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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 6

Vol. 1

Issue 311

Dibrugarh, Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Price -

5.00

Pages- 12

PAGE 12

Villagers intrudes and clears forest for Congress will get absolute majority: Anjan Dutta cultivation in D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary ET Correspondent Sivasagar, Apr 19

Union draws attention of CWLW to tackle the issue Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Apr 19

In a move that could bring huge embarrassment to the state forest and wildlife department, villagers totalling around 50 members from Borguli village under Mebo Sub-Division here last week in an effort to reclaim the portion of D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary named “Jopong” at Borguli Range, has intruded and cleared forest for cultivation purposes despite appeal from Dy. Ranger and his team.

The union writes that, on 12th of April 2016 some 50 persons from Borguli village under Mebo Sub-Division entered the core zone D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary (Jopong) under Borguli Range and cut down & cleared forest for cultivation purposes illegally while carrying daos and other weapons which is complete violation of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Despite firing 4-5 rounds of ammunition on air to disperse the villagers from entering to Sanctuary by Dy. Ranger Naning

ET CAPSULES

One killed in road mishap Naharkatia, Apr 19: One person died on the spot when he was hit by a 407 bus coming from Namrup, bearing Regn. No. AS-03-4711 near Sasoni bus stand today. The deceased was identified as Dhaniram Baruah age about 50 years, a resident of Gajpuria. On the other hand the bus after hitting the person collided with a DI vehicle AS-23-AC 6465 coming from Tinsukia direction.

According to the police, rash and negligent driving by the bus driver is said to be the reason for the accident. The driver of the bus was caught with the help of the local people. A case has been registered in Naharkatia police station. (Correspondent)

2 dead, 8 injured in road mishap

cmyk

Dibrugarh, Apr 19: Two persons died and eight others were injured - the condition of two among them is stated to be critical - in a road traffic accident near Telam in Assam. Sources said that the Tata Sumo in which the ill-fated persons were travelling lost control all of a sudden and fell into a roadside ditch. They passengers are from Eyi village, West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Name of injured persons are Sri Geba Ingu, Itum Jini, Renya Ingu, Horge Ango, Rejom Ingu, Kiba Ingu, Kido Nacho, Lijom Ango. Some of the injured have been admitted at Ruksin Hospital. The others are referred to Pasighat and Dibrugarh for further treatment, sources said.

The Galo welfare Society is reported to have provided assistance to the injured.

(Staff Reporter)

in other 4 seats to form Government for the fourth consecutive term under the leadership of Tarun Gogoi.

Hagrama Mohilari is not a fac-

CM Pul conducts comprehensive review of APCMUHIS Perme, the villagers led by one Kalom Borang and another Gobung Tayeng entered and cut down and cleared a huge portion of the Sanctuary at Jopong (core zone). However, an FIR was lodged by Ranger Officer K. Panggeng at Pasighat PS, but owing to land dispute OC Pasighat N. Riba has not registered the case and has suggested for bind down of the case under 107. ABSU (E) has also lodged an FIR on the same case against the villagers to protect the D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, but when contacted, OC Pasighat N. Riba told this scribe that, forest and wildlife department should have initiated the case from their own side as they are also empowered. “We are waiting from ADC Mebo or DC Pasighat for their magisterial inquiry based on 145 CrPC after which we will arrest them”, added Riba.

life inside the sanctuary is also found to be regular incidents there these days as lying of salt lick ambush etc were found all across inside the sanctuary. The recent killing of a Sambar (Sisuk) by hunters whose meat was intercepted by both Wildlife and Territory officials at Raneghat Check gate while the meat was being transported in a public vehicle to be sold in the open market of Pasighat is a naked example of such illegal activities of these villagers, the union writes. The loose approach and inaction of the department concern led by incumbent DFO T. Mize is perhaps the reason behind such repeated serious offenses. Even after knowing the illegal seller and hunters, the department concern didn’t book them under any law because of which these illegal activities are flourishing like a booming business today once again.

The ABSU (E) led by President Lungkang Ering in the letter to Chief Wildlife Warden said that, the killing of wild-

The union blames the involvement of too much internal politics and his wrong management as the reason behind

the failures, as the people along fringe villages has taken DFO Tashi Mize for granted today.

Now people openly does hunting activities inside the sanctuary and their guts has grown to such level today that, they are now openly intruding inside the core zone of the Sanctuary and claiming lands by cutting down and clearing forest for cultivation, said ABSU in the letter. The union also says that, the DFO Mize remained as silent spectator during the incident while those villagers were clearing and cutting the habitat of wildlife. No force, no police were called to drive away the illegal villagers despite the information received in advance.

“By using the entire forces of the DEWS 3 ranges, the villagers could have been driven away, but DFO T. Mize avoided the confrontation and let the forest cutting continued reason best know to him. At many a times, DFO has been found and seen taking light approach toward illegal hunt-

ers though they were caught red handed. He let them go off easily with mutual understanding without putting them under legal hustle as punishment even by withdrawing the police case if happens to register sometime. Just to remain posted here in D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary for longer period, he is not taking serious action against illegal people, rather he is seen oiling around political leaders and ABK district leadership to get blessed for longer tenure here instead of saving and protecting the Sanctuary for which he is being paid off” added Lungkang Ering.

When contacted to G.N. Sinha, PCCF Wildlife cum Chief Wildlife Warden, Itanagar over telephone on the illegalities happening at D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary and the receipt of the appeal served

by ABSU (E), he said that an inquiry will be done on the entire episode and if possible he will personally visit the Sanctuary.

AASSATA to organise mass peaceful protest on April 28 A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Apr 19

The Central Executive Committee, All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers’ Association (CEC, AASSATA) today in a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club informed that it was heading for a mass peaceful protest rally on April 28 next against the state government.

Citing that this was the firstphase of its three-phase protest against the non-fulfillment of demands, the CEC, AASSATA IPR secretary Techi Tagar explained that the SSA teachers of the state were fighting for three legitimate points, which included one-go regularization of SSA teachers of the state, implementation of RTE Act as

per revised norms for SSA teachers and enhancement of salaries and their disbursement on a monthly and regular basis.

CEC, AASSATA vice president Nabam Dokho informed that on 7th August, 2009, the government had created an open-door policy to regularize SSA teachers, and accordingly, only 592 teachers have been regularized from 2010 to 2016, which leads to an average of 98 teachers recruited into regular service annually.

“At this rate it will require close to 67 years to recruit the 6, 527 SSA teachers into regular service”, said Dokho.

On questioning their urgency to hold the protest rally even after Chief Minister Kalikho Pul assured that SSA

teachers would receive their salaries on time from April 1 this year, the association’s general secretary Tarak Agung Tarh said that “Our demands have not come early. We as well as previous members have been fighting for the demands for the past 13 years since the association was formed in 2004.

The members also informed that they have made six attempts to meet the new chief minister but were denied a meeting. They also claimed that the education minister met with the association thrice and assured to schedule a meeting with the chief minister but failed to follow through.

Contd. on Page 3

CM release pending salaries of SSA teachers A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Apr 19 In a breather to the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan (SSA) teachers, Chief Minister Kalikho Pul has today released Rs 1009.84 lakhs to reimburse their pending salaries.

Pertinently, the CM had raised the issue of pending salaries of SSA teachers with the Union Human Resource Development Minister, Smriti Irani, during his recent visit to New Delhi. He had sought early release of funds from the centre for the purpose as SSA teachers in the state were without salaries for the past several months.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Apr 19

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul who is also the Health Minister of the state today made comprehensive review of the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Universal Health Insurance Scheme in its first ever Governing Body meeting since its inception in the Conference Hall of the Chief Minister's Office today.

The Governing body of APCMUHIS under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister has resolved to continue the Health Insurance Scheme in the state. The body while studying various loopholes in the scheme come out with measures to improvised the scheme and plan to make it more convenient and patient friendly.

Governing Body resolved to form a committee with Commissioner Finance as the chairman to streamline the system.

It was also decided to create a separate Project Management

Cell composed of health experts, who will constantly monitor the implementation of the scheme on fields. They will maintain the records and verify the facts by paying visits to the empanelled hospitals.

The Chief Minister asked the Insurer to ensure that every poor family of the state are covered under the Health Insurance scheme and not to leave even a single household uncovered (except those in the excluded list).

To improve health scenario in the state, Health Advisory Committee will be formed, it will compose of retired doctors, health experts from outside and woman representatives as members. They will be the nominated members of the APCMUHIS Governing Body nominated by the Chief Minister, who is the chairman of the governing body.

He advocated for the billing to be done as per the actual cost of treatment instead of package wise. As it was observed during the case studies that though the patients were treated for minor ailments for a day in the hospital, the hospitals swap the bill for the whole package.

Incessant rainfall almost paralyzes Guwahati city and parts of the state A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Apr 19

Incessant rainfall since has almost paralyzed Guwahati city and parts of the state.In Guwahati, theincessant rain caused water logging at Anil Nagar, Nabin Nagar, Chandmari colony areas in Guwahati.

Earlier, an alert of "very heavy" rainfall in Assam has been issued by the Regional Meteorological Department's on Tuesday, with the rains expected to intensify in the next 5 days.

The Regional Meteorological Department has in its forecast said that there will be a heavy to heavy rainfall on April 19 to April 23 few places over Assam.

Meanwhile, a severe hailstorm lashed Golaghat, Dhubri and many parts of the state last night and three persons have reportedly sustained minor injuries in Juria in Nagaon district.

A severe hailstorm lashed Golaghat, Dhubri and many parts of the state last night.

Many mature trees were uprooted and high voltage power supply lines and posts have also been damaged in Gauripur area in Dhubri district.

Officials of the Meteorology department have predicted heavy rain in many parts of the state during the next 24 hours.

Contd. on Page 4

Contd. on Page 4

Cong candidate's bail plea rejected A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Apr 19

As Congress leader and the party’s candidate from the Kamalpur constituency in the state, Pranjit Choudhury seems to be still absconding, the police is leaving no stone unturned to bring him to book, even as speculations are rife that the state machinery is shielding him to prevent an embarrassment for the Congress party.

Choudhury’s bail petition was rejected today, but that has added more embarrassment as people have raised the question regarding how he could arrange an advocate and file the petition under the very nose of the police.

Contd. on Page 4

Weather plays spoilsport during this festival of ‘Rongali’ in Assam Bijoy Handique Jorhat, Apr 19

Fresh songs of cuckoos and bihu husori Rongali O, Kongali O, all remain off the road as thunder shower and storm grips with water, water everywhere, school children from Carmel, Don Bosco, Springdale school singing “rain rain go away as we want

to go for bihu today, so –rain , go away-away…, it was observed by this correspondent at the Jorhat Gandhi Park where “Mokoli Bihu” was organized by YMCA-school of music a cultural wing of YMCA, said Sajib Baruahpresident of Organizing committee.

We frequently organized

Girls are participate Bihu Dance banner under NGO ‘YAKKO’ at Sivasaagar. Pic - Firuz Ahmed

such events during all festival hours, may be its bihu, Christmas or Durga puja when our budding talents remain active with high spirit and it is very easy to pick up talented youths, but this time we are very sorry that the little one could not performs their items as all arrived on time to dance with the tune of Pepa, dhol and tal, said Dr. Baruah, who is

also a professor from Assam Agricultural University YMCA president said, we have spend a lot to erect this open stage which was well decorated and we had started the job a week earlier, but luck did not favour us this time as weather played spoil sport since early hours today.

Contd. on Page 4

cmyk

Worried and saddened over the illegal activities of the villagers, a team of All Bogong Students’ Union (E) paid a visit to the Sanctuary on 15th April last accompanied by the staffs of the Borguli Range. Following the visit and subsequent meeting with DFO Wildlife, the ABSU (E) has wrote a saddening appeal letter to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) cum Chief Wildlife Warden on Monday for immediate control of the illegalities and his interference failing which the Sanctuary’s fate is said to be under constant threat.

Congress will get absolute majority to form Government for the fourth time. This was stated by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Anjan Dutta while addressing a press conference here at Sivasagar today. The APCC president claimed that Congress will get 34 seats in first phase, where a 50-50 chance of winning is in other 7 seats and 33 seats in second phase, where a 50-50 chance

tor as his party will have to be contended with three to four seats only, he added. On the other hand, Dutta heavily criticized Dr Himanta Biswa Sharma by saying that, 'he is in dream now, and his dream of to be Chief Minister will remain a dream only' . He also alleged that some of Government employees are working in favour of the BJP. APCC president also disclosed that,if Congress again form government then the party will appoint two lakh teachers and create jobs for ten lakh unemployed youths.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries Good news may bring cheer to you today! A job, a wedding, some profit‌ it could be personal or professional. Giving your best is almost a habit with you and it will pay off today.

Taurus There is, at best, only an outside chance that any stimulating event or thrilling escapade will occur today. In short, the day may be boring. Fret not as the dreary day may change into an exhilarating evening.

Gemini A long and hectic day awaits you. You will be in the mood to finish off long-pending projects at work or at home. There is a chance that your personal life may get affected due to the extra attention you pay towards work.

Cancer You will not only make plans, but will also act on them. So you can save money, time and energy for creative pursuits. The quality of your work and accomplishments will be high.

Your creativity plays a key role in your accomplishments in career or business.

Leo You will need to work hard to achieve your goals today. Those who are serious about their work will be easily able to tide over the day. You need to be cautious today. Not only at work, but even in personal relationships, you need to be on guard.

Virgo Domestic responsibilities will rule the roost today. Subordinates will offer the best of their support to you. But remember that the value of what you seek will exact the maximum efforts on your part. Be wary of people.

Libra Some things on the personal front may undergo a turning point today. Now is the time for change. Changes are good and maybe even needed, although you may not see it that way at the moment. Expect monetary gains that will help you go a long way in life (a handsome bequest perhaps!). Think with your heart, and attach importance to relationships. Spending quality time with your near and dear ones is a very good habit.

Scorpio Small problems and tiny things will keep you on your feet as you tackle them with tact and precision. On the family front, you will enjoy marital bliss as you communicate on a spiritual level with your partner. You may end up planning a romantic vacation for the near future. On the whole, it will be an animated and lively day.

Sagittarius Trouble is brewing, and there is a strong possibility of you being caught up in it real bad.

But as things progress, you will become high-spirited and noble-minded. Later in the day, a cozy time spent with friends and family will bring much peace and calm.

Capricorn Many a time, we emulate others or get inspired by certain thought-provoking actions which explain most of the initiatives we undertake. Your actions today will be inspired too, says Ganesha. However, later in the day, you are likely to get into arguments that may drag you into legal disputes.

Aquarius Money ahoy! You are blessed with the Midas touch today, and you need to take advantage of it! Competition will be left far behind as you zoom off into the skies of success. But watch out for the envious ones, who are ready to pull the rug from under your feet at the slightest excuse.

Pisces While your day at work ought to begin with a whirlwind of creative ideas and suggestions from your side, you will run out of juice by mid-day. Perhaps, it is time to take a short break over the weekend from work to recharge your batteries.

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 20-4-16 (WEDNESDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-25 A.M-Employment News 6-30 A.M-Vidyarthir Anusthan (School Broadcast) 6-50 A.M-Bihu Geet (By: Badan Chandra Saikia and Party) 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Dhol Recital (By: Som Nath Bora Ojha) 12.30 P.M-Geetimanjari (Assamese Modern songs) 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 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-Chah Sramikar Asor (Tea Garden Programme) 8-00 P.M-Krira Jagat (Sports Programme) 9-30 P.M- Sahitya Kanan (Literary Magazine Programme) Sd-/H.O.P

AJYCP activists burn the effigy of Traffic Dept, Jorhat for the later inability to streamline traffic movement in the town. Pic - Nekib Ahmed

Allowing unauthorised places of worship is "insult to god": SC New Delhi, Apr 19 (PTI)The Supreme Court today expressed anguish over inaction of authorities for allowing the existence of unauthorised places of worship on roads and pavements across the country, saying "it is an insult to god."

"You have to demolish such structures. We know you are not doing anything. None of the states are doing anything.

You have no right to allow it. God never intended to obstruct the path. But you are obstructing the path. It is an insult to god," a bench comprising Justices V Gopala Gowda and Arun Mishra observed.

The remarks were made as the bench pulled up states and union territories for their failure to comply with its directions to file affidavits spelling out steps they have taken to remove illegal religious structures from public roads and pavements.

The apex court gave them a final chance with a direction to file the affidavit within two weeks failing which the Chief Secretaries of the concerned states will have to be present personally to explain non-compliance of various directions of the apex court passed from time to time since 2006.

"We don't appreciate this type of attitude," the bench said, adding that the orders and di-

rections of the apex court "are not passed for keeping in the cold storage".

"If this is the attitude of state administrations and the chief secretaries, why do we pass orders? Do we pass orders for keeping in cold storage?

If you have no respect for court orders, we will deal with the states," the bench said.

The bench, which was about to pass an order for summoning the Chief Secretaries at the first instance, modified it after a plea was made by some lawyers appearing for various states.

The apex court was hearing the petition filed in 2006 in which directions were passed to states to remove unauthorised structures, including places of worships, from public places.

It had on March 8 received a contempt petition against Chhattisgarh government, following which it had asked the state to ascertain the factual position on the basis of allegations made in it.

The apex court had directed all other states' counsel to take instructions with regard to the compliance of the interim orders passed by it from time to time in this regard.

The bench in its order noted that despite the March 8 order "none of the states have filed affidavit".

Rangia Hailstorm victims submits memo to Kamrup DC ET Correspondent Rangia, Apr 19: Hailstorm victims of Bisennela and Halikuchi villages of the sub-division that lashed the areas recently causing damages to their households and other properties including crop land here today held a public meeting jointly and later handed over a memorandum to the Kamrup DC through the Circle Officer, Rangia. The memo unanimously urged the administration to initiate necessary rehabilitation and other required measures for the victim families. It needs mention here, due to the natural calamity, at least 300 fami-

lies from 20 villages of the sub-div had been affected and victims turned agonized over apathetic attitude of the GP members for not lending ear to their sufferings and as fall out of which the Baidyagarh GP office was reportedly vandalized by the locals.

The meeting was presided over by Village head Jogendra Nath Kumar.

Pankaj Kalita, Pradip Bhatta, Rtd teacher Parshu Kumar, Umesh Kumar and many other spoke in the meeting and they urged DC Kamrup to take necessary steps immediately.

Veteran Educationist Punaram Baruah to be conferred with Dhansiri Upatyaka Award ET Correspondent Golaghat, Apr 19: Like the previous year’s this year also the 55th Central Rongali Bihu Sanmilan will host a three day long Rongali Bihu celebration program in Golaghat from April 27 to April 29.

The organisers of Golaghat Central Rongali Bihu have decided to give the Dhansiri Upatyaka Award like the previous years. This year

this award will be given to one of the veteran educationists, cultural activist and a dedicated leader of regionalism of Golaghat Punaram Baruah. On the last day of the program the Dhansiri Upatyaka Award will be conferred to Punaram Baruah by National Award winning Assamese film actress Mridula Baruah. Several events will be there in the three day long Central Rongali Bihu Celebration.

A colourful rally being taken out at Dibrugarh today on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti today . Pic - Jagadish Bharali

Congress MACs preparing to shift plank Sushanta Roy Diphu April 19: In a well anticipated political development a large section of MAC (Member of Autonomous Council) of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council of Congress party have prepared themselves to join BJP even before knowing the outcome of the poll result.

A high profile district Congress leader is currently negotiating the plank shift with the state BJP on behalf of the group; this has been informed by a senior congress leader on condition of anonymity. He has also clued-up that except a few diehard Congress zealots all other MACs are willing to desert their party to save their support base which has eroded with the upsurge of

BJP. The same source has mentioned that district Congress leaders have conceived defeat and are in quest of safe centaury.

Yesterday in an informal meeting with MACs at a private place in Diphu one of the senior most Congress leader of Karbi Anglong requested them not to desert the party in such critical situation just to save themselves from legal cuff. The same source has informed that the hesitant MACs who prefer to seat on the fence till the results of the assembly election are out, are being hounded by a top BJP leader of the state for scratching relation with Congress immediately, the now or never bid of BJP have thrown them in tight spot.

Tenant Demands Ownership, Owner Thrown Out ET Correspondent Golaghat, Apr 19: A unique incident today created sensation in Golaghat. According to the report the owner of a house and her son at Ward No 10 in Golaghat was today thrown out from their own house by tenants. The tenants who were residing in the house of Sewali Sharma demanded ownership of that house which was objected by the owner

and her son and at last today they had to face an awkward situation.

The tenant named Kishore Saikia who had been living along with his family in Sewali Sharma's house for around 12 years and now taking chance of helplessness of the owner Saikia demanded ownership and threw out the owner from the house.

Now the victim is seeking justice.

Rangia Helpless youth fights for life Tapas Samaddar Rangia, Apr 19: The story was of a very poor youth Paban Nath (35 years), a resident of Dakshin Bordol village of the Rangia sub-division , whose both the kidneys were damaged and the ill youth now lying helplessly in the lap of his family for any public help as after admission at GMCH and later in a private nursing home for dialysis of his kidneys, his family had to bring him home back because of financial hardships to meet the hospital expenditure and others. Till then, many of the goodwill villagers of his village spontaneously came forward to help but it was not possible at regular intervals for all. So, the popular youth who has his widowed mother Putuli Nath, wife Manju Devi and a daughter of 8 years now lying in bed at his home fighting with death. His wife Manju Devi urges all concerned to extend help within their philanthropic capacity so that Paban can get well soon as he is only hope of earning of the family. The willing persons may help Paban through his Bank a/c No. 50167819846 of Allahabad Bank Rangia Branch. One can contact him through the mobile No. 9854217819. Without the help of the public it is not possible for him to come back in day to day life his mother Putuli Nath said to this correspondent.

Ceasefire pact with two Naga insurgent groups extended New Delhi, Apr 19 (PTI) A ceasefire pact between the government and two Naga insurgent groups NSCN (Khole-Kitovi) and NSCN-Reformation was extended today for

one more year.

T he ceasef i r e agr eement, with effect from April 28, has been extended for one more year, official sources said.

The two groups, both breakaway factions of NSCN, have been in talks with the governm ent af t er si gni ng a ceasefire agreement a few years ago.

World heritage day celebrated in Sivasagar ET Correspondent Sivasagar, Apr 19: Maruwari Yuva Mancha of Sivasagar celebrated World Heritage Day on 18 April.

An awareness rally also organised for preservation of Historical Heritage Estates and the historical resources of Sivasagar district. The rally was flagged off by Deputy Commissioner Birendra Mitthal.

Members of Mancha rallied through out Sivasagar Town with number of Heritage Preservation awareness leaflets. And sought help from people of Sivasagar towards this noble cause. It is notable that there are so many historical heritage in Sivasagar, which are yet to be preserved.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

PAGE 3

RCCN Distributes Cash Prizes of HCM on Clean Aalo Drive ET Bureau Aalo, April 19 : In an Award Giving Ceremony held at the residence of the Director RCCN, Minli╙s Dreamland cash prizes handed over by the State Chief Minister Shri Kalikho Pul in appreciation of ╘Clean Aalo Drive╙ was distributed amid cheer on 18th April last. This Clean Aalo Drive with cash award of Rs. 40000 to Hissam Colony as most beautiful Colony, Yoji Yora coming second with Rs. 30000, third Upper colony with Rs. 15000, Best Govt. Quarter Dr. K. Dirchi with Rs. 10000 and Best Private Residence and Mrs. Dopu Angu Riba with Rs. 10000 along with attractive trophies were initiated and given away

by Reyi City Cable Network and Reyi Multipur-

pose Co-operative Society.

In appreciation of the noble endeavour of RCCN and Reyi Multipurpose cooperative society, the same amount were also contributed by the State Chief Minister from his side as a source of encouragement during the Golden Jubilee Mopin Festival at Aalo.

Highlighting the detail

objectives behind the campaign, Shri Liduk Ete Director RCCN extended his gratitude to the Chief Minister, panel of Judges and like minded people who were constantly involved in the cleanliness mission conceived by the RCCN. A CD will also be made available and efforts will be made to select best schools of the district to involve young

generations in the mission cleanliness drive.

Dr. Marbom Basar DMO, Shri Degam Ete President Permanent Mopin Preservation and Cultural Society, Shri Karyom Doji DHO, Dr. Dubom Bagra DDHS, Deba Loya, Karsen lollen, Chairperson Anchal Samity, HGB of Hissam Colony lauded the noble idea started by

the RCCN and encouragement from the State Chief Minister and NGO like Mothersâ•™ Vision for carrying forward the mission of cleanliness and beautification drive all around the district.

This noble effort must go on to see mark changes on beautification and cleanliness.

Hissam Colony, which was once dreaded as Leprosy Colony under Aalo town and now bagging the most Beautiful Colony is a great inspiration and outcome such vicious campaign on cleanliness. On the occasion, consolation prizes of Rs. 5000/-each to Mrs Lompu Kamsi Ori for Beautiful Private residence and Limar Dijum for best Social Service worker in the cleanliness drive were also presented.

District Level Monitoring Committee Meeting held in West Kameng district ET Bureau Bomdila, Apr 19: the District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) meeting was held at the DC's Conference Hall, Bomdila to review the implementation of ongoing developmental projects being executed under various programme like, NLCPR, NEC, RIDF,

SPA, BADP, etc in West Kameng District in which all the sub-divisional level administrative officers, HoDs of the district were attended.

Initiating the meeting, Dr. Sonal Swaroop, IAS, Deputy Commissioner has explained the aims & objectives of the meeting and requested all concerned

TRS hospital reopens APCMUHIS ET Bureau Naharlagun, Apr 19 : The Hospital administration of Tomo Riba State Hospital, Naharlagun has decided to reopen the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Ministers Universal Health Insurance Scheme from today i.e April 19, 2016. The decision to restart the scheme has been taken after discussion with Commissioner Health & Family Welfare and Director of Health Services.

The APCMUHIS was withheld due to non-payment of insurance claims, informed

Chief Medical Superintendent, Dr. R.D. Khrime.

The Hospital authority requested the New India Assurance to make payment in time so that the scheme continues successfully. Further it is felt that some of the common diseases which are not included in the disease list for insurance claims needs to be included in future.

Hence, those few diseases which are not in package will not be covered by the insurance scheme.

Coordination meeting on disaster management and preparedness held at Ziro Ziro, Apr 19 : A coordination meeting on disaster management and preparedness was held in the office chamber of Deputy Commissioner shri Kemo Lollen today. During the meeting he took stock of latest stock position of Medicine, Food items and other relief items and urged every department to be alert and be prepared for any eventualities. On knowing that the medical department doesn't have stocked emergency medicines for any eventualities, he suggested DDMO to write to the directorate to provide funds for procuring medicines.

He also suggested that workshops and mock drills should be conducted by the Disaster Management department involing all the stakeholders including PRI members who would be a part of the disaster response team. He directed the DDMO to update the District Disaster Management Plan and

nominate officials by name who would lead the disaster responsive teams.He also specifically directed bsnl to improve its services and the UD department to ensure building guidelines are strictly adhered to.

Speaking in the meeting S.P Ziro shri Tumme Amo suggested for sensitizing and involving youths and Panchayat Leaders in every village in rescue and relief operation. He also appraised the house regarding the police preparedness as communication centre in any case of disaster.

DDMO Nima Drema informed that in the wake of recent earthquakes mock drills have been conducted in Padi Lailang school and will cover all the schools in the valley.

The meeting was attended by EEs of WRD, PWD and PHE, DFCSO,DMO ,representatives from RWD, POWER ,UD and BSNL .

AASSATA to organise mass peaceful...

Contd. from Page 1 “He has the time to visit school toilets but cannot meet the teachers who serve in those schools”, said the members.

Further reiterating their demands, the CEC, AASSATA members hinted towards an agenda, which they claimed would be revealed on the day of the rally.

The peaceful protest rally shall begin at 10am from Akashdeep in Ganga and culminate at Indira Gandhi Park, Itanagar.The association also warned that the second phase peaceful dharna would be called on the second week of May, and if the demands are still left unheard, it would resort to its final phase of indefinite pen/tools down strike in the first week of June till termination or till regularisation of the teachers.

executing departments to update her in detail about status of each ongoing project, as she had taken over the charges of the DC very recently.

She further made a mention that while executing any developmental project the quality of works should not be compromised at any cost.

She also requested to all the administrative officers as well as the HoDs not to leave the HQ without giving information to her.

While presenting the status of each of the ongoing projects through PowerPoint Presentation, Shri. Millo Pushang, DPO had requested all the HoDs to

ensure execution of works as per the time schedule, maintenance of quality works, submission of timely and correct information, including periodical report/returns, utilization certificates, etc. Thereafter, the concerned executing departments had updated the project - wise status of each ongoing project.

Mahavir Jyanti Greetings ET Bureau Itanagar, Apr 19 : The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has conveyed his best wishes to the fellow citizens of India on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanthi. He expressed hope that the auspicious occasion will continue to promote and immortalise the teaching of Lord Mahavira, also known as Vardhaman Mahavir, who was the last Tirthankara and the founder of Jainism.

In his message on the oc-

casion, the Governor said that Lord Mahavir formulated the teachings of Jainism. The first and foremost principle of Jainism is Ahimsa or noninjury to anyone. The believers of Jainism believe in hard penance. They preached the equality of human beings, devoid of caste system and believe that the chief aim of a man is to attain salvation (Moksha) or freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth. This salvation can be achieved by following three Jewels (Or Triratnas)

of right faith, right knowledge and right conduct.

According to the Jainism, one acquires new life according to his actions (or Karma) in his past lives.

If one does good actions during this life he is bound to get a good life next time.

On this sacred occasion, I appeal to the people of my beloved country, particularly the youth to imbibe these gospels of Lord Mahavir for a peaceful, happy and prosperous India, the Governor further said in his message

Arunachal govt. approves list of 13 core health functionaries

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Apr 19: The government of Arunachal Pradesh has on 18th April 2016 approved the updated DDO-wise and institution-wise post fixation of 13 core health functionaries for making available basic health services throughout the state.

The Chief Minister reviewed the manpower status of the department of health & family welfare in a meeting with the commissioner (health & FW) and other senior officers of the department.

He informed that the updated 13 core health functionaries will be expanded further to provide better health services to the people.

Rational distribution/ posting of the available

manpower will ensure full-functionality of all the health institutions in the state including the sub-centres and PHC’s located in the periphery.

CHCs and PHCs for which such posts were created. This will also help in overcoming shortage of doctors in the hospitals.

The CM sought the cooperation from all stakeholders for implementation of the DDO-wise and institution-wise posting of health functionaries.

All vacant posts under the department of health & family welfare will be filled up at the earliest in the interest of the public service.

It has been a practice in the past to attach doctors, general duty medical officers and dental surgeons in offices, programmes – thereby grossly reducing the number of doctors for actual clinical and hospital duties. It has been decided that all such officials attached to the offices will be relieved of such duties to utilize their services in the hospitals,

All administrative posts and programme posts under the department will be filled on the basis of seniority and laid down provisions of the service rules. Officers holding such posts on functional basis or officiating basis without fulfilling the seniority criteria, will be relieved of such assignments and posted in the hospitals, CHC and PHCs.

West Siang Launches Inactivated Polio Vaccine

ET Bureau Aalo, April 19 : Inactivated Polio Vaccine has been introduced as routine immunization in West Siang after it was formally launched at General Hospital Aalo by Additional Deputy Commissioner Shri Tamik

Talom as Chief Guest in a formal function today.

Dr. K. Ori, DFWO highlighted about introduction of IPV in routine Immunization exercise as part of Pre-National Switch Day exercise.

National Switch Day will be held on 25th April in

which toPV will be replaced with bOPV. DMO Shri Marbom Basar, Dr. Linya Lollen MS, Shri G. Tali DIPRO, Staffs and Nurses, students of ANM School alongwith teaching faculty were present during the launching programme.

Cong allegations baseless: Gao ET Bureau Itanagar, Apr 19 : Condemning the allegations of "masterminding to topple governments" labelled against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP party as a whole by the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee, State BJP President Tapir Gao has termed it as a sign of frustration and helplessness and desperate attempt of the Congress and its leaders to divert the public attention and covered up their misrule in the state.

'Neither BJP or any of its leaders ever advised former CM Nabam Tuki to indulge in corrupt practices

at the cost of public interest,' said Gao while adding, that his party neither advised Tuki to drop cabinet Ministers or Parliamentary Secretaries who had voiced public sentiments against his (Tuki's) dictatorial and authoritarian style of functioning. ?While asserting that BJP as a national political party has performed it's bounden duty of siding with the larger public sentiments, state BJP President said, 'the state BJP leaders supported the dissident group within Congress party at a much later stage when majority of legislators came out with incriminating

documents against the Tuki government.'

Adding that BJP has done no wrong and its leader Tamiyo Taga hasn't said anything new in politics, Gao endorsed the state BJP's claim to be part of the power structure.

'The very foundation of any political party is to form government and provide transparent and accountable governance,' added Gao while slamming Congress and its state unit? as bunch of "bitter and undignified losers" who are terrified of being exposed if BJP forms the government in Arunachal.

Blood Donation camp organised at RGU

Rono Hills, Apr 19: Arunachal Vivekananda Yuva Shakti (AVYS), under the chairmanship of Mr. Ramesh Jeke, today organised a blood donation camp cum awareness campaign in Rajiv Gandhi University in collaboration with State Blood Transfusion Council (SBTC) and NSS unit, RGU. Dr. Nabum Budh, Deputy Director, SBTC addressed the students of RGU and explained the importance of blood donation. The camp successfully concluded with the participation of 103 volunteers and 71 blood units were collected in total.

AVYS, which has been working in the challenging field of voluntary blood donation since 2008, successfully began 2016 with a blood donation camp in Damsite (in collaboration with Arunak and BRO) on 17th January where 50 blood units were collected.

The second blood dona-

tion camp cum awareness campaign was conducted in R. K. Mission on the ocassion of Valentines Day. 43 units were collected.

A blood donation camp was organised on the occasion of Nyokum Lapang on 26th February where 23 blood units were collected.

On 8th March, on the occasion of International Women's Day, another blood donation camp cum awareness campaign was conducted in R. K. Mission Hospital in collaboration with State Women's Commission where 15 blood units were collected.

AVYS set up a 3-days stall in I. G. Park on the occasion of Statehood Day to create blood donation awareness among people. A total of 276 voluntary enrolled to be blood donors.

On 18th March, AVYS in collaboration with 138 Bn. ITBP, Yupia, conducted a blood donation camp cum awareness

campaign where 42 blood units were collected.

On 9th April, AVYS conducted blood donation camp in Senki View, Yupia in collaboration with CRPF. 41 units were collected in total.

Since 2008, AVYS has conducted 49 blood donation camps and awareness campaigns in various sectors like education sector(colleges and schools), religious sectors (churches and Indigenous), festivals (Dree, Nyokum, Buddha Jayanti), paramilitary etc.

More than 13000 blood units have been collected so far. And on-call blood donations from various hospitals have reached well over 1456.

Despite all these efforts, the annual demand-supply gap in Arunachal Pradesh is still large. And this gap can be filled only when each and every citizen step forward voluntarily to meet the challenge head on.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

PAGE 4

Plywood factory owners assures Minimum Wages Act from May ET Correspondent Margherita, Apr 19: Representatives of plywood factory owners today assured the leaders of Chatra Mukti Sangram Samity, Margherita regional committee and workers that the Minimum Wages Act as demanded will be implemented from May, 2016.

The assurance by the owners of the plywood factories follows after a discussion was held between representatives of CMSS, workers and owners in presence of the Margherita civil administration. The owners also agreed to provide minimum basic facilities for the workers. Earlier, Margherita today witnessed a massive agitation programme during which the Chatra Mukti Sangram Samity, Margherita regional committee along with hundreds of plywood factory workers staged a demonstration infront of the main entrance of

Journalists of Dibrugarh perform ‘husori’ in Dibrugarh. Pic - ET Photo

Margherita Sub Divisional Office (Civil) demanding implementation of Minimum Wages Act and other basic amenities for the plywood factory workers in the sub division. Noted columnist of Margherita Bikash Dasgupta who was present today at the dharna while addressing the workers said that

Assam has witnessed many major agitation programme in the past.

"It is unfortunate, but it is a reality that to achieve something, people of Assam has to take the path of agitation", Dasgupta said. Assam have lost 13,000 ULFA Cadres,855 Martyrs who lost there lives during the historic Assam Agitation

and 22 Brave Journalist but yet agitations have not stopped in Assam, only because people are being neglected and deprived of their legitimate dues, Dasgupta said.

"If we need change than all Intellectuals,writers and student union leaders of Assam will have to come forward and to-

gether by unitedly fighting against the evil forces who are trying to divide us, he said.

Chatra Mukti Sangram Samity leaders like Pappu Dutta, Manash Konwar, Lakhyajyoti Gogoi and Debabrata Saikia were present during today programme and the discussions held later.

Arunachal & Assam youths on Swaroopanand slams transformation drive via NYK Swaraj for outfits she wore in Iran

Bijoy Handique Jorhat, Apr 19: A three-day introspective leadership training was organized for youth group leaders hailing from eight-upper Assam districts and seven - east Arunachal Pradesh districts, at Institution for Culture And Rural Development (I-CARD), in Baghchung under Jorhat district here recently, informed Fr KA Thomas he Director of ICARD. The meeting, started with the inaugural sessions, with a day long activities that started at the I-CARD premises, where over hundreds of young people participated in this event that focused on the theme ‘Transformation of Youth for Transformation of Society’ for the first time from youths from remote northeastern villages specially the hidden upper Assam districts as well as northern-Arunachal Pradesh districts where places remain untouched till recent days took part for society transformation.

Fr KA Thomas, the Director of I-CARD in his inaugural address, said emphatically that the Mishing tribe is in a pathetic situation, especially when it comes to hygiene and cleanliness, political leaders during this election, had hammered on the point of transformation, he said. Indifferent leadership that does not care about the society has left the tribe to take its own route down through its 800 years of history in Assam.

It may be mentioned that Fr Thomas has been working with the Mishing society since 1990s, which it was proved his point, during a four hour session.

Fr Thomas, analyzed threadbare the living styles, the clothing, eating habits, mental attitudes and drawbacks of the rural Mishing people, from his own personal experiences.To highlight the need for tie-up with government and other agencies for the transformation of the tribe, I-CARD invited Mr Dilip Sharma of Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYK), Jorhat,

Haridwar, Apr 19 (PTI) Shankaracharya of Dwarka Peeth Swaroopanand Saraswati today waded into yet another controversy with comments that External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's choice of clothes during her Iran visit delivered a "blow" to India's prestige.

to take a session and to outlined the projects and possibilities available to youth if they were to link with NYK, through I-CARD to give Mishing youth opportunities at a national level by affiliating its “Young Mishing Association” branches with NYK, which is estimated to be above 500.

Mr. Nirmal Minj of DB Tech, Dimapur, was invited by I-CARD, to present the opportunities for Mishing youth to go national after receiving appropriate short term trainings in technical skills. As of now, hundreds and thousands of Mishing youth from villages are making a beeline for metros across India, as casual labourers. Even educated young people are being subject to negative migration, as reported by Adar Zehavi of Hebrew University, who did a study of Mishing youth and migration. The youth can still go where they want, said Mr. Nirmal, but first be prepared with a skill. Don Bosco Society has been offering this service with the help of the Government of India and other corporate sectors for the past six years. The DBS had set up skill training centres in Golaghat, Rangajan, Dimpur, Harmutty and Tinsukia and on the other had a full flaged such institute in on the run at Shillong, besides other centres across India with this sole intention of skilling young India. DB Tech mobilizes youth, gives training and placement and tracks the youngsters in their workplaces.

In the session, Dr Jerry Thomas, principal of Bosco Institute, Jorhat, presented the youth situation of India which, he said, it is the youngest country in the world. India can become a super-power, he said, if our youth receives the right kind of information, builds its capacities and organize them.

Besides the above, the staff of I-CARD, viz Dam Payeng and Padmalochan Kaman took sessions on youth skills, self assessment and emotional intelligence.

The training days started with public social service which the director, Fr Thomas, said is meant to make the youth smart, to give something back to the society and also as a model for community services in the villages. On the first day, the social work was done in the Lichubari Township where they cleaned the roads and entire surrounding working with whatever tools they could gather. I-CARD youth has been rendering yeoman social service for the past few years which inspiration in a way to the public of Baghchung and its surroundings.

The three day meeting was a mixture of both serious work and fun. During the valedictory session, Fr Thomas challenged the young to take a resolution that will prove that they are serious about transformation.

Anirban Panging of Majorbari, Sivasagar, proudly declared that he will, with the help of his friends, make his village a model village, following the guidelines given by I-CARD.

Weather plays spoilsport during this festival of ‘Rongali’ in Assam Contd. from Page 1

We asked the little ones to continue their practices as today’s programme will be organized after the weather turns up, and after met-office regarding weather forecast.

It is to be mentioned that the Indian Metrology Department had sounded red-alert to most of the states of north-east includ-

ing Assam.

Massive hailstorm, rainfall will be witnessed accordingly state governments and district administrations were requested to be alert and ready to face any emergency, even ferry plying toand-from in the river Brahmaputra between Neematighat to Majuli has been sounded high alert, as administration hanging hoardings, banners at ferry ghats on both sides of the Brahmaputra banks (shore

i.e., ghat) – stating avoid boarding ferry, if you see dark clouds in the sky accompanied by strong winds and also avoid walking along the shore and near the river banks, which is risky (courtesy- Assam State Disaster Management Authority ) were displayed at vulnerable areas near the Neematighat in Jorhat and Kamalabarighat in Majuli, informed Bolan Das senior Inland Water Transport (IWT) official here.

Swaroopanand said Swaraj chose to wear outfits that catered to Iranian sensibilities but neglected India's tradition.

"Swaraj wrote outfits in Iran which followed the Iranian tradition and went against our own traditions. She thus delivered a blow to India's prestige abroad," he said.

He compared Swaraj with former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who always wore clothes that reflected her "Indianness" during foreign visits.

"Unlike her, Indira Gandhi on her foreign visits took great care to ensure that her Indianness reflects in her clothes and conduct," the Shankaracharya said.

Known to court controversies, Swami had recently said entry of women into the Shani Shingnapur temple in Maharashtra would lead to increase in crimes like rape against them.

NDFB-S cadre arrested ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Apr 19: Security forces belonging to police and army, in a joint operation arrested a cadre of National Democratic Front of Boroland-Songbijit faction from Mainaguri area on Tuesday under Kachugaon PS in Kokrajhar district. The cadre was identified as Bipul

Mushahary alias Bigrai Mushahary, 31 of Mohendrapur, was trained in 2011. He was involved with extortion, money collection, kidnapping, arms peddling and providing logistic supports to banned terrorist organizations. A country made pistol and two bullet was recovered from him.

Incessant rainfall almost paralyzes Guwahati city and parts of the state Contd. from Page 1 Several persons injured and hundreds of houses damaged during last 4 days in Assam because of hailstorm and thunderstorm.

Even though no loss of life and livestock has been reported, three persons have reportedly sustained minor injuries in Juria in Nagaon district.

Officials of the flood prone areas have been put on alert.

Morigaon Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar said that preparatory meeting was held with various departments to prepare relief and rescue plan in case of floods.

He said that water resource department has been instructed to survey all embankments in the district.

Students of Milijuli Maina Parijat, Naliapool, Dibrugarh performing Bihu. Pic Jagadish Bharali

Girls participate in Bihu Dance organised by ‘YAKKO’, a Sivasaagar based NGO. Pic - Firuz Ahmed

CM Pul conducts comprehensive review of APCMUHIS Contd. from Page 1 Chief Minister made case studies on the basis of prescriptions reports made by the doctors and bills submitted and found huge differences in the amount charged by the hospital through APCMUHIS and the actual cost of treatment.

In one such case in a local hospital of the state, it was found that one acute pancreatitis patient was charged and swapped Rs 75,000 from his APCMUHIS account for diagnosis and treatment whereas the actual cost of diagnosis treatment comes to Rs 24,400 only as worked out by the doctors as per the prevailing rates in the state.

Chief Minister said, "this is just one example and wonder how many similar cases will

be there in the state? This is an injustice to the patients and depriving them from the benefits that should actually be accrued through this scheme".

He said that due to misunderstanding between the Insurer and the empanelled hospital in accounting, patients are suffering. He asked them to get it corrected and maintain proper accounting procedure.

He asked the Insurance Company to establish office in the state capital in order to carry out timely scrutiny of the documents instead of sending them to the Head office at Mumbai which is time consuming and incurred unnecessary expenses. He further told them to make spot verification, visit the hospitals and also to enquire from the patients.

Chief Minister released Rs 2.17 Crore to the New India Assurance Company to clear the pending bills against the empanelled hospitals under APCMUHIS. He also assured that the remaining balance amount will be released to them and asked the Insurer to immediately clear the pending bills against the empanelled hospitals including that of Pasighat General Hospital and Aditya Diagnostic Centre, Dibrugarh.

It was also informed that Health Insurance Scheme has resumed in the Tomo Riba State Hospital from today.

Present in the meeting were Hage Kojeen, Commissioner Health & Family Welfare, Ashish Kundra, Commissioner (Finance), Dr Miji Jini, Director of Health & Family Welfare, Borua Sinha, Regional Manager New India Assurance among others.

Cong candidate's bail plea rejected Contd. from Page 1

“The police has all along been maintaining that they are on his lookout, then how is he able to engage a lawyer, sign the application required to file the bail petition,” said Bakul Hazarika, a social activist based at Kamalpur.

According to police offi-

cials looking into the case, Choudhury’s house has been searched and his associated questioned, but he has not been traced as of now.

The 23-year old woman had lodged her FIR against Choudhury on April 13, in which she alleged that the latter had “physically exploited her with the prom-

ise to marry after the election was over.” The police have sent the woman with proper escort to her parents’ home in Kamrup after getting her medically examined in the GMC Hospital.

In Kamalpur, several women’s organizations on Saturday and Sunday held demonstrations demanding immediate arrest of the Congress leader.

Wings Theatre, Guwahati, to stage a play Bano at the Rabindra Bhawan on April 23 A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Apr 19: Wings Theatre, Guwahati, in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Culture, is going to stage a play Bano at the Rabindra Bhawan in Guwahati on April 23.

The play is the brainchild of the city’s budding theatre star Kismat Bano, who was recently honoured with the ‘Star of the North East’ award for her outstanding achievements in the field of theatre across the country.

In an informal chat with the media yesterday, Bano said, “After Helen, this is my second play as a director and playwright. I had the opportunity to read and watch some of the plays of Shakespeare and was inspired by his legendary dialogue, ‘Among my three daughters who loves me the most?’ from the play King Lear and somewhere I relate the dialogue with my own personal life.”

Bano said that this feeling of personal affinity is one

of the reasons for her penning down the story of Bano based on Shakespeare’s famous play King Lear. “I wanted to explore a new and unique aspect of life through this new play,” she added.

Some of these plays are Aakaas, Madyhyabartini, Jatra, The lesson, Komala Kuwari, Helen, and Puhor.

She has also participated in different top drama events and festivals.

Kismat Bano, at a very young age, has already acted in over 15 plays in different languages including Assamese and Hindi and these plays have been staged in many major cities of the country.

Kismat Bano established her own theatre troupe Wings Theatre (cultural group) in Guwahati and its main activities include theatre in education for children, working for spastic girls in association with Sishu Sarothi, conducting theatre performance-ori-

ented workshops for orphans and indigenous girls in rural areas, and working with the blind children of Guwahati in promoting theatre among them.

Gargee Dutta, Sana Bano, Rikita Singhi, Ashfaque Khan, Raj Dutta, Avkash Kumar Jammar, Rupjyoti Deka, Somnath Monojjal and Chiranjeev Koch are some of the other artistes who will share the stage with Kismat Bano in the play to be staged on April 23. Entry to the play is free.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

PAGE 5

Lapang predicts Science has to be people-centric: Harsh Vardhan win in 2018

Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief DD Lapang Agencies Shillong, April 19: Congress will emerge victorious in elections to Meghalaya Legislative Assembly scheduled for 2018, said Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief DD Lapang.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a protest rally organized by the party against what it termed as undemocratic and vindictive actions of the Centre against the Congress-ruled states at Congress Bhawan here, Lapang said, “In 2018 elections Congress will perform better than the last time and will form government with an absolute majority.”

On being queried about the reported confrontations within the party fold he said, “Congress is a big family and in a big fam-

ily there will be confrontations, difference of opinions. But this will not affect the party’s performance in 2018 elections.”

Earlier, speaking at the protest rally, Lapang came down heavily on the Narendra Modi-led NDA Government for selectively targeting and destabilizing the Congress-ruled state governments in the country.

“We condemn the elements of rudeness, of vindictiveness and partiality of the NDA government. People will teach them a lesson at an appropriate time,” Lapang said.

“It (NDA government) has done it in Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and in Assam as well in the past and they will not spare Meghalaya,” Lapang said.

Manipur beefs up security for Prez visit

President Pranab Mukherjee Agencies Imphal, April 19: Security has been beefed up in Manipur in view of President Pranab Mukherjee's visit to attend events marking Khongjom Day in Thoubal district on Saturday.

Khongjom Day is observed annually on April 23 to honour the brave warriors of Manipur, led by 'Major' Paona Brajabashi, who made supreme sacrifices in the Battle of Khongjom. It is one of the fiercest battles fought during the 1891 Anglo-Manipuri War. Chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh called on the President in March and invited him to the event as the chief guest, a government source said and added that the President will inaugurate a monument -cum-tourist centre in the Khongjom area in Thoubal.

A security meeting with top civil, army, paramilitary and police officials was convened a few days ago in Imphal to work out intensified security arrangements for the high profile visit, it added.

Presence of a large number of armed rebel organizations in Manipur has created serious security concerns for the government and it is taking strict measures for the VVIPs'

visit to the state.

Manipur director general of police (DGP) LM Khaute said elaborate security arrangements had been made for the purpose.

"Army, Assam Rifles and the paramilitary forces are making efforts on their part and coordinating with the police," the DGP told TOI on Monday.

He added that the security has been tightened in all strategic areas of the state, including Khongjom and its surrounding areas in Thoubal district and Imphal.

Officials here said the President will arrive on Saturday afternoon around 2.30 at Imphal airport where governor VS Shanmuganathan, the CM and top officials will give him a warm reception.

From the airport, the President will fly in a chopper to the venue at Khongjom and after attending the event, he will leave for the national capital, it added.

The President will pay floral tributes to the huge statue of Major Paona at the picturesque Kheba hillock on the memorial complex.

A play on Khongjom war will be presented by state artistes.

PTI kohima, April 19: Minister for Science and Earth Sciences Harsh Vardhan on Tuesday said the approach of science has to be peoplecentric and the comman man should not remain deprieved of its benefits.

"Common people should not remain deprived of the benefits of science," Vardhan said while launching the Department of Biotechnology, DBT, under Government of India funded Twinning Network Program on Chemical Ecology of North East Region with Bangalore-based scientists here.

Stressing on the intellec-

tual acumen of young minds of the region, the Union minister said their coming together would produce dramatic results in meeting objectives of organic farming which is the need of the hour.

He also underlined the need for fostering better coordination and support among science professionals.

Twinning Network Program on Chemical Ecology is a new collaborative and interdisciplinary programme in Chemical Ecology between institutions in the NER and partners in Bangalore.

This platform aims to provide a strong stimu-

Minister for Science and Earth Sciences Harsh Vardhan lus to ongoing research in the NER, while building enduring research and training links with partner institutions in Bangalore.

Vardhan, who was in the

state as part of his twoday maiden visit, last evening inaugurated DBT funded Biotech Infrastructure Facility at ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun

at Jharnapani, Medziphema under Dimapur district.

In his address at ICAR, Vardhan said it had been his long cherished dream to visit Nagaland which finally came true.

"I have this strong conviction that science has the potential to solve many problems faced by our country even after 69 years of Independence," he said.

Lauding the research and allied activities of ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Vardhan said he tasted the Mithun rasgulla (rasgulla made from mithun milk) for the first time and felt like he was savouring the best sweet

Gogoi confident of winning polls

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi PTI Titabor, April 19: Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Monday said claimed that the Congress will win the just concluded Assembly elections and he will be

the Chief Minister for the straight fourth time.

Thanking party workers at a meeting here for their hard work during electioneering, Gogoi claimed he would remain the MLA of Titabor and

Chief Minister of Assam for the fourth term.

"Without anybody's help we will be able to form the government. During the first phase polls (April 4) we will get three to four seats less than earlier years, but from the second phase (April 11), in the lower Assam side we will get maximum, which will equalise the seats which we will lose in upper Assam," Gogoi said.

"In 1978 the Janata Party came to power, but could not show any development, then in 1986 AGP came to power for two terms, but could not perform well and instead

brought all kinds of scams and other abnormal activities in the state," he said while speaking about the nonCongress governments in the state.

"When in 2001 we came to power we showed the path of development which has brought in sea change today," he said.

On AGP's reaction to his accusation that its leaders in the Assam Movement had links with the RSS, Gogoi told reporters that AGP itself proved the links after having tie ups with BJP before the elections.

"AGP need not worry now as they have already

proved it and why do they have to react and be afraid for the link with RSS. Assam Movement was an agitation which was then dictated by BJP leaders like Atal Behari Vajpayee, L K Advani and others," the Chief Minister alleged.

"The people of Assam voted for the AGP in 1986 and in again 1996, but the AGP-BJP failed.

So people voted for the Congress and we came to power in 2001 for three consecutive terms as the people of Assam have seen the change and development we had brought," Gogoi added.

Rain, thunderstorm hit north eastern states Agencies Imphal, April 19: Rain and thunderstorm, as forecast by the weather office, hit most of the northeastern states from early Tuesday.

At several places tinroofed houses, shops and other facilities were flattened by the thunderstorms. Some people who were asleep were injured by the flying corrugated iron sheets and crumbling portions of the houses.

Talking to ISTV, a local cable network, Manipur Chief Secretary Oinam Nabakishore said: "Now that it is confirmed that houses and other facilities have been destroyed, the government has

sought detailed reports from the district administrations. Once the reports are with the government, it will be seen what can be done for the victims."

"Money for the relief will be set aside from the state disaster relief fund," Nabakishore said.

In Manipur, the thunderstorm hit many places in the early hours of the morning when most people were still asleep.

The hill districts were worst affected.

Many trees fell or were uprooted along the state and the national highways, blocking traffic and causing long hours of snarls.

In the absence of the

government's prompt response, residents took the initiative and cut the fallen trees, lopped off branches and dragged these aside to enable the traffic to resume.

The meteorological department has forecast heavy downpours and strong winds for two days.

Some school authorities were planning to declare holidays. In the past few days, some schools had been damaged by the strong winds and hailstorm.

In some districts, the dismantled corrugated iron sheets were blown away.

Some head of cattle also suffered injuries.

The state health depart-

ment has alerted all rural hospitals to be ready to ender help round the clock.

An official told IANS there is no dearth of medicines to cope with an emergency situation.

Officials from some hill districts told IANS that it will take some time to collect the detailed information. There is no mobile telephone service or modern communication system operational in several villages.

Any update can be collected only when the villagers arrive in the district headquarters with injuries for treatment and detailed information.

There were extensive destructions of houses and

other constructions in Senapati district of Manipur.

Though there were reports of rain and thunderstorm from other northeastern states as well, the scale of damage could not be immediately ascertained.

Officials fear that some Nagaland villages adjacent to the Manipur districts must have been affected by the thunderstorm. However, there was no immediate official report in Kohima, the state capital.

There have been heavy rainfalls in the north eastern state since Monday night and the sky is still overcast.

Three hurt in Cong-sponsored 24-hour strike in North Tripura Agencies Agartala, April 19: At least three persons were injured in Kamalpur under Dhalai district of North Tripura in a 24hour general strike sponsored by Congress in Tripura amid tight security on Monday.

All the injured have been shifted to a hospital and the condition of one is stated to be critical.

The bandh evoked a mixed response, as educational institutions and most public offices remained closed and vehicles stayed off the road. Functioning of banks and business establishments were affected in parts of the state. A few private vehicles, including auto rickshaws, were allegedly damaged by the picketers in Agartala

when they defied the bandh.

According to the police, as many as 400 congressmen, including Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee President Birajit Sinha, courted arrest while picketing in support of the strike.

Tripura Congress had called the strike demanding a CBI probe into the assassination of former health minister of Manik Sarkar's cabinet Bimal Sinha on March 31, 1998 at Abanga of Kamalpur while negotiating with NLFT militants for the release of his abducted brother. They also demanded that chief minister Sarkar step down from the post as the judicial commission constituted for investigation of the case had

Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee President Birajit Sinha clearly indicated the 'clandestine relations' of CPM with militants.

PCC president Sinha, however, alleged that Sarkar had received the judicial commission report 16 years ago but had not tabled it in the assembly, though it was mandatory to place it within six months of acceptance.

"The commission made it clear that the state police did not cooperate in the investigation, the role of the home department was suspicious, the state government wanted to withdraw the case from the main accused and had kept the report secret until the high court directed the government

to place it in the assembly, which clearly indicated the chief minister's involvement in the assassination. So, unless CBI investigates it, the truth will not be revealed," Sinha stated.

He also alleged that CPM cadres attacked Congress picketers in Kamalpur in the presence of the police and left three Congress workers injured. Later, police intervened when Congress initiated a 'counter-attack' on CPM. Sinha alleged that CM Manik Sarkar was directly involved in the conspiracy of killing Bimal Sinha, as he was the strong contender for the CM's post and added, "Sarkar mobilized the police to hush up the case and succeeded."

in his life.

Vardhan assured that he would promptly look into the request of ICARNRC for setting up of rasgulla manufacturing unit and discuss the matter with Nagaland governor and chief minister.

Vardhan paid a visit to the DBT Healthcare Laboratory and Research Centre at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima and Naga Model Village before leaving for New Delhi from Dimapur later today.

During his stay in Kohima, Vardhan also called on Governor PB Acharya at Raj Bhavan and Chief Minister TR Zeliang.

Tripura sports minister congratulates Dipa PTI Agartala, April 19: Tripura Sports Minister Shahid Chowdhury on Monday congratulated gymnast from the state Dipa Karmakar for becoming the first Indian woman to book a berth in the Olympics.

"We all in the state are today proud, delighted and excited," Chowdhury told.

He hoped that she would win a medal in the Rio Games.

Dipa created history by becoming the first Indian woman gymnast to qualify for Olympics as she booked a berth for the Rio Games after a strong performance at the final qualifying and test event in Rio de Janeiro.

Within hours, the Sports Authority of India included her in the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, the government's initiative to fund Olympic medal prospects in their preparations for the Games.

Verification of UALA cadres begins Agencies Shillong, April 19: Twenty two cadres of UALA out of the total 70 have come forward for the verification process at Baljek near Tura where the cadres will be rehabilitated after proper scrutiny.

Sources said on Monday that the official disbanding of the UALA will take place after proper verification of all its cadres.

The UALA had entered into a peace settlement with the state government on December 18 last year and a formal agreed text was signed by the state government and UALA chairman Novembirth Ch Marak alias Chiindik in Tura.

Later, a few dates were fixed by the state government for the disbanding ceremony, but the UALA had (sought more time to gather its cadres.

The commander-inchief of UALA Norrok Momin who was absent in the previous meetings took part in the last meeting held in March convened by West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

PAGE 6

BJP seeks Congress' 'unconditional' apology for supporting terrorists New Delhi, Apr. 19 : Armed with fresh revelations in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday accused the Congress of playing with national security in trying to frame then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi and demanded an unconditional apology from the grand old party for supporting terrorists.

"It is really astonishing to see that political leaders can stoop down to that level. This is the kind of politics the Congress Party has played with the nation. The Congress must come clean and should render an unconditional apology. The stigma of supporting such activities will continue to haunt the Congress Party even in future

also," Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidutold the media here.

"The Congress Party must come clean on the Ishrat Jahan episode. It is a serious issue that a party can stoop down to that dirty level to change the affidavit and try to implicate political leaders by siding with Pakistan's sponsored terrorists. The entire UPA Government has to take the responsibility. It is not P. Chidambaram alone," he added.

Naidu further stated that Chidambaram would not have done it for himself, but for his party.

The senior BJP leader added that the then UPA regime took this decision not only to harass Narendra Modi but also in the process making him

India signs MoU with Mauritius for cooperation in traditional medicine, homoeopathy New Delhi, Apr. 19 : India has signed an MoU with Mauritius on cooperation in the field of traditional system of medicine and homoeopathy.

The MoU was signed during the recent visit of Minster of State for AYUSH (Independent Charge) and Health and Family Welfare Shripad Yesso Naik to Mauritius.

This MoU will promote cooperation in the field of traditional system of health and medicine between the two countries which already share these traditions due to our unique historical and cultural ties.

It envisages exchange of experts, supply of traditional medicinal substances, joint research and development and recognition of the traditional systems of health and medicine in both countries. It also aims at promotion and popularization of the diverse Indian traditional systems which fall under AYUSH. The agreement will be of immense importance to both countries, considering their shared cultural heritage. The Ministry of

Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) as a part of its mandate to propagate Indian systems of medicine globally has entered into MoUs with China, Malaysia, Trinidad and Tobago, Hungary, Bangladesh and Nepal.

The financial resources necessary to conduct research, training courses, meetings and deputations of experts will be met from the existing allocated budget and existing plan schemes of AYUSH. Both India and Mauritius share several cultural, historical, linguistic and literary similarities, traditional medicine including medicinal plants are promising areas which need to be further explored and can prove to be mutually beneficial to the people of the two countries.

The Government of Mauritius also has a long history of traditional medicine in common with India and both countries shares a common culture with respect to the ayurvedic system of medicine. (ANI)

Pak says India is creating hurdles for resumption of dialogue London, Apr. 19 : Pakistan Prime Minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has blamed India for allegedly ' creating hurdles' in the way of process to normalise the relations between the two countries.

Addressing a event specially organised by the British think tank Chatham House and supported by Pakistan High Commission in London yesterday, he shed light on the challenges and problems being experienced by his country.

"Pakistan is suffering due to geo-political developments in the region and India's policy towards Pakistan is not positive; that is the only reason that LoC could not make peaceful. Pak relations with India and Afghanistan are infact very complicated and despite Pakistan's earnest efforts, these could not be materialised and relations are still not normal", the Nation quoted him as saying.

Aziz asserted that New Delhi has not reciprocated positively to Pakistan's efforts towards resumption of comprehensive dialogue between the two countries and the issue of terrorism was a

part of comprehensive dialogue.

"We want to resume talks with India, and the issue of RAW should be discussed in dialogues between Pakistan and India instead of on media", he stated.

Aziz also confirmed that Indo-Pak talks have been suspended due to certain factors and not be ended for good and also referred to Kashmir issue on various occasions.

Presenting his view-point on arrest of Kulbhushan Yadav which Pakistan alleged as Indian 'operative', he said that no definite comments could be made as investigations are underway.

Commenting on the situation in Afghanistan, he said Pakistan has no favourites in the neighbouring country and that Taliban have been defeated but was still offensive.

Aziz is on three-day visit to United Kingdom for the third review of Pakistan-UK Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD). According to Foreign Office, the Adviser will also participate in the meeting of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG). (ANI)

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu vulnerable to the terrorist attacks.

"Chidambaram earlier has gone on records that as facts have come to his notice he had changed the affidavit. He suppressed the facts that he signed the original affidavit also even after (then home secretary) G.K. Pillai made it public," said

Naidu.

"The Congress was silent and Chidambaram also was trying to justify the change of the affidavit.

But now, the truth is out.

One of the channels has come out with the truth and the truth is not being contested," he added.

Based on RTI disclosures, a leading English news

channel claimed yesterday that Chidambaram had seen and signed the first affidavit, a fact that he has denied so far.

Chidambaram said that he would not like to comment without pursuing the files and the noting.

New developments unfolded in the Ishrat Jahan case with the 51-page file of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recording that Chidambaram had signed the original affidavit describing Ishrat as part of a Lashkar module.

Media reports revealed that Chidambaram had in fact signed the first affidavit, which declared Ishrat and three others as terrorists, but gave all four a clean chit a month later as serious amendments were made in the second affidavit also signed by him.

The first affidavit in the encounter case stated that Ishrat was a LeT operative, who was part of a plot to assassinate the then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi.

Chidambaram had initially claimed that the first affidavit declaring Ishrat and three others asterrorists was filed in the court without his approval, adding that he had made some editorial changes to avoid misinterpretation when the matter was brought to his notice.

Chidambaram, however, completely altered his stance in the second affidavit, saying that intelligence inputs on Ishrat and the three others did not constitute conclusive proof and favoured a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe in the encounter. (ANI)

PM Narendra Modi to confer awards for excellence in public administration New Delhi, Apr. 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will confer the PM's awards for excellence in public administration to civil servants on April 21.

The awards have been instituted with a view to acknowledge, recognize and reward the extraordinary and innovative work done by officers of the Central and State Governments for the welfare of common citizens.

The Civil Services Day function will be organized at the Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on April 20 and 21 by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.

A new category of excellence in implementing a priority programme, which includes Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY), Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen), Swachh Vidyalaya and Soil Health Card Scheme has been

added to the Prime Minister's awards for excellence in public administration.

Union Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu will be the chief guest at the inaugural function on April 20. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space Dr. Jitendra Singh will preside over the function.

The inaugural session will be followed by eight panel discussions on the replication of PM awarded initiatives during last year and four priority programmes.

These sessions will be chaired by Union Ministers/persons of eminence.

Four sessions on subjects related to women empowerment, channelizing youth energies for Sports, time bound and efficient public service delivery system and the issues of clean and

PM Narendra Modi to confer awards for excellence in public administration green energy for replication of PM awarded initiatives have been organized.

A total of ten districts will be awarded the Prime Minister's awards this year under the four priority programmes. These awards will be given in three groups- the first group consists of eight north-eastern states and the three hill states of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.

The remaining 18 states constitute the second group while the third group comprises of the seven Union Territories. Eight awards will be given to the first and second group under the four priority programmes and two awards will be given for programmes - Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY) and Swachh Vidyalaya for the third group comprising seven Union Territories.(ANI)

Only fear of severe punishment can prevent celebratory firing: Kiran Bedi New Delhi, Apr. 19 : Following the furore over the death of a teenager after she was shot during celebratory firing at a wedding, former IPS officer and BJP leader Kiran Bedi on Tuesday asserted that such incidents were the reflection of a lawless culture and called for stricter and harsher punishment for those who indulged in such activities.

"The celebratory firing is not a recent thing and it is part of many weddings in certain areas. This happens repeatedly as the awareness is very low. It's a reflection of a lawless culture where youngsters and people are not afraid of the law, because the law is not punishing them," Bedi told ANI here.

Talking about how there are no existing methods of prevention in place in the mat-

BJP leader Kiran Bedi ter, she added that systems like community policing and neighbourhood watch groups were not in place, while emphasizing on the need for harsh punishment.

"In such cases, besides facing mere arrest, the person must be sent to jail and must also be told to pay adequate compensation to

the victim or the victim's kin. Punishment must go beyond arrest, investigation and challan," she said.

Stressing that unless punishment was made a certainty, Bedi said that these kinds of lawless behaviours will continue, be it in the rich or poor communities.

Earlier today, a twelfth

standard girl succumbed to her injuries after she was shot at during celebratory firing at a wedding procession in Delhi's Mongolpuri area.

Anjali was critically injured last Saturday after she was shot at as she watched the wedding procession pass by.

After she was rushed to the hospital, it was revealed that she had been hit on the head by a stray bullet that had been fired by one of the celebrating wedding revellers.

Star Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's wedding came in the news when a reveller, who was within a few feet of the horse-mounted cricketer, fired several rounds in air from his revolver.

No one was injured in the incident. (ANI)

Ecuador earthquake: Rescue ops still underway, death toll mounts to 413 Washington D.C., Apr. 19 : Days after a powerful earthquake shook Ecuador's Pacific coast, search teams are still combing the rubble to find any survivors and the death toll climbed to 413.

According to CNN, the hardest-hit area was the coastal Manabi province, where about 200 people died.

officers to the affected areas in an attempt to send immediate aid and relief.

The government deployed around10, 000 soldiers and 4,600 police

The troops then set up mobile hospitals and temporary shelters and search dogs were

brought in to help find survivors and bodies.

The earthquake was the deadliest to hit the nation since March 1987, when a 7.2-magnitude earthquake killed 1,000 people, according to the USGS. (ANI)

PM Modi exhorts official youth organizations to join hands for water conservation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi New Delhi, Apr. 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who today reviewed the functioning of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Bharat Scouts and Guides, Indian Red Cross Society and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), stressed on better coordination and synergy among these organizations.

The Prime Minister in the course of the twohour meeting discussed the immediate tasks ahead, where these organizations could play an important role.

He said that there would be a massive effort under MGNREGA for water conservation and storage mechanisms in the next couple of months.

Prime Minister Modi urged the youth organizations to mobilize to the greatest extent possible, to dovetail and contribute to these efforts.

The representatives for the youth organizations explained their function-

ing and role in society following which the Prime Minister gave several other inputs and suggestions.

In particular, he mentioned the tasks of Swachhta, creation of open-defecation free clusters, and inculcation of a fresh national spirit among the youth as key objectives that the youth organizations should strive for.

The Prime Minister mentioned the government's mission Indradhanush initiative to reach the unvaccinated children and said the youth organizations can aid in this initiative.

Prime Minister Modi also called for synergy among various initiatives and programmes organized on National Youth Day on January 12 so that a more meaningful impact could be achieved.

He asked the official youth organizations to keep a more active presence on the social media to generate a wider appeal and better connect with the youth. (ANI)

Australia PM sets up July 2 election Sydney, Apr 19 : Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull today said he intends to call national elections after the budget is delivered next month, with July 2 his expected date.

The country has repeatedly changed prime ministers since 2010, with Turnbull wresting power from his Liberal Party colleague Tony Abbott in September in a bid to revive flagging popularity.

The conservative leader had last month threatened to hold early general elections unless the Senate agreed to pass deadlocked legislation to overhaul unions.

Its rejection of the bill late Monday handed Turnbull a trigger to call a so-called double dissolution election under which all seats in the lower and upper houses of parliament are contested.

Turnbull said delivering the annual budget on May 3 was his priority.

"My intention is after the budget, an appropriate time after the budget has been delivered, I will be asking the GovernorGeneral to dissolve both houses of the parliament for an election, which I expect to be held on the second of July," he told reporters in Canberra.

Turnbull stopped short of confirming the date of the election, but said July 2 would be "a very good assumption".

"But I just want to be very clear that we are governing, we have a lot of decisions to make, not least of which is the budget, the most important economic policy statement of the year," he said.

Turnbull, a millionaire former journalist, lawyer and investment banker, took over from Abbott promising a new style of government but has slipped in the polls in recent months as tax and other reforms have failed to materialise.

Australia has had a revolving-door of prime ministers in recent years.

After a decade of rule under conservative leader John Howard, Labor leader Kevin Rudd won elections in 2007.

He was ousted by Julia Gillard the country's first female prime minister, in 2010, before being restored to power in 2013 amid bitter party infighting.

Just a few months later, Rudd lost elections to Abbott, who was then ousted by Turnbull last year.

Under normal conditions, Australian elections are held every three years for the House of Representatives and half of the Senate.

A double dissolution election can be called when key government legislation is blocked and sees the House and Representatives and the entire Senate dissolved.

Turnbull threatened to call the vote last month if the upper house, where crossbenchers hold the balance of power, failed to pass deadlocked legislation relating to the creation of a construction industry watchdog.

The government's bill aimed to bring back the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), scrapped by the former Labor government and loathed by union leaders. (AFP)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Shafik admitted meeting suspects: DB Dhaka, April 19: Detectives today claimed that journalist Shafik Rehman confessed to holding several meetings with those suspected to be involved in a plot to abduct and kill Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Joy. Monirul Islam, additional commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police said this, after seizing some documents from Rehman’s house at Estakon in Dhaka.

Asked about Amar Desh acting editor Mahmudur Rahman’s involvement in the case, Monirul said detectives were looking into the matter.

The law enforcers have already submitted an application for Mahmudur’s remand for further investigation in the case, he said.

“We are also investigat-

ing whether BNP chief’s son Tarique Rahman and other senior party leaders were involved.”

Shafik knew Rizvi Ahmed Cesar, another suspect in the plot who had collected information about Joy through some hired agents in USA, he said.

Earlier around 12:30pm, detectives took Rehman to his house and seized some files and documents, family members said.

“As a journalist, Shafik Rehman collected some papers related to bribing of an FBI special agent to collect information regarding a Bangladeshi political figure,” said Taleya Rahman, Shafik Rehman’s wife.

On Saturday, plainclothes detectives entered his Eskaton residence in Dhaka identify-

Explosion rocks Afghanistan's Kabul city

Operation Zarb-i-Azb in Shawal 'a success': Pak Army

Kabul, Apr. 19 : A heavyexplosion rocked central Kabul cityon Tuesday morning with preliminary reports suggesting the blast has taken place in the second police district of the city.

No reports regarding casualties or target of the blast have been clear so far.

A security official said initially reports indicate the blast was triggered by a Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED), reports Khaama Press.

The official also said that the incident took place in the vicinity of Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Finance compounds in Pul-e-Mahmood Khan.

Pictures emerging from the shows thick black smoke rising from the incident area as there are reports of sporadic gunfire in the area.

Meanwhile, according to media reports, thick black smoke could be seen rising from the vicinity of US embassy in the Afghan capital.

However, the US in a statement reportedly said that the embassy had been unharmed. (ANI)

Pak: 10 injured in Mardan suicide blast Peshawar, Apr. 19 : At least ten people have been injured in a suicide blasttargeting Pakistan's Mardan Excise and TaxationDepartment on Tuesday.

The explosion took place following a sound of gunfire coming from within the building, police officials said, reports Dawn.

While the injured have been rushed to the District Headquarters Hospital in Mardan, the rescue teams have reached the explosion site to take control of the situation.

District Police Office (DPO) Faisal Shahzad confirmed that at least 10 people were injured and more casualties are feared.

Meanwhile, emergency has been imposed in the area.

The Excise and Taxation Department is located in Mardan's Cantonment Area on Mall Road, which is a busy location.

A similar blast last year hit the National Database and Registration Authority office in the city, killing at least 26 people and injuring 50 others. (ANI)

Shafik Rehman ing themselves as Boishakhi television reporters “to interview him”. However, before leaving with him, they told family members that they were detectives, according to his wife.

Police at first denied arresting him when reporters contacted the Dhaka Metropolitan Police.

Later, Deputy Commis-

Operation Zarb-i-Azb in Shawal 'a success': Pak Army

Peshawar, Apr. 19 : Declaring the operation inShawal area of North Waziristan a success, the

Pakistan Army has it has started clearing explosive devices in the area.

The Inter-Services Pub-

sioner (Media) of DMP Maruf Hossain Sarder on Saturday admitted that detectives arrested Rehman. But he denied that the DB men posed as journalists.

Shafik Rehman obtained British citizenship while working in the UK for a long time. He worked in various media outlets, including the BBC, but

lic Relations in a statement yesterday said that Army Chief General Raheel Sharif visited the embattled area near the Afghan border and was briefed about operational gains achieved so far, reports Dawn.

According to the statement, since the start of the last phase of Operation Zarb-i-Azb in February, more than 800 km area has been secured in Shawal and heavy casualties have been inflicted on terrorists.

Meanwhile, a security official said the ongoing

came in the limelight after becoming editor of weekly Jaijaidin in the 1980s.

He left Bangladesh during the autocratic rule of HM Ershad but returned home in 1991 after the dictator's fall. He currently produces and anchors a programme named Lal Golap (Red Rose) at Bangla Vision.

Police were investigating a case on charges of attempting “to abduct and murder Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's son Joy”, who lives in the US. The case was filed by DB Inspector Fazlur Rahman with Paltan Police Station in August last year.

In the case, police mentioned the name of Mohammad Ullah Mamun, vice-president of BNP's cultural wing Jasas, as a conspirator.

The case statement says

phase of the operation had been successfully accomplished.

"Levels one and two of the operation have been completed in Shawal and clearance of IEDs and other explosive items is in progress," Dawn quoted him as saying He also added that kinetic operations would continue for a few days after the successful completion of the last phase before a formal announcement of the end of Zarb-i-Azb in North Waziristan.

Mamun and some top leaders of the BNP and its allies met in the UK, the US and the Jasas office at the capital's Paltan and other parts of the country before September 2012 and conspired to abduct and kill the PM's son.

In March last year, Mamun's son Rizve Ahmed Caesar was convicted by a US court for bribing an FBI special agent to collect information regarding a Bangladeshi political figure.

The US Justice Department did not name the figure, but it is thought it was Joy. In a Facebook post on March 9 last year, Joy, also ICT affairs adviser to the prime minister, accused BNP leaders of conspiring to abduct and kill him.

The Operation Zarb-iAzb was launched by the army in June 2014 to eliminate terrorist networks from the area.

According to officials, around 4,000 militants have been killed so far in the operation and tons of explosives have been recovered from Miramshah, Mirali and other areas.

However, more than one million civilians have been forced to flee their homes and take refuge in settled areas of the country. (ANI)

China rejects US query on military flight to disputed island Beijing, April 19: China's defense ministry on Tuesday rejected queries by the US military as to why China had used a military aircraft to evacuate sick workers from a new airport on an island China has built in the disputed South China Sea. CNN quoted Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis as saying it was unclear why China had used a military aircraft rather than a civilian one in the landing on Fiery Cross Reef.

China's Defense Ministry said in a statement its military's tradition was to help those in need as part of its commitment to "wholeheartedly serve

the people".

"In sharp contrast, the US side is expressing doubts about whether it's a military or civilian aircraft at a time when somebody's life is in danger," it said.

"We cannot but ask: if a US citizen suddenly took ill on US soil, would the US military look on with folded arms?"

China has indisputable sovereignty over the Spratly Islands and the United States has no right to comment on China's building works and defensive facilities there, the ministry said.

Chinese activity in disputed waters of the South China Sea, including the construction of islands

China rejects US query on military flight to disputed island

by dredging up sand onto reefs and shoals in the Spratly archipelago, has alarmed rival claimants, in particular the Philippines and Vietnam, as well as the United States.

The United States has repeatedly criticized the

construction of the islands and worries that China plans to use them for military purposes.

China says it has no hostile intent.

The runway on the Fiery Cross Reef is 3,000

meters (10,000 feet) long and is one of three China has been building for more than a year in the archipelago.

Civilian flights began test runs there in January but the landing by the military aircraft, on Sunday, was the first time China has publicly reported a flight by a military plane to Fiery Cross Reef.

More than $5 trillion of world trade is shipped through the South China Sea every year.

Besides China's territorial claims in the area, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan have rival claims. (Agencies)

Sushma Swaraj embarks on visit to Iran, Russia Moscow, April 19: External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday embarked on a four-day visit to Iran and Russia that will see her attend a bilateral joint commission meeting in Tehran and a trilateral meeting later in Moscow with her counterparts from Russia and China.

In Tehran, Sushma will hold meetings with her Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif, and also co-chair a meeting of the India-Iran Joint Commission that will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations.

Her visit follows that of Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who was in Iran last week.

The Iran visit also comes two weeks after Prime Minister Narendra

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia, during which both sides discussed ways to scale up their strategic ties.

Besides oil, India has vital stakes in connectivity projects in Iran, like the Chabahar port, that will open up physical connectivity with Central Asia and Afghanistan.

In Moscow, during the

Russia-India-China (RIC) foreign ministers' meeting, on April 18, Sushma would meet her counterparts Sergei Lavrov of Russia and Wang Yi from China. She is expected to raise with Wang the issue of China blocking India's bid to ban Jaish-eMohamed chief Masood Azhar in the UN. Russia is likely to voice its

concerns over India mulling signing a military logistics agreement with the US. India counts Russia among its trusted friends and during Modi's visit to Moscow last December for the annual summit meeting with President Vladimir Putin, both sides inked major deals in defence cooperation as well as in other spheres.

Sushma, announcing her visit, tweeted that she will raise the issue of the death of two Indian girl students in a Russian medical college hostel fire and of a medical student from Srinagar in a Russian city during her Moscow trip.

"I am going to Moscow.

The final investigation report into fire tragedy in which we lost Pooja Kallur and Krishna Bhonsle is on my

agenda," Sushma posted.

Kallur, 22, from Navi Mumbai and her roommate Bhonsle, 21, from Pune, perished in the fire which broke out in their hostel on February 14 in the Smolensk State Medical Academy, Smolensk, around 380 km southwest of Moscow.

In a separate tweet, Sushma said she would also take up the issue of Yasir Javed, an Indian national from Srinagar who was killed after being attacked in the Russian city of Kazan by unknown people.

A medical student, Yasir had reached Russia on February 26 on a business trip and was attacked in Kazan city in the Tatarstan republic that left him in a coma.

He died on March 8.

Kirpal Singh's postmortem done in Lahore's Jinnah Hospital

Kirpal Singh's post-mortem done in Lahore's Jinnah Hospital

Lahore, Apr. 19 : The post-mortem of Kirpal Singh, the Indian prisoner who died under mysterious circumstances in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat Jail, was today done in theJinnah Hospital here.

The mortal remains of Kirpal will be handed over to India this afternoon.

The family members of Kirpal Singh had on Friday met Indian Home Minister Rajnath Singh to express their concerns over the gruesome treatment meted out to Indians languishing in Pakistani jails.

Kirpal Singh's family had

earlier rejected Pakistan's claim that he died of a heart attack and demanded a post-mortem to ascertain the true facts behind his sudden death.

"How can we believe that he died of heart attack? His body should be sent to us and postmortemshould be done.

We want to know the truth," Singh's nephew had told ANI in New Delhi.

Kirpal had allegedly crossed the Attari-Wagah border to enter Pakistan in 1992 and was subsequently sentenced to death in a serial bomb blasts case in Pakistan's Punjab province. (ANI)

30 people killed in Kabul explosion

30 people killed in Kabul explosion Kabul, Apr. 19 : Nearly 30 people have been feared dead and several others injured in a suicide bombing that rockedKabul city earlier today.

The explosion apparently targeted a Secret Service Unit tasked with protecting VIPs, reports Tolo News.

The security official has said that the incident took place in the vicinity of Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Finance compounds in Pul-eMahmood Khan, reports Khaama Press.

After the explosion the security forces immediately cordoned off the area as heavy gunfire continued.

President Ashraf Ghani has condemned the incident and labelled it a terrorist attack.

In a statement issued by his office, Ghani has said that a number of people were killed and injured and such actions by the enemy shows the insurgents' inability to tackle security forces on the battle field face to face.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Interior spokesman Sediq Sediqqi confirmed that Kabul police and other security forces are in the Pul-eMahmood Khan area.

According to reports, Special Forces have also arrived in the area and heavy fighting is underway. (ANI)

Unregistered SIMs will be disconnected May 1 Dhaka, April 19: Mobile phone SIM cards which will not be biometrically registered

by April will be disconnected on May 1, State Minister for Telecom Tarana Halim said today.

The disconnection, which will be temporary, will accompany a warning that will give subscribers another chance to re-register. But after that, the disconnection will be permanent.

Biometric authentication for mobile SIM cards drew widespread flak.

Public feared it would have a potential misuse.

But the government remains strict in this regard.

The High Court recently scrapped a petition that stood in the way of mobile operators collecting biometric data. The government too has assured that the data will not be

misused.

Today, Tarana Halim reiterated that the deadline for biometric registration will not be extended further while speaking to reporters at her office.

“All unregistered SIMs will be disconnected for a few hours from May 1. Then, the connection will be reopened with a warning asking to register within a specific time immediately,” she said.

“If the SIMs remain unregistered still, the connections will be blocked permanently.” She did not elaborate on the subject further.

As of last Sunday, a total of 6 crore and 35 lakh SIM cards were successfully registered biometrically – which does not account for even half of the total 13.08 crore subscriptions.

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

Eye on irrigated pie Record breaking rainfall Rain Museum and Research Centre Showers have been lashing several parts of Northeast India for quite some time now.

While Cherrapunji has already received record breaking rain, it was Shillong and Guwahati's turn to break a few records.

Shillong in Meghalaya recorded 39. 5 mm of rain, which happens to be Photo : ligvmint the highest rainfall in a decade. Similarly, Guwahati in Assam also received a whopping 47 mm of rain, which is the highest of the season. Cherrapunji, which is notorious of receiving heavy rains also recorded an excellent 137 mm of rain during the same period. Several other areas in Northeast India have received good showers during the last 24 hours. Some of them include Silchar where 44.5 mm of rain was recorded, Tinsukia 41 mm, Gaolpara 36 mm, Dibrugarh 27.7 mm, Imphal 20.8 mm, Dhubri 16.3 mm, Kohima 8.2 mm, and Gangtok 2.4 mm. These rains can be attributed to a cyclonic circulation which is presently over East Bihar, Jharkhand and adjoining West Bengal. Also, a trough is extending from this system from Nagaland, up to Jharkhand.

Moreover, moisture incursion is taking place from North Bay of Bengal in the form of humid south-westerly winds which have been adding to the rains in Northeast India. These weather conditions are likely to remain the same for at least another 48 hours. During this period, heavy showers will occur over several parts of Northeast India which may break more rainfall records. So far, Cherrapunji has already received 1105.9 mm of rain in the month of April and with 13 days left it might as well break the five year-old rainfall record of 1223 mm.

Cherrapunjee scripted another hallmark in the weather record books, shattering a 10-year-old record after receiving 471.7 mm of rain on a single day. For years this historical site has been receiving torrential rains for years. The Government of Meghalaya is planning to set up a Rain Museum and Research Centre in Sohra, erstwhile Cherrapunjee. The proposed centre on the lines of the High Altitude Cloud Physics Laboratory set up at Mahabaleshwar, will showcase the uniqueness of the people and their culture besides providing necessary scientific back ups for high- end research on rainfall. The Museum and the Centre will act as a premier capacity building institution where in visitors will be provided with all information of the place, the people and their culture and rainfall - that has become part of their lives since time immemorial. The fact that Sohra and Mawsynram (neighbouring town west of here), receive huge amount of rainfall continuously, despite being located away from the ocean, has intrigued many weather researchers and provides a unique setting to understand the mechanism of very heavy rainfall processes in the absence of cyclonic disturbances, a white paper prepared by Kolkata-based National Council of Science Museums. On the other hand, the vapour-laden cloud from Bay of Bengal proceeds northward over the plains of Bangladesh lying at almost sea level before abruptly climbing a 4,500 feet height on its path on the southern edge of Khasi Hills where Sohra and Mawsynram lie. While the Centre is aimed to be equipped with modern instruments in collaboration with other similar research organisations like the IMD, but various weather research projects will also be allowed to be carried out independently and also by institutional researchers. The State Government hopes that the weather research centre will get strategic support and apt collaboration from the IMD office Cherrapunji which host the S-band Doppler Weather Radar installed by ISRO for long range data collection and helps in flood early warning and several other applications.

Himalayan border dispute Survival of the fittest At the geo-political level, China and India have much in common. Both are rapidly modernising and regaining their status as global trading and economic powerhouses. And they are the two most populated nations-collectively home to over one-third of the world's population. Yet despite these commonalities, China and India have been unable to resolve their shared boundary. The simmering tension, which continues to exist along the Himalayas, has been described as both 'puzzling' and 'a paradox'. China shares a border with more countries than any other state. Since 1949, it has also had border disputes with every one of its 20 neighbours. Yet China has also resolved its border disputes with many of them, including Myanmar (1960), Nepal (1961), North Korea (1962), Mongolia (1962), Pakistan (1963) and Laos (1991). It has even managed to reach territorial settlements with former enemies, notably Vietnam (1999) and Russia (1991-94). The origins of the Himalayan border dispute stem from a combination of difficult terrain, nascent survey technology, the absence of a functioning Tibetan state and the craft of British Imperial mapmaking writ large. In 1914, at the Anglo-Tibetan Simla Conference, the British colonial authorities drew the McMahon Line (named after the chief negotiator Sir Henry McMahon), which established the boundary between British India and Tibet. Although Chinese representatives were present at Simla, they refused to sign or recognise the accords 'on the basis that Tibet was under Chinese jurisdiction and therefore did not have the power to conclude treaties'. After independence in 1947, India made the McMahon Line its official border with Tibet.

However, following the 1950 Chinese invasion of Tibet, India and China came to share a border that had never been 'delimited by treaty, let alone between the post-colonial regimes of the Republic of India and the People's Republic of China'.

Consequently, China viewed the McMahon Line as an illegal, colonial and customary borderline, while India considered the Line to be its international boundary.

The Himalayan border dispute presents a classic study of great power rivalries, the perils of buffer states and the legacies of empires. The security problems for all three nations involved- China, India and Bhutan-are reflections of their geography and history, their national power and identity. For Bhutan, wedged between the great Sino-Indian civilisation states, its choices are limited. By virtue of its cultural, historical and treaty ties with India, it is difficult to imagine how its border dispute with China can ever be resolved in the absence of normalised Sino-Indian relations. In essence, the trust deficit between China and India is simply too great to enable Bhutan to accept the Chinese 'package deal' and surrender territory that would strategically disadvantage India. For the broader Sino-Indian border dispute, analysis of Tibet, identity and the Sino-Indian relationship, and military and economic power, reveals a number of complex factors that feed the greater rivalry but also perpetuate the stalemate and constrain military assertiveness. So what of the future? Are there triggers that exist along the roof of the world? How could we recognise their emergence? What steps could be taken now to address them? While this paper has concluded that the stalemate will endure, these are questions that warrant further consideration.

For so long as one third of all humanity is divided by a disputed border, lasting security cannot be assured.

On February 24, the allowed to use irrigated Odisha government land only in "unavoidable cleared the hurdles to ac- circumstances", experts quire irrigated land for in- fear the guidelines will dustrial purposes by an- open the floodgates of pronouncing the Guidelines posals to acquire irrigated for Compensatory Irriga- land-especially at a time tion. The guidelines say in- when the impact of dustries can acquire irri- drought is worsening due gated or to-be-irrigated to the absence of assured land by paying the cost of irrigation facilities. setting up Legacy of irrigation failures Samarjit Sahoo facilities in Their fears an area double the land it are not unfounded. Beacquires. While the state tween 2009 and 2012, the government believes the state government had deguidelines will push re- cided to give irrigated land sponsible development in under the command area the state, environmental- of the Rengali dam to three ists, farmers and citizen companies on the same groups think otherwise. conditions stated in the The guidelines, which current guidelines. While were released by the state work has started in all the water resource depart- three projects, the rehabiliment, say, "Sometimes it tation process has not may not be possible for an started. In the first project, industry to avoid irrigation GMR Energy Limited was command area completely awarded 460 ha of land in and sometimes, in order to Dhenkanal district in get a continuous patch for 2009. The company desetting up of industries, posited Rs 3.02 crore with some irrigated command OLIC for creating irrigaareas may be required by tion potential. While the some industries." It adds GMR project has started, that "compensatory irriga- the promised compensation will be created pref- tory work never took off. erably in the same project Finally, OLIC decided to area where the ayacut (an return the money because area served by an irrigation the rehabilitation project is project such as a canal, not feasible. Similarly, dam or a tank) is lost by LANCO group submitted way of extension of a ca- Rs 3.51 crore for 500 ha nal system if possible or of land in the dam area in through pumped irrigation 2009. The project has system". The guidelines started without any rehaadd that the rehabilitation bilitation plan. The third can also happen in the project was awarded in same district, or even in 2012 to Pune-based RSB the neighbouring districts. Transmission Limited.

The Odisha Lift Irrigation The company acquired 31 Corporation (OLIC) is re- ha land from farmers in sponsible for setting up the Mania, Shyamsundarpur rehabilitation irrigation and Naranpur villages in projects that will be Cuttack district. Even funded by the industries though the group has that acquire irrigated land. started operations, the While industries will be compensatory irrigation

plans never took off.

Farmers' organisations say the move highlights the state government's misplaced priorities. "At a time when the area of agricultural land is fast shrinking due to urbanisation, the priority should be to protect agricultural land from being diverted for other purposes. Instead, the government is giving away irrigated land to industries," says Saroj Mohanty, convenor of Paschim Odisha Krushak Sangathan Samanwaya Committee. They allege the move will dilute the importance of the state agriculture department in matters of land acquisition, which will make farmers more vulnerable.

A 2014 report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India says the process of allocating 12,047 ha of private land to 91 industries in Odisha started without consulting district agriculture officers, a mandatory step for land acquisition in the state.

Groups that are opposing the scheme say the guidelines are similar to the rules set under the poorly implemented Com pensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), a national scheme meant to promote afforestation as a way of compensating for forest land diverted to non-forest uses. "The methods adopted for diversion of irrigated land for industrial purpose and its compensation have strange similarities with CAMPA," says Biswajit Mohanty, an environmentalist from

The recent compensatory irrigation guidelines are a threat to traditional irrigation practices in Odisha (Photo: Ranjan Panda) Odisha. Under CAMPA, the state created forests which were generally mono-culture. Many of these new forest areas were created far away from the main forest so their continuity was not maintained. "I apprehend the compensatory irrigation might face a similar fate," he adds.

Mohanty says the reason CAMPA is faring poorly is because the bureaucracy "does not know how to spend the money". The officers who are responsible for CAMPA are not prepared for the job, which leads to frequent misapplication and misutilisation of funds.

"Similar doubts have been raised over OLIC's capability in creating a robust alternative irrigation system," he adds.

OLIC data suggests that the organisation has developed around 46 per

cent of all irrigation projects started in the state since 2010. The statistics, however, do not reflect the problems with the projects. OLIC has so far handed over 24,843 lift irrigation projects (LIPs) to Pani Panchayats, a body of village farmers who maintain irrigation projects in the area. Of these, more than 5,000 are defunct and 1,800 cannot be repaired. Of the remaining 18,000 LIPs, most have outstanding electricity dues and are facing management issues.

R S Gopalan, managing director, OLIC, says the comparison between the guidelines and CAMPA are unfounded. "CAMPA fund is for afforestation and it has no time frame for spending. Under compensatory irrigation, one has to submit a proposal immediately and subse-

quently funds will flow.

Fund allocation is made against specific projects," he says. Gopalan, however, admits management issues are affecting several lift irrigation projects. He blames lack of funds for poor maintenance of LIPs. Ranjan Panda, convenor of Water Initiative of Odisha, a forum for advocating water rights, sees a larger conspiracy in legalising acquisition of irrigated land for industrial purposes. "Many irrigation projects have now become targets of industries and already lands have deliberately been given in the command areas. With this notification, most of the command areas of all dam projects will be under threat," he says. Panda adds that the move ensures water security for industries, while robbing farmers of their right over irrigation.

Foreign Ministers of Russia, India, China Meet in Moscow Russia, India, and China meet regularly to confer and exchange views on regional and global issues.

The foreign ministers of Russia, India, and China (RIC) met for a trilateral meeting in Moscow to discuss international and regional issues. The RIC trilateral has met annually since 2002 and partly Ankit led to the expansion of the trilateral to eventually incorporate Brazil and South Africa as the BRICS-a grouping comprising five of the world's largest emerging economies. In recent years, the RIC has functioned as a complement to other frameworks involving Russia, India, and China, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

"During the meeting, the ministers will thoroughly look into global and regional issues, issues of strengthening international law and collective fight with common challenges. Special attention

will be devoted to the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, including Syria, Iraq, Libya, the Middle Eastern peace process, the situation in Afghanistan and the settlement Panda of the Ukrainian crisis," the Russian foreign ministry noted in a statement.

The three delegations to the trilateral meeting this year were led by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. According to the Chinese foreign ministry, the trilateral addressed "issues of common interest." As I've discussed before in The Diplomat, one of the areas where the trilateral has spent considerable attention is the issue of peace in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (L), Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov (C) and Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj attend the 14th Meeting (Photo: i.ndtvimg) This year's meeting will focus on reinvigorating the BRICS and increasing cooperation through that framework.

Swaraj's participation in the RIC trilateral coin-

cides with Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar's five-day visit to China, where he will meet with Chinese officials on defense issues and address tensions

along the disputed IndiaChina border. Though the RIC meetings focus on exchange views between the three countries on larger issues, the trilateral is limited by the proxim-

NIT Imbroglio

National Institute of Technology (NIT), Srinagar (Photo: images.indianexpress)

Sir, The National Institute of Technology (NIT), Srinagar has been in the news for quite sometime past. The turmoil that has been simmering is yet to subside. The students from outside Srinagar (Kashmir) have a tough time as they are not only discriminated but also belittled by some misdoers (anti nationals) of the institute. The matter has come to such a pass that the students of the rest of the country are prompted to demand shifting of the NIT elsewhere. It now transpires that some elite educational institutions of India have been transformed into hubs of anti-national activities, not excepting JNU and Jadavpur University. This is really a sorry state of affairs. We feel much disturbed to note from time to time that in Srinagar, the hoisting or unfurling of the Pakistani flag is a common sight. The anti-national elements

unfurl the Pakistan's flag with impunity. What happens in NIT Srinagar is unfortunate. It is alleged that the authority fails to bridle the situation on time, which leads to worsening the situation and the Chief-minister Mehbooba Mufti had to rush to New-Delhi to seek Prime-minister's intervention.

ity of the bilateral relationships contained within it.

For example, Swaraj, at a bilateral meeting with her Chinese counterpart on the RIC trilateral's sidelines in Moscow, reportedly raised the issue of China's recent decision to block an India-initiated procedural move at the United Nations to add Masood Azhar, the leader of the terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed, to the list of banned persons pursuant to UN Security Council resolution 1267.

(Swaraj's decision to raise the issue echoed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi similarly voicing his concerns to Chinese President Xi Jinping during last year's BRICS Summit in Ufa, Russia, regarding China's decision to block a similar procedural move regarding Zaki-urRehman Lakhi.) Courtesy: The Diplomat

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

So please keep writing.

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

Web : Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

p O

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

Page 9

ed

A Disturbing Personal Account Of The Kind Of Discrimination Disabled People Face Almost all societies of the garded to be the major world have been basis of discrimination. hierarchised or stratified Basically, the notion of dion different grounds. vision in humans is based Some have their basis of on the principle of supedifferentiation in race, riority and inferiority. Be some in caste and some it physical, intellectual, others in gender. In the economic, biological or midst of all even on the these segof one's Kapil Kumar basis ments, disskin colour. ability has not been The discrimination treated appropriately. Al- against disabled persons though a considerable is predominantly number of people in this grounded in the notion of world are disabled, ableism. The contours of (anestimate provided by ableism are determined W.H.O. reveals that 10 by the criterion of physito 15% of the global cal fitness. Therefore, the population constitutes of term disability is perpetudisabled persons) not ally up against the benchmuch heed is paid to their mark of 'normal'. In this needs or demands. regard, Dr. Kessler in his Leaving aside Western book Rehabilitation of the societies, where discrimi- Physically Handicapped nation is majorly based on written in 1953 observes, racial grounds, if one "The term normal is not takes a closer look at In- a statistical concept, but dia - religion, caste, gen- a personal judgment in der and class are re- which we use ourselves

as the standard, and the subject of our attention as the deviation from that standard."

Ableism gives way to severe discrimination. By citing my personal experiences, I will try to demonstrate how even those who proclaim to sufferer from exclusion or discrimination themselves, won't let go of a chance to look down at disabled persons.

Once I went to the market to buy bananas from a hawker. On asking the rate, he responded - for you especially, I have two categories of bananas, one that will cost you Rs. 30 and the other Rs. 35 for a bunch. A few minutes later, a passerby came and asked the rates of the bananas. Now the hawker replied that one category of banana would cost him Rs. 25 and the

Image for representational purpose (Photo: ugm.ac.id) other Rs. 30. Surprised, I asked the hawker why he lied to me? He responded - I cannot tell a lie to you, so what if you are blind and cannot not see me, God is looking at me.

Here I ask a question from you all - was he re-

'50,000 Children And Adolescents Are Diagnosed With Cancer In India Every Year' We all have aspirations with Desired Wings has honour her memory. when we are kids. Aspi- started an initiative called This initiative will finance rations that make us 'Together We Can'. five years of education promise ourselves that The reason I got involved for 100 valiant children we would, one day, with this initiative is be- who prevailed over canachieve them and live the cause I, too, lost my 11- cer but cannot afford to life we year-old attend school since all always niece to their parents' savings w a n t e d Prateek Dadheech b l o o d were spent on their treatto.

A cancer a ment. wise man once said that few years back. She was This project wants the if you kill a dream, you kill like any other mischie- kids to make a comeback a person. vous kid and I remember just like Yuvraj did after Every child has a dream that she wanted to watch defeating cancer. With a to be something when he/ she is growing up. Sometimes their dreams come true and sometimes they don't. But you cannot take away the right to dream from anyone, especially a kid.

But there are some among them whose thoughts are limited to just surviving. Every year, 50,000 children and adoImage for representational purpose (Photo: lescents are diagnosed thedoctorstv) with cancer in India. The actual figure might be cartoons all the time. small or big contribution even higher than this. When I first got the news from the people, this venThese children have about her demise, I was ture will be able to help those dreams too. But cancer, in complete shock and 100 children to live a normal at such an early age, can saw my family break life again. It won't be easy take it all away from down in tears. We all had for the children to forget the hoped that she would re- pain that they have gone them and their families.

So, in order to help such cover in some time but through. But it will make families to get their child's God had other plans. So, their future less painful. life back on track, Yuvraj I decided to contribute Kartik Bhardwaj, one of Singh's foundation towards this campaign in the nominated children, YouWeCan in association whichever way I can and was diagnosed with blood

cancer at the tender age of eight. He miraculously recovered from cancer in a year but he had to drop out of his school since he had to go through with the treatment. His father said, "It felt really bad when we had to stop him from eating fast food and ice creams due to his medications. But he acted maturely and always listened to us. He gave us the strength we never had. It would mean the world to us if he started going to a good school as soon as possible."

But it has been very pleasing to see that a lot of students from universities all over the nation have helped in spreading the message and helping the initiative to raise the required funds. So, consider this a request and help create a bright future for the children who have defied death.

These brave souls have managed to fight back this lethal disease with their strong will to live.

Now, all they need is a fresh start and you can help them in getting one.

Courtesy: Youthki awaaz

ally afraid of God? Did he not consider me a fool or vulnerable because of my disability?

While I was working in a college as an ad-hoc assistant professor in 2013, I had experienced discrimination by my fellow lecturers. My colleague,

one particular Mr. Sharma, an upper caste, had the habit of sharing his lunch with others. He would pass his box to everyone, in turn, meticulously avoiding me each day.

There was another lecturer in that college - Mr.

Behrva (belonging to the lowest caste order of Rajasthan.) This Mr. Behrva once had the onus of escorting me to the staff room. Throughout the way, he guided me with words and avoided my touch, keeping himself at a distance and instructing me to turn left, turn right, watch out, etc. Being guided thus was very insulting for me.

I remember Behrva used to criticize the caste system quite vehemently because of the situation he had witnessed back home.

One of my blind friends, after getting recruited as a teacher in Bihar, decided to get married.

Talks with a girl's family were on, but when she discovered that her would-be husband was visually impaired she cried out -"Mujhe khute

se Mujhe khute se bandvado, meri shadi rikshawala se karvado, chahe mujhe maar dalo, par meri shadi is andha se mat karvana" (tie me to a pillar, get me married to a rikshawala or kill me, but, do not marry me to a blind person).

I spell out these examples simply to point out that ableism is the worst form of discrimination that the disabled have to undergo on a regular basis. Moreover, such discrimination is not religion specific, nor caste specific and neither class specific.

Those who are physically different must face the brunt of ridicule, stigma and discrimination irrespective of which strata of society they belong to.

C o u r t e s y : Youthkiawaaz

'Bored' Easily, Why Aren't We Then Motivating Our Children To Read Books?

It is for a reason that list because the internet is with a book in silence, there are so many quotes a place of many distrac- pouring into it while the on books and not on tions. You cannot stop book pours into you. Dissmartphones or tablets. yourself from opening a covering each other. As Books are the most con- Facebook tab while simul- Doctor Seuss once said, stant of taneously "The more that you read, friends and on the more things you will Bhavna Sultana working the wisest a project know. The more that you of companwhere you learn, the more places ions. But with advance- need the internet. you'll go." ments in the field of tech- However, there are librar- We need to teach patience nology, a culture of flash- ies. You might find it to be to a generation that coming news and an incessant hunger for information has surfaced. While earlier, people used to read books, you can now see them staring at their mobile screens or typing frantically on their laptops. It's high time we realised that the culture of reading books should be brought back.

The Internet is a good source to gather knowledge, do some research and find out about the latest happenings. However, it is hardly utilized for these productive things as is evident if one takes a quick look at the list of the most viewed websites: Image for representational purpose (Photo: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I do not wish a waste of time to go there plains of boredom and to imply that Facebook or and search through piles doesn't take a moment to Twitter are not productive. of books, but that experi- pause and reflect. Books We all know there are use- ence is from another teach patience. They open ful websites that will never world altogether. It's up a world of imagination make it to the top of the meditative to read - to sit and infinite possibilities.

Books help in mental stimulation, reduce stress, improves memory and writing skills. Staring into your screens for knowledge might make you knowledgeable, but it comes with a multitude of stress problems and health concerns. So why aren't we motivating our children to read?

img.talkandroid.)

"There are worse crimes than burning books. One of them is not reading them." ? Joseph Brodsky.

Courtesy: Youthki awaaz

What Really Bothers Me About The 'Tourists' Of Today (Not Everything Is For Entertainment)

Image for representational purpose (Photo: cdn.youthkiawaaz)

Jim Corbett National ence and appreciate the Park is known for its free-living of animals. I majestic was glad tigers and to be able the rich Gitanjali Maria to do a saflora and fari of the fauna that adorns the jungle reserve area reforests. It lets visitors cently. Though unluckenjoy the jungle experi- ily, we couldn't spot a ti-

ger, we were happy to see quite a few deer and elephants.

But a major cause for alarm is the way people expect animals to behave. We were watching a huge Monitor Lizard take a nap in the

morning sun, when another group, two families with kids, joined us.

Seeing the reptile immobile, some of the elders in the group started making noise and throwing tiny stones.

The children followed suit. It took some stern warning from our driver and us to make them stop the barbarism they were indulging in. You come to the jungle to appreciate wildlife and to teach your children to do the same. Not to disturb the local habitation to derive entertainment out of it.

I have witnessed similar behaviour in zoos as well. The tiger would be sleeping peacefully in a corner after a meal and the crowd gathered around it would be jeering and shouting, just so that they can see it walk or hear it growl. What

nasty selfish beings we are. I overheard an elderly lady ask the guard, "Why is the animal sleeping? Why can't you wake it up so that we have a better photograph?" Such stupid questions! How would you behave if someone does the same with you when you are sleeping and that too for a picture?

Tourism should not thrive at the cost of the natural habitat that's put on display. A responsible tourist is one who likes to see things as they are and can derive pleasure and enjoyment without damaging or altering everything.

It is important to appreciate nature without destroying it, especially when you are in ecologically sensitive areas like hill stations, forests, beaches, lakes, and riv-

ersides. These areas are already facing precarious circumstances, and it would be a great catastrophe if man tries to alter them further in his greed to derive more pleasure and enjoyment.

Moreover, the people of hill stations are very protective of their land and natural heritage. It would be a huge disgrace and disservice if, as tourists, we destroy their lands and their homes by callously stomping about as though their world was created to show 'us' a 'good' time during vacation. Carelessly throwing plastic waste on the beaches; throwing leftover food into the lake while boating; using loud motor vehicles when options of walking or cycling are conducive and easily available; teasing animals and

birds that are natural to these areas are all acts of an irresponsible tourist. Such tourists do not deserve to be in such a naturally beautiful and divine place as they hardly hold any respect in their hearts.

While it is important to be aware of one's action when visiting ecologically fragile locations and terrains, it is also important to remain responsible when visiting historical places.

Today, very few historical monuments in India have been left untouched; with no scribbles defiling its walls. Parents do not bother (or in some cases even encourage) when their children deface monument walls. The lack of cameras and security guards in many places of archaeological significance encourage

people to profess their love or their anger on these beautiful walls that have withstood time and seen much better days. Would these morons have dared touch the walls or scrape of the gemstones from it had the King been alive and ruling?

Historical monuments like natural resources need to be preserved for the enjoyment and learning of posterity.

Tourism - ecological, natural, historical, or otherwise, should be looked at from the same perspective as that of sustainable development. While they can be admired and enjoyed by the current generation, it also needs to be preserved for future generations. They too have a right to this inheritance.

Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

BUSINESS

PAGE 10

Gold prices rose by Rs. 120 to Rs. 29,550/10 grms Chennai, Apr 19: Tracking a firming trend overseas and buying by jewellers at domestic spot market, gold prices rose further by Rs. 120 to Rs. 29,550 per ten grams at the bullion market on silver, however, dropped by Rs 250 to Rs 38,450 per kg due to slackened buying support from industrial units. Bullion traders said a firming global trend after demand for safe haven picked up as the failure of talks among oil producers to cap output

Deflationary trend of inflation continues for 17th month New Delhi, Apr 19: Continuing the deflationary trend for 17th month, WPI inflation was at (-)0.85 per cent in March but may inch up gradually in the coming months on growing pressure on food and vegetable prices.

The Wholesale Price Indexbased inflation rate in March was marginally higher at ()0.91 per cent in February.

In March last year, it was ()2.33 per cent. This is the 17th straight month since November 2014 when deflationary pressure persisted.

Food inflation stood at 3.73 per cent in March compared with 3.35 per cent in February, showed official data released. Inflation rate for vegetables came in at (-)2.26 per cent in March, while for cereals and pulses it was at 2.47 per cent and 34.45 per cent respectively. India Ratings said that although prices of oil and manufactured items are expected to remain benign and keep the pressure on WPI inflation low, the same cannot be said about food inflation over the next few months despite the prediction of an above than normal monsoon. "Prices of cereals have shown some escalation in March and with summer season setting in there will be pressure on vegetable/fruit prices to rise. As a result, WPI inflation is expected to move into positive territory next month but will remain in low single digit in the foreseeable future," said Sunil Kumar Sinha, Principal Economist, India Ratings.

The inflation print in the fuel and power segment was ()8.30 per cent, and for manufactured products, it read ()0.13 per cent in March.

Onion and fruits saw easing of prices, with these sub-indices falling by 17.65 per cent and 2.13 per cent, respectively. Industry body Assocham said that although predictions of weather department are in favour of the ongoing Rabi season, policymakers should contain the upward price pressure if it surfaces in the coming months. (Agencies)

Pressure on pulses price to go under scanner: ASSOCHAM ANI New Delhi, Apr 19: Apex industry body ASSOCHAM said that though wholesale prices have been falling for more than 12 months, pulses that are within primary articles have shown upward price pressure continuously for the past six months, as such policymakers should check and address this issue through supply side responses. "Although predictions of weather department are in favour of ongoing Rabi season but policymakers should contain the upward price pressure if it exists in the coming months," said Sunil Kanoria, president of ASSOCHAM. "Besides, continuous fall in manufactured products may hamper pricing power and profitability of manufacturers and producers which may further limit their potential to increase capital expenditure," said Kanoria. "Since the government has shown its commitment to support industry and considering that recent RBI policy stance to kick start investment and credit cycle can have positive impact on India's economy in the coming months, WPI is likely to move upwards," added the ASSOCHAM chief.

triggered a sell-off in crude and equities, boosted sentiment in gold here. Globally, gold advanced 0.5 per cent to $1,239.56 an ounce in Singapore. In addition, increased buying by jewellers and retailers to meet wedding season demand also supported the upside in gold prices, they said. In the national capital, gold of 99.9 and 99.5 per cent purity were up by Rs. 120 each to Rs. 29,550 and Rs. 29,400 per ten grams respectively. Sover-

RISE IN PRICE Tracking a firming trend overseas and buying by jewellers at domestic spot market, gold prices rose further by Rs. 120 to Rs. 29,550 per ten grams at the bullion market on silver, however, dropped by Rs 250 to Rs 38,450 per kg due to slackened buying support from industrial units.

Globally, gold advanced 0.5 per cent to $1,239.56 an ounce in Singapore.

In addition, increased buying by jewellers and retailers to meet wedding season demand also supported the upside in gold prices.

On the other hand, silver ready fell by Rs. 250 to Rs. 38,450 per kg and weekly-based delivery

by Rs. 160 to Rs. 38,345 per kg.

In the national capital, gold of 99.9 and 99.5 per cent purity were up by Rs. 120 each to Rs. 29,550 and Rs. 29,400 per ten grams respectively.

Silver coins, however, spurted by Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 59,000 for buying and Rs. 60,000 for selling of 100 pieces on uptick in marriage season demand.

eign also traded higher by Rs. 100 to Rs. 23,100 per piece of eight grams on retailers demand. On the other hand, silver ready fell

by Rs. 250 to Rs. 38,450 per kg and weekly-based delivery by Rs. 160 to Rs. 38,345 per kg. Silver coins, however, spurted

by Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 59,000 for buying and Rs. 60,000 for selling of 100 pieces on uptick in marriage season demand.

(Agencies)

CarDekho launches digital dealer program for customer experience ANI New Delhi, Apr 19: CarDekho.com, India's leading online automobile portal has launched a 'Priority Digital Dealer' programme. The move will help its dealer adopt the latest technologies to deliver services thereby improving used car buying and selling experience of customers. India's auto market is expected to grow 15.6 percent this year, nearly five times faster than the global growth rate. The used car market is growing at fast rate in line with global benchmarks and is supposed to become double of new cars over next three years. However, the entire process of short listing inspecting, test driving, title transfer,

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: d152j5tfobgaot.cloudfront)

and then accessing loans, roadside assistance and warranty is very cumbersome while buying a used car. With this program, dealers will be provided with technology tools that help them address all the pain points of a used car buyer. Speaking on the

new service and its impact, CEO-Used cars CarDekho.com, Rajat Sahni said, "In today's digital-first world, almost 70 percent of buyers start their journey online. We believe that dealers remain at the heart of the car selling business. We

envision the provision of a seamless end-user experience across online and offline channels and are looking to extend our expertise in technology to our entrepreneurial partners." The first partner under the programme, Soumya Roy Chaudhary of SRC Motors from Kolkata, said, "The latest move will allow us to extend our brand presence to an online medium and reach to more consumers to drive growth for us. Our business will witness incredible growth with this association." Saurabh Tripathi, National Head Partner Solutions, CarDekho.com, added, "We have always worked closely with our dealer partners to improve their business. With this pro-

gram, we are looking to partner with the best 100 dealers who want to adopt digital as a medium to grow their business with changing times."

CarDekho.com has been actively working towards building an end-to-end used car buying and selling portal. To help users buy a good car, it launched TrustMark Warranties so that buyers know they are buying a quality car. The portal has verified more than one lakh cars listed on its platform. Moreover, CarDekho has launched auctions platform to help users liquidate cars more swiftly. The startup has also launched G-Cloud app to help dealers view their stock, add more used cars, manage leads and provide fair valuation.

Paytm leads Series B funding of USD 10 million for Jugnoo ANI New Delhi, Apr 19: India's largest mobile payments and commerce platform, Paytm has led theSeries B funding of USD 10 million in the Chandigarhbased startup. The autorickshaw hailing and hyper-local delivery mobile app Jugnoo receives USD five mn from Paytm and the remaining from other existing investor snow leopard and a new investor named Rocketship.vc.

At present, the auto rickshaw aggregator and hyper-local delivery service provider operates

in 30 cities and 11 villages across the country. "Jugnoo has showcased tremendous potential towards creating disruption in the Indian public transportation eco-system. Their Auto hailing service has picked up phenomenally well and they are witnessing incredible growth MoM basis.

With further infusion of funds, Jugnoo will be equipped to scale up its operations across the country and Paytm is happy to be a part of its growth story," said Senior Vice President Paytm, Kiran Vasireddy. Speaking on

Senior Vice President Paytm, Kiran Vasireddy.

(Photo: media.licdn) the subject, Samar Singla CEO and Cofounder Jugnoo commented, "This funding will enable us to create even better opportunities for

uplifting the stature of auto-rickshaw drivers in our country. We have been receiving a phenomenal response from drivers who are now readily

KYOCERA 'Kyoto Opal' utilized in decorative design of Yamaha Trombone

Image for graphical representation purpose only. (Photo: siasat) ANI Tokyo, Apr 19: Kyocera Corporation announced its proprietary 'Kyoto Opal' being featured in a limited edition trombone offered by Yamaha Corporation, a leading musical instrument manufacturer. The synthetic opal material, showcasing unique radiance, is utilized in the

counter-weight* and thumb trigger, adding a luxurious feel to the trombone's design, which appropriately fits with the product concept as a special edition marking the 20th anniversary of Yamaha's Xeno series.

The new model (YSL882O20TH) is available in North America, Europe, Japan and other

Asia-Pacific countries.

Kyocera's Kyoto Opal Kyoto Opal is a synthetic opal material developed

by Kyocera with a unique aesthetic quality that cannot be duplicated by other moulded resinbased products. Using special colouring techniques, Kyocera creates Kyoto Opal in a variety of rich and subtle hues and tints. Furthermore, by overcoming the inherent brittleness of naturally occurring opal, which tends to split and crack, it is possible to cut the Kyoto Opal into diverse shapes, thus it is used in a wide range of applications. Two types of Kyoto Opal are used in the trombone: The polymer type featuring flexibility and applicability to broad ar-

eas is used in the counterweight; and the resin-impregnated type with various rich and subtle hues is used in the thumb trigger. Other applications of the polymer type include guardsticks of Japanese folding fans and protective film screen covers for smartphones. The resin-impregnated type has also been applied in various products unique professional nail gel polishes. Kyoto Opal has previously been adopted in Yamaha's saxophones and flutes for the Japanese market, and was selected to add elegance to the limited-edition trombone design. This is the first time the polymertype Kyoto Opal is featured in a musical instrument.

adopting technology as a means of increasing their daily earnings." "We will invest these funds in improving our driver efficiency and increasing our numbers in cities where we are currently in the growing phase. And with the kind of impact we have been able to make at the grass-roots, I am sure we have a long way to go," added Samar.

Jugnoo has a network of around 10,000 auto-rickshaw drivers across India that is growing at a steady rate across the country. They also have women auto drivers in Nagpur, Ahmedabad and Noida.

Jabong launches international brand 'Mexx' exclusively

CEO and Managing Director Jabong, Sanjeev Mohanty. (Photo: bhubaneswarbuzz) ANI New Delhi, Apr 19: India's leading online fashion destination, Jabong announces a new partnership with renowned international fashion retailer Mexx.

The European brand has been designing quality fashion and accessories that take inspiration from the energy and buzz of the city. Mexx believes their product embodies a blend of uniqueness, love for detailing and surprising price-quality. "We are very excited to launch Mexx exclusively in India and more than anything else we are thrilled that our brand ideologies are similar. At Jabong, it is our constant endeavor to make fashion accessible to all and bring the best of global fashion to India.

With Mexx on board we continue to broaden our international brand offering and have few other exciting names in pipeline," said CEO and Managing Director Jabong, Sanjeev Mohanty. "As a global brand, the world is our stage. Mexx embraces the diversity of individuals living fast-paced

lifestyles offering its consumers fast fashion and style with a promise of quality and effortless style. We are very excited to launch Mexx in India and to have Jabong as our experienced and knowledgeable partner for optimizing our online presence," said CEO Mexx, Umit Eroglu. "Based on our global brand awareness and the outstanding price-quality mix of our collections we are very confident about the desirability that our brand will have with the Indian consumers. We can't wait to see the first results coming in are convinced they will prove to be the start of a long term presence of our brand within the Indian market", added Umit Eroglu. Jabong has in the past launched renowned high street labels such as TOPSHOP, TOPMAN, Dorothy Perkins, Missguided and Next to name a few. The Mexx Spring-Summer'16 collection that will be available online takes inspiration from the following trends Street, Collection and Atelier.

Q4 profit of LIC Housing Finance net up by 20% Mumbai, Apr 19: LIC Housing Finance recently reported a rise of 19.5 per cent in its consolidated net profit at Rs. 1,667.70 crore for the quarter ended March 31.

The company had posted a net profit of Rs. 1,395.61 crore in the corresponding quarter previous fiscal, it said in a regulatory filing. Total income of the group increased to Rs. 12,502.58 crore for the year ended March 31, from Rs. 10,828.88 crore a year ago. On a standalone basis, the company posted a net profit of Rs 448.02

crore for the quarter compared with Rs. 378.18 crore. Standalone total income increased to Rs 3,273.94 crore during the quarter under review from Rs 2,860.59 crore.

LIC Housing Finance further said the Board of Directors of the company has approved a dividend of Rs 5.50 per equity share for 2015-16. The dividend on equity shares, will be paid on or after August 20, 2016, it said.

Stock of LIC Housing Finance was trading at Rs 483.80, up 0.62 per cent in the pre-close session on BSE. (Agencies)

TECHNOLOGY iPhone 8 may feature an all-glass design: Reports New Delhi, Apr 19: Tech giant Apple may completely drop its aluminium casing for an allglass enclosure in the iPhone 8, which is expected to be launched in 2017. According to 9to5Mac, all-glass iPhone with AMOLED display will be thinner and lighter. Last month, Apple unveiled its muchawaited iPhone SE, which is said to be the cheapest iPhone model till date. The new iPhone is smaller in size and comes in16GB and 64GB storage variants.

It has a 12-megapixel rear camera and a Touch ID fingerprint sensor.

Other features like WiFi, LTE, new microphones are similar like its processor, the iPhone 6S. (Agencies)

Image for representation purpose only. (Photo:)

ALL-GLASS MOBILE Tech giant Apple may completely drop its aluminium casing for an all-glass enclosure in the iPhone 8, which is expected to be launched in 2017.

According to 9to5Mac, all-glass iPhone with AMOLED display will be thinner and lighter.

Last month, Apple unveiled its much-awaited iPhone SE, which is said to be the cheapest iPhone model till date.

The new iPhone is smaller in size and comes in16GB and 64GB storage variants.

It has a 12-megapixel rear camera and a Touch ID fingerprint sensor. Other features like Wi-Fi, LTE, new microphones are similar like its processor, the iPhone 6S.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

Features

PAGE 11

ART AND CULTURE Assam's folk performers cling on to the last of the wooden masks Bhaonas apart, Assam masks are used to accenhas a rich tradition of tuate a message and wooden masks and make the show striking. masked performances in Within this tradition is a various local performing more sombre and textual art forms form in and a few which a Julie Barooah c h o r a l tribal traditions such group sings as Khuliya Bhaona, Bar- an epic narrative comdhuliya or Dhuliya monly based on the Bhaona and Bharigan.

Ramayana. Here, masks The Ankiya Bhaona has of Dasarath, Ram, Sita, over the years inspired Lakshman, Ravan, etc., offshoot traditions in the are used. Performers state. They have devel- wearing masks come on oped their individual stage and dance, but their identity while retaining performances are devoid some aspects of their par- of any dialogues. The ent form. Take Khuliya verbal element is Bhaona of Darrang dis- complimented by the trict for instance. This choral singing only. form of theatre uses Use of masks is not wooden masks represent- popular among the tribes ing characters such as of Assam. The Rabhas, a Ravan, Hanuman and plain tribe belonging to Sugriv, and there are no the Tibeto-Burman life-size masks unlike in group and inhabiting the Ankiya Bhaona. western districts of Bar-dhuliya, prevalent in Assam, are an exception.

Kamrup district, is basi- They have an Ankiya cally a medium of folk Naat-like distinctive folk entertainment that in- theatre tradition called cludes singing and danc- Bharigan. The themes ing to the beat of drums are invariably based on and cymbals, acrobatic the Ramayana, though performance, masked there is immense local dance and an unwritten fervour in it. Episodes skit based on epic themes from the Ramayana such as well as contemporary as Sita Haran, Ravan or social themes. Here, Mohiravan Badh,

Pawl Kut festival of Mizoram The people of Mizoram adhere to their age old customs and rituals with a zeal and regularity that can Arnab leave you amazed. The advent and spread of modernity and conversion to Christianity that these people were subjected to has not changed this aspect of their life much. Different tribes in Mizoram join hands to celebrate their indigenous festivals all through the year- putting aside their differences. The colorful harvest festival namely Pawl Kut is one such instance.

The History of Pawl Kut There is a fascinating his-

Nuances of Pawl Kut Pawl kut festival is celebrated in December every year. The Ghosh word 'Pawl' denotes straw and kut stands for festival. It comprises of two days. Both the men and women indulge in making merry, dancing and singing during the festival. The motto is expressing gratitude to the gods for their kindness.

During Pawl Kut families in Mizoram indulge in a grand feast with egg and meat. They also consume rice beer called Zu. A ritual named Chawnghnawt is performed during this festival. The mother, along

Pawl Kut festival (Photo: nelive) tory of Pawl Kut festival.

In the ancient ages, the tribes used to stay at Tiau River's eastern side. The tribes had to go through a terrible time as the rain stopped and the crops were all ravaged. This continued for a stretch of 3 years. They prayed to the god for ending their plight and rain resumed. That year they had surplus crop.

The tribes indulged in celebration and this paved way for the Pawl Kut festival.

with her kids sits on a platform. Then they feed each other various egg and meat preparations. The men gather to drink beer. Foods are given to the poor as well.

In the ancient times, Mizo tribes would go for hunting with their weapons to get animals and birds for the grand feast. The feast is followed by a day of rest. It is called Eipuar Awim Ni. Courtesy: Nelive.

Taronisen Badh and Bali Badh are the subjects of Bharigan. The performers wear heavy wooden masks, dance to the beat of the drums and deliver the dialogues.

Because of the weight of the masks, the rhythm of the dance is slow. Here, masks representing Ravan, his ministers, Vishnu, Mahadev, Kali Bhagavati, Durga, Jam Raja, Mora Ketua, Bibnisan, Sugriv, Hanuman, Jambuban are generally used. It is most likely that the Rabhas adopted the tradition of Bharigan from their nontribal Hindu neighbours of Goalpara and Kamrup districts for whom Bharigan was a must in religious festivities till a few years ago. In Bharigan, each character of a play wears a mask.

Interestingly, these masks do not have an opening for the eyes and there is a person who prompts the movement of a mask-wearer from behind.

As wood is a harder material, masks fashioned out of this material is simpler and less intricate.

The mask-maker selects

Masks in Assam have an important role as conveyors of spiritual significance (Photo: nezine) the type of wood that is easy to carve on. Pieces of light wood are hollowed from behind the mask so that a performer's head can fit in. The facial features are carved boldly and one can see a certain degree of raw workmanship in some of the masks belonging to the tribal societies. Wooden masks are more rigid, have a fixed gaze and lacks expression. But there are instances where distor-

tion of the facial anatomy lends expression, as in the case of the Benga mask of Dhuliya Bhaona.

Holes are made through the eye balls so that the actors can see while performing unlike in the case of the masks used in Bharigan. Traditionally, these masks are painted in bright colours prepared from natural and mineral elements.

It is hard to ascertain the origin of the wooden masks of Assam due to

the absence of any written records. But they are said to have been used since the days of 'our forefathers' or 'our great, great grandfathers'; vague assumptions, in other words.

The Tiwa tribal community also has a tradition of using bamboo masks with ritualistic connotations.

Masks play a pivotal role in the ritual associated with the Barat Puja dedicated to Goddess Kalikha. Here, people

dance in front of the deity wearing the mask of Lord Shiva. Zoomorphic forms are common in this particular tradition. The dance does not have any fixed set of rules or performance text. The process of making the bamboo masks is similar to that of the Bhaona masks.

The western Assam districts of Goalpara and Dhubri have a folk tradition of making sola pith masks. Mention may be made of the mask of Goddess Kali with graphic paintings on the sola pith surface. This is used in the Kali-Chandi Nach, a ritualistic folk dance held during Charak Puja. Sola pith masks of monkeys, bears, tigers and other animals are prepared too for people to wear during the ritual dance.

Thus, the masks of Assam are variegated in terms of tradition, context and texts, materials and connotations. Masks in Assam are works of art in their own right, but they also have an important role as conveyors of spiritual significance connected with traditional beliefs, rituals and ceremonies. At the same

time, they serve as a strong medium of theatrical expression.

Over the years, the art of mask-making and masked performances has lost much of its social and religious importance. This can be attributed to the gradual loss of its significance in religious propaganda. The process of mask-making as well as the medium has changed too. Natural colours have given way to more easily available synthetic colours. And the wooden masks are no longer prepared; they have found their way into the different museums of the state.

The tradition of maskmaking is on the verge of being lost but there are some groups that are still using wooden masks in Bharigan and Bardhuliya.

(Julie Barooah researched masks of Assam under Nehru Trust Grant for Small Study and Research Grants 2002-2003 and with assistance from the Ministry of Culture for Promotion and Dissemination of Tribal Folk Art and Culture 2004)

HORTICULTURE

Cultivation of Apricot Introduction of Apricot:Apricot is an important fruit grown in the dry temperate and mid-hill regions of India. This fruit belongs to the family of "Rosaceae" and Genus of "Prunus". The original apricots are native to China where as wild apricot which is known as "zardalu" is indigenous to India. In India, this fruit grows wild in the hills of Shimla and Himachal Pradesh. Apricot fruits contain high in vitamin 'A' and niacin when compared to other fruits. Apricots are being used for desserts, jam, nectar, squash and these fruits can be dried and canned. Apricot fruit kernels (sweet) are used in confectionery and in oil extraction (bitter kernels).The commercial apricot farming in India is very limited.

Climate Requirement for Apricot Farming:- Apricots with white fresh and sweet kernel requires cooler climatic conditions and are best grown in dry temperate areas up to 3000 meter above m.s.l (mean sea level).Yellow fresh apricots with bitter kernel requires warm climatic conditions and are best grown 1000 to 1500 meter above m.s.l (mean sea level).Long cool winters with frost free conditions and warm springs are best for its fruit set. South Western at higher elevations and North Eastern India at lower elevations are best suited for apricot cultivation. These trees require about 100 cm well distributed annual rainfall throughout its growth period.

Soil Requirement for Apricot Farming:- Apricot can be grown on wide va-

riety of soils. However, well-drained deep soils with good organic matter are best for its growth and yield. It is recommended to have the soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8.However, wild apricots can be grown in well drained sandy soils with less fertility in Ladakh and Kinnaur region.

Propagation and Raising Root Stock in Apricot Farming:- Generally, apricots are commercially propagated by grafting or budding and T-budding, Tongue grafting and Chip budding are used for its multiplication. For raising rootstock, seeds should be collected from ripen wild apricots.

These seeds needs stratification for a duration of 45 days at 4°C to break dormancy. After stratification, seeds need to be soaked in 5ppm Kinetin or 500 ppm GA3 solution for a period of 24 hours before sowing for speed up the germination. Thereafter seeds should be sown 5 to 10 cm deep on nursery beds at a seed to seed spacing of 15 to 20 cm and row-to-row distance of 25 to 30 cm. After sowing, nursery beds should be mulched and light irrigation should be given. The seedlings will be ready with graftable size in one year after sowing. The seedlings of pencil thickness should be grafted with tongue method.

Land Preparation, Spacing and Planting in Apricot Farming: - Dig the pits size of 1 x 1 x 1meter just 1 month before of planting.

Each pit should be filled with a mixture of soil and 60 kg of well rotten farm yard manure(FMY), 1 kg of single super phosphate and 10 ml of Chorapyripos

solution (10ml /10 liters of water). As usual, on slope lands, contour planting system and on lands, square or triangular planting methods should be followed. The plant spacing depends on the variety and soil. The apricot plants are generally spaced at 6 meter x 6 meter. Transplant the nursery raised 1 year seedlings to the main ĂĄeld and place them in the center of the pit. To conserve the soil moisture and check the weeds at basins, mulch the plant basins with the 10 to 15 cm thickness of hay. Make sure to irrigate the plants immediately after planting in the pits of main field. Make sure to irrigate the plants immediately after planting in the pits of main field.

Intercropping in Apricot Farming:- Intercropping not only results in extra income but also it enriches the soil fertility. Farmers must consider intercropping during first 2 to 5 year stage apricot plantation.

The recommended intercrops in apricot farming are soybean, cowpea, beans and pea.

Irrigation in Apricot Farming:- Apricots require irrigation especially during fruit development stage in the month of April to May. Frequency of irrigation depends on the soil type, tree age and weather conditions. During extreme hot and dry periods, irrigations should be given at 8 to 10 days intervals (May to June). In case of heavy rains, soil should be drained out as these trees are sensitive to water logging.

Mulching in Apricot Farming:- Mulch the apricot tree basins with 10 cm thick of hay to conserve

Apricot farming (Photo: araratour) the soil moisture and check the weed growth.

Weed Control in Apricot Farming:- In apricot farming, pre-emergence application of Atrazine or Diuronat 4.0 kg/ha and post emergence application of Glyphosate at 800 ml /ha or Gramaxone at 2 liters/ha is more effective to control the weeds.

Mulching also checks out the weed growth.

Manures and Fertilizers in Apricot Farming:- In Apricot farming, both organic manures and chemical fertilizers are required for tree growth and good yield. The fertilizer requirement depends on the soil type, tree age and cultural practices.

Under irrigated conditions, for each matured apricot tree (7 years and above), a mixture of 40 to 45 kg well rotten farm yard manure,500 grams of 'N', 250 grams of 'P2O5' and 200 grams of 'K' is preferred. The FMY(farm yard manure) should be applied along with full dose of 'P' and 'K' in the

month of Dec to Jan. As Nitrogen application is concerned, it should be applied 2 split doses.

Half dose of 'N' should be applied 3 weeks before flowering and remaining half dose after 4 weeks period. Under rainfed conditions, second half dose of 'N' should be applied at the onset of monsoon.

Pests and Diseases in Apricot Farming:- The following are the common pests and diseases in apricot farming. Armillaria root rot, Eutypa dieback, Brown rot blossom, Jacket rot,Phytophthora root and crown rot, Ripe fruit rot, Verticillium wilt,Shot hole disease, Powdery midew, Bacterial canker, Crown gall, Rust, Plum pox virus, European earwig, Fruit tree leaf roller, Green fruit worm,Mealy plum aphid,Peach twig borer.For appropriate control measures of these peats and diseases, contact nearest horticulture/agriculture department.

Harvesting in Apricot

Farming:- Apricot fruits are generally matured in first week of May - June end depending upon variety. Apricot trees start bearing fruits from fifth year and attain maximum fruit bearing stage at 8 to 10 years after planting and continue up to 35 years. Manual harvesting should be practiced. For fresh marketing, fruits should be plucked after they change the surface colour from green to yellowish. Fully ripen fruits can be harvest for drying, freezing and canning purpose .Extreme care should be taken care after harvesting as these fruits are perishable. As post harvesting practice, fruits are graded based on the size and packed in the wooden boxes.

Yield in Apricot Farming:- Yield depends on the variety grown and farm management practices. In apricot farming, yield of 50 to 85 kg/tree or 15-25 tons/ha can be obtained.

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

PAGE 12

Modi lauds Dipa's feat, salutes her determination PTI Katra (Jammu), Apr 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hailed Dipa Karmakar, who became the first Indian woman gymnast to qualify for Olympics Games, saying she brought laurels for the country by her sheer determination.

"Dipa has made India proud and brought glory to its name.

First time, a daughter from the country has been selected in gymnastics stream for the Rio Olympics. She has achieved the feat through her determina-

Dipa Karmakar tion. Lack of resources never came in her way," he said, addressing the convocation of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University here.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's Sran fined for inappropriate behavior

He said it is essential to have firm determination to excel in life and the amount of facilities available should not become an obstacle in this

ANI Rio de Janiero, Apr.19 : After creating history by becoming the first Indian woman gymnast to qualify for the Olympics, Dipa Karmakar sealed a gold medal in the women's vaults finals at the test event of the Rio Games.

Sran fined for inappropriate behaviour during IPL clash against Mumbai Indians

Sran was fined 10 percent of his match fee by the match referee for inappropriate behaviour which deemed contrary to the spirit of the game.

The 23-year-old Indian

The Prime Minister also recalled the feat and effort made by 'Mountain Man' Dashrath Manjhi who had carved a road through a hill at Gehlour in Bihar, working day and night for 22 years from 1960 to 1982.

The 22-year-old Tripura girl garnered 52.698 points in the Olympics qualifying event to book a berth for artistic gymnastics in the Rio Games.

Besides being the first Indian woman, she will also be an Indian gymnast qualifying for the Olympics after 52 years.

"Manjhi not only made the road but also created history with it," he said.

Congratulating girl students of the university, Modi quipped he desires that they should participate in every field in huge numbers so that there comes a time when a "movement" has to be launched for "men's reservation".

Dipa Karmakar bags gold after historic Rio Olympics qualification

The 22-year-old gymnast from Tripura displayed her best efforts as she scored 14.833 points in her first attempt to become the first Indian woman to clinch gold in a global gymnastics event.

ANI Hyderabad, Apr.19 : Sunrisers Hyderabad left-arm pacer Barinder Sran has been fined for inappropriate behaviour during his side's Indian Premier League (IPL) clash against Mumbai Indians last evening.

pursuit.

Dipa had yesterday created history by becoming the first Indian woman gymnast to qualify for the Olympics with a strong performance at the final qualifying and test event in Rio.

Karmakar, who already created history by winning bronze at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, scored 14.566 in her second and last tries, respectively.

Earlier, Karmakar exhibited a strong show as she finished ninth in the first of the four subdivisions of the women's artistic category to qualify for the Olympics.

Karmakar had failed to secure an Olympic berth during the World Championships in November as she finished outside the podium (fifth place).

ANI Dubai, Apr.19 : The International Cricket Council and Emirates Airline, the world's largest international airline, have renewed their relationship by signing a seven-year deal which confirms Emirates as a Global Partner for all ICC events from 2016-2023.

The relationship between the ICC and the Emirates dates back to 2002, when the award-winning airline came on board as a sponsor of the ICC. The partnership was later strengthened with Emirates becoming the ICC's official partner for the 2007-2015 events cycle and the official sponsor of the ICC's elite panel of umpires and match refer-

reportedly signing a three-year deal worth 15 million pounds.

After Chelsea's repeated poor performances in the Premier League, Mourinho was sacked by the club and former Netherlands boss Guus Hiddink was appointed as the interim manager until the end of the season.

Conte, who is currently in charge of Italy, had earlier succeeded Jose Mourinho as the new Chelsea manager after

"But for sure, all I know is that he wants to win straight away. No more transition, no more excuses, he wants to win,

sponsored the Australian team, which went on to win the World Cup. Since then, cricket has offered us a powerful platform to connect with fans and communities of cricket playing nations across Asia, Australasia and the UK. We look forward to celebrating the best moments of this inspiring sport for upcoming tournaments and events."

This new deal is an extension and expansion of that partnership as Emirates will continue its sponsorship of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Umpires and Match Referees; with the Fly Emirates logo being displayed prominently on the umpires' clothing when they are officiating at all international cricket matches.

Setback for Knight Riders as `injured` Hastings ruled out of IPL ANI Kolkata, Apr.19 : In what may come as a major blow to Kolkata Knight Riders, all-rounder John Hastings has been ruled out of the ongoing ninth edition of the Indian Premier League ( IPL) due to an ankle injury.

The 30-year-old suffered the injury during the warm-up match before his side's last week clash against the Mumbai Indians.

Commenting on Hastings' injury, Knight Riders' assistant coach Simon Katich revealed that the former underwent scans after complaining a bit of pain in his ankle, adding that the Australian would

John Hastings now work hard on getting himself fit ahead of his country's West Indies tour.

"He bowled through a fair bit of pain. He had a fair bit of scans after that and he has flown back to Australia. It's a shame to see his campaign end prema-

ANI New Delhi, April 19 : After Harbhajan Singh and Geeta Basra, Suresh Raina and his wife Priyanka Chaudhary are in the parents-to-be line.

turely. He had fitted in really well into the team and he had performed well in a couple of games. Yeah, unfortunately he'll be doing a lot of rehab instead and working towards getting fit for the West Indies tour for Australia," Katich

was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Katich, however, insisted that Hastings' replacement is yet to be confirmed, but added that the paperwork regarding the matter had been sent to the BCCI. "We have sent off the paperwork. Nothing has been confirmed regarding the player concerned.

Hopefully that'll happen in the next few days. We have sent out the paperwork to BCCI, we'll just have to see what happens," said Katich.

The Kolkata Knight Riders will play their next match against Kings XI Punjab at IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali this evening.

Dipa Karmakar

shared a picture of his wife, wherein she is seen changing the diaper of a baby doll.

Along with the snap, he wrote, "Keep practice hard love we have to do it together very The 29-year-old crick- soon." eter took to his Suresh and Priyanka Instagram account and tied the knot in 2015.

`Disciplined` Conte can deliver instant success at Chelsea: Fabregas ANI London, Apr. 19 : Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has backed the appointment of former Juventus player Antonio Conte as his side's new manager, saying the Italian will not require a season of transition and can deliver instant success at the Stamford Bridge club.

ees.

Commenting on the announcement, ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said, "I am delighted that Emirates has decided to continue its support for cricket by extending its partnership with the ICC. The ongoing support of the world class Emirates brand is a compliment to the health and popularity of the game and we are grateful for their assistance in ensuring that our events can continue to grow from strength to strength."

Meanwhile, Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President Boutros Boutros said, "The renewal of our partnership with the ICC confirms our commitment to cricket, which dates all the way back to 1999 when we

Suresh Raina, Priyanka Chaudhary expecting their 1st child

player admitted Level 1 offence under Article 2.1.7 of the IPL Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials and accepted the sanction, which is final and binding.

Sunrisers Hyderabad went on to clinch their first win of this IPL season after beating Mumbai Indians by seven wickets with 17 balls to spare at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Emirates Airlines renews deal with ICC

Antonio Conte win, win and for that we will need to be prepared

since day one," Fabregas was quoted as saying by

goal.com.

Describing Conte as a `winner`, Fabregas said the 46-year-old loves playing offensive football as the teams led by him were so well organized, adding that Chelsea require the guidance of such kind of people.

we need," he added.

Insisting that there was a need to give his side an appropriate push, Fabregas believes Conte can move Chelsea into the right direction and can make them work harder in order to achieve victories.

"From what I've heard, and what is proved by so many professionals talking about him, is that he's disciplined, he's a winner and he's a competitor. And that's what

Conte would join at Stamford Bridge along with his long-term assistants, Angelo Alessio and Massimo Carrera, after helming Italy's Euro campaign 2016.

Suresh Raina

Prannoy advances, Srikanth knocks out of China Masters ANI Jiangsu (China), Apr.19 : Indian ace shuttler HS Prannoy produced a remarkable performance as he breezed past Malaysia's Joo Ven Soong to progress through to the second round of the China Masters here on Tuesday.

The seventh-seed bounced back from a slow start to

secure a 19-21, 21-14, 2118 triumph over his Malaysian opponent in the contest that lasted for 54 minutes.

Meanwhile, third-seed Kidambi Srikanth suffered a major setback as he got defeated 21-12, 2117 by Lin Yu Hsien of Chinese Taipie.

Kidambi Srikanth

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