Executive Member of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) is restoring some rape accused government officers in the service of KAAC. Addressing a press conference held at Diphu Mrs. Sima Ronghangpi, convener of KNCA said that the CEM is doing his best to reinstate some officers in the key position of the autonomous council who are facing charges of sex offense and likely to be convicted soon. “From 2001 till now under the Congress rule, the leaders of the party have accumulated huge wealth and cash, the ill-gotten wealth in the hands of few has given rise to immoral activities” alleged Sima Ronghangpi.
Two person killed for ransom ET Correspondent Diphu, Feb 29: Security forces of Manja police station who recovered 3 unidentified dead body from the bank of Diphu River yesterday has finally acknowledged the identity of 2 dead persons and has claimed that kidnap for ransom is the motive behind the gruesome killing of the three person who was reported missing on February 19 from Manja, a place around 16 km from Diphu.
the other person was Abdus Sahid Chaudhari, he too also a truck driver who also resides from the same village of Dimapur.
Manja police has revealed that one of the person was Atabur Rahaman, who hails from Khermahal village of Dimapur city, Nagaland. He was a truck owner who involved in ginger trade and
Sources said that after the missing Atabur Rahaman’s wife Anwara Begum received a phone call from her husband’s SIM number, but an unfamiliar voice came and was claiming to be the
According to police information, both of them came to Manja for procuring ginger from unknown person on Feb 19 and then they were taken to Patradisa, a place around 20 kilometres from Manja for delivering ginger, but both the person went missing since then.
abductor’s of two of them and demanded ransom amount of five lakhs from her, accordingly she paid Rs.45,000 at Diphu railway station. On February 25 the abductors made a final call for the balance amount with a word of warning, since then all the abducted persons remained trace less until yesterday. Manja police has launched massive search operation to nab the culprits and has assured that soon the third person will be recognized. However since the complaint was filed no one has been formally arrested under this case.
Gogoi lays foundation stone of much awaited metro rail project in Guwahati
During the winter season from October till February, the office working hours in all offices under the Assam Government and state Secretariat were from 10 AM to 4.15 PM without break.
the North East will figure prominently in the increased infrastructure spend by the Government, particularly we hope the issue of development of Inland Waterways, North East Ring Road and connectivity with neighbouring countries will
be addressed. We also hope the states of the North East will be able to take advantage of the plan to operationalize non functioning Airports" He added the scheme for "Organic Value Chain Development in North East
Region" will benefit farmers in the North East and entrepreneurs from the region can take advantage to invest in value addition of organic crops. We also hope the Tea Industry will be included within the ambit of the scheme.
Union budget keeps in sight aspirations from poll bound Assam Contd. from Page 1
In a statement here today, Chief Minister Gogoi said that the allocation to the Northeast by Rs 4,000 crore has been minimal against the backdrop of flurry of promises made by Central Ministers, including the Prime Minister amounting to tens of thousands of crores. “The frequent visits of Central Ministers, including Prime Minister to Assam have been primarily aimed at covering the failure of the Central Govern-
Earlier people have to visit Dibrugarh even for a minor job now the administration will come closer to the people, he said.
ment and it has indulged in show business and fake assurances. The Budget is a testimony to all this,” he said. Gogoi said he had raised a number of important issues in a letter to Union Minister for Finance Arun Jaitley for inclusion during the formulation of the Budget. “I had raised a number of important issues in a letter to FM Jaitley that included restoration of Special Category Status and NEIIP, special packages for flood and erosion, develop-
the Moran sub division a long felt demand of the people was fulfilled today. People like journalist Binod Phukon, social worker Luhit Chetia, Munin Changmai to only name a few have been demanding the creation of Moran sub division since 1954.
With the inauguration of
ment of MSME sector, setting up of Brahmaputra Valley River Basin Authority, special packages for development councils, tea tribes and ex-tea tribes and protection of one-horned Rhino. But everything fell on deaf ears.”
nounced nothing for the State,” he added.
Gogoi said that the Budget has nothing for the flood and erosion problem of Assam. “Though the State has been plagued with this alarming erosion problem and has so far lost permanently 4.27 lakh hectare, the Central Government has an-
Gogoi said that the budget has poured cold water on the high hopes and expectations of BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary by announcing only Rs 100 crore for BTC. BPF had sought Rs 1000 crore package from the Centre.
The Chief Minister said the Budget has not fully restored the earlier funding pattern to 90:10 despite stiff protests from the North Eastern States.
While thanking the CM Tarun Gogoi for declaring Moran as a new sub division, Moran MLA and parliamentary secretary for health Jibantara Ghatowar expressed hope that developmental activities will be expedited now. In his speech, former union minister P.S. Ghatowar appealed to the administrators
to ensure that the physical transfer of the sub division takes place at the earliest. Munda, later in the day inaugurated the Naharkatia sub-division in a function held at the Nagaon public hall. The local MLA Pranati Phukan was present on the occasion.
Good News to the meritorious students of Assam: Lakhimpur Sunrise Academy steps to launch Engineering Courses from Resonance of Kota Chief Minister of Assam Tarun Gogoi with other dignitaries lays the foundation stone of Rail Based Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS), Guwahati City at Khanapara in Guwahati. Pic - UB Photos A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 29: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi laid the foundation stone of much awaited metro rail project in Guwahati today. Assam government approved the formation of Special Purpose Vehicle namely Guwahati Metro Rail Corporation Limited for implementing the project.
The 203 kilometre Metro Corridor to be completed in three phases forecasts traffic demand up to the year 2045. Detailed Project Report for Phase-I has been prepared for a total length 61.4 kilometres. There will be four corridors and total of 54 stations in Phase-1. The total cost of the project
will be over 18 thousand crore rupees. The project will be completed in five years. The Centre and the Assam government will bear 40 percent of total cost while nearly 58 per cent of cost will be funded through soft loans. Local bodies will contribute 2 percent towards project completion cost.
AASU expresses concern over dishonor to Kolaguru Bishnu Prashad Rabha ET Correspondent Tezpur, Feb 29 : A sensational situation prevails in Dhekiajuli town today following the incident of initiative to erect a statue of Swami Vivekananda cancelling the prior decision of erecting a full-sized statue of Kolaguru Bishnu Prashad Rabha at the heart of the Dhekiajuli town. As alleged by Dhekiajuli AASU, during 2011 a proposal was submitted to the Dhekiajuli Municipal Board by the Dhekiajuli Unit AASU for construction of a full-sized statue of the “Kolaguru” in front of the Hotel Paramount.
Ranjit Barthakur, Chairman, FICCI North East Advisory Council said "Talking specifically of the North East we hope, infrastructure requirements of
Contd. from Page 1
Office working hours rescheduled
This was as per a Government of Assam General Administration Department notification dated February 26, said a government release today.
Contd. from Page 1
Dibrugarh district gets two new civil sub-divisions
In the press conference she informed that her organization will observe the international women’s day throughout the district. She also mentioned that KNCA has demanded certain basic facility like toilet for women employee in their work place.
A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 29: The office working hours in all offices under the Assam Government and state Secretariat from March 1 tomorrow to September 30 next on all working days will be from 10 AM to 5 PM without any break.
Allocation of Northeast states increases by at least Rs 4,009 crore
Meanwhile, the DMB refused the AASU’s proposal revealing that at the proposed site a public water reservoir project would be executed to meet the safe drinking water problem of the denizens coming under the Municipal board. However, it was proven a false commitment while instead of the water project, foundation stone of statue of Swami Vivekananda was laid by local MLA Habul Chakrabarty this morning, creating a sharp reaction among the common masses.
the Kolaguru by doing such a work, by a public representative, the Dhekiajuli Unit AASU staged a road blocked programme in the town today. However, the situation came under control while local administration including Police and the Circle officer committed to remove all short of preliminary work of construction of Vivekananda’s statue from the disputed site.
AASU Vice President Paragsen Deka, while talking to this correspondent, said that they have given 24 hours to In protest against the al- the authority to remove leged dishonor shown to all the things including
ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; Feb 29: In the long run Lakhimpur is going to be the education hub of the state overcoming the problems of backwardness gradually. Initially, such gleams of hope has been brought to the State by Sunrise Academy, North Lakhimpur through launching Medical and Engineering Courses from Resonance of Kota(Rajasthan). This will be possible through 'Live-Video Learning Program(LLP)' which the mentioned educational institution is going to introduce from 1st April of the year. The overwhelming declaration was today made by Dr. Manoranjan Pandit, the Director of Sunrise Academy in a Press Conference held in North Lakhimpur Press Club toady. "Resonance of Kota provides the teachings of the same course through Live-Video Learning Program to those educational institutions of the Nation which are approved by Resonance. Getting this due approval, Sunrise Academy is going to introduce the
signboard and all construction materials from the spot. ‘If it is not done accordingly, we will go for vigorous movement and the authority concern will face any kind of consequences for which the agencies concerned will be responA Staff Reporter sible.
courses of Resonance from 1st April of the year"-he said. He added that JEE(Main+Advanced), JEE(Main) and AIPMT are included in the carriculla. The intending students can avail in the educational institution the fescelities of Two way Line Interactive Classroom, Expert Classroom Faculty direct from Kota, Compact and Struc-
tural Approach, Competitive Approach/National Benchmarking, Value for Money, Similar teaching Methodology etc. Hostel accomodation is also available for fifty students in the institution. To get admitted the intending students can contact on Mobile No 7896223342, 8481274202, 9085197240, 9613173892 and through e-
m a i l : sunriseacademynlp@gmail.com. It is here to be noted that the institution has solemnized its venture to lessen the worry of the parents and the guardians who intend to get their children established with the carriculla of Kota; but unable due to different problems related to finance, food habit, unfamiliar environment, health etc.
Dibrugarh got new branch of Chartered Accountants of India
Dibrugarh, Feb 29: Under the Chairmanship of CA Suresh Chandra We always salute the na- Varma a new team of oftional Heroes like Netaji fice bearers of Dibrugarh Subhas Chandra Bose branch of Chartered Acand Swami countants of India, has Vivekananda, but it taken charge with other does not mean that we office bearers. Many charwill allow somebody to tered accountants were dishonor cultural icons selected for different post like Kolaguru Bishnu like CA Mahabir Bagaria Prashad Rabha who was as vice Chairman, CA Varma as Secretary universal in way of his Ankit and CA Amit Choudhury compositions and from OIL Duliajan as treaworks.” he warned. surer.
Chartered Accountant and the chapter was elevated to Branch level in the year 2014. Out of total strength of 115 CA in the Branch, 24 CAs are working in Oil India Limited, Duliajan and 6 CAs are providing services to BCPL.
Suresh Chandra Varma
Mr. Suresh Varma was the founder secretary of Dibrugarh Chapter of
“There is a very large scope for chartered accountants in Dibrugarh region because the region is having many well established Tea Gardens, new branches of Bank etc.”
said Chandra Varma. Mr. Varma who was earlier associated with the advisory committee of Chief Minister of Assam and many other professional assignment have expressed the desire of new managing committee to set up coaching facilities and career counseling faculties in Dibrugarh to generate maximum chartered accountants amongst the local students of this region.
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
Irom Sharmila released from judicial custody
REGION Mizoram Chakma Students’ Union condemns the alleged arson attack on Chakma village
PAGE 5
ET Bureau Kamalanagar, Feb 29: Mizoram Chakma Students’ Union today condemned the alleged incident of arson attack on Tuichawng Chhuah village on 26th February, 2016 where members alleged to be affiliated to the Mizo Students Union (MSU) set ablaze the lone primary school building of the village and vandalised the house of a villager belonging to the Chakma tribal community in Mizoram’s Lunglei district. The Union in a communiqué today expressed its grave concern on
Irom Sharmila Imphal, Feb.29 (ANI): Human Rights Activist Irom Chanu Sharmila, who has been charged with the offence of attempt to commit suicide by fasting, was on Monday released from judicial custody. Sharmila has been charged under Section 309 of the IPC (attempt to commit suicide) after she staged an indefinite hunger strike demanding repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act.
on a 15-year-long hunger strike to press for the abrogation of the AFSPA, had earlier said she would continue her fast unto death. Sharmila was earlier lodged in a security ward of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences here where she was guarded round-the-clock by jail, police and hospital staff. The government is spending about Rs.70, 000 a month on her medication and feeding her through the nose.
the way the Chakma villagers have subjected to regular harassment and threatening from the Mizo Students Union (MSU) despite the villagers having obtained a stay order on the eviction ‘notice’ from the Honourable Guwahati High Court. The Union claimed that on 8 January 2016, the Guwahati High Court stayed the eviction notice dated 17 December 2015 issued by the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Lunglei district following filing of a writ petition W.P. (C) No. 134 of 2016 by the affected Chakma villagers of Tuichawng Chhuah.
order. The Union further stated that MSU members have snatched away mobile phones & physically stopped the villagers from capturing their misdeeds on the phone cameras and have warned them of dire consequences if they do not vacate the village within the month of February. A primary school at Tuichawngchhuah hamlet, said to be an illegal settlement, was torched on Friday afternoon when MSU leaders were there to take stock of the situation after the Lunglei district administration had issued eviction
Chandel, Feb. 29 (ANI): Suspected terrorists belonging to the National Socialist Council of Nagaland - IsakMuivah (NSCN-IM) fraction shot down a teacher at Aimol village in Manipur’s Chandel district on Monday. According to initial reports, the terrorists resorted to heavy firing post the incident. The situation is said to be tense in the area. The government had on September 16 last year declared the NSCN-K, responsible for explosions, ambushes and bombings, as an unlawful organisation for a period of five years.
The NSCN was formed on January 31, 1980, by Isak Chisi Swu, Thuingaleng Muivah and S.S. Khaplang opposing the ‘Shillong Accord’ signed by the then NNC (Naga National Council) with the Indian Government. Later, differences surfaced within the outfit over the issue of commencing a dialogue process with the Indian Government and on April 30, 1988, the NSCN split into two factions, namely the NSCN-K led by S. S. Khaplang, and the NSCNIM, led by Isak Chisi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah.
Minister attacks police over BU row Kolkata, Feb 29: State Science and Technology Minister Rabiranjan Chatterjee on Sunday criticised police intrusion inside the Burdwan University campus, and said that he does not support students being beaten up by police inside the campus. His comment came at a time when the state education minister has already sought a report from the vicechancellor (VC) regarding the incident that happened at Burdwan University. The SFI activists have already demanded resignation of the Vice-Chancellor as he has allowed the police to enter the
university campus. Trouble broke out at the BU complex a few days back when SFI went to protest against alleged discrepancies of Part-I results. The SFI had organized a rally from Burdwan Junction Railway Station to the BU office complex at Rajbati. The agitators allegedly broke the lock of the main gate of the Rajbati complex and entered into the corridors of the VC's office. A large contingent of police led by SDPO (South), Shoumik Sengupta thereafter mounted a lathi-charge and dispersed the students. At least 27 SFI activists were reported to be injured.(Agencies)
Four students leader were arrested in connection with the case however they were released soon after large number of people gathered in front of Chakma House
As per as available official records, the Tuichawng Chhuah villagers have been provided various assistance
Tripura, Feb 29: Tripura ministers Badal Chaudhury and Manik Dey sustained minor injuries when a man attacked them in the CPI-M office here with a chair, police said on Monday. Police arrested Samir Debnath, 30, who on Sunday night went to the office
and targeted Health and PWD Minister Chaudhury and Transport and Power Minister Dey.
sured him that the land acquisition process would be completed by March. The minister added that the new deadline for the project can be fixed only after the remaining land is handed over to the implementing agency.
Dhar was all praise for the land owners who gave their land for the 264.3 km ShillongNongstoin-Tura road that will be a vital link between Khasi and Garo Hills. (Agencies)
Expressing grave concern, the MCSU-Central demanded the immediate reconstruction of the school building so that the students of the village are not affected. It also demanded adequate compensation for the house owner whose house has been vandalised.
Samir Debnath initially told the ministers that his father was critically ill and he needed money for his medical treatment. The claim was found to be untrue, a
police official said.
Debnath's family is known to support the Communist Party of India-Marxist. During the incident, Chief Minister Manik Sarkar and CPI-M leaders Bijan Dhar and Gautam Das were at the party office.(Agencies)
Agartala, Feb. 29 (ANI): In a bid to preserve and popularise Kokborok, which is a language spoken by most of the tribal people of Tripura, the National Book Trust (NBT) for the first time has taken a unique initiative to organise a four-day workshop on the language. This was announced by Chairman of NBT, Baldeo Bhai Sharma, during a press conference here. He said that the trust would start a workshop of writers and illustrators to promote the language.
“In the Northeast for Kokborok language we are starting a workshop of writers and illustrators, as both are very creative. If one wants to publish books especially for the children then just text is not enough as they get bore out of it. So to make books attractive in order to transform knowledge and inspire them we are trying to make books attractive through use of illustration. This workshop is an initiative towards that,” he said.
He added that NBT has taken initiatives to encourage the production of good literature and the habit of reading by organizing book fairs, exhibitions and literary activities throughout the country. NBT is an apex body established by the government of India (Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development) in the year 1957 and has published around 24, 000 books in 32 Indian languages including English.
Kohima, February 29: Nagaland Voluntary Consumers' Organisation (NVCO) has conducted a study on the use of RTI and its impact in Nagaland in the last ten years since its implementation in the State in 2006. However, the organisation admitted that the study was not intensive. According to a press release from Media Cell, NVCO, the study found out that several individuals and organisations were filing RTI application just for the sake of filing as they do not read and study the information obtained through the powerful Act. The awareness level in the district headquarters is still low, but is even lower in villages. NVCO maintained that basic knowledge of the RTI Act is required in the rural areas where more disclosure is needed in various schemes/ projects meant for villagers, especially those below poverty line (BPL). "We came across the maximum misuse of funds in MNREGA, Public Distribution System (PDS), etc. and therefore, the citizen must learn RTI so that transparency and accountability can be questioned by obtaining information through RTI," NVCO stated. The organisation also informed that certain village authorities had fined their citizens for filing RTI application without consulting village authorities. This is happening due to lack of awareness amongst the citizens," it added. NVCO also observed that maintenance of records or of-
ficial documents by the government departments was much better with the implementation of the RTI Act in the State. "But when it comes to the level of corrupt practices especially in public sectors we did not see any improvement rather it is becoming worse." The study also did not find much improvement in public infrastructural developmental works. Rather, it detected "so much of illegality in spending public funds in not following the norms and procedures including illegal deduction of certain percentages in the name of 'commission'." During the study, NVCO also observed good number of success stories, the release said. On the other hand, there were cases of some applicants filing RTI just to extract money from public authorities, public authority attempting to bribe the applicant, using RTI to harass the public authorities or certain department, offering huge sum of hard cash to applicant where applicant refused, public authority manipulating public documents while furnishing to the applicants, NVCO said. The release further said that the government had conducted several trainings for government employees, especially the PIOs and APIOs, but least bothered to take initiative to create awareness for the general public. "Still many PIOs and APIOs don't encourage the applicants rather they still have negative attitude towards the RTI applicant or the RTI Activists and many of them take advantage
Labourers shot and injured, Chumu civil society call for business shutdown Dimapur, Feb 29: Civil society organisations of Chumukedima have called for a 12-hour business shutdown at Chumukedima on February 29 in protest against the shooting and wounding of two labourers. The shutdown was jointly called by the Chumukedima Chambers of Commerce and Trade Association (CCCTA), Chumukedima Town Mothers Association, Chumukedima Town Youth Organisation, Chumukedima Students Union, Chumukedima Tribal Union and Chumukedima GBs. While condemning the shootings, the CCCTA in a press release informed that the decision was arrived at a joint
emergency meeting held on Sunday. The victims - Abdul Sukur and Ainul Haq sustained gunshot wounds on the leg and were admitted to the District Hospital, Dimapur. The release said that Haq and Sukur were shot in their residence by a gunman at the Mile Khuova Road junction at around 7:30 pm on February 27. "It is learned that a demand/ taxation letter was received on 1/02/2016 demanding Rs. 1,00,000 (one lakh) to be paid in one week time, and the refusal to pay the demand led to this incident," the CCCTA release stated. The demand letter was reportedly received by a bamboo enterprise where one
of the victims worked. Reaffirming its stand on the "One Govt. one tax" resolution jointly adopted by the Chumukedima public on February 13, 2014 as called by the ACAUT Nagaland, the CCCTA release demanded the Nagaland state government to arrest the perpetrators of the shooting. It further appealed the government to grant medical compensation to the victims. While stating that the shutdown will affect business establishments of Chumukedima area only, the release appealed the police department to enhance security deployment to prevent deterioration of law
and order. Meanwhile, the ACAUT Nagaland has alleged the District Hospital, Dimapur of "dereliction of duty." Visiting the victims at the hospital today, ACAUT said that the two patients (victims) were not provided the requisite medical attention on time by the hospital. According to the ACAUT, the victims were brought to the hospital at around 10:30 pm on February 27. The emergency doctor attended to the victims and admitted them. However, the ACAUT said, "No doctor attended to them till 2:30 pm today (Sunday)," while adding, "There has been a clear cut
case of dereliction of duty." One of the victim's attendants told the media that he asked one of the nurses in the morning why doctors were not attending to them. The query was responded with "Today is Sunday. Doctor has gone to Church." The ACAUT, maintaining that the injured were victims of unrequited monetary demand said, "They were shot because tax demand was not acknowledged." While extending support to the Chumukedima civil society, it held that the shooting was "an attempt to spread fear psychosis by picking on soft target in the lead up to the beginning of annual tax collection."(Agencies)
Shillong-Tura road project delayed over land hurdle 5 powerful IEDs recovered from Williamnagar school
Shillong, Feb 29: The final stage of work on the pivotal ShillongNongstoin-Tura road has been hampered due to the all-too-familiar problem of land acquisition. State PWD Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Sunday said around 1314 km of the road was yet to be constructed. Land acquisition hurdles have affected construction of the road between Upper Shillong and Sohiong. He, however, said the East Khasi Hills deputy commissioner has as-
by the Government of Mizoram since 1977 including Garden Passes, financial assistance for sustainable livelihood under New Land Use Policy (NLUP) programme since 1991, a primary school under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) in 2004, electricity since 2012 etc, said the Union.
Tripura ministers Ten years of RTI in Nagaland: attacked with chair NVCO studies its use & impact
National Book Trust to Teacher shot down in organise workshop to Manipur by suspected popularise Kokborok NSCN-IM terrorists
The activist, who has been
While a group called the Mizoram Chakma Alliance Against Discrimination (MCAAD) alleged that the school was torched by the MSU activists, the MSU said it was the other way round. The school was burnt while the MSU leaders were there to make it appear that the MSU leaders burnt it, said a statement of MSU.
in Lunglei and the police station, demanding their release, even as co-ordination committee of NGOs, comprising MSU, Young Mizo Association, Mizo Upa Pawl (senior citizens), Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl (women organisation), Mizo Zirlai Pawl (Mizo students association), ZoRO (Zo Re-unification organisation) and Prism, issued a stronglyworded statement demanding unconditional release of the arrested student leaders.
Shillong, Feb 29: Five powerful IEDs, one of them weighing 20 kg, were recovered on Sunday from a school in Williamnagar, East Garo Hills, where security personnel retreat after the day's operations. Police said that the IEDs were planted by GNLA in the school primarily to target the security personnel who take shelter whenever they come for operations in the village and surrounding areas.
A police official said on Sunday that the matter came to light after the arrest of a hardcore GNLA worker. According to police, based on specific source information, East Garo Hills police arrested the GNLA hardcore civilian cadre, Enison Ch Momin alias Vodafone (34), from Adugre village. Enison has been working for GNLA for the last 5 years. The arrested worker told
the police that Sohan along with 18 of his cadres had come to Adugre village before January 26 this year and planted the IEDs in the school. "Enison was entrusted to detonate the five high intensity IEDs placed in Adugre school which were later recovered and defused by the police team," a statement of the police said. Out of the five IEDs, one weighing almost 20 kg was placed in a metal
trunk inside the classroom. Another IED encased in a metal pitcher (chi basing in Garo) was buried in the classroom. In the school compound, two more IEDs encased in metal pitchers were recovered. One IED encased in a claymore box was also recovered from the school compound. The IEDs were connected in series by a wire which was to be detonated by a
battery. The police team had videographed and photographed the entire operation, the statement said. Police said that GNLA is desperate after the launch of Operation Hillstorm 3 to neutralize militants. Several police teams are in Durama jungle carrying out counter insurgency operations for the last four days which have resulted in recovery of huge quantity of explosives. (Agencies)
of the one month period although the information can be furnished within a few days time," it claimed. Delay in furnishing the required information, the NVCO added, affects the applicants where he/ she is seeking a stay order from the courts especially in the issue of awarding work order in contract works without following certain required norms. The maximum RTI applications filed in various departments were related to recruitment of employees in public sector (backdoor appointments), contract works, among others, the release said. The study was done through conducting awareness campaign, meeting and interview in the various district of Nagaland covering colleges, district administration, civil societies, public organisations, women organisations, churches, etc, following media reports on how other organisations were contributing in promoting the RTI Act in the State by filing RTI applications, fighting against the illegality and shortcoming of procedures based on information/ documents obtained through RTI. NVCO had even filed several cases such as Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench and even to the apex Court in the country. Meanwhile, the President of NVCO Kezhokhoto Savi has urged every citizen to participate in promoting RTI in their own capacity to achieve the objective of RTI Act.(Agencies)
Govt. has no moral right to continue: IPAK Imphal, Feb 29: The Indigenous People's Association of Kangleipak (IPAK) has said that the Congress Government has no moral right to serve the people further as it is unable to protect the dignity of itself and its people. IPAK alleged that the Congress Government has sold off itself to Naga Students Federation (NSF) by conceding to its pressure. Taking further dig at the Government, IPAK said that suspension of five commando personnel was an insult to the people of Mani-pur as Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, who also holds Home portfolio, had confidently stated in the State Assembly that the commandos were not guilty in the February 14 Mantripukhri incident. As such, the Government must immediately revoke the suspension order before the people rise in protest, IPAK said. Alleging that the Government has victimised the inno- cent commando personnel to appease NSF, IPAK questioned if the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister would step down if NSF demands so. The social body demanded the Government to order forcedretirement to the police commandos involved in the killings of Rabina and Sanjit. It also asked to punish the commando officer who assaulted a girl protester during a pro-ILP protest last year.(Agencies)
BUDGET SPECIAL
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
PAGE 6
Budget 2016 : Important Highlights New Delhi, Feb 29: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his Budget 2016 speech stressed on Indian economy's resilience amidst the current global economic turmoil. "Global economy is in a serious crisis. Financial markets have been bat-
tered but Indian economy has held its ground firmly."
ited an economy with low growth and high inflation," Jaitley said.
"IMF has hailed India as a bright spot. Let us look at our achievements compared to the last three years of the last government. We inher-
"We have bridged the trust deficit created by the previous government," Jaitley added. We take a look at highlights from his speech:
INTRODUCTION Ø Growth of Economy accelerated to 7.6 per cent in 2015-16.
global conditions and two consecutive years shortfall in monsoon by 13 per cent
Ø India hailed as a 'bright spot' amidst a slowing global economy by IMF. > Robust growth achieved despite very unfavourable
Ø Foreign exchange reserves touched highest ever level of about 350 billion US dollars.
Ø Despite increased devolution to States by 55 per cent as a result of the 14th Finance Commission award, plan expenditure increased at RE stage in 2015-16 - in contrast to earlier years.
CHALLENGES IN 2016-17 Ø Risks of further global slowdown and turbulence.
Ø Additional fiscal burden due to 7th Central Pay
Commission recommendations and OROP.
Congress gives thumbs down to General Budget 2016-17 New Delhi, Feb. 29 : The Congress Party, as is usual for a party in the opposition, on Monday gave a thumbs down to the Budget proposals for 2016-17 presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament. It said that most of the proposals would lead to a shrinking of the Indian economy."The budget presented by the Finance Minister is high on rhetoric, flawed on comparisons. It is bereft on any ideas, it lacks imaginationit constrains the freedom of the central bank and in totality
it is a dead scud," Congress leader Manish Tewari told ANI. "The markets have given the budget thumbs down, so therefore, Finance Minister has revealed a piece of rhetoric which would ultimately contribute in shrinking the Indian economy," he added.Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today presented the General Budget for the next fiscal, amid concerns over stagnating growth, the state of government finances and stuttering pace of reforms. "I am presenting the budget when the glo-
SKILL DEVELOPMENT Ø Allocation for skill development - Rs 1804 crore. Ø 1500 Multi Skill Training Institutes to be set-up. Ø National Board for Skill Development Certification
to be setup in partnership with the industry and academia Ø Entrepreneurship Education and Training through Massive Open Online Courses
JOB CREATION Ø GoI will pay contribution of 8.33 per cent for of all new employees enrolling in EPFO for the first three years of their employment. Budget provision of Rs 1000 crore for this scheme.
assesses who are subject to statutory audit under the Act
Ø Deduction under Section 80JJAA of the Income Tax Act will be available to all
Ø Model Shops and Establishments Bill to be circulated to States.
Ø 100 Model Career Centres to operational by the end of 2016-17 under National Career Service.
AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS' WELFARE Ø Allocation for Agriculture and Farmers' welfare is Rs 35,984 crore Ø 'Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana' to be implemented in mission mode. 28.5 lakh hectares will be brought under irrigation. Ø Implementation of 89 irrigation projects under AIBP, which are languishing for a long time, will be fast tracked
Ø A dedicated Long Term Irrigation Fund will be created in NABARD with an initial corpus of about Rs 20,000 crore Ø Programme for sustainable management of ground water resources with an estimated cost of Rs 6,000 crore will be implemented through multilateral funding Ø 5 lakh farm ponds and dug wells in rain fed areas and 10 lakh compost pits for production of organic ma-
nure will be taken up under MGNREGA
velopment in North East Region'.
Ø Soil Health Card scheme will cover all 14 crore farm holdings by March 2017.
Ø Unified Agricultural Marketing ePlatform to provide a common e- market platform for wholesale markets
Ø 2,000 model retail outlets of Fertilizer companies will be provided with soil and seed testing facilities during the next three years Ø Promote organic farming through 'Parmparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana' and 'Organic Value Chain De-
RURAL SECTOR Ø Allocation for rural sector - Rs 87,765 crore. Ø Rs 2.87 lakh crore will be given as Grant in Aid to Gram Panchayats and Municipalities as per the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission Ø Every block under drought and rural distress will be taken up as an intensive Block under the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Mission Ø A sum of Rs 38,500 crore allocated for MGNREGS.
Ø 300 Rurban Clusters will be developed under the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission Ø 100 per cent village electrification by 1st May, 2018. Ø District Level Committees under Chairmanship of senior most Lok Sabha MP from the district for monitoring and implementation of designated Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
Centrally Sponsored Schemes to be made to reward villages that have become free from open defecation.
tor including education and health care - Rs 1,51,581 crore.
Ø Rs 2,000 crore allocated
for initial cost of providing LPG connections to BPL families.
Ø New health protection
scheme will provide health cover up to Rs One lakh per family. For senior citizens an additional top-up package up to Rs 30,000 will be provided.
Ø 3,000 Stores under Prime
Minister's Jan Aushadhi Yojana will be opened during 2016-17.
Ø To reduce the burden of
Ø Rs 850 crore for four dairying projects 'Pashudhan Sanjivani', 'Nakul Swasthya Patra', 'EPashudhan Haat' and National Genomic Centre for indigenous breeds
EDUCATION, SKILLS AND JOB CREATION > 62 new Navodaya Vidyalayas will be opened
Teaching and Research Institutions
Ø A new Digital Literacy Mission Scheme for rural India to cover around 6 crore additional household within the next 3 years.
> Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan to increasing focus on quality of education
> Higher Education Financing Agency to be set-up with initial capital base of Rs 1000 Crores
Ø National Land Record Modernisation Programme has been revamped. > New scheme Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan proposed with allocation of Rs 655 crore.
> Regulatory architecture to be provided to ten public and ten private institutions to emerge as world-class
> Digital Depository for School Leaving Certificates, College Degrees, Academic Awards and Mark sheets to be setup.
bal economy is in crisis," Jaitley said in his opening remarks, adding that India, however, remained the bright spot in this
New Delhi, Feb 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said the Budget is pro-village, poor and farmers with focus on bringing about qualitative change in the country and alleviate poverty through a slew of time-bound programmes.
each for celebrating the Birth Centenary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay and the 350th Birth Anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh.
For MNREGA, there has been the biggest allocation, he said.
"Several steps have been taken for the farmers. The most important is Pradhan Mantri Krishi Yojana," he said.
"This Budget is pro-village, pro-poor, pro-farmer. The main focus is to bringing
Noting that electricity and roads are crucial for villages, the Prime Minister said by 2019, all villages of
At the same time, exemptions have been given to those living in rented accommodations, he noted.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND INVESTMENT Ø Total investment in the road sector, including PMGSY allocation, would be Rs 97,000 crore during 2016-17. Ø India's highest ever kilometres of new highways were awarded in 2015. To approve nearly 10,000 kms of National Highways in 2016-17. Ø Allocation of Rs 55,000 crore in the Budget for Roads. Additional Rs 15,000 crore to be raised by NHAI through bonds. Ø Total outlay for infrastructure - Rs 2,21,246 crore. Ø Amendments to be made in Motor Vehicles
Act to open up the road transport sector in the passenger segment Ø Action plan for revival of unserved and underserved airports to be drawn up in partnership with State Governments. Ø To provide calibrated marketing freedom in order to incentivise gas production from deep-water, ultra deep-water and high pressure-high temperature areas Ø Comprehensive plan, spanning next 15 to 20 years, to augment the investment in nuclear power generation to be drawn up. Ø Steps to re-vitalise PPPs: Ø Public Utility (Resolution of Disputes) Bill will be introduced during 2016-17
Ø Guidelines for renegotiation of PPP Concession Agreements will be issued Ø New credit rating system for infrastructure projects to be introduced Ø Reforms in FDI policy in the areas of Insurance and Pension, Asset Reconstruction Companies, Stock Exchanges. Ø 100 per cent FDI to be allowed through FIPB route in marketing of food products produced and manufactured in India. Ø A new policy for management of Government investment in Public Sector Enterprises, including disinvestment and strategic sale, approved.
RESOURCE MOBILIZATION FOR AGRICULTURE, RURAL ECONOMY AND CLEAN ENVIRONMENT Ø Additional tax at the rate of 10 per cent of gross amount of dividend will be payable by the recipients receiving dividend in excess of Rs 10 lakh per annum.
Ø "Stand Up India Scheme" to facilitate at least two projects per bank branch. This will benefit at least 2.5 lakh entrepreneurs.
Ø Allocation of Rs 100 crore
He said the Budget has laid a roadmap to alleviate poverty in a time-bound manner.
the country will be connected by roads, while all of them will be electrified by 2018.
Talking about housing, Modi said every poor man dreams of owning a house and efforts will be made to strengthen this sector to ensure that the poor people realise their dreams.
Ø Tax to be deducted at source at the rate of 1 per cent on purchase of luxury cars exceeding value of Rs ten lakh and purchase of goods and services in cash exceeding Rs two lakh.
Ø National Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Hub to be set up in partnership with industry associations
about qualitative change in the country," Modi said, adding "there will be a big change in the lives of common people."
Commenting on the Budget 2016-17, he said special attention has been paid to agriculture, village infrastructure, healthcare, employment generation and Dalit entrepreneurship.
Ø 'National Dialysis Services Programme' to be started under National Health Mission through PPP mode
gloom, turning difficulties into opportunities.He said India's growth has expanded 7.5 percent, despite slowdown in ex-
Budget is pro-village, propoor, pro-farmers: Modi
Ø Surcharge to be raised from 12 per cent to 15 per cent on persons, other than companies, firms and cooperative societies having income above Rs 1 crore.
Ø Priority allocation from
SOCIAL SECTOR INCLUDING HEALTH CARE Ø Allocation for social sec-
Ø Allocation under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana increased to Rs 19,000 crore. Will connect remaining 65,000 eligible habitations by 2019.
loan repayment on farmers, a provision of Rs 15,000 crore has been made in the BE 2016-17 towards interest subvention Ø Allocation under Prime Minister Fasal Bima Yojana Rs 5,500 crore.
Congress gives thumbs down to General Budget 2016
ports, even as inflation had eased, bringing big relief to the general public. He also said foreign exchange reserves were robust.While making no change in personal Income Tax slabs in the Union Budget 2016-17, Finance Minister Jaitley announced additional tax relief of Rs 50,000 for first time home buyers for up to Rs 35 lakh loan provided house cost does not exceed Rs 50 lakh.Jaitley also announced to hike HRA deduction limit from Rs. 24,000 to Rs. 60,000 per annum for rent payers. (ANI)
Ø Securities Transaction tax in case of 'Options' is proposed to be increased from .017 per cent to .05 per cent. > Equalization levy of 6 per cent of gross amount for payment made to non- residents exceeding Rs 1 lakh a year in case of
B2B transactions. Ø Krishi Kalyan Cess, @0.5 per cent on all taxable services, w.e.f. 1 June 2016. Proceeds would be exclusively used for financing initiatives for improvement of agriculture and welfare of farmers. Input tax credit of this cess will be available for payment of this cess. Ø Infrastructure cess, of 1 per cent on small petrol, LPG, CNG cars, 2.5 per cent on diesel cars of certain capacity and 4 per cent on other higher engine capacity vehicles and SUVs. No credit of this cess will be available nor credit of any other tax or duty be utilized for paying this cess. Ø Excise duty of 1 per cent without input tax credit or 12.5 per cent with input tax credit' on articles of jewellery [excluding silver jewellery, other than studded with diamonds and
some other precious stones], with a higher exemption and eligibility limits of Rs 6 crores and Rs 12 crores respectively. Ø Excise on readymade garments with retail price of Rs 1000 or more raised to 2 per cent without input tax credit or 12.5 per cent with input tax credit. Ø 'Clean Energy Cess' levied on coal, lignite and peat renamed to 'Clean Environment Cess' and rate increased from Rs200 per tonne to Rs400 per tonne. Ø Excise duties on various tobacco products other than beedi raised by about 10 to 15 per cent. Ø Assignment of right to use the spectrum and its transfers has been deducted as a service leviable to service tax and not sale of intangible goods.
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
PAGE 7
NEIGHBOURS
Rajiv Gandhi ruled out asking Lanka to go Federal Colombo,Feb 29:As India's Prime Minister between 1984 and 1989, Rajiv Gandhi neither asked Sri Lanka to adopt a federal constitution nor did he get involved in the drafting and implementation of the 13th Constitutional Amendment (13A), says A Varatharajaperumal, former Chief Minister of the now defunct NorthEastern Province."When we met Rajiv in 1986, the Indian PM categorically said that India would not ask Lanka to adopt a federal constitution. But Rajiv was quick to add that the Lankan Tamils were free to put to their government any constitutional proposal they liked," Perumal told media.Asked why the Indian PM shied away from federalism, Perumal said that it was probably because Rajiv had battled a
Myanmar to ban tourists climing pagodas Yangon,Feb 29: Myanmar's Ministry of Culture has announced it will soon forbid tourists in Bagan from climbing the 1500-year-old pagodas, prompting a backlash from tourist operators forced to cancel the popular sightseeing activity of sunset-gazing from atop a pagoda."I'm totally against the decision. The main reason tourists come here is to enjoy the views from the pagodas. This will damage the image of Bagan," said U Zaw Win Cho, chair of the Bagan Guide Association, according to the Myanmar Times. Starting on March 1, visitors to the ancient city home to more than 3,000 pagodas and stupas built in the 11th to 13th century will be banned from the vicinity of the temples in a bid to conserve cultural heritage monuments.The announcement, made by the Ministry of Culture on social media, comes after a medical company reportedly held a song-anddance performance atop one of the stupas earlier in February.The Myanmar tourism industry has swelled in recent years, with a sharp increase from 593,000 visitors in 2012 to 1.08 million throughout 2015, raising fears about protecting historical sites. (Agencies)
Nepal, China agree on security matters Kathmandu,Feb 29: Ahead of Prime Minister KP Oli's visit to China, Nepal on Sunday agreed with its northern neighbour to strengthen the cooperation on various issues relating to security.During a meeting, the Nepali side led by Jhabindra Aryal, joint secretary and head of the North Asia Division at the Foreign Ministry and the Chinese side under Liu Guangyuan, director general of External Security Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of External Affairs held discussions on a wide range of security cooperation between the two countries. The Chinese side urged the Nepali officials to be more alert not to allow any antiChina activities in March. "We have assured them that Nepal adheres the one-China policy and strictly maintains that Nepali soil will not be used against its neighbour," said Aryal. (Agencies)
strong pro-autonomy militant movement in Punjab. Perumal, who was CM for 14 months between 1988 and 1990, recalled that neither Rajiv nor his successors pressed Colombo to implement the 13A in letter and spirit though it stemmed from the 1987 Indo-Lanka Accord."India had failed to honor the commitments it had made when it entered into an Accord with Sri Lanka in 1987. India had no role in the drafting of the 13A, nor did it oversee or monitor its implementation. It remained passive as Lankan governments kept violating the 13A by not devolving power over land and police. North and East were separated in 2006 with no protests from anywhere," he recalled.Asked to explain India's stand,
Rajiv Gandhi ruled out asking Lanka to go Federal
Perumal said: "One of the reasons was opposition to the India-Lanka Accord in India itself, with DMK leader Karunanidhi and the Prime Minister-to-be, V.P.Singh, using it to beat Rajiv within the run up to the 1989 Indian parliamentary elections, which Rajiv lost."With Rajiv's assassination by the
LTTE in 1991, India adopted a "hands off" policy vis-Ă -vis Lanka, which continues to this day with New Delhi only paying lip service to the Tamil cause. "New Delhi's focus is now on improving IndiaLanka relations. The West too has its agenda. Once that agenda is fulfilled, it
will drop the human rights issue. In this scenario, it is better for the Tamils and Sinhalese to talk to each other directly and arrive at a settlement," Perumal said.Still active as the head of a faction of the Eelam Peoples' Revolutionary Liberation Front ( E P R L F - Va r a t h a r ) , Perumal feels that the Northern Provincial Council (NPC), now dominated by the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), should concentrate on securing its rights under 13A
of the constitution."The Tamils' long standing and legitimate demand for federalism cannot be attained in one go, as they expect. Their history shows it is not possible to take a huge leap to reach the cherished goal. But the goal can be attained by a series of short hops.""The NPC should stop passing resolutions on political issues and work towards securing its rights under 13A and also correct many of the shortcomings in the 13A," Perumal said. (Agencies)
" As India's Prime Minister between 1984 and 1989, Rajiv Gandhi neither asked Sri Lanka to adopt a federal constitution nor did he get involved in the drafting and implementation of the 13th Constitutional Amendment" A Varatharajaperumal, former Chief Minister of the now defunct NorthEastern Province.
Chinese vice premier meets U.S. treasury secretary on economic ties Beijing, Feb. 29 : Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew in Beijing on Sunday, discussing economic ties between the two countries. Wang said the two sides, having achieved key progress in bilateral ties over the past year, should work together to set the economic agenda for this year's meetings between the two countries' presidents.Wang said China is ready to work with the United States to ensure the success of the eighth annual economic dialogue, and push forward negotiations on a bilateral investment treaty and on an environmental goods agreement under
China and the United States should work together to ensure that commitments at the meeting are honored in pursuit of strong, sustainable and balanced global growth.
Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang (L) meets with U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew in Beijing the World Trade Organization framework. The vice premier hoped the two sides will enhance
mutual trust and control their disputes to advance economic ties in a healthy and sustainable way.
94,000 people suffer from HIV in Pakistan: NACP Islamabad, Feb 29: As many as 94,000 people in Pakistan are suffering from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).An official of National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) Sunday said that 14,075 of these persons are registered with antiretroviral clinics and 7,560 of them are getting treatment for HIV.These patients are getting treatment at 21 antiretroviral clinics while the NACP has also set up 11 sites for prevention of parent to child transmission (PPTCT) and 20 community home-based care centres. National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) was established in 1986-87 with a focus on case detection among hospital clients, with the key objectives of prevention of HIV transmission, safe
blood monitoring and research and behavioural studies and programme management. The official said that last year, the NACP got a financial support of $ 9.8 million from global fund along with Rs 30 million from the government. The global fund has made a further commitment of $18 million this year. The federal government allocated Rs 8.861 million for fiscal year 2015-16 for AIDS control while Rs 28.262 million is likely to be allocated for fiscal year 2016-17.Under the programme, the patients will get free of cost screening and treatment for HIV this year, he said, adding the NACP is primarily mandated to coordinate and harmonise the national response to HIV-AIDS in Pakistan. The NACP is working closely with the provincial aids control
programmes providing care, support and treatment services, he added. He said the NACP is conducting the 5th round of surveillance in the country in collaboration with provincial programmes with a total outlay of $1.1 million this year. It has also formulated a national HIV/AIDS policy and HIV bill for passage through the parliament.It will also revise and disseminate guidelines and SOPs regarding treatment, HIV counselling and testing, opiate substitution therapy (OST) and home-based care. The official said NACP will be actively engaged in advocacy with parliamentarians, religious and opinion leaders, youth, policy makers, media personnel and key populations to create awareness and find solutions. (Agencies)
N'ganj seven-murder trial begins Dhaka,Feb 29:The trial in two cases filed over the sensational seven-murder in Narayanganj has begun through recording witness deposition.Narayanganj District and Sessions Judge's court started recording deposition of petitioner Bijoy Kumar Pal at 10:30am Monday. The court will record the deposition of two witnesses in the day.Earlier, the court
deferred the deposition recording on February 25 as police could not produce former RAB official Tarek Sayeed, an accused in the case.Earlier in the morning, 23 accused including prime accused including Nur Hossain and Tarek Sayeed were produced before the court amid tight security. On April 27, 2014, Narayanganj panel mayor Nazrul Islam, his three as-
sociates and driver, and Narayanganj District Judge's Court senior lawyer Chandan Kumar Sarker and his driver were abducted from Fatullah area in Narayanganj city. Their bodies were later recovered from Shitalakhya River.The two murder cases were filed by Nazrul's wife Selina Islam Beauty and Chandan son-in-law Bijoy Kumar Pal. (Agencies)
As to the just-concluded Group of 20 (G20) Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, Wang said that
The treasury secretary said the U.S. is willing to maintain communication and coordination with China on bilateral and global economic issues. He also said the United States supports China to host the G20 Hangzhou Summit. The G20 Hangzhou Summit is slated for Sept. 4-5 with a theme of "Towards an Innovative, Invigorated, Interconnected and Inclusive World Economy." (Agencies)
Bomb hoax at Lukla Airport Kathmandu, Feb 29: The Lukla Airport in Solukhumbu district was closed briefly on Monday morning following a bomb hoax. Speculations were made about a possible bomb after a cargo was discovered with a letter mentioning that it contains a 'sensitive object'.An aircraft of
Simrik Air had landed at the airport from Kathmandu with the cargo this morning. A bomb disposal team then scanned the cargo.A high-ranking official at Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal said that the team didn't find any 'sensitive object' in the cargo. (Agencies)
Pak Army contingent leaves for Central African Republic to take part in UN peace mission
A 250-strong Pakistan Army contingent has left for the Central African Republic (CAR) to perform peace-keeping duties under the aegis of the United Nations.
Lahore, Feb.29: A 250strong Pakistan Army contingent has left for the Central African Republic (CAR) to perform peacekeeping duties under the aegis of the United Nations.Inter Service Public Relations (ISPR) Brigadier Maqbool Ahmad saw the contingent off at the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore.The departing batch will replace the already deployed Pakistan Army contingent in the war-ravaged country as part of the relieve and rotation schedule. Speaking to troops,
Brigadier Ahmad said the Pakistan Army has had added another glorious chapter in its history of peacekeeping by rendering dedicated services for the restoration of peace all over the globe.The services of Pakistani contingent to secure stable environments for maintenance of peace and order in Somalia, Eastern Slovenia, Bosnia, Haiti, East Timor, Liberia, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Congo and Sierra Leone had enhanced the country's image among the comity of nations.(ANI)
Former Punjab governor Taseer's killer Mumtaz Qadri executed Lahore, Feb. 29 : Elite Force commando Mumtaz Qadri, who was convicted of killing former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, was executed at the Adiala Jail in Pakistan early Monday morning. Qadri was sentenced to death for assassinating Taseer on January 4, 2011, in Islamabad's Kohsar Market.Qadri said he killed Taseer over the politician's vocal and vehement opposition to blasphemy laws of the country. "I can confirm that Qadri was hanged in Adialia jail early Monday morning," senior local police official Sajjid Gondal
Former Punjab governor Taseer's killer Mumtaz Qadri executed
told media.A prison official confirmed the execution of Qadri.The body of Mumtaz Qadri was handed over to his family members and was moved from the jail under tight security cover. Qadri's last meeting with his family was arranged late on Sunday night. (ANI)
FORM IV ( See Rule 8 ) STATEMENT ABOUT OWNERSHIP AND OTHER PARTICULARS OF NEWSPAPER 'THE EASTERN TODAY'
1. Place of Publication
:
T.C BORAH BUILDING, 1ST FLOOR, NEXT TO SANKARDEVA HOSPITAL, MANCOTTA ROAD, CHOWKIDINGEE, DIBRUGARH
2. Periodicity of Publication
:
DAILY.
3. Printers name Whether citizen of India Address
: : :
NIKH KHOPI. YES. C/O SUBHASH CH. BHATTACHARJYA, CHOWKIDINGEE, MANCOTTA DIBRUGARH
4. Publisher's name Whether citizen of India Address
: : :
NIKH KHOPI YES. C/O SUBHASH CH. BHATTACHARJYA, CHOWKIDINGEE, MANCOTTA DIBRUGARH
5. Editor's Name Nationality Address
: : :
RIPUNJOY DAS INDIAN MILAN NAGAR, M-LANE, DIBRUGARH, HOUSE NO-4, ASSAM-786003
6. Name and address of individuals And partners of shareholders who Own the newspaper
:
NA
I, NIKH KHOPI. , hereby declare that the particulars given above are true to the best of my knowledge and belief.
Dated : 29-2-2016
( Printer & Publisher)
PAGE 8
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
Students, Politics and Ideologies - the intermixing of the trio Union Budget 2016-17 Jaitley announces the nine pillars of his Budget Finance Minister Arun Jaitley began presenting India's national budget for the next fiscal in the Lok Sabha amid concerns over stagnating growth, the state of government finances and stuttering pace of reforms. Jaitley announces the nine pillars of his Budget - Agriculture and Photo:picture.flick farmers' welfare, rural sector, social sector including healthcare, education, skills and job creation, infrastructure, financial sector reforms, ease of doing business, fiscal discipline, tax reforms to reduce compliance burden. As in the budget Rs. 9,000 crore has been allocated for Swachch Bharat Abhiyan. Also 5,542 villages have been electrified, more than the last three years combined. Whereas in the Highest ever for the rural employment scheme Rs. 38,500 crore has been set for MNREGA. And Rs. 2.87 lakh crore for gram panchayats as per recommendation of 14th finance commission. Agricultural credit target of Rs. 9 lakh crore has been fixed and Govt to allocate Rs 5,500 crore for crop insurance scheme. Also to promote organic farming , Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana to bring 5 lakh acres under organic farming has been announced and 28.5 lakh hectares to be brought under irrigation. New scheme for BPL families for gas connections and Statutory backing for Aadhaar platform to ensure delivery of benefits can be expected. And FY 16-17 will have the additional burden of implementing the VII pay commission and the defence OROP. Also GDP growth has accelerated to 7.6%. CPI inflation has come down to 5.4%. Mr. Jaitley is of the view that the Indian economy has held strong despite a global slowdown. In the power sector, the govt is drawing up a plan for 15-20 years to augment investment in nuclear power. Rs. 3,000 crore per annum for this. Also Motor Vehicles Act to be amended to enable entrepreneurship in the road transport sector. Besides a total outlay on roads and rails will be Rs. 2.80 lakh crore .And 10,000 km of national highways in 2016-17 and 50,000 km state highways to be converted to NH roads. As more than 70,000 road projects were languishing at the beginning of the year. Nearly 85% of these projects have been put back on track. Whereas no changes has been made to existing income tax slabs. Besides 1 per cent service charge on purchase of luxury cars over Rs. 10 lakh and in-cash purchase of goods and services over Rs. 2 lakh. And additional exemption of Rs. 50,000 for housing loans up to Rs. 35 lakh, provided cost of house is not above Rs. 50 lakh. Also 10 public and 10 private educational institutions to be made world-class. Digital repository for all school leaving certificates and diplomas. Rs. 1,000 crore for higher education financing. Besides a host of other announcements, Government will also lay greater emphasis on social sectors, education and skill building and job creation for building a knowledge based and productive economy.
School dropout Nagaland tops in school dropout rate The school dropout scenario in the country is "extremely high" as over 80 million children are not completing the full cycle of elementary education, while eight million are out of school over a period of years, according to UNICEF. The levels of school drop outs is high in rural schools and starts to increase in middle school. Primary reason for this is lack of enabling school environments, poor regularity to school, lack of individual teacher attention, learning challenges of rural students, all leading to poor learning levels in elementary school. When these children go to middle school and beyond, they are unable to cope up and eventually drop out by high school. Besides, the quality of education continues to remain a matter of concern, both in terms of infrastructure as well as teaching and learning outcomes. The country has failed to meet the target set in the 11th five year plan that is reduction in drop-out rates from 50 percent to 20 percent at the elementary level as per a study by nongovernmental organisation Chief Rights and You (CRY). In Northeast, a survey conducted by the World Bank and the Central government has found that the State of Nagaland has the highest dropout rate in India.The dropout rate in primary school (grade I-V) stood at 19.4 per cent, four times the national average of 4.3 per cent. The scenario is no better in the upper primary (VI-VIII) and the secondary (IX-X) levels of the state too, it stood at 17.7 per cent and 35.1 per cent respectively. The state's ambitious "Communitisation of Education" plan has failed to achieve the desired results. As per the plan, the state has sought involvement of community to improve school education. Moreover the frequent change of schools by students is one of the important factors for high dropout rate. Also poor family support and lack of teachers in rural areas is among one of the important reasons. As most families in rural Nagaland prefer to engage their children in domestic and field work instead. In spite of the adoption of various mode to universalise elementary education, the dropout rate in schools continues to be high. The causes are ingrained in systems that are larger than education. While temporary solutions are rampant and popular, it will take attention on the long-term scale to ensure that girls across India are able to freely, safely, and consistently attend school and access an education. The Indian government, in its mission to universalise elementary education, has over the years been able to increase the rate of enrolment but has failed to arrest the dropout rate.
"Education is what sur- debarred from doing so, vives when what has it would mean nipping in been learned has been bud the political awakenforgotten." - B. F. Skin- ing that is natural in evner ery heart. Infact, they are The question has always the backbone of the sobeen open to criticism ciety and if they are not whether students should brought up properly, the b e f u k e p tKaveri Sagar Bhattacharjya t u r e a t o f arm's length from politics the society will be darkor they should be allowed ened. Orthodox people to take an active part in cite old examples to politics. In this age of po- prove that the students' litical advancement and life was the life of penawakening, the students' ance and hardships. life in itself has been a Students have nothing to politics for the last many do with the politics of the years. country and they have to devote their full attention Moreover, every young to their physical, mental, man has some inspira- intellectual and spiritual tions and some growth. Their studies and sen-timents. These inspi- the method of education rations and sentiments in that age went ahead in can only be given a prac- helping them to grow tical shape if they are al- properly as an asset to the lowed to enter politics. society. Such people are The question that re- also mistaken. mains unsettled is the They have full say in their shape and kind of politics. own affairs and the best The students must be al- way of teaching was by lowed to understand their discussion. That discusprob-lems and they should sion involved their perhave a full say in making sonal politics and the polithose prob-lems solved in tics of students' life. the right way. If they are Huen Sang, a well known
scholar, of China, visited India in the days when Nalanda University was in its prime. That was the oldest of the Universities. He writes that the students in that University had full right to express themselves. They had not to follow the teacher; serving of teacher does not mean captivity of the intellect. Thus we can assume that for the betterment of the society, of the welfare of the student community, for the prosperity of the nation and for every lasting peace in the universe, the students should be allowed to have their say in all matters, which concern them. There is also the dark side of it that is being witnessed these days. In the garb of politics, students take to destruc-tive means. They ignore their studies and they think that copying is their right. Attendance should not be a condition for taking an examination. The indiscipline and unrest among the students prove that the modern
Image for representational purpose (Photo: images.indianexpress)
politics has totally failed to tackle their problems. The students should not be allowed to take active part in politics. I may be excused if I assert that the fault does not lie with the students who are as delicate as the new branch of a new plant; the fault lies with the politicians who try to use the young blood for the welfare of their own party purposes. Party politics and politics are two separate things. As far as the former is concerned, the politicians
should understand that to meet their selfish ends, they should not misuse the young blood. They should remember that the coming generation would never pardon them. The students should be allowed to take an active part in the politics and in all those matters which are concerned with their present and future. They should not follow the slogans and the dogmas of the so-called politi-cians who proclaim themselves to be their friends, wellwishers and their sav-
iours. Propagating ideologies too, should be strictly constrained. Educating students on ideologies is a must, however when safeguarding ideologies amongst students reaches a level of fanaticism, it must be checked. Of course, we have our rights to expression and beliefs, yet I would humbly submit that just like party politics should not get into the mainstream educational system, even ideologies too, should not be exploited.
WTO finally sides with the US; terms India's solar conditions 'inconsistent' India had appealed against an earlier decision of WTO which favoured the US Three years after the US filed a complaint stating that the domestic content requirements (DCR) in India's solar mission were against trade agreements signed by both parties, the World Trade Organization (WTO) has given a final decision in favour of the complainant.
and WTO was expected to give a final decision this month. There were also indications of a resolution of the dispute through talks between both countries. Dan Whitten, vice president of communications for Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)
Was the dispute worth the trouble? In the second phase of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM), India announced three batches of solar power projects. In the first batch, 50 per cent of 750 MW was supposed to be under the cat-
The new guidelines released for Batch-IV of Phase-II released earlier this week for 5,000 MW do not specify the allocation for the DCR category. Hence, the entire dispute is over 1,075 MW, which under the scheme is a miniscule 0.0175 per cent of India's ambitious target. More-
The US had stated in February 2013 (and again in February 2014) that India's domestic content requirements (DCR) accord less favorable treatment to imported solar cells and modules. DCR mandates the use of cells and modules manufactured in India. In a panel report released WTO said, The DCR measures are inconsistent with Article 2.1 of the TRIMs (Trade-Related Investment Measures) Agreement and Article III:4 of the GATT 1994, and are not covered by the derogation in Article III:8(a) of the GATT 1994; and are not justified under the general exceptions in Article XX(j) or Article XX(d) of the GATT 1994." In September 2015, WTO had ruled against India stating that DCR violated international rules of import. India had appealed against the decision
The ruling comes at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is pitching for foreign investments in the country under the 'Make in India' campaign (Photo credit: Thinkstock)
has called the WTO ruling a step in the right direction. "It will hopefully remove any obstacles to a constructive US presence in India's solar market. The WTO dispute settlement panel's decision will clear the way for significant and rapid deployment of solar energy in India and can create jobs at home," he said in a statement.
egory of DCR. In the second batch, the share came down to 33 per cent (500 MW out of a total allocation of 1,500 MW) and in the third batch, it was further reduced to 10 per cent (only 200 MW out of 2,000 MW under DCR). The total component of DCR was 1,075 MW of solar installation as of September 2015.
over, all states which have introduced their solar policies have not included the DCR clause. The entire solar market is open to all countries to participate and prosper in. Who was not playing by the rules? Chandra Bhushan, deputy director general, CSE had said, "The US
has been dumping subsidised solar power panels in India. It is browbeating India to further the interests of its own solar companies. It is the US which should be made answerable at the World Trade Organization." Bhushan argued that the US Exim Bank and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) have been offering low-interest loans to Indian solar project developers on the mandatory condition that they buy the equipment, solar panels and cells from US companies. In February 2014, the then commerce secretary Rajeev Kher had also asserted that around 13 states in the US had restrictive policies to protect their local solar panel manufacturers. States such as Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts and Minnesota have a subsidy programme for local content requirement, and, hence, can be accused of skewing the markets in favour of domestically manufactured goods as well. Make in India The ruling is significant as it comes at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is pitching for foreign investments and setting up of manufacturing
The Cleanliness Survey
Image for representational purpose(Photo:3.bp.blogspot.)
Sir, Of the two constituencies won by the Prime-minister Narendra Modi, when Modiji decided to retain Varanasi, relinquishing the other seat in Gujrat, one and all maintained the euphoria that in no time Varanasi would be transformed into a clean city. A recent survey suggests that of the 73 dirty cities of the country, Varanasi ranked 65th, the dirtiest of these 73 is Dhanbad (Jharkhand), Asansol (WestBengal) being on 72nd position. Our primeminister has an ambitious programme, synchronizing the 150th birth-anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, to make the country clean by 2019. The Prime-minister's 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' is really an innovative measure to keep the country clean. But we have a saying, old habits never die. Unless the people, develop the habits of cleaning, unless the feeling of cleanliness comes from within-no power on earth can ensure cleaning. What we people do, it is seen that after a party or public places remain littered with garbages. The people
must accept cleaning operation as a challenge. Japanese Prime-minister Shinzo Abe during his last visit to India, paid a visit to Varanasi as his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi showed enthusiasm in showing Japanese Prime Minister Varanasi. Modiji visited Japan last year and an agreement had been signed with the Japanese Prime-minister for transformation of Varanasi into a 'Smart city'. But the Japanese expertise is yet to show its Charisma as nothing tangible in respect of cleaning Varanasi has yet surfaced. Varanasi requires immediate cleaning, particularly the river-banks (ghats), garbages of which keep accumulating and present a shabby sight belittling the image of India before the foreign tourists. UPA did pretty little towards cleanliness, the NDA ought to take up the job in right earnest without loss of time. Yours etc. Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh
centers in the country under the "Make in India" campaign. The fact remains that the modified special incentive package scheme (MSIPS), introduced in July 2012, provides a capital subsidy of 20 per cent in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and 25 per cent in nonSEZs for units engaged in electronics manufacturing. Many solar manufacturing companies would be keen to avail of the subsidy which is available for 10 years. The way forward It is clear that the WTO ruling against India will not have any significant impact on the 100-gigawatt (GW) target that India has set for itself. DCR was never considered the prime focus of solar development in India. The Indian manufacturing capacity of solar cells and modules is limited to 1,386 MW and 2,756 MW respectively and only 297 MW for cells and 1,304 MW for modules are under operation. The decision, however, goes against that spirit of the intention agreed by both India and the US to promote clean energy and expand solar energy initiatives in both countries. Courtesy: DTE (Down to Earth)
Best Letter The best letter of the month in the Letter to the Editor section will be awarded an amount of Rs 200. So please keep writing. Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
p O
Page 9
ed
The 'purpose' behind why this doctor does free heart surgeries is really moving "Spending time with Dr world, by bringing to- Clinic in the US costs Shetty is like spending gether quality, north of $100,000). time with God." That's affordability and profit- "How much?" asks the according to half the ability. mother, worry etched on people we spoke to in the Since becoming Mother her face. waiting rooms. Teresa's personal doctor Dr Shetty tells her the Dr Devi Shetty amount, even as is one of India's Alvin Ung and Nur Hamurcu he glances at their most well-loved clothing, listens to heart surgeons. As the decades ago, Dr Shetty their rural forms of founding chairman of has made it a policy for speech, and notes the Narayana Health, he runs his hospitals not to turn cracked ballpoint pen one of the largest and away any patient who held by the father. By the most affordable health cannot afford the price of third minute with the service providers in the surgery. family, he's made his secFive Minutes world. ond decision. "The In 14 years, the group On any given day, hun- hospital's foundation will has built more than 30 dreds of people pack into cover the cost," he tells hospitals, where 150 ma- two large rooms, waiting them, as he pats the pajor surgeries are per- to see him. A typical ses- tient, sitting just inches formed every day. It has sion with him takes about from him, on the shouljust built a massive hos- five minutes. der. pital in the Cayman Is- We see a 12-year-old girl lands that's aimed at dis- enter Dr Shetty's room The girl starts to cry. The rupting the US healthcare accompanied by three mother gets up from her system. family members. In the seat, walks around the There's constant pres- first minute, he studies the table, and begins kissing sure to scale up and sus- girl's file and makes his first Dr Shetty's hands, tain profits. But these first decision. "She needs and then his feet. The ambitions are small com- surgery, urgently," he tells father looks stunned with pared to Dr Shetty's them, adding that the gratitude. higher goal: to heart bypass procedure Then one of Dr Shetty's revolutionise healthcare costs US$1,500. (A simi- three assistants ushers in India and around the lar surgery at the Mayo the girl, her parents and
about the purpose of our action, everything else becomes a minor detail." He explains that the doctors in the hospital are so committed that hardly any of them leave. "It has nothing to do with the personality called Devi Shetty. It is the purpose for which I stand for," he says.
Image for representational purpose only (Photo: usnews ) her uncle out of the sunlit office. Another assistant ushers in a new family for a new five-minute cycle. Repeat this up to 100
times a day. Repeat daily. And that is how this man has been living his life since he started his remarkable hospital system.
Purpose Matters What drives him? "We grossly underestimate the power of purpose," he says. "When we are sure, when we are convinced,
What Dr Shetty accomplishes with apparent ease can be extremely hard for many of us. Some of us regret the years we have invested in soul-sucking jobs. We feel that our talents, skills and values don't match what the organisation requires of us. We work for the pay while silently disagreeing with the company's aims or products. Or we simply do what we do because our parents told us to. Some people, like Dr Shetty, seem to know
deep in their bones what their purpose is. For others, finding personal purpose is especially tough. But that shouldn't stop us from looking. On the contrary, we must keep looking. We can start by asking ourselves such questions as: What are my core values? What is my higher purpose in life? This could set us off on a journey where we can seek out and work with people and organisations who share a similar purpose and share our values. And if we believe in an organisation's purpose, we will naturally do what it values most because it affirms what we value most. That is what we saw at Narayana Health and it is how Dr Shetty and his organisation are attempting to revolutionise healthcare in India and around the world.This article was originally published on Our Better World.
Truth bomb: In India, violence against women Book Review: The Ballad of Bant Singh- A Qissa of Courage continues while we hail 'Bharat Mata' As a woman I have no unbearable pain, she again in numerous mocountry. As a woman I pushed it back the first ments across the history want no country. As a time, and attempted to of this post-colonial nawoman, my country is cut it off with a blade tion, be it Emergency, the the whole world." - Vir- borrowed from another 1984 riots, the Godhra ginia Woolf inmate the next time. killings, the Gujarat riots, An Adivasi school Kawasi's story came to Operation Green Hunt, and teacher and human light when Soni met her Kandhamal rights activist, during her Muzzafarnagar riots. Soni Sori was own time in In a context of frenzy where everyone, from brutally at- Pinjra Tod jail. tacked by a Hundreds of the right to the left, joins group of men last Sun- Sonis and Hidmes lan- a race to assert who is day, her face blackened guish in prisons across the 'true nationalist' of with a black corrosive the country. The women them all, Soni's blackchemical. Soni now lies of Kunan Poshpora, who ened face, Manorama's in a hospital in Delhi, with were allegedly raped bullet-ridden dead body, burn injuries on her face, with impunity by soldiers Kawasi's ejected uterus, but amazingly relentless of the Fourth Raj Rifles, begs us to ask the quesand fearless about con- the most senior rifle regi- tion: can the nation, any tinuing her struggle ment of the Indian Army, nation really ever belong against the atrocities per- more than 25 years back to women? What is this petrated by the Indian still await justice from the nation built and held tostate and multi-national courts of law. The pow- gether by? The rape and corporations against her people, the Adivasis of Bastar and Chattisgarh and their lands, rivers, and forests. In 2011, Soni had been arrested on charges of being a 'Maoist' by the Chhattisgarh police and labelled an 'anti-national' under a host of cases. While in custody, Soni was subjected to brutal torture and assault. In a powerful letter addressed to the nation from jail, she had enquired in anger and desperation, "…by giving me current, by stripping me naked, or by brutally assaulting me inserting stones in my rectum - will the problem of Naxalism end? Why so many atrocities on women? I want to know from all countrymen." The officer who led the torture on her, Ankit Garg, was awarded the Image for representational purpose only (Photo: vam ) Police Medal for Gallantry award in 2012 for erful protest of the torture of women? Does his 'valour', 'courage' and Manipuri women who the control, surveillance 'self-sacrifice' in service stripped naked defying and violence on women's of the 'nation', in service the indefinite curfew im- lives, bodies and desires posed in Imphal, scream- underlie the very core of of 'Bharat Mata'. Soni Sori's case is not an ing "Indian Army rape us, what comes to constitute 'exception' or an 'aberra- kill us, take our flesh" af- nationalism and the nation'. Kawasi Hidme, an ter the rape and heinous tion? Are masculine and Adivasi from Bastar, murder of Thangjam patriarchal notions inheronce again charged as a Manorama, continues to ent to the imagination and 'Naxal', was repeatedly disrupt our national pride construction of the natortured and abused in from the 'margins' of this tion? We have heard a lot custody, sent from one jail nation. The thousands of about the contradiction to another, after the po- women who were raped that plays out when the licemen in a station had during the Partition, Sanghi brigade relent'satisfied' themselves scream from the past, lessly threatens 'mothers' 'enough'. This continued about the violence on and 'sisters' with sexual for seven years, as the women's bodies that con- abuse alongside exalta'valiant' actions of the stitutes the very moment tions to 'Bharat Mata'. protectors of the 'nation' of inception of India as However, a more crucial led to Kawasi's body an 'independent' nation. question that we need ask ejecting her uterus one This violence has been is: Why is India a mother, day. Bleeding profusely in enacted over and over why is Bharat a Mata,
why? Why this engendering of the nation? Does the imagery of the nation entrap women into pinjras where we are reduced to biological reproducers of its members ('sons'); limited to 'mothers'/'wives'/'sisters' in need of protection; contained into cultural signifiers who are the markers and reproducers of cultural boundaries/differences; idolised into figures whose bravery is realised through self-sacrifice/ erasure? In this gendered construction of the nation, the lives and experiences of Dalit, Adivasi and working class women are 'invisibalised', frowned upon and even criminalised. As we critique the nationalist project of Hindutva, we need to interrogate if there can really be a truly inclusive nationalism or if the nation functions on creating an excluded 'other' vis-a-vis whom difference is established? The violence of the nation on women does not lie only in so-called 'exceptional' incidents, it is enacted in the 'every day', in the 'mundane', most often in our most intimate spaces and relations, in very insidious ways, beginning from our families and continuing to universities, workplaces and the society.The burden of the nation is a daily reality for every woman, manifesting in diverse forms in the numerous regulations and restrictions that bind and cage her, in the policing of her autonomy and freedom that she has to negotiate and resist, and even internalise, every day. How many times have our families told us that we have been corrupted by 'Western' ideals when we have argued with them for our most basic rights, be it the right to venture out at night or the right to study/work as a woman or the right to love the one we desire (the list is endless)? When the Justice Verma Committee set up after the Jyoti Singh rape case had recommended criminalising marital rape, a parliamentary standing committee, headed by Venkaiah
Naidu, dismissed the recommendation, claiming that if marital rape is brought under law, the very edifice of the great Indian family system will come crumbling down. Basically, what this asserts is that marital rape is a necessity for the 'Indian' family and the institution of marriage to survive. We have all heard of the horror tales of shaming and humiliation from women who have approached the courts seeking justice against sexual violence, as they were tried and interrogated for not adhering to the ideal of what marks the 'good' Indian woman. Haryana CM's ex-OSD, Jawahar Yadav's statement, "For the girls who are protesting in JNU, I only have one thing to say that prostitutes who sell their body are better than them because they at least, don't sell their country," leads us directly into the patriarchy and Brahmanism that lie at the very heart of nationalism, trapping us into binaries of the 'good' vs the 'bad' woman, of the 'anti-national/ Maoist' vs nationalist woman, the respectable woman vs the women on the streets, the good student vs the 'ungrateful daughter'. A woman who is a sexworker whose labour disrupts the premises of Brahminical morality and family 'values', is to be shamed. An autonomous woman who thinks, who questions, who resists, who fights is a grave 'national threat' to this nation, especially so if you are an Adivasi or a Dalit or a Muslim or a working class woman who is speaking aloud. Such women defy the masculine and patriarchal script of nationalism produced by upper-caste men (dating back to the early nineteenth century!), that has been premised on silencing of women's voices and experiences and entrapping them in a swirl of pinjras of domesticity and alienation. Your borders and boundaries will not stop the international solidarity and collectivisation of women, our imaginations dance wild like stardust, like the magic spells of witches.
Journalist Nirupama Dutt's book detailing the struggles of Dalit Sikh activist Bant Singh is necessary reading for those who live in their ivory towers and deny that casteism exists, says Dhaval Kulkarni Book: The Ballad of Bant Singh: A Qissa of Courage Author: Nirupama Dutt Publisher: Speaking Tiger 224 pages Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar points out in Annihilation of Caste that "the effect of caste on the ethics of the Hindus is simply deplorable". Virtue, he says in his stinging, cutting-tothe-bone critique, "has become caste-ridden and morality has become caste-bound". In the Indian social milieu, the irrational and unnatural institution of caste is not restricted to Hindus alone. It manifests in some form or another in religions like Islam and Christianity. It is unfortunate that Sikhism and the Bhakti movement, which were part of the larger, anti-caste project, have been corrupted by the very primordial systems they once opposed. It is in this backdrop that poet, journalist and translator Nirupama Dutt's powerful narrative on Bant Singh, a "symbol of Dalit resistance in Punjab" must be read. While Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula's suicide exposed these fault lines in Indian society, The Ballad of Bant Singh: A Qissa of Couragemakes for necessary reading, especially for those who live in ivory towers and deny that casteism still exists. It details the struggle of the Dalit Sikh agrarian labourer and activist of Burj Jhabbar village who lost both his arms and a leg when he was brutally attacked by upper-caste Jat men. His crime? He had dared to take on a Jat man and two others and ensured their conviction for the gangrape of his minor daughter, who was engaged to be married. The book paints a moving picture of the Dalit Mazhabi Sikhs (Dalit converts to Sikhism) and their hardships and of Bant, the
gutsy "singing torso", who continues to fight for the cause of the dispossessed with his moving rendition of songs. Dutt writes about the hardships that these Mazhabi Sikhs face - youth working as attached labourers with Jat families at low wages and women whose bodies are seen as "an object of casual, easy abuse". The turning point for
to me". More was to follow. When he was taken to the Mansa Civil Hospital, the doctor demanded a bribe of Rs1,000, which Bant borrowed from a chemist and a tea vendor. The "landlord-police nexus" ensured that the charges against the accused were watered down. It was only after his comrades held a press conference in
Cover page of "The Ballad of Bant Singh- A Qissa of Courage" Bant, who came from the Choorha caste of sweepers, the Dalits among Dalits, was when he heard poet Sant Ram Udasi, also a Mazhabi Sikh and a Naxalite poet. This drew Bant, whose songs form an integral part of his activism, to the ultra-Left CPI (M-L) Liberation Party and Mazdoor Mukti Morcha. Flitting between narratives, Dutt recounts the horror of the attack on Bant by seven boys who bashed his limbs to pulp with metal handles of hand pumps. "One of the farmhands who reached first was so horrified at the state Bant was in that he fainted," notes Dutt, adding that Bant asked his rescuers to "first take care of this man and then attend
Chandigarh that the blackout by local reporters ended and the wheels of justice were finally set in motion. Bant represents the rooted, organic idiom of the Communist movement. Despite his Leftist leanings, Bant has no knowledge of Marx and Mao, with his ideals rooted in the soil of Punjab. The book makes only a fleeting mention about the Naxalite movement in Punjab, whose poet Udasi inspired Bant. Some more details would have certainly helped. In a society where an accident of birth can determine the course of one's life, Bant's brooding: "So ridiculous that birth should decide the fate of a person!" lingers long after the book has been read. Courtesy:DNA
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
BUSINESS
PAGE 10
Despite last year's slowdown investment Privatisation of railways will not be done under NDA govt: in realty touches $10 billion Manoj Sinha Guwahati, Feb 29: Real estate sector has witnessed an investment of about USD 10 billion since 2015, the highest in last seven years, mostly in debt form that poses a high refinancing risk if housing sales remain slow, said the Economic Survey . "Realty prices are just holding up due to heavy inflow of capital in the sector over the last few years. It is estimated that since the beginning of 2015, about USD 10 billion or Rs 60,000 crore was invested in the sector by domestic and foreign investors, the highest in the last seven years," the survey said. Most of these investments have come via structured deals and non-convertible debentures (NCD) together estimated at around USD
Govt urges Google to choose partner for Loon Project New Delhi, Feb 29: Government has asked Google to select a telecom operator as partner for testing the balloon-based Internet technology, Loon Project, in the country. "Google wants to test the Loon Project in expensive and scarce spectrum bands. It has been asked to partner with any telecom operator that can meet its requirement and then approach the government for testing Loon," said an official source. The official said that if Google wishes to conduct a test with BSNL, it can carry out the experiment in the spectrum held by the state-owned company. "This approach should resolve the spectrum band sought by Google as well as security, to some extent," the official added. In India, Google has approached the government to set up the Loon project that has the potential to replace mobile towers as it can directly transmit signal on 4G mobile phones. The Telecom Ministry has formed a panel under IT secretary and asked BSNL to look at providing necessary support for the experiment. Meetings in this regard were held in October-November. The project hit a roadblock after Google sought to conduct test in 700 Mhz or 800 Mhz band instead of 2500 Mhz band that BSNL holds. The 700 Mhz band is the most expensive and efficient spectrum for telecom services and is yet to be allocated to any service provider. Telecom regulator Trai has suggested including this spectrum in upcoming auction at a minimum price of Rs 11,485 crore per Mhz and a company will require to buy a minimum of 5 Mhz. Google, under its Project Loon, is using big balloons floating at a height of 20 km above the earth surface for transmission of Internet services. It has already tested this technology in New Zealand, California (the US) and Brazil. As per Google, each balloon can provide connectivity to a ground area of about 40 km in diameter using a wireless communication technology called LTE, or 4G. Google uses solar panel and wind to power electronic equipment in the balloon throughout the day. (Agencies)
9.5 billion. The survey said that these investments are largely in the nature of debts and FDI equity inflows in the construction development sector have been only to the extent of USD 81 million between April and October 2015. "High level of debt investment, while providing interim relief to the sector, poses a high refinancing risk if the housing sales continue to remain weak," the survey said. The slowdown in sales in the housing sector has resulted in a sharp increase in the inventory of unsold housing units, especially in the northern and western regions. "It is estimated that at the current rate of monthly sale, the unsold housing stock in the northern region would need 65 months to be absorbed.
NOTHING MATTERS Real estate sector has witnessed an investment of about USD 10 billion since 2015, the highest in last seven years, mostly in debt form that poses a high refinancing risk if housing sales remain slow.
Realty prices are just holding up due to heavy inflow of capital in the sector over the last few years. It is estimated that since the beginning of 2015, about USD 10 billion or Rs 60,000 crore was invested in the sector by domestic and foreign investors, the highest in the last seven years.
The construction sector has witnessed a significant slowdown in last few years, with growth rates of 0.6 percent in 2012-13, 4.6 percent in 2013-14, 4.4 percent in 2014-15 and 3.7 percent in 2015-16 led by weakening of both domestic and global growth.
Despite weak sales and rising inventory, the housing prices in many cities and towns have increased in 2015, as per the National Housing Bank, RESIDEX (index of residential prices). In 2015, out of 26 cities, 20 witnessed increase in prices over 2014, with the maximum increase observed in Guwahati (9 percent) followed by Pune (8 percent), while five saw decline, with the maximum fall witnessed in Chandigarh (-8 percent) followed by Delhi (-4 percent).
Most of these investments have come via structured deals and non-convertible debentures (NCD) together estimated at around USD 9.5 billion.
The inventory overhang in the western and southern region is much better at 30 and 22 months," the survey said. Despite weak
sales and rising inventory, the housing prices in many cities and towns have increased in 2015, as per the National Housing Bank,
RESIDEX (index of residential prices). In 2015, out of 26 cities, 20 witnessed increase in prices over 2014, with the maxi-
mum increase observed in Guwahati (9 percent) followed by Pune (8 percent), while five saw decline, with the maximum fall witnessed in Chandigarh (-8 percent) followed by Delhi (-4 percent). Real estate and ownership of dwelling is an important contributor to the Indian economy. It generates significant income and employment owing to large forward and backward linkages through creation of demand in the input sectors and real estate services. The construction sector has witnessed a significant slowdown in last few years, with growth rates of 0.6 percent in 2012-13, 4.6 percent in 2013-14, 4.4 percent in 2014-15 and 3.7 percent in 2015-16 led by weakening of both domestic and global growth. (Agencies)
3G, 4G phones to be launched by Intex by mid-year Mumbai, Feb 29: Domestic handset maker Intex will launch a range of 3G and 4G smartphones in Spain and expand its range of wearables in the Spanish market later this year as it looks to aggressively expand its international business. The company already has a presence in SAARC and ASEAN countries. "Intex will be coming with 3G and 4G enabled devices by the mid of 2016. The major focus of the product line will be on LTE 4G devices and wearable segments," said Intex Technologies Mobile Business Head Sanjay Kumar Kalirona. The company will offer its new health band, FitRist in the Spanish market in April,
It comes with a 'Remote Shutter' feature that allows users to control the mobile camera from the band itself. Priced at Rs 999, the band is also water-resistant and splash proof to prevent from rains and accidental spills. "We are at a very nascent stage in this segment and are trying to create a product portfolio for the growing Indian market.
Image for representational purpose only. (Photo: indianexpress) he added. In India, the company had launched the iRist in partnership with e-commerce major Snapdeal. It sold about 20,000 units
in seven working days, Kalirona said. Talking about launching FitRist, he added that the new wearable is powered with a battery which can last up to 12 days.
There are a lot of products being worked upon in our labs and hopefully we should soon be able to create our own portfolio in this segment," he said. The western market definitely is much developed and wider than India, but this is a developing area of technology products in India, Kalirona said. The global wearable device
market more than doubled to 27.4 million units in the fourth quarter of 2015, fuelled by the growing popularity of fitness trackers and Apple watch, according to research firm IDC. For the full year, vendors shipped a total of 78.1 million units, up 171.6% from 28.8 million units in 2014. "With a slew of so many launches and newer products entering the market, the wearable market has seen a major quarter on quarter growth and will surely see more growth... In future, we will be having strong and wider product roadmap in wrist band as well as wrist watches," he said. The company will also explore offline retail for the wearables category in the second phase, Kalirona said. (Agencies)
India receives $14.36 billion transfer in funds from Pakistan in over 3 years New Delhi, Feb 29: India received an estimated USD 14.36 billion in remittances from Pakistan in last three years, if World Bank's 'analytical estimates' are to be believed. Interestingly, World Bank itself says this is "not an actual official data" and only "an estimate based on logical assumptions". The World Bank's Migration and Remittances Factbook 2016 says, "India was the largest remittance receiving country, with an estimated USD 72 billion in 2015, followed by China (USD 64 billion) and the Philippines (USD 30 billion)." World Bank said those living in Pakistan sent USD 4.9 billion to India in 2015. Its Bilateral Remittance Matrix put the money flowing from Pakistan to India in 2014 at USD 4.79 billion and USD 4.67 billion the year before that. The numbers are astonishingly high
considering direct remittances are highly restricted and there may not be many NRIs in Pakistan who would be sending money back home. Reached for an explanation, Dilip Ratha, Manager, Migration and Remittances at the World Bank, said, "The reported remittances from Pakistan to India are not an actual, official data. It is an analytical estimate derived from a global estimation of bilateral remittance flows worldwide. This estimate is just that, an estimate based on logical assumptions." He said the caveats attached to the estimates are: "The data on Indian migrants in various destination countries are incomplete; the incomes of Indian migrants abroad and the costs of living in India are both proxied by per capita incomes in PPP terms, which is only a rough proxy; and there is
Dilip Ratha, Manager, Migration and Remittances at the World Bank. (Photo: riafinancialblog) no way to capture remittances flowing through informal, unrecorded channels." According to World Bank, India in 2015 received the highest remittance from UAE at USD 13.2 billion. Remittance from the US was second at USD 11.5 billion, followed by Saudi Arabia at USD 11 billion. At USD 4.9 billion, remittances from Paksitan to India were fourth largest and ranked 14th highest remit-
tance between two countries in the world. "There is clearly an urgent need to improve bilateral remittance flow data worldwide, but in particular in the subcontinent. The way forward would be for the authorities to collect such data from money service businesses and banks and complement that with periodic household surveys involving migrant households," Ratha said. Also, small remittances are
overwhelmingly sent by migrants for genuine, dayto-day use by their families back home. "It is wrong to assume that remittances are associated with financial or other crime." Ratha said data on remittances are incomplete in many countries, especially data on bilateral remittance flows. "This is due to the fact that (a) remittances were ignored as small change until recently; (b) remittance flows are under-recorded due to the use of informal channels in many corridors, a response to high cost of sending money across countries; and (c) bilateral remittance flows are difficult to measure because a large part of recorded remittances are often attributed to originate from countries where large international correspondent banks have headquarters," he said. (Agencies)
Union Minister of Gwalior for Railways, S Manoj Sinha. (Photo: thenamopatrika) Gwalior, Feb 29: Union Minister of State for Railways S Manoj Sinha said the public enterprise will not be privatised under the NDA rule, though investments from private players will be welcomed for its development. "We are not in favour of privatisation of Indian Railways at all under the NDA rule," Sinha, who was in city yesterday to flag off Bhind (MP)Etawah (UP) passenger train, told reporters. Cheif Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan was also present on the occasion. "Yes, we
are ready for private investment in the Railways. We will welcome private investment for the development of railways," he said. To a poser, Sinha said that Railway Spring factory, located near here, will not be shut, instead it will be modernised, adding, "Provisions for the same have been made in the 2016-17 Railway budget." He said despite financial constraints, Rs 4,200 crore has been sanctioned for Madhya Pradesh to strengthen and develop the rail network. (Agencies)
USL exited by Mallya but over 2 lakh investors still stuck in KFA
Vijay Mallya, one of India's leading businessman and who owns the Kingfisher airlines. (Photo: imgci)
Pune, Feb 29: In an irony of sorts, over two lakh investors are estimated to be stuck with shares of longgrounded Kingfisher Airlines even as its lenders are now eyeing the Rs 515crore bounty sealed by main promoter Vijay Mallya as part of a 'sweetheart deal' to exit United Spirits. Diageo, the new owner of United Spirits Ltd (USL), has in return agreed to absolve Mallya of all his "personal liabilities' with regard to alleged financial irregularities relating to dealings with UB Group entities. But, USL has asserted that the recovery of loans worth Rs 1,337 crore would be pursued from United Breweries Holdings Ltd (UBHL) through "dialogue or other legal means". Interestingly, UBHL is now left with a total market value of just about Rs 148 crore although it continues to have more than 51,000 public share-
holders including over 50,000 small retail investors. Other shareholders include 14 mutual funds, 14 banks/ financial institutions, 10 foreign portfolio investors, one insurer, one government entity and nearly 100 HNIs. The total number of public shareholders has come down from over 56,000 a year ago, including over 53,000 small retail investors and nearly 175 HNIs. In case of Kingfisher Airlines, the trading in its shares have been suspended for long due to its non-compliance to various listing requirements including its failure to make timely disclosure of shareholding data and other details. As per the latest shareholding data disclosure till September 2014, it had over 2.33 lakh small retail investors, over 6,200 HNIs, 13 banks and other domestic financial institutions, as also five promoter entities. (Agencies)
Increment in FDI upto 40% in Apr-Dec FY16 Pune, Feb 29: Foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country increased by 40 percent to USD 29.44 billion during April-December in the current fiscal. The foreign investment inflows were at USD 21.04 billion in the same period of previous fiscal. Among the sectors, computer hardware and software segment attracted the highest FDI of USD 5.30 billion during the period under review, followed by services sector (USD 4.25 billion) and trading business (USD 2.71 billion). Automobile industry attracted FDI of USD 1.78
SURPRISING INCREMENT FDI into the country increased by 40 percent to USD 29.44 billion during April-December in the current fiscal. The foreign investment inflows were at USD 21.04 billion in the same period of previous fiscal. Among the sectors, computer hardware and software segment attracted the highest FDI of USD 5.30 billion during the period under review, followed by services sector (USD 4.25 billion) and trading business (USD 2.71 billion). Automobile industry attracted FDI of USD 1.78 billion, while chemicals sector cornered USD 1.19 billion foreign equity investment in April-December 2015, the DIPP data showed. Also, Singapore toppled Mauritius as the top FDI source for India during the period. India received USD 10.98 billion overseas inflows from Singapore, followed by Mauritius (USD 6.10 billion), the US (USD 3.51 billion), the Netherlands (USD 2.14 billion), and Japan (USD 1.08 billion).
billion, while chemicals sector cornered USD 1.19 billion foreign equity investment in April-December 2015, the DIPP data showed. Also, Singapore toppled Mauritius as the top FDI source for India during the period. India received USD 10.98 billion overseas inflows from Singapore, followed by Mauritius (USD 6.10 billion), the US (USD 3.51 billion), the Netherlands (USD 2.14 billion), and Japan (USD 1.08 billion). In the calendar year 2015, FDI in India grew by 37
per cent to USD 39.32 billion as against USD 28.78 billion in the previous year, according to the data of Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP). The government has taken several steps to promote investments through a liberal FDI policy. The Economic Survey 2015-16 has said that a favourable policy regime and sound business environment have facilitated increase in FDI flows into the country. It has also raised questions over large FDI inflows from
smaller countries including Singapore and Mauritius and wanted the government to find out whether the investments are being routed from these countries only to take advantage of tax avoidance agreements (DTAA). "These inflows need perhaps to be examined more closely to determine whether they constitute actual investment or are diversions from other sources to avail of tax benefits under the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) that these countries have with India," it has said. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
Features
PAGE 11
HEALTH & LIFESTYLE Closer you live to grocery store, Radiotherapy-drug combo treats healthier is your food choices aggressive brain cancer better ANI Your proximity to a grocery store can actually change the way you eat, according to a recent study. Living close to a supermarket is something you may associate with an unhealthy lifestyle, but the research has turned this thinking on its head, finding those who live close to the store make healthier food choices. The foods on the first list are more exclusive in social media feeds of people living in northeastern food deserts, a term used by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to describe communities with limited access to grocery stores. The second list is more exclusive to non-food deserts. The Georgia Institute of Technology study identified the food choices and nutritional profiles of people living in both types of communities throughout America. It included three million geo-tagged
ANI A team of researchers may have found a better and more effective approach to treating an aggressive brain cancer. Radiotherapy effectively damages brain tumors, but the cancer cells can repair themselves in order to live on. Researchers at Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center have tested a strategy that combines radiotherapy with a drug that shuts down the ability of tumor to mend themselves. Living close to a supermarket makes you healthy (Photo: ste.india) posts on the social media platform where food is king: Instagram. The researchers found that food posted (and eaten) by people in food deserts is 5 to 17 percent higher in fat, cholesterol and sugars compared to those shared in non-food deserts areas. Munmun De Choudhury, who led the study, said that the USDA identifies food deserts based on the availability of fresh food.
Instagram literally gave them a picture of what people are actually eating in these communities, allowing them to study them in a new way. "Fruits and vegetables are the biggest difference," De Choudhury said. "Forty-eight percent of posts from people in non-food deserts mention them. It's only 33 percent in food deserts." Another observation made by the researchers
Veg Khar Dishes of Assam The cuisine of Assam is mustard oil in a pan. As absolutely enthralling- so seeds sputter, pour in cut say the majority of tour- papaya slices, green chilists visiting the hilly north ies, soda and salt. Simmer eastern state. and stir fry for From a variety of Arnab Ghosh some minmeat dishes utes. Cook till cooked with unique ingre- the papaya pieces are soft. dients like bamboo shoot Cook till excess water to dry fish based dishes gets evaporated. Serve it and fiery chili pickles, your hot with daal and rice. taste buds go through a Spinach Khar roller coaster ride. How- This is another khar that ever, in Assamese cuisine has a nice flavor and goes you can also find some very well main meals. You vegetable dishes that lack will require ingredients like the tangy and fiery taste. 2 branches of fresh spinThe Khar dishes, often ach, a spoon of baking served as starters are soda, mustard oil, toor dal, made with a variety of a few green chilies and vegetables and a sub- garlic cloves. Use salt as stance called 'kola khar'. per your taste. However, Assamese At first, you need to wash
You will also require 2 onions, a few green chilies, salt, garlic cloves, dash of paanch phoron, mustard oil. At first, you will have to chop the white gourd leaves and pumpkin. Mash them well using a small amount of salt. Then heat oil in a pan and fry the minced green chilies and paanch phoron to it. Next, add the sliced onion to pan and simmer until it gets reddish brown. Then add the minced garlic and the white gourd leaves pumpkin mash. Cook for a few minutes. Add the baking soda and cover the pan with lid. Cook for some more minutes. Serve with hot rice.
was, irrespective of food availability, people in the US tend to eat the food their region is most known for - steak and coffee in the west, smoked salmon and cheesecake in the east, and okra and biscuits in the south. The study has been presented at the ACM Conference on ComputerSupported Cooperative Work and Social Computing (CSCW).
Researchers say their 12patient study offers enough promise that a more comprehensive, phase 2 clinical trial should be conducted to test the combination therapy for aggressive, recurrent brain cancer. Senior author Yaacov R. Lawrence said that they saw synergy between radiotherapy and the agent, panobinostat. The findings suggest panobinostat makes radiotherapy much more
Radiotherapy can treat brain cancers better (Photo: aninews) effective. All 12 patients tested had high grade gliomas that had recurred after initial radiotherapy. Eight patients had recurrent glioblastoma, and four had recurrent anaplastic astrocytoma. These two forms of aggressive brain cancer represent almost 70 percent of newly diagnosed gliomas, which are diagnosed in about 10,000 patients annually. Despite response to ini-
tial radiation, most patients relapse within two years and overall survival is then limited to a year or less. Panobinostat, approved for use in 2015 for treatment of multiple myeloma, is being tested in a variety of other cancers. Researchers found that the highest dose of panobinostat tested in patients was well tolerated, and they observed
improved progressionfree survival and overall survival. "The intent of this study was not to demonstrate benefit of the combination therapy, but to test safety. Still, we did note promising activity, which must be validated in further studies," Lawrence says. The study is published in the Journal of NeuroOncology.
Common errors healthy eaters make People take the first step of vowing to eat well, but the problem after that is that they don't learn from their mistakes and within a month or so, they return to their poor eating habits. Here are seven of the most common diet mistakes... 1. Not eating enough protein during breakfast You decide to eat healthy and choose a bowl of cereal with non-fat milk and a banana. An hour later, you start complaining of hunger pangs. The protein from milk is not going to keep you full until lunchtime. So, add a healthy fat to the cereal mix, like slivered almonds, or consume a little extra protein - like a hardboiled egg. It can make a big difference in your satiety level. 2. Having a snack Most nutritionists recommend a mid-morning snack if it's going to be
more than four hours between breakfast and lunch. But often, people misjudge the size of their snack and create another meal. Remember, a snack is a mini-meal, and it ought to be less than 200 calories. Plus, it should contain protein, healthy fat or both. If you aren't really hungry, there's probably no need for a snack at all. 3. Eating a salad for lunch Dieters often boast of eating salads for lunch, assuming that they are following the number one weight-loss rule. But some salads are healthy, and some are not-sohealthy. Croutons, bacon bits, lots of cheese and a creamy dressing could lead to a diet disaster. And too much chicken, avocado and olive oil can push it over the edge. 4. Keeping carb off your dinner plate Believe it or not, you can
A chicken salad with too much cheese can be harmful (Photo: media.blueapron) lose weight and enjoy carbs at dinner. Many people think that adding protein is better than adding carbs. However, this doesn't always work out well. For example, a plain 225-gm chicken breast has around 375 calories, but if you were to eat a 113-gms serving and add a half cup of brown rice, you would save about 78 calories. Besides saving calories, you'll also be getting fibre, which over-
all aids weight loss. 5. Avoiding 'bad' foods Ask yourself: What do you love to eat? It's important to continue to eat what you really love. Whenever someone completely avoids the foods they love, they inevitably feel deprived and give up on healthy eating. The key is to find a way to keep favourites in the mix without sabotaging weight-loss goals. For example, occasionally
have a slice of pizza for lunch with a side salad, so that you don't wind up wanting to sit down for an entire pie. 6. Not counting calories from alcohol You would think this would be a no-brainer, but a lot of people sabotage their weight-loss efforts by consuming cocktails. You don't have to completely avoid them, but you certainly need to watch the size of your weekday pour. For example, a 118 ml glass of wine has fewer calories than a 355 ml glass. 7. Trying the next fad diet If you hear about a diet that promises you quick weight loss, run. If you hear about a diet that eliminates food groups, run faster. And if you think trying yet another diet instead of attempting to make lifestyle changes is the answer, think again. (Agencies)
Save your heart with these simple office tips Mouthwatering Veg Khar Dishes of Assam (Photo: nelive) people also use sodium bicarbonate in lieu of this material obtained from burnt banana tree trunk peels. Below listed are some yummy khar recipes of Assam: Amitar khar(papaya khar) This is a popular dish often made in Assamese households. It tastes so nice as well. You will need a mid-sized unripe papaya, 2 green chillies, salt, paanch phoron, mustard oil, bay leaf and a few red chili. Take a small amount of baking soda as well. At first, discard the seeds from the papaya and wash and cut it into thin pieces. SautĂŠ fry the red chilli, bay leaf and paanch phoron in
and soak the toor dal in a bowl of water. Then sautĂŠ fry minced garlic cloves and slit chilies in oil. Add the soaked toor daal and then add the shredded spinach. Stir and cook till spinach becomes quite tender. Finally, add soda and salt to it and pour in some water. Simmer after putting lid on the pan until the daal gets tender too. Turn off the heat when everything turns mushy. Pumpkin and White Gourd Khar This is another tasty khar dish from Assam that will leave you smacking the lips. You will need 250 gm of Pumpkin and same amount of white gourd leaves to make this dish.
Mustard Green Khar Also called Lai Xaakor Khar, this dish is an all-time favorite in most households in Assam. You will need ingredients like 500 grams of Mustard green, some Rice powder, salt, baking soda, green chilies, mustard oil and a few garlic cloves. At first, you will need to clean and chop the mustard green well. Then, stir fry the garlic and chili in oil in a pan. After some minutes, add the chopped mustard green and sautĂŠ fry for a while. Sprinkle the soda on the top and then add salt, boiling water and rice powder to the pan. Put off the flame when the water mostly evaporates. Courtesy: Nelive
reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
Working professionals spend most of their waking up hours at their workplace. And it is here that they unknowingly pick some unhealthy habits that hamper their heart health. So if you are wondering what you do wrong, here is help. Unhealthy munching Are you munching healthy in office or picking up biscuits, aerated drinks, endless cups of coffee and high calorie snacks to curb the hunger? Well, the clear rule for a healthy life is to eat healthy. For example, when it comes to fat, it's important to eat healthy fat like raw nuts, olive oil, fish oil, flax seed oil or avocados. While picking desk snacks, ensure you add a lot of colour to your diet. Cut down your salt intake It is imperative to limit the
Avoid second hand smoke Make sure that you don't allow people to puff in your space. Did you know that an hour of passive smoking can lead to the same amount of aging as actually smoking two to four cigarettes. So steer clear of the smoke!
Unhealthy munching can put your health at risk (Photo: shemazing) amount of salt in your diet. "RDA says one should intake 1500mg sodium per day as it can increase blood pressure," suggests a physiotherapist. So skip those packets of chips, salted bis-
cuits and high-salt snacks. Break prolonged sitting time Prolonged sitting is a slow killer. A recent report stated that even if you are working out every morning be-
fore heading to work, the ill effects of prolonged sitting remain. So stand up from your seat every hour or two and also stretch while sitting. Just so you know, staying active can considerably
Avoid stress Do you go home feeling burdened by your work or happeni n g s o f y o u r work? If that's the case, you are seriously putting your heart under pressure. If the work management is taking its toll on you, plan your work smartly or escalate the issue to your bosses. Chronic stress is one of the biggest reasons of heart attacks. (Agencies)
cmyk
cmyk
DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, MARCH 1
PAGE 12
Arunachal Pradesh to participate in National Dibrugarh got new branch of Chartered Accountants of India Level North -East Games in Imphal A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb. 29: Sports culture in the Arunachal Pradesh is improving day by day. After the recently concluded Chief Minister Trophy on Football and Volleyball for Men and Women the state team all set to participate in the National Level North -East Games to be held at Imphal from March 2 to 7, 2016. The department of Sports has understood that "Sports can be a critical aspect of childhood development if "taught, organized, managed, and led in a manner consistent with sound developmental principles" Sports skill development stress the importance of not pressuring children to compete at levels beyond their developmental capacity. Whether academic success was
S l. N o
N am e of D iscip lin e
M en
W o m en
O M
1
A th letics
8
6
1
2
B a dm in to n
5
4
1
3
B o xin g
12
8
2
4
F o otb all
16
16
2
5
Judo
7
5
2
6
T a b le T en n is
5
5
1
7
W eig h tliftin g
8
7
1
8
C h ef-D e-M issio n
9
O S D to C h ef-D e-M issio n
1
10
A sst. O S D to C h ef-D e-M issio n
1
11
D riv er C h ef-D e-M ission
1 Gr
related to the physical activity itself or to participation on sports teams, findings indicated positive associations between physical activity involvement and academic achievement among students. The State is representing in 7 different sports discipline both men and women, in total 130 including Chef-de-Mission, Team Officials are leaving for Manipur. Shri Kalikho Pul, Hon'ble Chief Minister, Arunachal Pradesh met the players at Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy Complex today and wished good luck to the players taking part in the National Level North East Games, saying that this is an opportunity for them to "write their own destiny".
A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb 29: Under the Chairmanship of CA Suresh Chandra Varma a new team of office bearers of Dibrugarh branch of Chartered Accountants of India, has taken charge with other office bearers. Many chartered accountants were selected for different post like CA Mahabir Bagaria as vice Chairman, CA Ankit Varma as Secretary and CA Amit Choudhury from OIL Duliajan as treasurer. Mr. Suresh Varma was the founder secretary of Dibrugarh Chapter of Chartered Accountant and the chapter was elevated to Branch level in the year 2014. Out of total strength of 115 CA in the Branch, 24 CAs are working in Oil In-
dia Limited, Duliajan and 6 CAs are providing services to BCPL.
“There is a very large scope for chartered accountants in Dibrugarh region because the region is having many well established Tea Gardens, new branches of Bank etc.” said Chandra Varma. Mr. Varma who was earlier associated with the advisory committee of Chief Minister of Assam and many other professional assignment have expressed the desire of new managing committee to set up coaching facilities and career counseling faculties in Dibrugarh to generate maximum chartered accountants amongst the local students of this region.
Van Gaal lauds `special talent` Should adapt to conditions Misbah says India will be tough Rashford after drubbing Arsenal rather than fighting it: Ashwin to beat in World T20 ANI Johannesburg, Feb 29 : Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has lavished praise on Marcus Rashford, describing the young striker as a ' special talent ' for scoring a stunning brace to lead his side to an emphatic 3-2 win over Arsenal in their Premier League clash. 18-year-old Rashford, who also scored a double on his first ever United start in the Europa League against Danish opponents
Louis van Gaal
Midtjylland on Thursday, continued his rich vein of form by causing trouble for the Arsenal defence at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The Dutchman manager said that Rashford had played well in both matches and pointed out that having a small squad had helped him give youngsters a chance to prove their talents, Sport24 reported. The win has also eased pressure on Van Gaal, who came under severe criticism after United's reRavichandran Ashwin peated poor performances and after the club's early rather than complaining exit from the Champions PTI Mirpur, Feb 29: India’s about it. Testing ourselves League. premier spinner in various environments is Ravichandran Ashwin has good for us," the off-spinno complaints with the ner maintained. For him, it seaming track of the Sher- is the home team’s choice e-Bangla stadium, which to prepare a wicket. "It’s has little on offer for the their choice as to what kind spinners, as he believes in of wickets they want. We Cricbuzz." Mr. Pankaj Chhaparwal, adapting to different condi- came thinking that the wickCEO, Cricbuzz said, "ICC tions rather than whining ets will be slow but interWorld T20 being the big- about it. "It is very impor- national teams need to gest cricket tournament of tant to know what condi- adapt to whatever surfaces 2016, Cricbuzz wanted to tions are thrown at you. You are thrown at them. Hopeoffer something special to can’t try and beat the con- fully it has given us a dress its users. Virender Sehwag ditions. It is very important rehearsal of how to bat is a legend of the game and to go back and understand lower down the order," he we are excited to have him that it will not spin a lot on said. Ashwin said that Kohlis on board as our expert. A these surfaces. few lucky fans will also get That’s why it is even more batting against Amir was an opportunity to meet Viru imperative that we try to one of "guts and courage" personally. We are confi- bowl in good lengths, get that gave the dressing room dent that this partnership away with our overs rather a lot of relief. "We needed with Sehwag will further es- than looking to go for wick- someone to stick his head tablish Cricbuzz's leadership ets," Ashwin said on the eve out as Amir was going of their round robin league through a really good spell. in the cricket space." Cricbuzz will also hold a con- match against Sri Lanka. We needed someone to test for the existing and new "In T20 format, it is the show intent. Virat showed users of the app, whereby a pressure that gives you that intent while defending select few users across India wickets rather than exact as well as attacking, which gave the dressing room a lot stand to win a chance to meet skill of the ball. Sehwag, at a meet and greet That’s what I look to do and of comfort. "Obviously, we event. To participate in the when there is any window knew that with a 20-30 run contest, fans need to have the to attack I will attack irre- stand, the match will be over Cricbuzz app installed on spective of the wicket. Its as it was not a huge score. their phone. Cricbuzz will T20 cricket, we might have From that perspective, Virat then pick a few winners from slower wicket, flatter wick- showed a lot of guts and across the country by way of ets in World T20. We have courage and that was very to understand situation encouraging," said Ashwin. a lucky draw.
Cricbuzz signs Virender Sehwag as Expert Analyst for ICC World T20 PTI New Delhi, Feb 29: Cricbuzz, a leading cricket information destination on web and mobile, has today announced the signing of Indian cricket legend, Virender Sehwag as its inhouse Expert for the forthcoming ICC World T20, which kicks off on 8th March, 2016. Sehwag will headline Cricbuzz's video wraparound show 'Switch Hit' throughout the tournament. Sehwag, who has appeared as a panelist on several television-based cricket shows, will be making his first appearance on a wraparound show for a website. As part of this engagement, Sehwag will provide his expert opinion for the World T20 matches and will also answer questions from Cricbuzz users around the world. Fans of the ace cricketer also have the chance to interact with him on the
Virender Sehwag website's Facebook page, which currently boasts of over 6.5 million users. Commenting on the partnership, Virender Sehwag said, "I love the T20 format. This brand of cricket reminds me of my playing days. I am looking forward to donning the role of an expert on Cricbuzz during the ICC World T20. Cricbuzz has been India's No. 1 cricket destination for quite some time now and I am hopeful that my fans in India and around the world will enjoy watching my video analysis on
Recovering Taylor vows to regain full fitness for World T20 ANI Melbourne, Feb.29 : New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor, who was ruled out of the home series against Australia due to side strain, has said that he is confident of regaining full fitness before next month's World T20 in India, after making a successful return from injury during the country's domestic event in Wellington. The 31-year-old batting mainstay smashed an unbeaten 26 off just 16 balls to help his side, North Island claim a comfortable six-wicket T20 victory over the South Island in the Island of Origin clash at the Basin Reserve on Sunday. The former New Zealand skipper, who sustained the
injury during an ODI against Pakistan at Westpac Stadium, said that he would be much better in the next couple of weeks. "The physios tell me that it's good to stretch it out and over time it will loosen off. I'm sure by the time we play our first game, it's going to be 100 per cent," Taylor was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au. The T20 format's pinnacle event is slated to be held from March 8, with New Zealand playing their opening match against India on March 16 in Nagpur. New Zealand will also feature in two World T20 warm-up matches against Sri Lanka and England in Mumbai on March 11 and 13 respectively.
ANI Melbourne, Feb.29 : Pakistan Test captain Misbah-ulHaq believes that his country's T20 side can still reach the final of the ongoing Asia Cup but insisted that India will be a tough team to beat when they host next month's World Twenty20. India overcame a spirited fightback from Pakistan to beat the fierce arch-rivals by five wickets in the fourth Asia Cup game in Mirpur. "All the Asian teams appear to be in good shape in the WT20, especially India, because they can give a tough time to any team in the subcontinent. They have a brilliant batting line-up and spin-bowling attack, and that's why I feel they are the team we need to look to," Misbah said in his latest column for cricket.com.au Defending a low score of 83
Misbah-ul-Haq runs, Pakistan paceman Mohammad Amir produced a perfect blend of sheer pace and swing to leave India rattled at 8-3 inside three overs. However, star batsman Virat Kohli made a composed 49-run knock to steer his side to a comfortable victory. "Although Pakistan lost the opening match against India in the Asia Cup, they shouldn't lose hope. That
their bowlers made 83 look difficult against a strong batting team like India, is something that will encourage them in the next games," the Test captain added. Misbah, who has represented his country in more than 250 matches across all formats, expressed confidence that Pakistan will bounce back in the tournament and that they will do well in the T20 format's pinnacle tournament.
Germany down Indian eves in a hard fought encounter PTI Stellenbosch, Feb 29: The Indian women's hockey team went down fighting 2-3 to slump to their second consecutive defeat against Germany in the tour to South Africa. The first period started with the Indian eves looking to make up for the 0-3 loss in the previous tie against Germany. They began on an attacking note and were soon awarded by a penalty corner conversion by Sunita Lakra to end the first quarter with a 1-0 lead. The second quarter evidently saw Germany trying to make a comeback. Their efforts paid rich dividends as Lisa Marie Schutze secured a
Sunita Lakra field goal to score the equaliser. The Indians fought back, playing a counter attacking game and in the dying minutes of the second quarter Anuradha Devi Thokchom scored a field goal that put team in the lead again. But it wasn't long before Germany's Hannah Kruger
converted a penalty corner to once again bring the scores to equilibrium. The first half ended with the scores tied at 2-2. The third quarter witnessed no goals from either side as both the defences were at work. Both the teams went into a completely attack mode, playing a pressing game in the fourth and final quarter. It was Kruger, who became the hero for Germany in the end, as she converted her second penalty corner of the match in the dying moments to give her team an exciting 3-2 victory over India. The next match of the South African tour will be played between India and Scotland on Tuesday.
CSA launches Proteas T20 squad's theme Song- Fireball by Pitbull in India ANI New Delhi, Feb. 29 : Cricket South Africa on Monday unveiled the Oxigen Proteas T20 squad's theme song and campaign ahead of the 2016 ICC World Twenty20 tournament which takes place in India. In June last year, Oxigen Wallet became the official Proteas T20 team sponsor. With T20 cricket all about excitement, fun, energy and entertainment, CSA's video content production agency T+W presented a concept for the Proteas'
World T20 campaign that included all these elements in the form of a music video. The theme song, Fireball by the world famous, Pitbull, with lyrics like "I'm on Fire", "Born in a flame", "The best you ever had" and especially "Bringing it back", the song was the perfect choice for the ICC World T20 campaign. The song resonated with the team because Fireball had a tie-in with the #ProteaFire culture that the team developed in 2012 and that culture had been shared with fans
South Africa Cricket team over the past 24 months. Pramod Saxena, Chairman & MD of Oxigen Services said, "We are extremely delighted
with our steadfast business partnership with Blue Label Telecom for the last 12 years, and with our sponsorship for
Cricket South Africa for the Oxigen Proteas T20 squad, we find another energizing association. This campaign sets a global example on how promotions across countries can be weaved together for a worldwide reach. I would like to thank and wish the CSA teams all the best for their games during the 2016 ICC World Twenty20 tournament." The Proteas were involved in the creative process from the very beginning, and it was decided that as well as a studio shoot where they got to play out their
rockstar fantasies, the music video needed to include South African fans, the people they play for. As part of the campaign, the Protea supporters have the opportunity to send their messages of support and good luck to be seen by the team at the ICC World T20 in their hotel Team Room by simply using the hashtag #ProteaFire on Twitter and Instagram or Facebook. Only public posts on Instagram will be displayed on their screen. (ANI/Business Wire India)
Printed, Published and Owned by NIKH KHOPI and Printed at PEE GEE(India) Ltd., C/O Asomiya Khabar Pulibor, Jorhat-785006 and Published from T.C Borah Building, 1st Floor, Next to Sankardeva Hospital, Mancotta Road, Chowkidingee Dibrugarh-786001, Assam. Email: editor.easterntoday@gmail.com. For advertisement: advt.easterntoday@gmail.com
Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik
Editor: Ripunjoy Das
cmyk
cmyk
Tele : Dibrugarh, 0373-2328944, for circulation contact: 8471896580, Telephone & Fax: 0373-2328944.