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ASSENG/2015/64205
Vol. 1
Issue 165
On a Tightrope: Can Afghanistan Balance Between Pakistan and India? Page 8 ET CAPSULES 3 trampled to death Nagaon, Nov. 19: Three persons of a family was trampled to death by a herd of marauding wild elephants at Changibasti near Daboka in Nagaon district this morning. Sources said that the elephants which came out from a nearby reserve forest first destroyed the hut of Suren Rawtia and later killed his wife Tukurmoni and her two girl child - one 10 years and another 8 years old. (Correspondent)
School bus hit auto from back at Tinsukia, 4 injured Tinsukia, Nov 19. Four people where injured when a school bus carrying students of Guru Teg Bahadur School hit an auto at the back. The incident happened at Makum Road near Shivdham. Both the vehicles were coming from Makum to Tinsukia. (Correspondent)
ATM machine robbery bid averted, say police Jorhat, Nov 19: A bid to rob an ATM machine was foiled after timely arrival of city police patrol at JB Road SBI ATM near E10B-BSNL office here last night, said police. According to police, a group of four suspected youth fled from the scene soon after the arrival of the police patrol party. Police suspect that the four motor cycle borne youth were about to open the lower section of machine on the busy JB road at the heart of the city last night at around 2 am. “This would have been the third incident in the district if police would not have reached there on time,” a local said. In the wake of several ATM machine and money robbery cases, police had instructed that all ATMs be closed by 10 pm while carrying money for deposit at ATM counters was made mandatory and strictly instructed to be done on or before sunset.
Financial assistance Golaghat, Nov 19: Family members of terrorist attack victims who lost their lives in Golaghat were given financial assistance by an organisation under Home Ministry named as 'Rashtriya Sampradyik Saptah Anusthan' today at the premises of DC Conference Hall. DC Anowarul Haque handed over cheques worth Rs, 12000 each to Ruchi Agarwal and Saranji Agarwal. (Correspondent)
Dibrugarh, Friday, November 20, 2015
With the Internet revolution, there has been a sea change in the people have begun to make their purchases. After the invention of
Instagram being pushed by Facebook for ads
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In a bizarre incident this morning at around 10.30 am, a scooty and a bike collided near Essar Patrol Depot here at 2 Mile area in which three persons are said to have sustained serious injury. Contd. on Page 3
Pages- 12
UK's Chief Scientific Adviser visits India to discuss Science and Innovation Policy
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Late Telosai Mele, first Arunachalee BJP office bearers asked to get their act together for 2016 Aslady teacher remembered sembly poll: Dr Mahendra Singh Bishnu Rana Tezu, Nov 19
Denning Keba Society remembered the first lady teacher of the state, ‘late Telosai Mele’ who hailed from the Mishmi community who spearheaded girl education in Lohit since NEFA time. She was a pioneer in encouraging girl child education during NEFA days in remote villages visiting door to door and pursuing parents to send their wards to school. As a teacher she was benevolent to students and caring in nature. Hence, a plethora of tributes were paid by various speakers during the first death anniversary of late Telosai Mele here at the Denning Keba B Ed. College. The speakers also appreciated her generosity for donating land for estab-
lishing the present Sunpura girl school. Tamiyo Tatak DC Lohit advised the girl students to follow in the footsteps of Telosai who inspired lots of tribal girls toward education and became a role model in the family and the Mishmi society. “The lady of such stature has to be given
best tribute”. The DC said. Dr. T Taloh Principal IGG College also lauded her exemplary service towards the community and advised the girls to emulate her principles. “She was enrolled to a school at Goshala Market in Sadiya. She continued her education until 1952
NCP backs Speaker incriminated in fraud, sexual assault case A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Nov 19
Refuting allegations of illicit sexual relationship against Speaker Nabam Rebia, an NCP release said, “A written complaint addressed to the Officer -in- Charge, Women Police Station, Itanagar and His Excellency Governor of Arunachal Pradesh by Tana Indra, daughter of Debia Richa claiming sexual relationship with Nabam Rebia and demanding legal action on 15th
November is ‘uncalled for’. This is totally political motivated to tarnish the image of Hon'ble Speaker Nabam Rebia”. The State Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) cited in this connection the example of an American political sex scandal that emerged in 1998, along the lines of sexual relationship between then 49-year-old President Bill Clinton and a 22-year-old White House employee, Monica Lewinsky. “Some Democratic members of Congress and most in the
opposition Republican Party of USA motivated Ms Monica Lewinsky to charge false allegations against the US President Bill Clinton with malicious intention to tarnish his image and topple him from the presidential post,” the party added. “Secondly, our former Chief Minister Gegong Apang and Ms Dipti Dolum centric sex scandal which appeared in the media in November 1992 Contd. on Page 3
at the Sadiya and later joined another one at Margherita with hostel facilities to pursue higher education. After completion of her teacher training, she joined her service as an assistant teacher in 1956 in Tezu and retired on 1st January' 1997”, emotionally recalled Maya Linggi the eldest daughter and presently an Additional Director Secretariat Lok Sabha New Delhi. Telosai was also recognized by the state government for her outstanding contribution, sincerity, dedication in her duties by awarding her the Best State Teacher Award in the year 1983, she read. On the occasion, four best meritorious Mishmi girl students were also felicitated and First class B. Ed prizes were conferred on Sailu Billai Principal VKV Tezu as a tribute to Telosai.
The district office bearers, presidents, secretaries and members right from district head to panchayat level were asked to put their act together, so that Bihar like situation is not repeated, said Dr Mahendra Singh, the national secretary in charge of Assam Pradesh-BJP party here today. Contd. on Page 4
Residents panicky due to steep in robbery incidents Rishu Kalantri Tinsukia, Nov 19
Vehicle lifters once again have targeted Tinsukia on Thursday and escaped with a motorcycle from Central Bank
Contd. on Page 4
Contd. on Page 3
to be attracted to a new vendor market that has recently come up in the town every Thursday. People from various places come here to sell commodities at the cheapest rates and it has started to influence the Golaghat market as well.
Endangered tortoise rescued Sushanta Roy Diphu, Nov 19
ET Correspondent Jorhat, Nov 19
Good news for High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) examinees as 2015 onwards, SEBA which always finds itself grabbing the headlines after the HSLC results are out due to errors on their part or due to unfinished work, the candidates can get their SEBA related work done here at Jorhat Regional Office which will start functioning from Friday, said SEBA secretary Kamal Jyoti Gogoi here today. The SEBA Secretary Mr Gogoi said, as all kinds of official works like correction, recheck, spell check for the candidates of Upper Assam districts like Karbi Anglong, Golaghat, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Charaideo, Contd. on Page 4
GNLA cadre surrenders before police ET Coorrespondent Shillong Nov 19
A high rank cadre of the proscribed Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) has surrendered on Thursday before the Meghalaya police. The surrendered cadre is identified as
3 suspected UPLA ultras nabbed Security force from Donkamokam police outpost of West Karbi Anglong district has claimed to have arrested three UPLA (United Peoples Liberation Army) cadres from different places of Donkamokam yesterday. In Charge officer of the outpost Hitesh Basumatery has assured that all the three arrested persons are involved in abduction, extortion and murder. The arrested have been identified as self styled area commander E M Inghi (27), Singson Bey (26) and Ramesh Bey (25).
Open Cast Mining is a great curse on the people residing near the colliery areas as a few days ago landslide has caused huge loss at Itakhola, Ledo Colliery Margherita with many families becoming homeless after their houses collapsed and still the landslide is occurring near Itakhola, Ledo Colliery unabated.
The School Chalo Abhiyan team of Adi Students’ Union (AdSU) which was flagged off by Minister Education Tapang Taloh during 4th November 2015 last has said to have reached Namang Siboh Village under Monigong Circle today, informed AdiSU from the village this evening. The School Chalo Abhiyan Team which is led by Nang Gao, Secretary Education as Chairman and Kalen Tadeng Secretary IPR along with others has written to DDSE cum DPO of SSA West Siang Zila Mission, West Siang District,
tration no. AS23K 7101) near ICICI Bank and when he returned from the bank at around 12:30 in the noon he found his motorcycle missing. Contd. on Page 4
ET Correspondent Diphu, Nov 19
Forest protection staff of Kheroni forest range rescued two endangered species of tortoise from poachers yesterday. According to reports, while conducting regular patrolling in Kalighat portion of the Kheroni forest range, the staff noticed suspicious movement of a country boat in the upstream of river Kopili. When challenged by the forest officials two suspected poachers jumped out of the boat and swam to the other bank of the river. When the abandoned boat was thoroughly searched the two endangered species of tortoise were recovered from the boat. Forest officials have informed that the tortoises will be released in its natural habitat soon.
SEBA office for Upper Assam districts to start functioning
Road, one of the busiest commercial areas in the centre of the town. According to police sources, one Rahul Deb had parked his black colour glamour motorcycle (bearing regis-
ET Correspondent Margherita, Nov 19
Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Nov 19
Android phones, there are barely any people without Internet connection. This has globalised the way people are making their purchases. The business community of Golaghat is apparently feeling the heat. Meanwhile, people of Golaghat are seen
Bijoy Handique Jorhat, Nov 19
Open Cast Mining induced landslides render people homeless
AdiSU’s School Chalo Abhiyan team reaches Mamang Siboh
3 injured seriously in bike-scooty collision Spl Correspondent Pasighat, Nov 19
5.00
It's Both Shocking And Shameful That 1.3 Million Children Don't Live Past The Age Of 5
Online shops, ‘Thursday’ market pose competition to business community ET Correspondent Golaghat, Nov 19
Price -
Rakirak G Momin alias Jarek and decided to come overground after disappointing the style of functioning of the outfit commander-in-chief Sohan D Shira. Contd. on Page 4
9th Dibrugarh Book Fair from Nov 20 A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 19
The ten-day 9th edition of Dibrugarh Book Fair will kick start from November 20 after formal inauguration by former Assam Sahitiya Sabha president Imran Shah at 10.30 am at Chowkidinghee playground ground. Dr Nagen Saikia will attend the programme as a distinguished guest, while Dr Alak Kumar Buragohain, Vice-Chancellor of Dibrugarh University, will release the souvenir. The book fair is being organized by Milanjyoti Sangha in collaboration with All Assam Publishers and Book Sellers’ Association. Other programmes during the 10-day event include interac-
tion with noted literary figures, poem recitation and workshops, cultural performances, on-the-spot competition, prize money quiz competition and multiple book releases. More than eighty leading book sellers and publishers have come here for participating in the book fair. In the evening an open discussion will be held at the book fair venue with eminent litterateurs of Assam Imran Shah among others in attendance, Nirud Dutta, one of the organizers said. Dutta said that this time they are expecting a huge crowd at the book fair venue during the ten day affair. Leading publishing houses and book sellers from Kolkata, New Delhi, Bangalore have participated in the earlier editions of the fair.
New goc of the gajraj corps reviews the security situation in lower assam Tapas Samaddar Rangia Nov 19
After assuming the command of General Officer Commanding Gajraj Corps, Lt Gen Devraj Anbu made his maiden visit to Rangiya based Red Horns Division on 18-19 Nov 15 to review the overall secu-
rity situation prevailing in Lower Assam and also to get a first hand feel of the ongoing operations against the terrorist groups. On his arrival at Rangiya, the General Officer was received by Maj Gen CP Mohanty, the General Officer Commanding of the Division. Contd. on Page 4
Road Ministry authorized to clear projects on its own up to Rs. 1k Cr New Delhi, Nov 19
The Cabinet authorized the road ministry to clear projects up to Rs 1,000 crore on its own, besides empowering it to take appropriate measures, including compensation to developers where delay is not because of them. Contd. on Page 10
BEING EMPOWERED TO CLEAR PROJECTS The Cabinet authorized the road ministry to clear projects up to Rs 1,000 crore on its own. It also approved increased budget allocation for the Munger railroad bridge over the Ganga.
The Cabinet also cleared bigticket rail projects relating to doubling and construction of new railway lines costing over Rs 8,000 crore. Aiming to enhance railway infrastructure, the Cabinet approved four rail line projects in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh at a cost of around Rs 8,351 crore.
The Centre also cleared enhanced cost estimate for construction of a rail-cum-road bridge over Ganga in Munger in Bihar with Rs 2,774 crore, reiterating its commitment for the development of the state. As per revised cost estimate, railways and road ministry will contribute Rs 1,247 crore and Rs 1,527 crore respectively.
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Raj Communications Near SBI bank Changlang
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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Telosai Mele prize for girls' academic excellence awarded Bishnu Rana Tezu, Nov 19:As a tribute to the first lady teacher of the state Lt. Telosai Mele, Denning Society on her first death anniversary today instituted a prize for the girls excelling academically in Lohit district. The prize was given away by the Deputy Commissioner, Lohit T. Tatak in a simple ceremony organized in the premise of Denning College for Teacher Education (B.Ed), Tezu to the APST girls excelling academically in the academic session of 2014-15 in class 10th & 12th. The single topper awarded for class 10 is Shabnam Tamai of VKV Sunpura; while Asula Ngadong of 12th commerce of GHSS Tezu, Diyalu Rangmang 12th Science, JNV Mahadevpur and Rajemsi Chiba 12th Humanity of GHSS Tezu
too received the prize for excelling in their respective class. The topper of the Denning College for
Chief Minister's Grant Loin Loom Scheme implemented Khonsa, Nov 19: The department of Textile and Handicrafts, Tirap District, Khonsa distributed Acylic yarn under the Chief Minister's Grant Loin Loom Scheme, 2013-14 on 16th November, 2015 to the deserving handloom beneficiaries (weavers) of Tirap District. Chawang Lowang, ZPC Tirap was the Chief Guest and Smti Sontung Lowang Bangsia, ZPM Khela-Lamsa block was the guest of honour of the programme. While addressing the beneficiaries the chief guest and guest of honour informed the importance of the scheme and advised to avail such opportunities to the maximum for their self sustenance rather than look-
ing for government jobs. Both the guests also on several government schemes which would benefit them. The Asst Director, Textile & Handicrafts, Khonsa, Smti Chanyok Rajkumari on her keynote address informed the weavers regarding the scheme and encouraged them to come forward with assorted traditional based handloom products for promotion of handloom sector in Tirap District. The weavers appreciated the chief minister Nabam Tuki for introducing the hugely beneficial scheme which will not only augment their source of income but will also encourage more local weavers to take up weaving seriously. (DIPRO)
Anonymous publishes ISIS recruiters' names, addresses London, Nov. 19: Hacker group Anonymous that had declared a war on the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has published details of alleged ISIS recruiters and took at least 5,500 Twitter accounts down. The masked hacking group declared war against the Islamic State in the wake of the Paris attacks, vowing to silence extremist propaganda and expose undercover
`Heroic` police dog killed during Paris raid
operatives. Now it has leaked details of at least five men it claims are recruiters for ISIS. Anonymous activists also claimed to have identified a "high-ranking" recruiter living in Europe, but have not yet published an address. Anonymous is now compiling a massive list of Twitter accounts and web pages ahead of a large cyber-assault due to take place later this evening. (ANI)
Teacher Education (B.Ed) Sailu Bellai also received the prize. While giving away the prizes to the
tional director, Lok Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi recalled the life and times of her mother. Former colleague of late teacher, RK Tiwari and former student Hage Bibijan too spoke on the occasion among the many speakers paying tribute to the departed teacher on her first death anniversary. Earlier, secretary of Denning Society, Badang Tayang welcomed the guests for sparing their valuable time to attend the simple ceremony. Other prominent personalities attending the programme included spouse of the local MLA, Sujan Kriskro, principal, IGGC, Tezu, T Taloh, Ex-minister, Nakul Chai, Zilla Chairperon, Lower Dibang Valley district, Sippi Linggi, Head of Departments, President, BJP eastern zone, Sotai Kri, family members, well wishers and others.
Youth arrested with pistol
ET Correspondent Teok, Nov 19: One youth was arrested at Teok-Sonari gaon Tini Ali in possession of an
USA made pistol and five bullets following a confidential joint operation by Teok and Lahdoigarh Police offi-
cials today evening. The arrested youth was identified as Bir Kumar Pegu (35), an inhabitant of Dhakuwakhana under Lakhimpur town. According to sources, the accused youth was coming from Sibsagar to Jorhat driving a new number plate-less Hero Honda glamour red in colour motor bike when police apprehended him. Police suspect that the youth could be a member of a car-lifter gang. Teok and Lahdoigarh Police officials are presently investigating into the matter.
Tributes paid to Bihagi Kabi Raghunath Choudhary Ramen Kalita Nalbari, Nov 19: Rich tributes were paid to the Bihagi Kabi Raghunath Choudhary on his death anniversary in a function centrally organized by Asam Sahitya Sabha in association with the Nalbari Zilla Sahitya Sabha and Raghunath Choudhary Sakha Sahitya Sabha at Laupara village in Nalbari district, the birthplace of the poet on No-
vember 17 and 18. The two day programme was started with the flag hoisting of the Asom Sahitya Sabha by Harmohal Kalita, president of Sakha Sahitya Sabha on November 17. The second day programme was started with a poets' meet at 11 am where more than 50 poets read out self composed poems. The tributes paying meet was presided over by Kanak Ch
Sarma Vice president of Assam Sahitya Sabha. Addressing the meeting as guests Dr Basanta Kumar Bhattacharya, former president of Nalbari Zilla Sahitya Sabha, Dr Lilabati Saikia Bora, and noted literature discussed the life and contribution of Bihagi Kabi Raghunath Choudhary. The souvenir brought out on the occasion was released by Dr Parag Kumar Bhattacharya.
List of hospitals in Dibrugarh with contact details & phone numbers, Assam Aditya Diagnostics & Hospitals Bordoloi Avenue, Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2302219, 2302225
G M Hospital AMC Road, Jalan Nagar Dibrugarh - 786 005
Brahmaputra Diagnostics & Hospital Near Indian AirLines City Office Paltan Bazar Dibrugarh - 786 005
Washington D.C., Nov. 19: A 7-year-old police dog was killed during a raid on the terrorist cell linked to horrific Paris attacks. Diesel, the Belgian Shepherd, had been sent into an apartment in the suburbs of Paris to sniff out booby traps where the raid took place. Reportedly he was killed by a suicide bomber. It did not take much time for the news of the heroic dog to spread on the social media. During the heartbreaking incident, five other officers were also injured. (ANI)
awardees included memento, certificate of merit and a cash prize, deputy commissioner, T. Tatak appreciated the gesture of the Denning Society and the family members in their effort to pay tribute to first lady teacher by encouraging girls to excel in their education. Deputy Commissioner opined that the first lady teacher is a pride not only for the district but for the state as a whole. He also assured on the occasion that the district administration is willing to extend its whole hearted support in the endeavour. He also emphasised on the importance of renaming the important landmarks within the township after the names of inspiring personalities of the district. The eldest daughter of the late teacher, Maya Linggi, currently serving as addi-
Shrishti Hospital & Research Centre Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2300024, 2302099
Archana Trauma & Orthopaedics Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2302100, 2302099
Assam Medical College
Marwari Arogya Bhawan Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2302872, 2302051
Aastha Hospital Graham Bazar, A.T. Road Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2322547
Sanjivani Diagnostic & Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2303448, 2303458, 2301904
Sankardev Hospital Mancotta Road, Chowkidinghee Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2327717, 2327715, 2326960
Jalan Nagar, Dibrugarh - 786 002 List of Phones numbers: Emergency Room : 0373 - 2300627 Labour Room: 0373 - 2300022 Drug Deaddiction Centre: 0373 - 2302952 Community Medicine: 0373 - 2302994 RIA Centre: 0373 - 2302093
Dr. Pawan Bajaj's Skin Clinic Paltan Bazar, Opposite Aditya Hospital Dibrugarh
Dr Damani's Nursing Home Near Circuit House, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2300928, 2302873
BJP MP Kamakhya prasad Tasa addresing a meeting at Sivasagar on Thursday . Pic-Neelam kakoty Mazumdar
ASTRO FOR YOU Are you a science and technology geek? Well, today you may have a chance to use your knowledge and zoom ahead of everyone. Students will excel in their studies. Housewives, try your own new recipe, the oven will not blast! You will not lose your cool today despite the overwhelming odds. Rationale and reason will be the rhyme of your attitude as you diagnose the problems and uproot them successfully. Success beckons and you are ready to reach out and grab it by hook or by crook. Guard your reputation as your ethics might come under the scanner. If you are embroiled in a legal dispute, an out-of-court settlement is likely. You are a courageous person and you’ll need a lot of it today. Don’t back down from your decisions. You may have to be stern with a few people. Your resilience will pay off. It is high time you paid attention to your family. You have been so lost in work and in making money that you have almost forgotten the very people you have been slogging for. Your spouse has been trying hard to improve the relationship. It is time you respond to your partner’s needs. A moment once lost is not going to come back. So, it’s about time you realised the value of time, because time is money. On this day, set everything to a schedule and figure out your tasks right down to the brass tacks. Personal organisers are a good bet, but if you are old school, then maybe you would rather prefer a diary and a calendar. Either of the options work just fine Give people a word of encouragement and motivate them to achieve bigger things. Don the thinker’s cap and you may find yourself in contemplation. Criticism will hurt you, but be as unflappable as you can and proceed to your target. Your friend who is very influential will be lucky for you. You will be able to start a new joint venture business without any obstacles. Your efficiency and hard work will be appreciated. You may face the music from bosses today. Your colleagues too may not warm up to you and offer half-hearted support. Novices knocking on the doors of career may look forward to belated success in interviews and final selection. Benevolence will be your middle name today. Being frank and open-minded will have its own advantages. You might just give your life partner a patient ear. This will make them feel treated well. After running about helter-skelter for getting your work done, you will sit back and spend the day planning the course of future action. Sudden and unexpected profits are on the cards, but you will need to be mindful of how best you utilise it. You can expect a few good opportunities to knock at the door, but open the door before they turn to look for shelter elsewhere. You may find your schedules running haywire today! Your workload may be daunting, especially if you’re an administrator. However, your diligence and commitment will tide you through. And you are still ready to party in the evening. It is important to plan your finances in life, and you will devote your energies towards the same today. You might turn stingy with your money all of a sudden. An unexpected illness in the family will leave you worried. But it is likely to be a crisis which will blow over soon. Do not let it stress you out.
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
20-11-15 (FRIDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti 6-15 A.M-Gandhi Prarthana 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan (Students' Broadcast) 6-50 A.M-Zikir 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- A Curtain Raiser Perogramme on Dibrugarh Book Fair organized by Milanjyoti Sangha 12-05 P.M-Live Phone-In Surar Satsori 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishimi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Chah-Shramikar Aasor (Tea-Garden Programme) 8-00 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Brahmaputra Swasthya Sewa" (Sponsored by Brahmaputra Diagnostics and Hospitals Pvt. Ltd.) 9-30 P.M-North East Collage 10-15 P.M-Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P
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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Indira Gandhi’s 98th birth anniversary observed ET Bureau Itanagar, Nov 19: Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) celebrated the 98th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi as ‘National Integration Day’ today at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Itanagar. Floral tributes were paid to the portrait of Indira Gandhi by the PCC office bearers, frontal organisations, councillors of IMC,
DCCs/CCC/BCCs and party workers on the occasion. TC Tok, vicepresident APCC recalling
the services rendered by Indira Gandhi to the nation said that the former Prime Minister never ran
away from challenges. Meanwhile, Rajen Nani, general secretary APCC in his speech said that Indira Gandhi was a great personality, a champion of secular ideals. Tadar Yedir, vicepresident APCC also highlighted the life history of Indira Gandhi in her brief speech and said that she was very daring and decisive who stood for national peach and harmony.
Arunachal Governor urges reinforcement of the spirit of communal harmony, national integration ET Bureau Itanagar, Nov 19: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa today conveyed his warm greetings to the people of the State on the occasion of ‘Qaumi Ekta Week’. The Governor expressed his hope that the week-long celebration launched all over India by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, will highlight the inherent
strength and resilience of the Nation to withstand actual and potential threats to the eclectic and secular fabric of the country and nurture a spirit of communal harmony in its larger sense. He also believes that the occasion will provide an opportunity to the people of the State to reaffirm age old traditions and faith in the values of tolerance, co-existence and
brotherhood in a multicultural and multi-religious society. The Governor has appealed to the people of the State to foster and reinforce the spirit of communal harmony, national integration and take pride in vibrant, composite culture and nationhood. Against the backdrop of recent terrorist attacks in Paris, the Governor advised the
Government Offices and other organisations to celebrate the week-long programme in a befitting manner so that the message of communal harmony and national integration reaches to every part of the State and society and all kinds of violence and acts of terrorism are fought unitedly for maintaining peace and communal harmony.
Local MLA visits fire victims Roing, Nov 19:Gum Tayeng, Parliamentary Secretary for WRD and local MLA of 42Dambuk Assembly Constituency met with the family members of fire victims at Jia-I Village wherein three houses were completely burnt down by fire on November 12 last. She interacted with the family members of the fire victims and provided some cash as financial assistance and 30 pieces of CGI sheets to each family as aid for reconstruction of their houses. While visiting the sites, she advised the villagers to
Aalo seeking concern office’s interference in providing proper school uniforms and ration for Giching Residential School. In the letter to the concern officer, AdiSU has raised their observa-
Meeting held to conduct Job Mela at Namsai Laxman Sharma Namsai, Nov 19: The first ever meeting with the PRI members in connection with conduct of Job Mela cum Skill Development Awareness and Trainee Selection Rally was held under the chairmanship of RK Sharma, the Deputy Commissioner Namsai at the premises of DC office. The aim of the meeting was to sensitize the PRI members about the Chief Minister Flagship Programme on creation of skill and to cre-
ate job opportunities among the unemployed youth of the district which would help maximise participation from every corner of the District. Talking to The Eastern Today, Mr Sharma said that the job mela is slated to be held on 18th December where 18 different commercial organisations are expected to participate and the target set for selection among the participants is kept at five hundred and sixty seven. Meanwhile, BR Dey,
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maintain some minimum distance between the houses and also to plant fruit trees in the vicinity. She was ac-
companied by Abu Saring, General Secretary of ABK district unit, Tibul Tayeng, Anchal Chairperson of 3-
Meka Anchal Block, Oimang Modi, ASM of JiaIand Mamin Pertin, ASM of Jia-III. (DIPRO)
tions like the school uniforms provided to students are far below the standard, unfit and most of the school hasn’t received it yet though the academic session is about to end. The Giching Residential School in the same area has been closed
down due to shortages of ration, informed Gao. The team AdiSU has also found such school uniform problems in Namsai areas too after which they informed the concern officer there through a letter for immediate correction. As a
part of their School Chalo Abhiyan, AdiSU is extensively touring in every Adi inhabited schools of the state to know the problem faced by the students so that a corrective appeal could be made before the state government.
was actually a strong dissident movement within the Congress MLAs to topple Gegong Apang then. Finding no other way, the dissident group used and motivated Ms Dipti Dolum/ Boko Police officer as last resort to topple Gegong Apang led Govt. She had written a written complaint to then Prime Minister PV
Narasimha Rao for action, at the behest of dissident MLAs. The opposition party's attempt to topple Bill Clinton and Gegong Apang were a total failure. Opposition party should know this fact and avoid such mischievous politics.” The release said. Condemning the allegations, State Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Gicho Kabak said, “This is nothing but character assassina-
ments. Earlier, Tirap ZPC Chawang Lowang inaugurated a mega free surgical camp at the district hospital, Khonsa amidst a large gathering on 16th November conducted by the Vivekananda Kendra Arunjyoti in collaboration with the Tirap district administration and District Health Society, Khonsa. In his inaugural address Lowang while appreciating the organizers of the muchneeded free surgical medical camp, said that it would immensely benefit the people of the district, espe-
cially the poor villagers who had never been exposed to specialized treatment and who could not afford to go outside the district for treatment. While welcoming the Surgeons coming from the USA and Maharashtra the chief guest assured all possible help and assistance from his side. He later donated 40 blankets for use during the camp and in the district hospital. ADC N. Wangsu who was the guest of honour in his address while describing the camp as the first of its kind in the dis-
trict said that the district hospital, Khonsa was not well-equipped in terms of required infrastructures and OT facilities and thanked the Surgeons coming from India and abroad to conduct the free medical camp. While blessing the participants of the medical camp, Revered Sivatmaprana Mataji from RK Sarada Mission School, Khonsa lauded the initiative of Vivekananda Kendra and hoped that the camp would serve the poor and the needy. She spoke glowingly about Swami Vivekananda and described Swamiji as a patriot saint whose heart bled for India and wanted to see India make progress in all fields. Participating in the deliberation the joint general secretary of Vivekananda Kendra, Kannyakumari Pravin Davokar highlighted the various philanthropic and humanitarian services rendered by the Kendra all over the country including
tion. They also encouraged her to submit memorandum to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh. Their attempt will be a futile one. Opposition party should refrain from such nefarious political activities in the state.” State NCP urged the police department to investigate into the case to dig out the truth. The State NCP also suggested both parties to mutually resolve the matter at the personal level.
3 injured seriously in bike-scooty collision Contd. from Page 1
According to OC Incharge Pasighat PS SI ABS Ahmed, three persons namely Onyok Pangkang, c/o one Anand Libang around 25 years of age sustained the most serious injury and has been shifted to Dibrugarh. While one Angkit Nokar, s/o Angku Nokar from GTC Tebo and Mrs Robita Danggen, w/o
Dipu Danggen of Saw Mill area have been admitted at General Hospital Pasighat. The fourth one Binto Lendo, s/o Dobin Lendo from Zero Point Adi Basti, Itanagar sustained minor injury, informed SI Ahmed. A case has been registered under Pasighat PS Case No. 200/15 U/S 279?337/ 338 IPC. While talking to this correspondent about the accident, SI Ahmed said that the case is now
Free surgery medical camp concludes : 47 operated upon Khonsa, Nov 19: Altogether 47 patients suffering from various diseases were operated upon by the renowned surgeons from the USA and Maharashtra during the free medical camp held at District Hospital, Khonsa from 16th to 19th November. Major operations 14 Nos includes : cholecystectomy / appendicectomy/ ovarian cyst cystectomy / breast abscess drainage under SA/ herniotomy/hydrocele/ sinus abscess drainage/ rectal polyp polypectomy and minor operations 33 Nos includes Dermoid cyst excision/ granuloma/ lipoma/ baker's cyst excision/ ganglion / lump / cystic swelling carried out successfully. The people of Tirap district have appreciated the District Administration, Vivekananda Arun Jyoti and District Health Society for conducting the camp. On 18th November Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha visited the district hospital to oversee the arrange-
the ADI Namsai highlighted the main objective of organizing such a Mela in the District and asked the PRI members to ensure maximum participation from all sections of the society. The PRI members also welcomed the innovative gesture which would directly benefit the youth of the society. RK Sharma, the Deputy Commissioner Namsai while addressing the house in his speech urged the panchayat members to ensure huge partici-
NCP backs Speaker incriminated in fraud, sexual assault case
AdiSU’s School Chalo Abhiyan team reaches Mamang Siboh Contd. from Page 1
Singer Zublee performing during Zubeen Garg Festival at Guwahati. Pic - UB Photos
Arunachal Pradesh. He said that the self-less workers of the Vivekananda Kendra were deeply motivated by the clarion call of Swami Vivekananda who said, "Service to the suffering humanity is service to God." Davokar in the course of his deliberation dwelt at length on the activities of the Vivekanada Kendra in the state of Arunachal Pradesh. Mataji and other invitees lit a symbolic lamp at the portrait of Swami Vivekanda amidst chanting of vedic prayer and Nocte prayer song. Earlier, in her welcome address DMO Dr. N. Lowang while extending her thanks to the distinguished guests and the Surgeons said that the free medical camp was a God-send opportunity for the people of the district and thanked Minister Tirong Aboh and Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha for their constant guidance and support for the success of the camp. She was full of praise for Vivekananda Kendra
Arunjyoti for identifying Tirap district for the free medical camp. The DMO also threw light on the present status, scopes and challenges of the lone district hospital, Khonsa adding that the hospital left a lot to be desired in terms of facilities and posting of staff, especially Specialists. She further urged the organizers to extend the camp if necessary in the interest of the patients. The medical camp is slated to conclude on the 20th November. Some Nurses from Assam are also participating in the camp to assist the Surgeons. The medicines for free distribution to the needy patients are being donated by the Numaligargh Refinery, Assam and the mementoes presented to the dignitaries were donated by Jalin Hakhun, General secretary, Bazaar Welfare Committee, Khonsa and N. Tangjang, DLEO. The inaugural function was attended by KhelaLamsa ZPM Sontung Lowang Bangsia, HoDs and medical staff. (DIPRO)
under investigation and the wrongdoers will be known after thorough enquiry. However, it is worth mentioning here that Pasighat has been witnessing a huge number of bike accident cases in recent times but after the construction of speed breakers along NH52’s major accident prone areas, hopes and expectations were high among Pasighatians that such accident cases will reduce.
pation so that the unemployed youth and the school dropouts can be skilled in different trades and are able to earn their livelihood. He also thanked all the Admin Officers and PRI members for their active participation in the programme and asked them to extend all possible help to make the Job Mela a grand success. The meeting ended with vote of thanks from ADI, Namsai followed by light refreshment.
Surprise raids at hotels, restaurants Aalo, Nov19: Surprise raid was carried out at Hotels and Restaurants in Aalo Township yesterday lead by Liyi Bagra, EAC Town Magistrate with the officials of District Civil Supply Department. The EAC and its team seized more than 30 domestic use Gas Cylinders. Defaulters were booked under appropriate section of law for black marketing of Gas cylinders and use of domestic gas cylinders in their hotels and restaurants for business purposes. More such raids will be conducted in the coming days. DIPRO
Approach road inaugurated at Maibang
ET Correspondent Maibang, Nov 19: NC Hills Autonomous Council Chairman Subrata Thaosen inaugurated the newly constructed Block approach road at Maibang under Indira Gandhi Adarsha Gramin Poki Path on Thursday. The project was implemented by Diyung
Valley Development Block, Maibang which is a part of CM’s Dream Project under MGNRGES for 2014-15. The programme was attended by the Block Development Officer Projit Naiding, Govt. officials, GB of Maibang area and by numerous local people.
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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
20-year-old girl mysteriously burns herself to death ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Nov 19: Mysterious death of a twenty year old girl has evoked sensation in Lakhimpur District. The girl was reported to have committed suicide by burning herself in the midst of a paddy field at Lilabari in the district which was almost fifteen kilometers away from her home. The deceased was identified as Dharitree Bhuyan, the elder daughter of Mantu Bhuyan, a permanent resident of the village of Maibelia of Azad Garehaga area nearest to North Lakhimpur town. Inci-
dentally, she was untraced ever since she had gone out from her house at 11 am on November 17 although her family searched for her in every nook and cranny of the area. Unfortunately, Lilabari Police, yesterday morning, informed her family that she had committed suicide by setting herself on fire. Police source said that the Lilabari Police was informed in the evening on that day that a girl had committed suicide in the midst of the paddy fields of Junu Bosti under Lilabari Police Outpost. Police recovered a mo-
bile handset without SIM card and informed the matter to the family of the girl after dialing one of the two mobile numbers found in the phone memory. The family members recognized her yesterday morning. According to eyewitnesses, the girl went down to the paddy field after she had walked along the railway line while talking with someone on mobile phone and after a while the girl was on fire. Arriving at the spot, they saw the girl fighting for her life with burn injuries. The matter was then informed to the con-
cerned Gaon Bura who later informed it to the police. Police recovered a match box, a plastic container of Kerosene oil along with the mobile hand set. Meanwhile, a case has been lodged at the Lakhimpur Police Station by the family of the deceased. Lakhimpur SP Brojenjit Singha while contacted, told this correspondent, “We have registered the case. Enquiry is going on; we have to verify the available evidences we have found. Hope the truth will come out very soon”.
A woman feeds a cow on the occasion of Gopa Astomi Mohutsav at Sri Gopal Gousala in Dibrugarh. Pic - UB Photos
Tarun Gogoi likely to attend Bihar CM’s swearing-in ceremony A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 19: In a new political development, Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar has started lending the backing of the Janata Dal (United) to Congress' efforts to prop up another larger anti-BJP alliance in the Assam assembly polls by roping in All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) leader Badruddin Ajmal.
Kumar personally telephoned Ajmal to invite him to attend Friday's swearing-in-ceremony in Patna, after which he is expected to broach the Assam alliance issue with him, JD(U) sources said. Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi will also attend the ceremony, sources said. While Kumar has been sending his party colleagues to invite many Opposition lead-
ers and NDA for the Patna function, he has made it a point to personally call up Ajmal even though the latter is a relatively smaller player. JD (U) general secretary KC Tyagi said, "Nitishji has personally telephoned Badruddin Ajmalji and invited him to attend the oath-taking function and Ajmalji has accepted it. The JD(U) feels even if it is not a
Open Cast Mining induced landslides render people homeless
major political force in Assam, it could play a buffer between Congress and AIUDF in Assam similar to the role Congress played between RJD and JD(U) in Bihar, by tapping its reachcontacts among the significant Bihari migrant population in the state. AIUDF President Badruddin Ajmal had termed the Bihar election results as "victory of secularism and
A landslide victim says with much despondency adding that NE Private Coal Mining which is exploring coals through Open Cast Mining at Ledo Colliery has brought about this risk. “We have been residing
New goc of the gajraj corps reviews the security situation in lower assam Contd. from Page 1
He was given a detailed briefing on the ongoing Counter Insurgency/ Counter Terrorism operations in Lower Assam, with a specific update on the current operations being undertaken against NDFB (S) post the 23 December 2014 violence. The General Officer expressed his satisfaction on the progress of operations and also appreciated the efforts made by the formation to counter the rapidly changing situation in the region. General Officer Commanding Gajraj Corps was happy with the population friendly approach and empathy displayed by the Army in conduct of the operations.
at Itakhola, Ledo for more than 50 years but today Coal India Limited is saying that the land belongs to them,” said the landslide victim on condition of anonymity. “We have got little relief as Coal India Limited, Margherita has given us shelter but for a few days
only and after that we will become homeless,” he further said. More than 15 houses have been totally destroyed due to landslide, as per sources. When this correspondent contacted Jayanto Das, agent cum manager of Tirap Colliery, he was not available for comment.
A case has been registered, added police sources and said the owner of the motorcycle is H.B. Chetry, a resident of Dibrugarh. It may be mentioned that three days back one Bolero pickup was stolen from outside the residence of the owner. The vehicle, with GPS system was last located at
Nagaland but till date Tinsukia police is clueless about the whereabouts of the motorcycles and the person involved. Sources told The Eastern Today correspondent that inter-state vehicle lifter gang has once again become very active in Upper Assam. The steep rise in theft cases in Tinsukia town has left the residents in a state of panic. According to a report almost every alter-
nate cases of robbery is taking place in Tinsukia. Robbers are striking at their will and are looting whatever they get right from laptop to household goods, jewellery to two-wheelers and four wheelers. In a shocking case robbers took away a hand pump installed in the garden after they broke open the locks of a residential house at State Bank Colony, a residential area in the evening time.
Contd. from Page 1
Dr Mahendra Singh, who was on a whirlwind tour to Assam, attended two meetings at Jorhat, Sivasagar and discussed all about the party arrangement for its BJP-National President Amit Saha’s impending visit at Dibrugarh. The district BJP has kept no town untouched for its meeting at Dibrugarh and from every district at least 20,000 are to attend including minority from every district, informed Parveez Mehdi, president of Jorhat district minority morcha here today.
Meanwhile, speculations have been doing the rounds over more AGP/Congress MLA’s joining the BJP owing to a serious rift between old faces and new faces of AGP and Congress. Such issues have demoralized many seasoned party workers and it will be a serious topic during the National BPJ president’s upcoming visit at Dibrugarh, said BJP insiders here today. Party workers at the grassroots to the top level are apprehensive about the seat sharing issue as newcomers from other parties have destabilized the entire scenario, said party insiders here.
SEBA office for Upper Assam districts to start functioning Contd. from Page 1 Hojai and Lakhimpur etc can be done here at Jorhat SEBA Regional Office. The Assam Education Minister, Mr Sarat Borkotoky is to officially inaugurate the second SEBA office in the state at the premises of the Jorhat Inspector
of Schools here on Friday. Teachers, parents, guardians and students from Upper Assam districts need not go to Guwahati now which used to be a big problem for the candidates to go for any correction to be done in a stipulated time as often required by educational institutes outside the state of Assam, informed Kamal Jyoti Gogoi.
NPP demands making Nazareth Hospital staff form workers’ union Mookhep firing report public
ET Correspondent Shillong, Nov 19: The staff of privately owned Nazareth Hospital Shillong today formed a workers’ union – Nazareth Hospital Workers Union (NHWU), at a function held at Bethany Society Complex, Shillong. Newly appointed NHWU President Mr. Kenneth Swer said that it is the first union in the state of Meghalaya that is a workers’ union in a private hospital. He said they had inquired from many legal experts on the criteria before forming the union, and finally on 16th November 2015 had re-
ceived the certificate of registration of trade union from the Labour Department. He informed that there are currently 140 members of the Union including three invitee members from Thma U Rangli (TUR), besides ex-staff of the Nazareth hospital and former Post Master General of North East. Earlier, NHWU general secretary Mr. Silverter Langrai said that the main objective of the union is to organize the workers at the hospital and coordinate their activities in order to maintain unity and corporation among the members and to remove all
the grievances faced by the workers engaged in various departments of the hospital and to protect them from exploitation by the management. He said that the union will also fight for better facilities and work condition, better living conditions, to secure livable wage for all the members. Meanwhile, TUR member Mr. Ronnie Lyndem urged on the other staff of the hospital like contractual staffs, casual workers, nurses and others who are working at the hospital to join hands with them in order to strive forward with unity.
Northeast region exGNLA cadre surservicemen ‘Job Mela’ renders before police
Tapas Samaddar Rangia, Nov 19: Narangi based headquarters’ 51 Sub Area is organizing a Job Mela under the aegis of Directorate General of Resettlement Army Headquarters for the ex-servicemen of the seven North Eastern states and Sikkim, at the Army Public School Narangi Cantt on 22 November 2015 starting at 9 am. This is for the first time that such an initiative on such a massive scale is being undertaken in the region to benefit the veterans of the Defence Forces by means of getting a large number of corporate houses at one place to look for their potential work force. This initiative will give the veterans a unique opportu-
forces. The people of this country have never and will not ever olerate the politics of divide and hatred," he added. In Assam too, the people realised that the BJP had made false promises and would give them a befitting reply in the forthcoming 2016 Assembly polls in the state, which was a land of many tribes and communties and where there was no place for politics of divide, Ajmal claimed.
Residents panicky due to steep in robbery incidents Contd. from Page 1
Contd. from Page 1
defeat of communal and divisive forces". "The results clearly prove that the BJP is a communal party and the people of the country have now realised its true character," Ajmal had said in a statement. He congratulated the Nitish Kumar-led grand alliance for defeating the BJP and wished them success in their next term in office. "This is the victory of secularism and defeat of communal and divisive
BJP office bearers asked to get their act together for 2016 Assembly poll: Dr Mahendra Singh
nity to showcase their skills and get on to the job which suits them. The corporate houses are also eagerly looking forward to this event as it will give them a chance to look at and recruit people suitable to their requirements. It will be a win-win situation for both, an official who is in the know said. The corporate houses joining this venture are from diverse fields like hospitality industry, telecom sector, industrial and business security, hospitals etc. This is a unique opportunity for the ex-servicemen of the North Eastern region and they should make the maximum use of this, the official added.
Contd. from Page 1
Rakirak who is the Deputy Area Commander of Tura area, West Garo Hills district surrendered without arms before Tura police, Inspector General of Police (Operation) GHP Raju said on Thursday. Rikrak joined GNLA in 2013 and belong to the 4th batch. He had undergone training in Adugre general camp. After training he was made part of Baichung command for Tura area. “He disclosed to police that he got dis-
illusioned with Sohan D Shira and his leadership. He accused Sohan of making GNLA his personal business for his own benefit and for the benefit of his relatives. He blamed Sohan D Shira for failure of Achik movement,” Raju said. Rikirak told police that he would preferred to sit in jail than starving in the jungles with GNLA under Sohan, said Raju. According to police, Rikirak accused Sohan of favouring other cadres of GNLA from his own clan.
ET Correspondent Shillong, Nov 19: The National People’s Party (NPP) had demanded that both the Magisterial enquiry reports set up to look into the Mookhep firing incident in Jaintia Hills that took place in September last year be immediately made public. In a statement issued here on Thursday, the NPP spokesperson James K Sangma said that the fact that so much delay
has already taken place would indicate a move to cover up the entire episode. The NPP also questioned the validity of the reasons for not making the first Magisterial Enquiry Report public. The NPP demanded that the first Enquiry Report carried out by SS Syiemlieh be tabled in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly however the Congress Government chose not do so. Instead it went
ahead and constituted another probe to enquire into this unfortunate incident thereby further delaying the entire process. According to NPP, justice delayed is justice denied and in this case, justice has been denied to the families of the two victims who lost their lives on the 24th of September last year and the numerous others who were grievously injured in the police firing. “It is in-
deed very sad that Dr. Mukul Sangma, the absentee Chief Minister of Meghalaya chose to spend more time outside Meghalaya rather than ensuring speedy conclusion to the enquiry of such an unfortunate incident. The NPP condemns the callous and indifferent attitude of the present Congress Government towards the people of Jaintia Hills”, Sangma said.
MCCL employees call off strike ET Correspondent Shillong, Nov 19: Employees of the Meghalaya Cherra Cement Limited (MCCL) have called off their proposed strike after the authority had consented to their demand to release some amount of money for the staff as immediate relief to bail them out of a tight situation. Around 500 staff had not received salary for the last 10 months. The meeting today under the
MCCL Employees Union (MCCLEU) took a decision to call off the strike after the management had agreed to release Rs. 15,000 for each staff while the pending salaries will be taken up by the management with the state government for release of full salary. “We have called off the strike after the management had agreed to release some amount of money. We have demanded Rs.20,000 each staff but the
management had told us to release Rs. 15,000”, said MCCLEU President S Wahlang here on Thursday. Earlier, MCCLEU delegation had met with the Managing Director Mr. Sanjay Goyal urging upon him to release the pending salary of 10 months till date. The non-release of salary had badly affected the 500 employees of the MCCL in terms of looking after their families’ needs and require-
ments. According to Mr Wahlang, the MD informed them that the problem of the government to release salary to the employees is due to non-availability of fund as the factory had stopped functioning almost a year now and that there is no production. The factory will be functioning again after the completion of mechanical installation for the new plant which is going on till now.
SIT nabs notorious criminal Sachin Sehrawat Sonepat, Nov 19: A Special Investigating Team (SIT) of Rohtak police range led by ASI Sikander today arrested the notorious criminal Rajinder of Saiyan Khera village and seized five pistols, one doga gun and 46 live cartridges from his possession. Disclosing this to media persons here today,
SP Abhishek Garg said that Rajinder was a dismissed constable from the CRPF in 1998 and was alleged to be involved in a number of criminal cases including murder, attempt to murder and loot etc. During preliminary investigation, SP said, Rajinder confessed that he was on bail and had brought these illegal arms and am-
munition from Muradabad in Uttar Pradesh for supplying to others. SP said the team was on patrolling today near Saiyan Khera village in the district when it noticed a person carrying a steel box was moving under suspicious circumstances. When the team opened the box, it found the illegal arms and ammunition in the box,
SP added. Rajinder was taken into custody and a case under different sections of IPC and Arms act have been registered against him at Gannaur police station, SP said and added that Rajinder would be taken in police custody after producing him in the court tomorrow for further investigation in the case.
Calcutta HC cancels Madan Mitra's bail Kolkata, Nov 19: The Calcutta High Court on Thursday allowed CBI's plea for cancellation of bail of Saradha chit fund scam accused and senior Trinamool Congress leader Madan Mitra. The division bench of Justice Nishita Mhatre and Justice Tapas Mukherjee also asked Mitra to surrender before a lower court immediately in compliance of the order. The development came a day after Mitra quit as West Bengal transport and sports minister, apparently to blunt the Central Bureau of Investigation's argument that his continuation in the cabinet was a proof of his immense influence despite being indicted and jailed in the multi-
crore-rupee scam. Mitra was granted bail by a lower court on October 31, nearly 11 months after his arrest on December 12 last year. The CBI subsequently moved the high court seeking cancellation of the bail. Following the CBI's move against the bail, the high court subsequently ordered that Mitra be kept under house confinement till the disposal of the matter. (Agencies)
Children fall sick after consuming Chhath Puja Prasad
Bhagalpur, Nov. 19: Around 80 children have fallen sick after eating the Chhath Puja prasadin Jagdishpur area of Bihar's Bhagalpur district. At least 10 kids are said to
be critical. 40 children were sent to a government hospital and they were discharged after basic treatment. The rest of the children are still undergoing treatment. (ANI)
MNF accuses Cong govt of not interested in power generation Aizawl, Nov 19:A Mizo National Front (MNF) MLA today accused theCongress government of not interested in generating more electricity in the state. Talking to journalists MNF legislator Lalruatkima said that the Congress government led by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla did not start any power project during its sevenyear rule since 2008."The present government signed nine memoranda of understanding (MoU) with five companies since 2008 for construction of nine hydro electric projects on build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) system," Lalruatkiuma said.
The MoUs setipulated that works of the hydro electric projects were to be commenced from 18 months of signing the MoU and to be completed within seven years, he said. He said that no work had begun till date and no environment clearances were obtained for any of the proposed projects. The government was interested only in signing MoUs but not in implementation of power projects, he said. He said that construction of dams for hydro power projects on BOOT system would not benefit the people of Mizoram but would be disastrous for the environment of the state. (Agencies)
Two dead, three injured as wall collapses
West Midnapore, Nov. 19: At least two persons were killed and three others seriously injured after a wall collapsed in West Bengal's West
Midnapore district. The three injured are presently being treated at a government hospital. The exact cause of the wall collapse is not yet known.
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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
US-India educational partnership at zenith: US envoy official Posner Agartala, Nov.19: The present educational partnership between the US and India is all time best claimed a senior official of the Kolkata based US Consulate General office. Speaking to reporters during a media interaction here Andrew Posner, Public Affairs Officer and spokesperson for US Consulate General in Kolkata said, "US-India education partnership has never been better and I think that the numbers will really support this. In 2013-2014 school year 102673 students (of India)
studied in US, in 20142015 132888 students (of India) were studying in US. That is an increase of 29.4 percent. This is the highest rate of growth for Indian students for the history of the Open Doors reporting project which stands back to 1954." The US official was referring to Open Doors report which is published annually by the Institute of International Education (IIE) with support from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The officer informed that
India is in the second position with 13.6 percent of total 974926 students from throughout the world
Campaigning picks up for Assembly by poll in Meghalaya Shillong, Nov 19: Campaigning for the November 21 Assembly by poll at Nongstoin in Meghalaya has picked up with the ruling Congress leaving no stone unturned to grab the seat, once a bastion of regional outfit Hill State Peoples Democratic Party (HSPDP). The byelection was necessitated following the death of sitting legislator Hoping Stone Lyngdoh of HSPDP on September 26. Chief Minister Mukul Sangma led the campaign for the Congress candidate while United
Democratic Party chief Donkupar Roy and HSPDP leaders were seeking support for their candidates. With the polling scheduled this Saturday, Chief Electoral Officer P Naik said that the Centre has granted deployment of two additional companies (nealy 100 personnel each) of central para-military forces to ensure smooth conduct of the poll. General and expenditure observers have also been deployed in the West Khasi Hills district constituency even as nodal officers from the IT de-
partment are supervising the entire election process, he said. Altogether four candidates, including a lone woman Independent candidate, are in the fray for Nongstoin, considered to be the bastion of HSPDP as its former president Hoping Stone had never lost an election since the state attained statehood. The HSPDP has chosen Hoping's personal secretary Diosstarness Jyndiang as its candidate while former Youth Congress leader Gabriel Wahlang is contesting on a Congress ticket. (Agencies)
studying in US. While in the top is China with 132888 students and which is an 31.2 of the to-
tal foreign students studying in US."It reflects so well of our relationship, so again 29.4 percent students. International students overall figures from 886052 pupils to 974926 so that is student's increase by 10 percent. India is the second leading place of origin and that count for 13.6 percent of the total international student population in the US," Posner added who is on a three days visit to the state. He informed that in US the most favourite international hosting state is Texas where 17.6 percent stu-
dents study and the most favourite field of study is Math and Computer Science followed by Engineering. nThe US official viewed that the north-eastern part of India has huge scope and a bright future with the growing connectivity in the region. The US official along with his team is schedule to visit some of the educational institution and university to interact with the students and aware and encourage them about the scope and prospects of higher education and studying in US. (ANI)
Sixty-seven members of 19 families from erstwhile enclaves in Bangladesh Cooch Behar, Nov 19: Sixty-seven members of 19 families from erstwhile enclaves (Chhitmahals) in Bangladesh, who opted to come to India after the official exchange of enclaves, arrived in Coochbehar district on Thursday after crossing ChangrabandhaBurimari Border Checkpost. Cooch Behar MP Renuka Sinha, District Magistrate P Ulganathan, Additional District Magistrate Ayesha Rani and Cooch Behar SP Rajesh Kumar Yadav were among the officials present at Changrabandha International Checkpost to welcome the people who were brought in vehicles to the checkpost at about 1.10 PM.n A blue-white canopy was erected for the
programme at zero-point of the border and folks songs and folk dance were performed to welcome them. After the brief welcome ceremony, they were sent to makeshift houses (rehabilitation centres) newly built for them at Mekhliganj Agriculture Farm. During the first month, the newcomers will be provided with cooked food and children would get special food like milk and eggs, official sources said. After one month they will get essential commodities through ration system free of cost. Arrangements were being made to provide them with banking and AADHAR card documents soon. After two years, permanent shelters will be arranged for
them. Following the Land Boundary Agreement, Bangladesh and India exchanged 166 adverselyheld enclaves on August 1 at the stroke of midnight by which 111 enclaves of India and 51 enclaves of Bangladesh were exchanged. After that 991 members of 220 families of the enclaves expressed their eagerness to come to India. Their arrival which began today will continue on November 22, 23, 24 and 26, the sources said. Cooch Behar district administration has made arrangements for their stay at rehabilitation centres built at Changrabandha in Mekhliganj, Chilahati in Haldibari and Sahebganj in Dinhata. (Agencies)
Javedkar vows to develop Stage set for oath Doyang Lake in Nagaland ceremony of Nitish Kumar for Amur Falcon birds Dimapur, Nov 19:Two years after the people in the Pangti village vowed to save the world's longest travelling birds Amur Falcons instead of killing them, Union Environment minister Prakash Javedkar decided to pay a visit and was astonished to see millions of birds in the Doyang Lake in Nagaland. He also vowed to supply funds for developing the lake as an ecotourism spot. Starting their journey from the Magnolia to South Africa via India, millions of Amur Falcons come to Doyang lake every year to rest making the place a delight to watch.Three Amur Falcons were tagged with satellite device back in 2013 by the researchers to observe the migratory behaviour of the birds. Of three two birds named Naga and Pangti have returned home twice since then. Both the birds started their journey from Mongolia and flew nonstop for five days, meanwhile they covered a distance of 5,600 km to reach Doyang lake in Nagaland.Soon after getting the news of two tagged
Amur Falcons returning to Nagaland, Union environment minister Prakash Javedkar visited the site and announced that centre government will fund and help the state government in making the lake as an ecotourism spot which will be a paradise for bird-watchers. He was proud say that Pangti village today has gained worldwide recognition as the home of the world's longest travelling birds where one can see more than millions of birds within 30 seconds.Both the birds Naga and Pangti were named after the village they belong. Javedkar announced that similarly this year four to five birds will be tracked and they will be also named
after the village they relate.Javedkar further praised the contribution of the local people in conserving the extremely endangered species and said that without their active support conservation of these rare birds would not have been possible. The awareness programme and motivation given to the local people has turned them from killers to people to be working for its conservation which is commendable, said Javedkar. If reports to be believed then due to the campaign by wildlife activists, local people are so much motivated to protect the Amur Falcons that not a single hunting has been witnessed or reported in the past one year. (Agencies)
Patna, Nov 19: The stage is set for the oath taking ceremony of Chief Minister designate Nitish Kumar here tomorrow in the presence of important leaders and chief ministers of several states. All arrangements have been made for the function at the Gandhi Maidan at 2 PM, Patna Divisional Commissioner Anand Kishore, who is supervising the arrangements, said. Kishore said considering arrival of so many VIPs, more than 2,000 security personnel would be deployed at the venue. Two canopy shaped dais had been prepared for VVIPs and those under SPG cover. In the main dais, Nitish Kumar, his new sets of ministers and VVIPs would sit. In the adjacent dais, all newly elected MLAs would be accomodated. There would be a separate gallery for women who would be coming to attend the ceremony, he said. Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Vikash Vaibhav today supervised the security drill to escort VVIPs from Airport to the Gandhi Maidan. Prime Minister Narendra
Modi had accepted invitation from Nitish Kumar but would not be able to attend the function due to prior engagements. He has deputed Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu to represent the Union Government at the ceremony. The Chief Minister's Office
Mallikarjun Kharge. The official guest list has names of nine chief ministers including West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, her Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal and UP CM Akhilesh Yadav. Six chief ministers of Congress ruled states
has released a list of guests which include Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi, former Prime Minister H D Devegowda, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, his National Conference counterpart Farooq Abdullah and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha
would also attend. They are Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, Assam CM Tarun Gogoi, Sikkim CM P K Chamling, Manipur CM O Ibobi Singh and Arunachal Pradesh CM Nabam Tuki.(Agencies)
'Mobile menace': State Police moves HC Sdillong, Nov 19: Following reports about Garo militants using pre-activated SIM cards originating from other NE states like Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura to carry on their anti-social activities, Meghalaya Police has moved High Court of Meghalaya seeking its intervention in this regard.Submitting the plea , Meghalaya Inspector General of Police (IGP) -GHP Raju, who appeared in the court on behalf of his department, urged the court to issue some kind of restrictions on the use of SIM cards originating from other states. He said such exercise - in place in Jammu
and Kashmir - will also help police to contain the use of SIM cards by militants. It may be mentioned that recently hundreds of unauthorized SIM cards sold across the counters were seized. From Tura in West Garo Hills to Shallang in West Khasi Hills and Williamnagar in East Garo Hills to Mendipathar in North Garo Hills, police have seized unauthorised SIM cards of Airtel, Aircel, Reliance, Vodafone and Idea.The director-general of police Rajiv Mehta, while expressing concern over this "mobile menace", had recently directed all superintendents of police to
organise a special and intensive drive against sellers of unauthorised SIM cards activated from Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, and Tripura and to take up cases against the sellers under appropriate sections of the Information Technology Act. It is learnt that Pre-activated SIM cards originated from Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura and Assam have become the main source of communication for militants and criminals alike and in all the extortion notes sent to victims by GNLA, ASAK, LAEF, AMEF, they have indicated mobile phone numbers to contact and
negotiate.During the hearing, the court also wanted to know about the whereabouts of Battalion head constable (havildar) Khomraj Bhattarai of 6th Battalion, who was abducted from Songsak earlier this month.In his reponse, Raju told the court that police were trying to trace the policeman, who was abducted by GNLA commander Pilliport D Shira.Centre sets up committee to review Garo Hills security: The Centre on the other hand informed the Court that a committee has been set up to review the security situation in Garo Hills.The Union Home
Ministry formed the committee after the High Court issued an order directing the Centre to consider the use of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and deployment of armed and paramilitary forces to control the deteriorating law and order situation in the Garo Hills."We have informed the court that the government has discussed the prevailing law and order situation in Garo Hill at the highest level," Rakhal Debnath, counsel for the central government, .He said the government has also set up a committee to review the security situation in the Garo Hills
and on the IndiaBangladesh border (in Meghalaya)."The Central government will take a decision on it only after assessing the security situation in the Garo Hills and the international border," Debnath said.On November 2, the High Court asked the Union Home Secretary and Defence secretary to consider the use of AFSPA and deployment of armed and paramilitary forces in the Garo Hills.It also directed the principal secretary in the Prime Minister's Office to place the order before Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his perusal and consideration. (Agencies)
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
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UK's Chief Scientific Adviser visits India to discuss Science and Innovation Policy New Delhi, Nov.19: The United Kingdom's Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Mark Walport, will be visiting India today and tomorrow to deepen collaboration around science and innovation - one of the central pillars of the UK-India Bilateral relationship. During his twoday visit to New Delhi, Sir Mark will focus on discussions around UK-India Science and Innovation policy, celebrate bilateral research investments crossing the Ă‚ÂŁ200m barrier and deepen the science and innovation relationship between both our countries. Speaking ahead of his visit, Sir Mark Walport said: "Our science and research collaborations
are helping India's transformational agenda and to build our partnerships tackling global challenges such as Antimicrobial Resistance, Food Security, and much more. My visit underlines the strength of our research investments that are now hitting the 200m mark and working towards world-class collaborations through the Newton-Bhabha fund." During the visit, Sir Mark will meet the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, Prof. Ashutosh Sharma. Together they will co-chair the UK -India Science and Innovation Policy Dialogue where senior officials from the Indian
Government and UK science and innovation policy leads will participate. Sir Mark will also be the Guest of Honour at the Indian Government's Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Research Councils UK reception showcasing the impact of the UK's partnership with India in science and innovation as well as marking DBT's 30th anniversary. He will also attend a UK-India smart cities roundtable on Friday 20 November. Developing smart cities is a key priority for India's transformational agenda and the UK is supporting three cities in India (Amaravati, Indore and Pune) develop their smart city
plans. This roundtable will discuss the challenge areas like energy, mobility, and how UK-India Research and Innovation can deliver solutions. Sir Walport is the Chief Scientific Adviser to HM Government and Head of the Government Office for Science. Previously, Sir Mark was Director of the Wellcome Trust,
which is a global charitable foundation dedicated to achieving extraordinary improvements in human and animal health by supporting the brightest minds. Before joining the Trust he was Professor of Medicine and Head of the Division of Medicine at Imperial College London. He is Co-Chair of the
Prime Minister's Council for Science and Technology and has been a member of this since 2004. He has also been a member of the India UK CEO Forum, the UK India Round Table and the advisory board of Infrastructure UK and a nonexecutive member of the Office for Strategic Coordination of Health Research. He is a member of a number of international advisory bodies. He has undertaken independent reviews for the UK Government on the use and sharing of personal information in the public and private sectors. The UK ranks third in coauthored publications with India over the last decade but is the only
country in the top four with a growing proportion of the total. It has 79 Nobel Prize winners in science and technology and are responsible for some of the world's greatest discoveries, from the structure of DNA, the world-wide web to the discovery of Higgs-Boson. The UK is the leading G20 country in the '2014 Global Innovation Index', one in five of the UK labour force work in science-based roles. The UK-India Newton Bhabha Programme started in November 2014 and is laying the foundation for ongoing collaboration between UK and India and seeking opportunities from across the spectrum of
the research and innovation relationship i.e. capacity building, research projects to taking them to commercialization stage. UK allocated 50 million pounds over five years to the fund with matched resources from the Government of India. The highly successful UKIERI (UK-India Education Research Initiative) has been extended for 5 years to deepen our educational and research partnership. Since 2006 UKIERI has supported 25,000 exchanges of academic staff and students with over 35 million young people benefitting through 'train the trainer' UKIERI programmes. (ANI)
Manmohan asks Modi Swamy now dubs Rahul Gandhi Martyred Col. Mahadik cremated with full to follow footsteps of as 'commission agent' military honours Nehru, Indira Ahmedabad, Nov. 19: at a meeting and go off saying the Enforcement New Delhi, Nov.19: Taking a jibe at the 'directionless' policies of the BJP-led NDA regime, former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Thursday advised his predecessor Narendra Modi to follow the footsteps of Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. "Pandit Nehru and Indira ji are responsible for developing the agricultural sector in India. In light of the recent crisis, Prime Minister Modi should take a lesson from them. Indira Gandhi tried her best to ensure that the East Pak crisis was resolved through diplomacy," said Dr. Singh while speaking at the 98th birth anniversary celebration of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. "A look at history will show you the role which the Con-
gress played in making our economy strong. Compare it to directionless policies of today," he added. Dr. Singh recalled that former prime minister and BJP veteran Atal Bihari Vajpayee had addressed Indira Gandhi as 'Durga' in the Parliament when he was the Leader of Opposition. "In 1971, the opposition said 'Indira Hatao', Indira responded with 'Garibi Hatao'. She laid the foundation for removing poverty in the nation," he said. (ANI)
Ease of doing business to help Rajasthan in investment: Jaitley
Jaipur, Nov. 19: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday said the ease of doing business will help the state of Rajasthan in investment. "We have eased all the rules as far as investment is concerned. I am sure Rajasthan as an extremely progressive state, is certainly going to gain from this new investment chapter that India is writing," he said while speaking at the two-day global investors meet 'Resurgent Rajasthan' Summit. "Rajasthan is a land of history. Its cities, villages literally symbolise that
history. One of important aspects of its history has been the ability of the people of one part of this region who specialize not only in earning but also multiplying money," he added. Jaitley pointed out that the investor summit shows investments are flowing in Rajasthan and the state has found its core areas. "India, in the last few months, has been following a policy with renewed vigour of attracting investments into the country. Public investment significantly increased, FDI considerably increased, private sector investment is slowly picking up," he added. Aimed at attracting investments to the state, MoUs worth close to Rs. three lakh crores were signed in the presence of Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Thursday. (ANI)
Two Naxals gunned down in Chhattisgarh Sukma, Nov.19: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel gunned down two Maoists in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district this morning. A joint squad of the CRPF's 217th battalion
and the district police had on Wednesday arrested two Naxals during a search operation in Konta area, about 500 km from Raipur. The Maoists are said to be India's biggest internal security threat. (ANI)
Continuing his tirade against Congress vicepresident Rahul Gandhi, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Thursday dubbed the former to be a 'commission agent' and said the Enforcement Directorate must trace all the transactions which his company has done with any other company. "Rahul Gandhi is a commission agent. What does he do? I want to know. Except for scream
for a vacation. Can any politician ever go for one and a half months without a trace? What kind of a politician is that?" Swamy told here. "I couldn't understand why this man ( Rahul Gandhi) who is a Member of Parliament and (Congress) vice-president wants to have a company set up in England. The Enforcement Directorate must have to start looking at this very carefully," he said. "I have written to the Prime Minister
Directorate should be put on this job and asked to trace all the transactions this company has done with any other company," he added. Swamy also came up with a fresh allegation against Congress president Sonia Gandhi, saying she has about two and a half lakh crores rupees in a bank account in Zurich. "I would say that the amount of money in Sonia Gandhi's bank account is about two and a half lakh crores. I have been told this by knowl-
edgeable sources. There is one back account whereSonia Gandhi has money and that is Sarasin Bank in Zurich. The Enforcement Directorate has all these information but they are not being asked to investigate," he said. (ANI)
Adopt the message of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and recharge society, says President Vrindavan, Nov. 19: President Pranab Mukherjee, who attended the celebrations of the 500th year of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's advent in Vrindavan today, said that the great saint was one of the greatest exponents of the Bhakti movement. The celebrations were organised by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Brij Vrindavan Arrival 500thAnniversary Mahotsav, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. Speaking on the occasion, the President said Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
preached love, equality, humanity and harmony. He urged the people to adopt this message of the great saint and recharge the society. President Mukherjee said Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was one of the greatest saints of the Bhakti movement. "He was responsible for the popular-
ity of Vaishnavism in Bengal through his Kirtans, which were unparalleled in lyricism and beauty. Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu preached and spread loving devotional service and congregational chanting through personal demonstration. He propagated the cult of devotion by personally practicing it," he said. The President said living with diversity and finding unity in diversity has been practised in India over centuries. "Many people wonder how it is possible for India to accommodate so
much diversity within one system of administration, one Constitution and one legal jurisprudence," he said. The President said the answer lies in our civilisational values. "India's unity has been possible because of our cultural and civilisational values. We have inherited these over centuries and have nurtured it. It is now a part of our life," he added. President Mukherjee said Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's teachings continue to have great relevance in the contemporary world. (ANI)
Modi carefully nurturing eco-system of empowered states, says Vasundhara Raje Jaipur, Nov.19: Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Thursday credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the NDA Government at the Centre for giving states across the country the required impetus and empowerment to perform in terms of overall economic contribution. Addressing participants at the Resurgent Rajasthan Partnership Summit here, Raje said,"India is strong today because her states are strong. This has been possible only because the NDA Govt under the able stewardship of Prime Minister Modi is carefully nurturing the eco-system of empowered states." Raje further said that foreign direct investment (FDI) is gradually being introduced in various key sectors of the state, and the administration is taking appropriate steps to simplify existing clearance mechanisms to fa-
cilitate better delivery of goods and services to the people of the state. "A few days ago, we welcomed FDI in a host of sectors. This was accompanied by simplification of processes. We have allowed FDI in construction projects, in defence and in plantation activities, and (clearance) processes are much easier," the Rajasthan chief minister said. She further stated that FDI in regional airlines will give a huge impetus to the state's tourism sector. "We intend to be the first state to capitalise on this," Raje added. She said, "The fundamentals of the Rajasthan economy are based on hardwork& and the huge resilience of its people. This is evident from the performance of the state's agriculture sector." Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley described Rajasthan as a land of history. "Its cities and villages literally
symbolise that history," he said. The Resurgent Rajasthan Partnership Summit is being held on November 19 and 20, and its objective is to see Rajasthan as the most developed, front-runner state in the country through inclusive and comprehensive development. Raje had in an earlier message said, "We recognise the role that businesses can play in assisting the state to move to a higher growth trajectory. It is our firm belief that forging partnerships and deepening our engagement with the private sector will allow us to harness the demographic dividend and cre-
ate a habitat for employment and economic growth." She described Rajasthan as a state rich in natural resources and a region that enjoyed a "unique spatial advantage". She said that Rajasthan offers a competitive policy environment, developed infrastructure, a remarkable talent pool and geographic advantage by virtue of its location to investors. "Promising investment opportunities can be found across a wide range of sectors which include information technology, automotives, renewable energy, tourism, health care, agro processing, minerals, textiles, defence, electronic hardware and MSME. Rajasthan has always valued partnerships in growth. We are constantly striving to simplify regulations and further improve the ease of doing business in the state," she said in her message. (ANI)
Satara, Nov.19: The last rites of Colonel Santosh Mahadik, who was martyred on Tuesday in a fierce gun battle with the terrorists in North Kashmir, were performed with full military honours at his native Pogarwadi village in Maharashtra's Satara District on Thursday. Defence Minister Manohar Parrikarpaid his tributes to the 38year-old martyred officer, who is survived by his wife and two children. Several politicians and retired army personnel also attended the last rites. Colonel Mahadik, the commanding officer of 41 Rashtriya Rifles,
was killed in a counterinfiltration operation in the Manigah forest of Kupwara. An officer from the elite 21 Para-Special Forces unit, Colonel Mahadik was awarded a Sena Medal for gallantry during Operation Rhino in the North-East in 2003. Colonel Mahadik, who had conducted many successful counter-terrorist operations, was commissioned in the Indian Army in 1998, (ANI)
50 U.P. districts declared drought-hit, revenue realisation suspended
Lucknow, Nov.19: As many as 50 districts, out of total 75 in Uttar Pradesh, have been declared drought-hit and the state government has suspended recovery of all dues from the farmers by the end of current financial year in the drought affected districts. An official spokesperson said that the decision to this effect was taken on the recommendation of a natural calamity commit-
tee. Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has directed government departments to start relief works in the identified districts to provide all the necessary help to the farmers. The districts which got lesser than 60 per cent rain during the period from June to September this year or where more than 33 per cent crops were ruined are included in the list of drought-hitareas. District magistrates of these districts have been asked to chalk out a plan to deal with the situation and ensure that farmers are not harassed in the name of revenue realization. (ANI)
ISIS publishes photos of 'executed' Norwegian, Chinese hostages London, Nov. 19 : Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has published thephotographs of two hostages, one Norwegian and the other Chinese, after executing them in the Syrian city of Raqqa as French, Russian and US airstrikes intensify post Paris massacre. Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg said that they had no reason to doubt that ISIS had murdered one of its citizens held hostage in Syria. Images of the dead Norwegian, identified as Ole Johan Grimsgaard-Ofstad, 48, were published in the latest issue of the ISIS magazine Dabiq along with the pictures of murdered Chinese hostage. Solberg said
that the government did not pay any ransoms because they should not let the terrorists win even if it hurts. Raqqa has been under heavy bombardment over the last three days after a storm of attacks in Paris by ISIS that provoked intensified airstrikes by France along with raids by the USled coalition and Russia that have killed close to three dozen militants. (ANI)
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NEIGHBOURS
Pak Army chief raises Kashmir issue during talks with John Kerry Islamabad, Nov 19:Pakistan Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif today raised theKashmir issue during his meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry which was centered around "security-related" issues and Afghanistan peace talks. "Secretary Kerry met with Chief of Army Staff Raheel Sharif to follow up on some of the securityrelated conversations that he had with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in October," a State Department spokesperson told media."Gen Sharif's consultations in Washington
are part of our regular, ongoing bilateral discussions with a broad range of Pakistani officials, and we appreciate the productive discussions we had regarding our bilateral defense and security relationship," the spokesperson said.The State Department did not say the specific issues that were discussed during the meeting.However in a series of tweets, Pakistan army spokesman LtGen Asim Bajwa said that Gen Sharif "highlighted need for resolution of Kashmir."Regional security including Afghanistan, India was discussed
during the meeting, Bajwa said, referring to the issues discussed in the meeting wherein the two leaders felt the need and measures for regional stability.According to
UN panel calls for Myanmar citizenship for Rohingya New York, Nov 19: The U.N. General Assembly committee dealing with human rights has criticized Myanmar for its treatment of Rohingya Muslims and urged the Southeast Asian country to give them equal access to citizenship. In a nonbinding draft resolution, the Third Committee expressed "serious concern about the situation of the Rohingya in Rakhine State and of other minorities subject to marginalization and instances of human rights violations and a b u s e s . We d n e s d a y ' s resolution, co-sponsored by more than 40 countries - including the U.S. and European nations called on Myanmar "to ensure equal access to full citizenship and related rights, including civil and political rights, for all stateless persons."Under a 1982 law, Myanmar officially recognizes 135 ethnic groups, but not the Rohingya. The linguistically and ethnically dis-
tinct ethnic group have faced widespread persecution for decades, but their situation has become ever more perilous since sectarian violence erupted in 2012.Since then, around 140,000 Rohingya have been unable to return to their villages, and they have been confined to a swathe of land in Rakhine in squalid displacement camps where they are often denied basic healthcare.The U.N. panel also criticized the country for barring dozens of Muslim candidates from running in the Nov. 8 election.It urged the country's authorities "to address political disen-
franchisement and discriminatory disqualification of candidates, including with respect to members of the Rohingya community and persons belonging to religious and ethnic minorities."Many Muslims were not allowed to stand in the election on dubious citizenship grounds, and hundreds of thousands of Rohingya were also unable to vote because the government bowed to calls from ultra-nationalists to exclude them. The resolution, which was adopted by consensus, will be put to vote again at a plenary session of the 193-member General Assembly in January. (Agencies)
Bangladesh SC upholds death warrant against two 1971 war criminals Dhaka, Nov.19 : Bangladesh Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the death warrants issued against the two senior opposition politicians for their roles in war crimes against humanity during the country's 1971 liberation war.The Appellate Division's four-member bench, headed by Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha, made the final call after rejecting two separate review petitions filed by Salauddin Quader Chowdhury and Ali
Ahsan Mohammed Mojaheed, the Daily Star reported.Mojaheed of Jamaat-e-Islami, an Islamist party that supported the Pakistani military, was accused of mass killing and torture of intellectuals and professionals towards the end of the country's war for independence. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Chowdhury's review hearing lasted little more than an hour. The hearing was scheduled to take place yesterday, but
was later pushed to today. Sentenced to die for war crimes, Chowdhury had filed the review petition last month to the SC seeking acquittal on all the charges levelled against him.The International Crimes Tribunal issued death warrant for him on October 1, a day after the Supreme Court released its full verdict of the appeal hearing.The nine-month war with Pakistan in 1971 had resulted in the death of hundreds of thousands of people. (ANI)
Family members meet Salauddin in jail Dhaka, Nov 19: The family members of death-row convict Salauddin Quader Chowdhury have visited the Dhaka Central Jail to meet the war criminal.Around nine members of Salauddin's family, including his wife and two of their sons, entered the jail around 12:30pm and left the jail around 1:30pm Thursday.Salauddin's Lawyer Hujjatul Islam Khan Alfesani told mediA "Four vehicles carrying 14 members of Salauddin's family arrived at the jail around
12:25pm."He said the family members had sought permission for 15 members' visit but only 14 of them arrived at the jail.The lawyer said: "Out of them, only nine were allowed to meet Salauddin as the names of other five family members did not match with the names that were provided to the jail authorities while seeking for the permission."On Wednesday, the Supreme Court upheld its previous verdict on BNP leader Salauddin, rejecting his plea for reviewing death penalty for his crimes
against humanity during the Liberation War in 1971.The BNP leader was awarded death penalty by the International Crimes Tribunal on October 1, 2013 for crimes against humanity during the 1971 Independence War.The Appellate Division upheld maximum punishment for the Former MP from Chittagong's Raozan on July 29, 2015.He was arrested on December 16, 2010, and shown arrested in war crimes case on December 19 the same year. The tribunal indicted him on April 4, 2012. (Agencies)
Bajwa, Kerry acknowledged Pakistan's contributions and enormous sacrifices in fight against terror.Sharif highlighted Pakistan's perspective on regional security and sup-
ported Afghanistanowned reconciliation process, the challenges and the way forward, Bajwa said.Sharif reiterated Pakistan's desire to solidify US-Pak relations based on mutual interest and respect, he added. During the meeting, Kerry reaffirmed his commitment to the USPakistan partnership, and its importance in addressing issues of mutual concern and ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity across the region.Richard Olson, the new Special US Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, who began his ten-
ure a day earlier, also attended the Kerry-Sharif meeting.Significantly, Gen Sharif is visiting the US on his own as there was no official invitation either from his American counterpart or the Pentagon.Earlier, Defence Secretary Ashton Carter pressed Gen Sharif to act against groups like the Haqqani Network that threaten America and its forces operating in Afghanistan.During his meeting with Gen Sharif, Carter had raised concern over terrorists operating from Pakistan's soil.(Agencies)
5.3 magnitude tremor jolts central Nepal, no damage reported Kathmandu, Nov 19:A mild earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter Scale on Thursday jolted central Nepal, but no damage was reported. The aftershock was reported at 10 am with epicentre located at Sindhupalchowk district, 45 km east of the capital city, according to the National Seismological Centre.The quake was also felt in Kathmandu valley. At least 407 aftershocks of 4 or more magnitude have been recorded in Nepal after the
Growing Pakistan-China ties not against any country: Aziz Islamabad, Nov 19: The growing China-Pakistan ties are not against any other country and the latter has been simultaneously promoting relations with all major regional and world powers, Pakistan's adviser on foreign affairs, Sartaj Aziz has said."Cooperation between Pakistan and China is focused on economic development through connectivity and is not against any other country. Pakistan seeks to establish and sustain long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships
with global and regional players in Asia," Aziz said on Wednesday.Pakistan has been China's longstanding strategic ally in the region. The two countries have recently made great strides in deepening this cooperation, Dawn online reported on Thursday.The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor launched in April this year during Chinese President Xi's visit is being seen as the launching pad for the next phase of Sino-Pak relations.According to
report, India has been vocally opposing the CPEC project.He regretted that "some countries" were trying to cause a distraction in the implementation of CPEC."India's loud objections to CPEC and its attempts to gain support of elements hostile to Pakistan in the region are ill-advised," he observed."Pakistan has the distinction of forging and maintaining strategic dialogue with both the US and China. We have vibrant and robust relations with another power
in the region, i.e. Russia. From Pakistan's perspective, China together with the US and Russia, are important pillars in the newly emerging economic and security order of the region," the report quoted Aziz as s a y i n g . A b o u t normalisation of ties with India, Aziz said Pakistan continued to support normalisation, but such a thing should be done with "respect and dignity". He also asked India to reciprocate Pakistan's peace gestures. (Agencies)
UN team identifies detention center at Sri Lankan navy base Colombo, Nov 19: A U.N. team says it found a secret underground detention center at a Sri Lankan navy base where many post-civil war detainees were believed to have been interrogated and tortured. The navy, however, denied there was any such center at the base.The announcement late Wednesday by three experts from a U.N. working group on enforced disappearances comes amid growing international pressure for a full investigation into rights violations and alleged atrocities during and after Sri Lanka's decades-long civil war, which ended in 2009.The experts, Bernard Duhaime, Tae-Ung Baik and Ariel Dulitzky, have visited different parts of Sri Lanka since Nov. 9
and examined official detention centers used during the war.Dulitzky said they also saw a secret detention center where "interrogation and torture took place" inside underground cells at a naval base in eastern Sri Lanka."We believe it's an important discovery and it should be properly investigated. It's likely that many more people were in that detention center," he said at a news conference at the end of their visit in Sri Lanka.However, navy chief Vice Admiral Ravi Wijegunaratne said there was no torture center at the base and that no one had been detained in the underground cells except for four Tamil children who had been illegally kidnapped for ransom and later killed by several na-
val personnel, who were now in prison.Tens of thousands of people are believed to have been killed in the final stages of the civil war between government forces and separatist Tamil Tiger rebels. Scores of rebels and ethnic Tamil civilians were arrested after the rebels were defeated, and remain unaccounted for.In addition, suspected rebels, sympathizers, human rights activists and critical journalists were abducted by unknown groups after the war and are listed as missing.The experts said they believe there were many other such centers used to hold people who had forcibly disappeared.Since January, the government has taken steps to probe some unresolved disappearances and killings.
Some suspects have been arrested."We are encouraged by the positions adopted by the government in recent months as there are positive steps, but more needs to be done," Duhaime said. "There have been lots of promises, but the time for promises is over. What's really important is that there be results now."A final report on the team's visit is to be presented to the U.N. Human Rights Council next September. The U.N. human rights chief has recommended that Sri Lanka set up a special hybrid court that would include foreign judges and investigators to examine the alleged atrocities, saying Sri Lanka's own courts are not yet ready to carry out a fair judicial process. (Agencies)
Over 500 Indians reportedly died in Lankan waters Colombo, Nov 19:An Indian fishermen's rights group claims over 500 Indian fishermen have died in Sri Lankan waters since 1983.The 'Fishermen right to livelihood federation' urged the Centre and State governments in India to provide compensation to the families of fishermen who drowned and were killed by the Sri Lankan navy while fishing on the high seas.Adopting a resolution at the fifth State conference in Rameswaram, the federation said 548 fishermen have died either by falling into the sea by accident while fishing or shot dead by the Lankan navy since 1983 and these families were at a crossroads after losing t h e breadwinners.Pointing
out that the Lankan authorities were adopting a pressure tactic of confiscating trawlers while arresting the fishermen on the charges of poaching, the federation said the island nation had detained more than 50 boats while releasing the fishermen and urged the Centre to secure the release of the boats or provide compensation to damaged boats.Another resolution said the fisheries sector had contributed more in food production and foreign exchange earnings than the agriculture sector but still the Centre had not come forward to establish a separate ministry for the fisheries.As per the Mandal Commission recommendations, the Centre should include the fishing community in the list of scheduled
tribes, the federation said and appealed to reserve exclusive Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies for the voices of the fishing community to echo in Assemblies and Parliament.Swamy Pranavanandar of Vivekananda Kudil, who has been championing the cause of Rameswaram fishermen for more than two decades, inaugurated the one-day conference.M.C. Kumaresan, president, 'Kadal Thozhilalar
Munnetra Sangam' declared open the conference by hoisting the flag and P.S. Sethupathy Nattar, Coordinator of a fishermen association, unveiled the replica of a proposed memorial pillar.The federation proposed to build it at Thangachimadam or Pamban in the island in memory of the fishermen who had fallen victims to tsunami and other calamities and to the firings of Lankan navy. (Agencies)
devastating earthquake of April 25 that killed nearly 9,000 people. However, there was no immediate report of any damage caused by the earthquake.A 4.3 magnitude earthquake was felt in Rasuwa district on Tuesday, 150 km north of Kathmandu. Meanwhile, humanitarian agencies have expressed concern that they were unable to deliver aid to earthquake victims, mainly in the Himalayan region, due to the blockade of NepalIndia border for the last 50 days. (Agencies)
Afghan official: Suicide car bomber kills 1 soldier Afghanistan ,Nov 19: An Afghan official says a suicide car bombing targeting a government compound in the south of the country has killed one soldier and wounded four others.Samim Khopalwaq, the spokesman for the governor of Kandahar province, says the attack happened on Thursday morning at a checkpoint in Arghandab district in the center of the province.He says a total of five attackers were killed, one of them blew the car up and the other four tried to enter the district governor's compound.No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. The Taliban have a stronghold in Kandahar province and have spread their reach across the country this year, following the withdrawal of foreign combat troops. (Agencies)
5 of a family burnt in N'ganj gas stove blast Dhaka, Nov 19: Five members of a family have sustained burn injuries in a fire that broke out due to gas stove explosion at a house at Tolla village of Fatullah in Narayanganj. The injured were identified as Monir Hosain, 35, his wife Minara Begum, 28, his sister's son Rimon, 25, his nephew Arif, 16, and a child.The incident took place at 4am on Thursday while Minara went to light gas stove for cooking food for breakfast. The injured were rushed to the burn unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) in the morning, said DMCH incharge Muzammel Haque .Of them, the condition of Monir and his wife is critical as they received 23% and 40% burn injuries respectively. (Agencies)
PAGE 8
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
On a Tightrope: Can Afghanistan Balance Between Pakistan and India? Afghanistan is in a difficult position today. Can it walk a tightrope between India and Pakistan?
Smart City idea Pasighat Striving Hard to be Smart City Cities are engines of growth for the economy of every nation, including India. Nearly 31% of India's current population lives in urban areas and contributes 63% of India's GDP (Census 2011). With increasing urbanization, urban areas are expected to house 40% of India's population and contribute 75% of India's GDP by 2030. This requires comprehensive development of physical, institutional, social and economic infrastructure. All are important in improving the quality of life and attracting people and investments to the City, setting in motion a virtuous cycle of growth and development. Development of Smart Cities is a step in that direction. Accordingly, the purpose of the Smart Cities Mission is to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life of people by enabling local area development and harnessing technology, especially technology that leads to Smart outcomes. Area-based development will transform existing areas (retrofit and redevelop), including slums, into better planned ones, thereby improving liveability of the whole City. And application of Smart Solutions will enable cities to use technology, information and data to improve infrastructure and services. Comprehensive development in this way will improve quality of life, create employment and enhance incomes for all, especially the poor and the disadvantaged, leading to inclusive Cities. The Mission which is expected to cover 100 cities and its duration will be five years (FY2015-16 to FY2019- 20). The Mission may be continued thereafter in the light of an evaluation to be done by the Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) and incorporating the learnings into the Mission. Centurion town Pasighat, the headquarters of East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, is striving hard to get selected in the first batch of 20 cities this year across the country under Smart City initiative of the Centre. The Union Ministry of Urban Development has selected 100 cities in the country under Smart City mission with one city each in the North Eastern States for five years (2015-2019), while 20 cities would be selected every year. According to Municipal Executive Officer of Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC ),each selected city would be provided an amount of Rs 1,000 crore with 50:50 share (Centre:State) by the Centre to be developed into a smart city with all modern amenities. And the Centre would consider 90:10 fund sharing for all the north eastern States. Stating that the district administration has been making all-out effort to prepare a good smart city proposal for submission to the Centre by December 17 next, it is also disclosed that the names of 20 cities to be taken up this year would be announced by December end this year. "Pasighat town, having a population of 24,000 with 5000 households, is ahead among all NE States. And the town have already started process for preparation of the proposal after the state government recently appointed a consultant. Several initiatives have already been taken by conducting awareness campaign among the people to get their opinions and suggestions by conducting door to door campaigns, street meetings and other publicity. Although the requirements of the people vary from area to area. However, the basic requirements are electricity, road connectivity and infrastructure development. Whereas the main USP of the proposal would be on tourism development and horticulture, while importance would be laid on generation of green energy (solar and wind) for economically backward people. And for that an amount of two crore has been sanctioned by the Centre for preparation of the proposal.
Backdoor Appointments
Umair Jamal Traditionally, Pakistan has invariably remained nervous about Afghanistan's closeness with India. Pakistan's military chief, who is on an official visit to the United States, is reportedly carrying Afghanistan's stalled peace process at top of his agenda, and is expected to discuss it with his American counterparts. The issue may likely eclipse other discussions on Pakistan's nuclear program. Both Pakistan and the India have been trying to reach out to Kabul on different levels: Pakistan because of its direct involvement in the Afghan conflict and India because of its growing economic and diplomatic stakes in Afghanistan. President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan, frustrated over Pakistan's inability to restrain the Afghan Taliban, which use Pakistani territory to stage at-
tacks, has begun to reveal his growing proximity towards India. In order to woo Pakistan, President Ghani, during the first few months of his presidency, overtly refused any direct Indian military assistance. In a turn of events, Afghanistan has now approached New Delhi for direct military assistance, ignoring Islamabad's concerns and sensitivities. Relations between the Pakistanis and Afghans have worsened in recent months. Afghanistan, on many occasions, has accused Pakistan of allowing attacks to occur on Afghan soil. Militants associated with the Afghan Taliban, a month ago, laid siege to the Afghan city of Kunduz and held it for days. It was only after U.S. military assistance that Afghan forces were able to take the city back. Days after the attack, the Afghan media accused Pakistan of supporting the Taliban assault. Pakistan, however, denied the allegations. For its part, Islamabad has snubbed
Kabul for not doing enough to contain fleeing terrorists from Pakistan's tribal areas. Pakistan's approach towards its national security has witnessed some positive changes in the meantime. Pakistan has condemned the Afghan Taliban's recent militant surge and is pushing them towards reconciliation and dialogue. It is doing all this while keeping up its own military campaign against domestic militants. India, meanwhile, continues its own approach toward Afghanistan. As noted in a recent report published by the U.S. Congressional Research Service, New Delhi's policy goals in Afghanistan comprise of measures aiming at containing and isolating Pakistani influence there. India's interests of thwarting Pakistan from regaining influence in Afghanistan only complicate the security situation in the country. Arguably, the last thing anyone needs in Afghanistan's convoluted
militant theater is Pakistan pulling out of the existing stalled peace process, which it has consistently been pushing for in recent months, and reverting back to its old policy of differentiating between "good" and "bad" Taliban. Pakistan's recent peace efforts in Afghanistan have been appreciated by the international community, but emerging reports of Indian involvement in Afghanistan can only harm Pakistan's hardearned reconciliation approach in Afghanistan. Infighting among the Afghan Taliban for the leadership of the group has already limited Pakistan's influence on the group. While different factions have refused to pledge their allegiance to Mullah Akhtar Mansour, the newly elected Amir of the Afghan Taliban, a breakaway faction with control over a large group of militants, has also appointed its own successor to Mullah Omar. Adding to the complica-
tion, in recent months, the situation across the Line of Control (LoC)the working boundary between India and Pakistan in Kashmir-has remained volatile. With bilateral relations between India and Pakistan sliding further into the abyss, both countries have been trying to settle scores in international institutions. Pakistan has presented dossiers at the United Nations (UN) pleading for action against India's growing involvement in Pakistan and India has stressed the issue of Pakistan's state-spon-
sored terrorism. Kabul's growing closeness with New Delhi won't sit well with Islamabad, especially with the military establishment. India needs to understand Pakistan's security sensitivities in Afghanistan. Kabul, meanwhile, should focus on formulating a balanced policy towards both countries. Indian objectives of gaining in Afghanistan at Pakistan's expense will only create further problems. Going forward, Afghanistan needs to carefully walk this tightrope as it seeks to balance its role between these two historic foes.
India and China Continue Counter-Terrorism Consultations The Pakistan question looms large in China-India counter-terrorism discussions. Ankit Panda Earlier this month, on November 4, representatives from India and China met in New Delhi for the seventh round of their bilateral counter-terrorism consultation. The dialogue was the first since India's Bharatiya Janata Party-led government came to power in elections in May 2014. According to a leading Daily of India, the Indian delegation requested that China share its counterterrorism practices with India. Specifically, New Delhi requested information on how China handles terrorist threats in its restive western province of Xinjiang, where Uyghur separatist militants regularly operate. "China shared its experience of how it curtailed jihadi activities in
Xinjiang province and the steps taken by it to bring in normalcy in the region. We also asked China to help us understand their cyber security network, which is one of the best in the world," said a senior official. Counter-terrorism has received high-level attention in the India-China bilateral relations recently. Though this was the first meeting of the specialized consultative group on counter-terrorism, both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized counter-terrorism cooperation during consecutive state visits (Xi to India in September 2014 and Modi to China in May 2015). The Chinese foreign ministry was relatively terse in its public reaction to the talks. Hua Chunying,
spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, noted that "we have talked about China-India cooperation on counterterrorism the other day." She added that China was "ready to enhance communication and cooperation with the Indian side on counter-terrorism, which is of common interest to the two sides." As I noted earlier this year, tensions between the current Indian and Chinese governments spiked earlier this year when China blocked a
procedural motion initiated by India at the United Nations to question Pakistan over the release of Zaki-urRehman Lakhvi, a Lashkar-e-Taiba commander who is on the UN's sanctions committee list per resolution 1267. Modi reportedly raised the issue with Xi when the two leaders met on the sidelines of the BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organization summits in Ufa, Russia earlier this summer.
If India did raise the issue of Pakistan with China, it's unlikely that New Delhi won any major concessions. Pakistan and China are allies and Beijing's support for Islamabad at international forums is longstanding. Though the recent incident over Lakhvi highlighted this rift, it hasn't led to a shift in how China treats New Delhi's concerns over terrorism originating in Pakistan. In recent years, however, China has started applying pressure on Pakistan over the issue of Uyghur militants operating out of its territory. The talks earlier this month appear to have focused on narrower issues as well. For instance, India raised the issue of Chinese individuals involved in small arms transfers to India-based insurgent groups in the
country's northeastern areas. Nearly five years ago, a Chinese firm was linked to arms supply lines for the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), or NSCN(IM). (That group has since signed a peace agreement with the Indian government.) The counter-terrorism issue will likely arise soon enough in the India-China bilateral. Rajnath Singh, India's home minister, is set to visit Beijing next week for five days. According to electronic media report, his agenda in Beijing will include crossborder cooperation on counter-terrorism and China-based support for militants in the Indian northeast. Singh's visit comes shortly after General Fan Changlong, vice chairman of China's powerful Central Military Commission (CMC), visited both India and Pakistan.
Nagaland Home Dept Surfaced As per reports more allegations of "backdoor appointments" in the Nagaland Home department have surfaced, this time with implication on five Director General of Police (DGP) and three Home Ministers. And according to Kyong Students' Union (KSU) a total of 7,737 backdoor appointments were made in the State Home department since the year 2005 till date. The information was received after the KSU reportedly filed an RTI seeking details from the PHQ on the appointments made. According to the press statement received , a total of 1727 appointments were made between the years 2005-2007 which was during the tenure of Thenucho as the Home Minister. The DGP was late Changkija during that period of time. From year 2008 till 2012 when the Home Minister was Imkong L Imchen, a total of 5036 backdoor appointments were made. Z Kire and O Alem were DGPs during the time. Whereas between 2013-2014, when G Kaito was the Home Minister and B Kezo the DGP, 715 backdoor appointments were made, the press statement said. In 2015, with Y Patton as the Home Minister and Doungel as the DGP, 259 backdoor appointments were allegedly made, the KSU statement informed. Only recently, the Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) had alleged of 3930 backdoor appointments in the Home department. However, the figures were a tally made from the year 2010 onwards. The CSU had also decided to take legal recourse against its fight against alleged backdoor appointments in the State Police Department after the State Government failed to initiate any action within the given ten days deadline which concluded on November 14. Meanwhile, KSU while asserting that it stands behind the CSU in their fight against backdoor appointment, however said the latter's stand of pointing out only 1 (one) department appears to be driven by vested interest and tribalism attitude. It is also alleged that while pointing out that Thenucho, a Chakhesang, was the Home Minister from 2005 during whose tenure more than 1700 were directly appointed by him. Therefore, the need of the hour is that the sense should prevail upon the Government to take correct decisions in so far as appointment of persons are concerned.
Dikhow losing its Prowess the coal deposits on the mouths of the spring get washed up by rain. This causes critical danger to the bio-diversity of the river. As a concerned citizen, I would like to know what sincere efforts the government would take to solve the problem.
Yours etc Amrita Achariya Old Amolapatty Sibsagar, Assam. Priyanka Talukdar Jorhat
Ending open defecation
Sir, The river Dikhow has always been known for its beauty. However, the once mighty Dikhow is losing its prowess and this tributary of the river Brahmaputra is found to be losing its characteristic depth. It is losing its depth day by day chiefly as a result of the illegal and unscientific mining of coal over the hills of Nagaland. Such an thoughtful activity is not only molesting the beauty of the hills , but is also manipulating the courses of the small springs otherwise would have flourished the lap of Dikhom by giving it a full fledged flow. Moreover
Sir, Narendra Modi, India's prime minister, says building toilets is a priority over temples. His finance minister, Arun Jaitley, used this month's budget to set a goal of ending defecating in the open by 2019. That will be 150 years since the birth of Mohandas Gandhi, who said good sanitation was more important than independence. Ending open defecation would bring immense benefits. Some 130m households lack toilets. More than 72% of rural people relieve themselves behind bushes, in fields or by roadsides. The share is barely shrinking. Of the 1 billion people in the world who have no toilet, India accounts for nearly 600m. A broader matter concerned here is public health. Open defecation is disastrous when practised by
groups in close contact with each other. Because India's population is huge, growing rapidly and densely settled, it is impossible even in rural areas to keep human faeces from crops, wells, food
and children's hands. Ingested bacteria and worms spread diseases, especially of the intestine. Also that the mere availability of government-built latrines will not end open defecation for decades yet. What is needed instead are public campaigns, in schools and in the media, to explain the health and economic benefits of using toilets and of better hygiene. Also it was found that only a quarter of rural householders understood that washing hands helps prevent diarrhoea.
Yours etc Priyanka Talukdar Jorhat
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OP-ED
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
PAGE 9
It's Both Shocking And Shameful That 1.3 Million Children Don't Live Past The Age Of 5 David Oot Since 1990, and despite significant increases in the global population, the annual number of maternal and child death has dropped by nearly 50 percent. UNICEF estimates that 100 million children under age five have been saved over the past two decades alone. Several very poor countries, such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Ethiopia are on track to meet the Millennium Development Goal of reducing under-five deaths by twothirds by the end of 2015 an achievement many once thought impossible. In subSaharan Africa, where efforts to reduce child death rates have lagged, a recent UNICEF report documented the good news that the annual rate of decline in mortality has accelerated since the early 1990s. Yet globally, over 6 million children and nearly 300,000
mothers still die each year most from preventable causes and more than 98 percent in the developing world. Access to quality care before, during and after delivery; immunizations; prevention and treatment of malaria; life-saving treatment of diarrhea and pneumonia; and improved breastfeeding practices could help save most of these lives. But too many, and especially the poorest and most marginalized, are still not benefiting from these lifesaving interventions. It is for that reason that the Government of India hosted a 'Call to Action Summit' on August 27 and 28 involving delegations from 24 countries, donors, and global health experts to review progress made, and actions needed, to accelerate progress toward the achievement of the global goal of "ending preventable child and maternal
deaths." On the eve of the main summit, August 26, Save the Children convened an international consultation of civil society organizations from across the world, to discuss similar issues, but from a civil society perspective, and develop a set of recommendations and key asks for governments' to consider in future. While some progress has been made in addressing the equity gap, we must do more. Save the Children's recent report on urban health, for example, found that a child in the poorest quintile was twice as likely to die before his or her fifth birthday as a child in the wealthiest quintile. Wide disparities exist as well in access and use of high-impact services and practices that can save lives. In short, we need to focus more attention on understanding and removing barriers to access and increasing ef-
fective use of these interventions by those who need them most. Imagine, for example, a mother who delivers her newborn in the absence of skilled attendant, a newborn that is not breathing but there is no one present
who knows what to do, or a mother who knows she should breastfeed but others are telling her to discard the colostrum (the first milk from the breast filled with nutrients and antibodies for preventing illness). Imagine a family with a child in res-
It's Shocking That 1 In Every 2 Indian Women Has This Disease, But We Don't Talk About It Anya Vohra Always having been slim I never thought of anaemia as the reason behind it until a few years ago. I recollect being called different names like stick and skinny and that's the reason I hated being thin. People who met me for the first time asked me my weight instead of my name, I was subjected to name calling and teasing. People say being thin is easy but they are clearly oblivious of the underlying social and emotional cost of being slim. Diagnosed with a mild case of anaemia at an early age motivated me to delve deeper to find out more about its symptoms, causes and prevention. I invested time researching about this disease and the numbers were a shocker! Although anaemia affects 52% of the female population in India, over 68% of the total Indian females are unaware of the condition! More than half of the pregnant women in our country are mildly anaemic and 42.6% are moderately anaemic. The situation is the worst for adolescent girls, 27.1% of whom are severely anaemic.
Anaemia is most often synonymous with being thin, and often not recognized as a medical condition. It's almost as if you're thin you MUST be anaemic; the casual attitude and ignorance of people towards this disease troubled me. My research showed that while many types of anaemia can't be prevented, the most common of them, caused by iron-deficiency, can be outdone with a vitamin-rich diet. Iron-deficiency anaemia suppresses human productivity, which indirectly hampers national growth and development.
The Food Requirements My deep dive into this affliction made me realize that if I, with good nutrition, can be a victim of such a disease then what about those who do not have access to the same level of nutrition as me? Thus started my Youth Anaemia Initiative born out of an incessant motivation to make a difference. My objective is to spread awareness of the disease itself and about the dietary needs to prevent it. I have developed cost effective solutions which could be incorporated by economically weaker sections of society
into their daily diet. After doing comprehensive study I came up with a few budget-conscious solutions: -Vitamin C is effective in preventing anaemia as it helps in increasing iron absorption and sources of vitamin C include lemons, sweet lime, pineapple and guava. -A good diet must include iron-rich foods which include chickpeas, watermelon, lentils, bajra (millet), jawahar, pumpkin seeds. -Folate synthesized from folic acid can be found in bananas, cauliflower, legumes and papaya. -Vitamin B12 is also essential and sources include milk, yoghurt, sweet potato and carrot. -Vitamin A is also helpful in preventing anaemia. Sources include pumpkin, milk, melon and tomatoes. Most all of these are affordable and easily available and are a regular part of Indian kitchen menus and India being primarily agrarian a majority of the above is grown by farmers. How Society Contributes To Anaemia I also unearthed two unpalatable notions girls often buy into or are passive
spectators too. Firstly, that society places an optic premium on girls that are slim. To conform to these stereotypes, girls often starve themselves which also leads to anaemia due to the low percentage of nutrients and vitamins they consume. Secondly, and this is important, girls are more often than not, especially in rural areas, fed an inferior diet vis a vis boys based on the premium placed on the boy perceived as an asset and girl as a liability. A person should never be discriminated on the basis of either their weight or gender. I have visited a number of NGOs and taught girls from classes 6-10 about the symptoms, causes and preventions of anaemia as well the need to place health ahead of beauty and demand the same food as their brothers. Clearly a lot needs to be done and not just about anaemia. Females at last count (despite infanticide) are over 500 million and it's unacceptable to have a half a billion disenfranchised citizens. We have to bring about that change and I believe I am doing my small part in catalysing that metamorphosis.
Why I Think The NRI 'Idea Of India' Is Problematic: An Indian-American Shares Riju Agrawal Many young IndianAmericans want absolutely nothing to do with India. We are not so naĂŻve as to still consider it a land of snake-charmers and swamis, but our understanding is tainted by childhood memories of mosquitoes, blackouts, and food poisoning. Every challenge that India faces is another reason to stay on the other side of the globe. We decry the lack of air conditioning, western toilets, and our favorite fast food chains. We speak not of emigrating from India, but of "escaping". We are not enamored with everything India has but frustrated with everything it lacks. Safely ensconced in our Western bubbles, we carefully curate our exposure so that India touches our lives only through Bollywood, chicken tikka masala, and the I.T. helpdesk in our offices (which is too often a target for ridicule). After all, India's problems are somebody else's problems. On the other hand, some of us are too quick to see India through the lens of a young consultant. With our newly minted college degrees and "analytical skills", we see it as a case to be cracked, a problem to be
solved. We see a rapidly growing market and an increasingly demanding consumer base, and we can rattle off statistics about its GDP growth, inflation, urbanisation, and demographic dividend. We use grants and fellowships to visit India for a few weeks, return with a superficial understanding of its social, political, and economic fabric, and pitch solutions in social entrepreneurship competitions. And as a result of all this, our goal is too often to impose change. Our inclination is to be the benefactor who knows better and can fix it all. But neither view is complete, and both views are insulting to our Indian brethren. As an IndianAmerican, the first view is all too easy to adopt. Surrounded by the conveniences of life in a developed country, embarrassed by the news of rapes, riots, and corruption, we compartmentalise and forget. India becomes a part of our lives that used to be, but no longer is, unless we want it to be. The second view, as a modern manifestation of imperialism, is hardly less insulting. India is no longer plagued by the British but by the omniscient and newly returned NRI who is so eager to share his enlightened ways with his family and friends. Ev-
ery sentence starts with, "In America, we‌" Relatives have no choice but to indulge our pedantic ways until somebody has the sense to push us off our pedestals. With this realisation, I admit that I have fallen victim to both views. Even though I spent three months in India during every summer break, it was in the coddled care of my grandparents. I was the privileged child whose glimpses of India were often limited to those through the window of an air-conditioned car. Excursions into the 'real world' were protected via chaperones in the form of Indian friends or the family's chauffeur, and continuous purchases of 'Bisleri' bottled water. That which could not be controlled power outages, mosquitoes, and illness - I experienced (complaining and crying excessively), and quickly forgot after returning to America. And now, with my college education and newfound wisdom, I have maybe grown out of the first view, only to fall victim to the second: maybe I can help 'solve' India. It would not be fair to serve both views with an equal dose of criticism. The first view of India is escapist and results in self-serving detachment, and is often accompanied
by the sentiment that "India is the way it is, and it will never change." The second view, on the other hand, can be a catalyst for action. NRIs have contributed to India's growth in myriad ways. We have indeed started businesses and non-profits that have helped our Indian compatriots. Remittances by NRIs exceeded $70 billion in 2013, more than remittances to any other country. However, both views are a result of looking at India from the outside-in, and an incomplete understanding of its ways. Heavy-handed and generalised criticism of India ignores the progress that has been made in the last couple of decades and the contributions of those who have enabled change in the face of the most challenging odds. Similarly, the imposition of solutions from abroad ignores the vibrancy of India's enduring democracy, the resilience of its
homegrown entrepreneurs, and the resourcefulness of its engineers. We can no longer assume that 'videshi' is better than 'swadeshi'. It is important for us to remember that what works in the West may not necessarily work in India. Half-baked solutions imposed by those with even the noblest of intentions will result in halfbaked results. This is not to say that we should stop seeking solutions and striving for change where change is needed. Rather, as ambassadors of our homeland and leaders in our adopted lands, we are uniquely positioned to understand the intersection between India and the rest of the world. Therefore, our challenge is to truly understand both, without being dismissive or imperialistic, and develop solutions that build upon the strengths of both. Only then will we be able to contribute to India's progress.
piratory distress or suffering from dehydrating diarrhea, but does not know what to do or where to get quality, affordable care. None of us wants to be in this situation - but that is the reality for far too many. In addition to closing the
health care equity gap, we also need to focus more attention on ending preventable child deaths during the first month of life when 44 percent of children under age five die. In South Asia, this percentage is close to 60 percent, yet for many, access and use of quality maternal and newborn services and practices care that could save these lives remains low. Our world continues to rapidly urbanize, and an increasing portion of maternal and child deaths occur among the nearly 900 million who live in urban slums. Yet, we lack innovative, scalable approaches to reaching these populations with basic health services, including clean water and basic sanitation. Poor infant and young child nutrition are the underlying causes of nearly half of all under-five deaths, yet there are few examples of large-scale programs that have docu-
mented improvements in feeding practices and nutritional outcomes. We also know that ensuring access to contraception is key to improving maternal and newborn health and survival, but globally more than 200 million women or girls who want to delay or space a pregnancy are not using a safe and effective means of contraception. Increased investments in strengthened health systems will be key to achieving and sustaining progress in delivering these, and other interventions we know can dramatically improve health and survival. These challenges may seem daunting, but we know they can be met. Our hope is that the experience and learning shared in the Call to Action Summit will help inform a renewed commitment to taking the actions needed to further reduce maternal deaths and end preventable newborn and under-five deaths as envisioned in the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Zee News, I've Had Enough Of Your Sensationalism. Please Stop Already. Ankita Mukhopadhyay Randomly tuning into the news a few days ago I came across a special segment of Zee News, called 'Tal Thok Ke' (Extra Strong). Their special segment was a notso-surprisingly rabid and sensationalist statement,
it difficult for a person like me, not well-versed with the two languages to understand what was written. But why should those scripts be used to demarcate the countries? Was the point to scare people about an 'im-
"Kya Baghdadi Ka Agla Nishaana India Hai?" (Is Baghdadi's next target India?). The Zee News journalist excitedly looked into the camera and proclaimed this headline as the most important news of the day. After Paris, the 'ISIS' was heading towards India and by mobilising 'wayward' Indian youth, we too would have a terrorist attack inflicted on us like what happened in Paris. As a viewer, I, and many others are being fed such news as 'news'. And unfortunately, this programme was in Hindi, and was therefore reaching out to a much larger audience than an English channel does. The programme alleged that 'sleeper cells' of the 'ISIS' are operating around the country, particularly in the following states: Kerala, Maharashtra, West Bengal, J&K and Tamil Nadu. 'Khufiya' (secretive) reports, which only Zee News had of course, also suggested that ISIS is slated to enter India through Kashmir. Rajnath Singh, Home Minister of India too was quoted as a reliable source who expressed his concern about the 'youth of Kashmir' being mobilised to join the ISIS and attack India. The Zee News reporter made a reference to 'Love Jihad' and how it may be one of the methods being used by the ISIS to attack Indians. Another thing that attracted my attention was how every reference to ISIS had a flag of Pakistan beside it as if to suggest that Pakistan may be the reason behind the youth in India joining the organization. Zee News even made an effort to draw a map showcasing how the ISIS may enter India. On the map, what was noteworthy was the fact that Urdu/Arabic words were spattered across the Islamic nations, making
pending' Islamic invasion of 'India'? As a responsible citizen, I want to highlight the following points which I think are necessary to be taken into account while looking at reporting like this: 1. Firstly, it's not ISIS - it's IS or Daesh. The full form of IS is Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and this name change happened nearly a year ago to distinguish this organization from other organizations. Their aim as they state is total war against all proWestern ideologies. 2. The IS isn't the most 'dangerous' thing to afflict the world right now. According to Middle East Studies specialist, Fawaz Gerges, the weakest link of IS as a movement is its 'poverty of ideas'. It's the larger terrorist network that is in fact the most dangerous thing to tackle right now. IS's recruiting tactics aren't based on enmity towards one country or an attempt at establishing an 'Islamic state'. With their call to total war, they aim to appeal to disaffected Sunni youth around the world. What should be a larger concern should be that those youth who are marginalized around the world should be allowed to participate in the country's economy and be assimilated into the social strata, to prevent them from being affected by radical elements 3. Kashmir has been a controversial topic for India for a long time. Politicians who do address the issue conveniently overlook the implementation of AFSPA on the state and blame Kashmiri youth for resorting to militarism to meet their demand for independence of Kashmir. There is concern within the Indian administration that
Kashmiris are increasingly looking to join Pakistan, but such allegations have little supporting evidence. I believe that the Zee News style of reporting is extremely problematic. People tune into popular news channels primarily to gain knowledge about issues they aren't aware of. If channels like Zee News are
sensationalising issues and providing a wrong context to the whole IS debate, then how can we blame those who do hear the news and then agitate against a particular community for harbouring intentions similar to the IS? The Zee News anchor tried her best to validate her opinion by asking two 'experts' to join her show - both ex-military servicemen. Colonel Shafqat Sayeed from Pakistan also joined them, but the whole debate turned around from the larger concern of the "ISIS" 'entering India from Pakistan and Afghanistan to 'good terrorism' and 'bad terrorism' and how 26/11 showcases that Pakistan supports 'terrorism'. As a media professional myself, I am ashamed to admit that yes, a huge chunk of mainstream media is largely responsible for creating a negative image of Pakistan in our heads, and for sensationalising news just to garner more ratings. Gone are the days of conscientious reporting. Facts and statistics are thrown out of the window during any news debate nowadays, and unfortunately, the larger issue of IS and terrorism remained largely unaddressed in the Zee News 'debate'. Personally, I feel that the Paris attacks are a sign that increasing marginalization of youth across the world, primarily because of the religion they profess will simply motivate them to enlist in organizations that promise them revenge against the 'other'. More than the fact that India should be scared of the IS because it is according to some, a 'Hindu Rashtra', we should take note of the fact that terrorism can be created on anybody's soil, all it needs are people willing to believe in that ideology. And biased and unsubstantiated reporting like this one only makes this task for those people easier.
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
BUSINESS
PAGE 10
25% surge in prices of agri goods post Sebi-FMC merger Instagram being pushed by Facebook for ads PITCHING PRICES
New Delhi, Nov 19: Prices of agricultural commodities have shot up by as much as 25% since the merger of Forward Markets Commission (FMC) with Securities & Exchange Board of India (Sebi) six weeks ago, raising fresh policy headache for the regulator and the government as they are grappling with a spike in several food items. Between September 24 and November 17, spices and food items such as turmeric, barley, soyabean and chana have risen by at least 15% in the commodity futures market, generating fears of possible market manipulation. In any case, if policy makers view the trends from the futures market as advance warnings, the signals are not very positive, considering the recent spike in the price of pulses and veg-
etables. While Sebi is looking at steps to check any unwarranted increase -including higher margins for at least three commodities -the spike has raised concerns in the government. Sebi officials as well as some economists, however, blame deficient monsoon rains and its impact on production for the rise in prices in the futures market. An agriculture economist, for instance pointed out that soyabean production is expected to witness a steep fall. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had recently said that the crop had been lost on almost a third of the area under cultivation in the state, which is the country's soyabean capital. Similarly, the rise in chana prices should be seen in the context of the overall
» Between September 24
» An agriculture econo-
and November 17, spices and food items such as turmeric, barley, soyabean and chana have risen by at least 15% in the commodity futures market, generating fears of possible market manipulation.
mist, for instance pointed out that soyabean production is expected to witness a steep fall. » Soyabean had been lost on almost a third of the area under cultivation in the state of Madhya Pradesh, which is the country's soyabean capital.
makers view the trends from the futures market as advance warnings, the signals are not very positive, considering the recent spike in the price of pulses and vegetables.
» Similarly, the rise in chana prices should be seen in the context of the overall increase in daal prices.
» Apart from the weather related impact, there may also be a financing angle to the rise in farm commodity prices in the futures market, said some market sources.
increase in daal prices, sources said. Apart from the weather related impact, there may also be a financing angle to the rise in farm commodity prices in the futures market, said some market
sources. Although there are restrictions on broker funding, banks are allowed to extend loans of warehouses as part of priority sector lending norms. This money, it is alleged, often finds its way into the physi-
cal and futures market, raising fears of possible manipulation. Sources said Sebi is racking the market very closely and has warned that any wrongdoing will attract strict action. (Agencies)
» In any case, if policy
Ramdev disputes with food Fall in G-sec turnover ahead of RBI staff strike regulator over noodles sale permit
Mumbai, Nov 19: The government bond market witnessed subdued trading on Wednesday ahead of the one-day mass casual leave planned by RBI's staff on Thursday to press for better terms for pension. Traders were on guard as the RTGS channel of payment, the most popular mode of payment in India, may be affected on Thursday. At a time when the geopolitical factors are keeping market players on their toes because of volatility in crude oil prices and the dollar-rupee rates, payments-related issues at home are adding to their worries, dealers said. Market sources said the RBI was trying out all means to have
the RTGS channel up and running on Thursday. Most large-sized settlements in the country are routed through the RTGS channel and in case it is not operational, regular operations of all the commercial banks in the country may also be affected, industry players said. As a result of the uncertainty about the payments, traders were mostly on the sidelines with the total turnover in the government securities market falling drastically to about Rs 9,300 crore, compared to an average daily turnover of Rs 25,000 crore, bond market data showed. "Today's turnover in the government bond market was the lowest this fiscal," said a bond dealer. (Agencies)
Road Ministry authorized to clear projects on its own up to Rs. 1k Cr Contd. from Page 1 It also approved increased budget allocation for the Munger railroad bridge over the Ganga. The Cabinet also cleared big-ticket rail projects relating to doubling and construction of new railway lines costing over Rs 8,000 crore. After the package on FDI, the focus on infrastructure was another important step taken by the government post Bihar verdict, and appears to reflect the anxiety to speed up delivery. The Cabinet also allowed separation of land and construction cost of road projects to empower the road ministry to clear more projects without going to the Cabinet where the cost escalation is due to higher compensation for land. The decisions will help the road ministry revive 34 key highway projects. "The Cabinet has taken a very bold decision to allow the ministry of road transport and highways to go into the merit of each case and extend the tolling period wherever delays are not attributable to the developer," said power minister Piyush Goyal, expressing hope that the decision will fast-track highway projects. An official statement said, "The Cabinet has given its approval for authorizing NHAI to allow extension of concession period for all current projects in BOT (toll) mode that are languishing during the construction period due to causes not attributable to
the concessionaire." The Centre also cleared enhanced cost estimate for construction of a rail-cum-road bridge over Ganga in Munger in Bihar with Rs 2,774 crore, reiterating its commitment for the development of the state. As per revised cost estimate, railways and road ministry will contribute Rs 1,247 crore and Rs 1,527 crore respectively. The proposal also takes note of the possibility that the cost of land for road approaches may increase in future as the Bihar government has "not yet initiated" acquisition proceedings for construction of the 14 kmlong rail-cum-road bridge. Announcing the decision, Goyal said the project was sanctioned 14 years ago and accorded the Centre's approval during the NDA government in 2003 but in the last 10-12 years, there was not much progress. Aiming to enhance railway infrastructure, the Cabinet approved four rail line projects in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh at a cost of around Rs 8,351 crore. The Cabinet cleared projects for doubling of 189.278 km KottavalasaKoraput railway line costing Rs 2,977.64 crore, doubling of 164.56 km Koraput-Singapur Road line costing Rs 2,361.74 crore and 110.22 km Jagdalpur-Koraput line with a cost of Rs 1,839.02 crore. These projects are crucial for enhancing railways' freight business which will help in raising revenue. (Agencies)
Haridwar, Nov 19: After Nestle's Maggi, Baba Ramdev's Patanjali Yogpeeth has locked horns with India's food safety regulator over its newly launched instant noodles, saying it had all necessary licences to sell the snack. Reacting to Food Safety and Regulatory Authority of India (FSSAI) chief Ashish Bahuguna's statement that the noodles didn't have mandatory product approvals, Patanjali said it had committed no violation as it had a relabelling licence - which allows it to sell noodles manufactured by other companies which have a valid licence. "We categorically state that we have followed all FSSAI rules and guidelines with regard to Patanjali atta noodles. We have committed no violation," Patanjali spokesperson S K Tijarawala said. Company officials went a step further, questioning the premise on which FSSAI had flagged the product which was launched on Monday, a week after Maggi returned to shelves. "Mr Bahuguna does not know what he is talking about. First, according to a court order, FSSAI does not have a product-approval system in place at present. Second, noodles come under the pasta category, according to FSSAI norms, for which we have all licenses," said a senior Patanjali executive. Experts
say the only issue that may now emerge would be over the relabelling licence that Patanjali is relying on. Bahuguna, who confirmed that he had sought action over Patanjali noodles, did not comment on the issue further but said that "product approvals are not taking place since the Supreme Court had in August quashed the product approval advisory issued by the FSSAI." "We are now in the process of framing new regulations. Once the regulations are in place and standards prescribed, product approvals can take place," he said. In May 2013, FSSAI had issued an advisory that stated food products covering a broad spectrum needed to apply for product approvals. The advisory was, however,
struck down by the Bombay High Court in August 2014. The verdict was later upheld by the apex court, necessitating the framing of new regulations. FSSAI has been fighting a longdrawn battle with food companies in the country over product approvals, after it allegedly found traces of excess lead and undeclared monosodium glutamate (MSG) in packs of Maggi noodles in June. The instant noodles brand is just one of several new launches that Ramdev's Patanjali is planning in the near future which range from 'yogawear' apparel to health drinks. We will be a Rs 5,000-crore company this year. We have grown by over 150% over last year," said Ramdev recently. (Agencies)
Medical device price regulation model likely soon Bengaluru, Nov 19: The contentious issue of introducing price caps on exorbitantly priced medical devices is nearing a solution with the department of pharmaceuticals now directing all stakeholders, including medical device manufacturers and health ministry officials, to thrash out the matter and arrive at a final decision soon. The department will meet medical device manufacturers, health ministry officials and stake-
holders on November 23 to come up with a model to regulate and cap prices, sources say. Earlier efforts to bring down prices of medical devices have failed as the government has not been able to reach a consen-
sus, with some departments having opposed the move saying it may impede potential foreign investment, as well as weaken the 'Make in India' pitch. At present, there are no price caps on high-end medical devices, with a majority of them being imported. Over the last few years, there have been complaints about overcharging, with regulators investigating cases where patients have coughed up almost three to four times
the landed cost (price at which these are imported) for certain devices like cardiac stents and, hence, sold at huge mark-ups of 250400%. Since most of these devices are imported, their prices are already high, and
they go up further with the duties levied on them. The cost to patient is high as these are sold at a huge margin. Worse, the pricing structure is opaque, and there is no method of determining the margin charged by the distributor or hospital. In another development, the government is also moving ahead to curb unethical drug promotions, and has asked the pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers to discuss ways to make the implementation of the marketing code more effective. The department has directed the manufacturers to discuss the issue in the meeting to be held this week. It is understood that the government plans to make the implementation of the code mandatory on the sector from next year. The code banning cruise tickets, freebies and exotic paid vacations for doctors, sponsored by drug companies, is voluntary at present. Medical device manufacturers, led by MNCs, have asked the government to tweak the code to allow "controlled sponsorship" of "product and procedure" training for physicians, which is essential for the hitech and highly innovative sector. (Agencies)
Washington, Nov 19: Facebook is pushing Instagram as a profitable medium for advertisers in India. Two months after opening up the online image and video sharing service to businesses here, Kirthiga Reddy, MD of Facebook India, said a large number of small and large companies including, P&G, Nestle, Grofers and Paperboat are profiting by their presence on Instagram. Instagram, owned by Facebook (FB), has crossed 400 million active users globally, which is larger than microblogging site
Twitter's 320 million active users. In India, it has doubled its number of active users over last year, according to senior FB executives. "We have integrated the back-end advertising mechanism for FB and Instagram," said Reddy. What it means is that with around 1.5 billion users, the world's largest social network site is pitching itself and Instagram as an integrated advertising vehicle to marketers. "It's running a campaign across both print and TV," said Reddy. Instagram has notched up impressive numbers for brands, ac-
cording to research firm Nielsen. For instance, after being present on Instagram, Swiss food major Nestle's KitKat has witnessed a 42-point lift in ad recall and a 10-point increase in message association for consumers in the age group of 15-17 years. (Agencies)
Religare bought by Invesco in fund JV Mumbai, Nov 19: At a time when some of the biggest names in the global assets management business are exiting the Indian mutual fund space, Invesco, the US-based assets management major that already owns 49% in Religare Invesco Mutual Fund, is buying out its Indian partner's stake for a little over Rs 500 crore. In March 2013, Invesco had bought 49% stake in Religare MF for about Rs 450 crore from its promoter Religare Enterprises, a listed firm owned by Delhi-based billionaire brothers Malvinder and Shivinder Singh, the former promoters of Ranbaxy. As part of the deal then, Invesco had the option to buy the remaining 51% stake in the mutual fund house before March 2016, two sources confirmed. "This deal is part of the same agreement," said a source. In the last couple of years, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Deutsche Bank and ING, all global majors in the
financial space, have existed their Indian mutual fund operations, while Japanese major Nomura is reportedly planning its exit. On the other side of the spectrum are Invesco and Japan-based global life insurance major Nippon Life, which has increased its stake in Reliance Mutual Fund during the period. In March 2013, when Invesco bought into Religare MF, the fund house was managing about Rs 14,000 crore in assets, which in the last two and-a-half years have grown to about Rs 21,500 crore. As part of the deal, Invesco will also buy out Religare MF's India fund advisory and portfolio management services businesses. "The current fund management team at the fund house will
continue," the source said. Globally, Invesco manages nearly $800 billion (about Rs 52.8 lakh crore). For the sake of comparison, this is about 60% of the total market capitalization of the BSE, which is currently at about Rs 96 lakh crore. Outside of the US, Invesco is the largest fund manager in the UK and also has operations in other parts of Europe, Canada and Asia. Under its India umbrella, Invesco has already launched two India-focused funds -a bond fund in Luxembourg and another fund in Japan. Currently, Religare MF has funds across the spectrum including equity and fixed income, exchange traded funds on gold and Nifty, and also tax savings schemes. (Agencies)
Rs 3,500 crore sops to exporters, cane farmers Haryana, Nov 19: The government recently decided to provide subsidy to two ailing sectors - exports and sugar - in a bid to revive their fortunes. The two new schemes are expected to cost over Rs 3,500 crore annually, although the one for sugar is an interim measure. The 3% subsidy on credit is for all exports by micro,
scheme. The facility would be available for pre- and post-shipment. Although the subsidy scheme had been pending since the BJP government took charge last year, the Cabinet has decided to offer the benefit only from April 2015 and is estimated to cost Rs 2,500-2,700 crore. The latest aid for the sugar
Remunerative Price) including arrears relating to previous years. Subsequent balance, if any, shall be credited into the mill's account. Priority will be given to settling cane dues arrears of the previous years," the government said after a Cabinet meeting. The direct subsidy is expected to reduce the burden on millers. "This
small and medium enterprises as well as for over 4,000 products, including handicrafts, carpets, several garments, fabrics, toys, sports goods, cosmetics, leather goods, several auto components and some steel, telecom, engineering and electrical products, an official statement said. The government has also decided to exclude merchant exporters from the ambit of the
sector, which will cost around Rs 1,100 crore during the sugar season, will see the government provide a production subsidy of Rs 4.50 a quintal of cane crushed to offset the sugarcane cost. "The said subsidy shall be paid directly to farmers on behalf of the mills and be adjusted against the cane price payable to the farmers towards FRP (Fair and
decision is significant as it means that the government is no longer shying away from owning up the FRP it fixes for sugarcane, by directly contributing for a part of the cane price, instead of continuously burdening the millers. It will reduce industry's liabilities towards cane to that extent, reducing a part of its losses," ISMA, the lobby group for millers, said in a statement. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Features
PAGE 11
Best Bird-watching Spots
TRAVEL & TOURISM
The verdant nature nestled in the lap of Blue Mountains, lush valleys, and Red River is home to several birds' sanctuaries in north east India. The natural places speak volumes about the treasure islands in north-eastern India. The abounding natural bounties, flora and fauna, and wildlife literally have mesmeric effect on every visitor, who steps in to the bird sanctuaries of north-eastern states. Most of the visitors to these wonderlands of natural beauty feel surprised that such places have stayed away from the eyes of most ardent
north-east with their beatific charm on the visitors. Orang National ParkAssam When someone thinks in terms of time, Orang national park is the oldest park dating back to the British days. Covering almost 80 kilometer area within its precincts, this is an incomparable birds' sanctuary along the river bank of Brahmaputra. Besides flora and fauna, Orang is a natural home to types of migratory birds, water birds, and game birds. Over the years, officials have spotted more than 226 types of birds. The wonderful sights of spot-filled Pelican, Black-necked stork,
Nameri National ParkAssam Sharing its northern boundary with Pakhui Wildlife sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh, Nameri is a wonderful natural habitat and birds' sanctuary. Coming within 100 kms distance from Orang National Park, this is a favorite destination of nature lovers. Considered as a bird watchers' heaven, it has more than 300 species in its surroundings. For those visiting Orang national park, Nameri is the second hot destination in the list. Eagle nest- Arunachal Pradesh Tenga-the place separating Eagle Nest birds'
natural lovers. For this, thousands of animal and bird lovers flock to these places every year. Let's know about 10 such birds' sanctuaries of
ruddy shelduck, Gadwall, Brahminy duck, and mallard are few among the birds nesting in this magnificent sanctuary of North-east.
sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh from Nameri national park, is a drive of 4 hours covering a distance of 135 kilometers. The visitors go on a full
Srikant Mohanty
Nokrek National Park: An abode of happiness for red pandas The North eastern states of India are known for their amazing natural bounty and you can explore quite a few sanctuaries and national parks in these states. If you want to explore the awesome wildlife and natural splendour in one such region but lack much time, the Nokrek National Park is ideal. Located in the beautiful and serene Garo Hills of Meghalaya, this national park lures nature and wildlife lovers all over the year. It was added to the Biosphere Reserve list of UNESCO in 2009. Nuances of the Nokrek National Park Famous as the natural habitat of the red pandas, Nokrek National Park is a refuge for biodiversity. It is characterised by predominantly hilly terrain and a few rivers including Simsang flow through the region. The park is not as large as other sanctuaries in the North East like Kaziranga and Manas
National park. It is spread over a region of 48 sq km. It is also quite close to the Tura peak. How and when to reach
The closest town is Williamnagar which is nearly 60 km away from the reserve. The nearby rail station and airport is Guwahati. Both private and state operated buses connect the park with Guwahati. Most visitors stay at William Nagar for visiting the park. While the park has a small canteen for visitors, it is better that you bring your own water and food. The park has typical tropical climate and it witnesses huge rainfall in monsoon months. It is ideal to visit the park in the winter months or before onset of summer.
Vegetation and wildlife Apart from the Red Panda, which lures thousands of visitors to the biosphere reserve, it
is also home to the Asian elephant. There are eight species of wild cats and animals like stump tailed macaque, wild buffalo, Hoolock Gibbons also enthrall the visitors. The bird watchers can have a gala time in the park since it houses several species of amazing birds! Examples include hornbills, pheasants and pea fowls. You can also find a few peacocks. Besides, the park also has a fair amount of reptiles and snakes. The thick lush greenery of the region looks amazing and it enables sustenance of food chain and co existence of diverse species of flora and fauna. The park is also famous for cultivation of Memang Narang, a species of Oranges. Activities for visitors Apart from watching the amazing animals, birds and lush greenery in the park, the visitors can indulge in various activities. The nearby Ronbang Dare Waterfalls is worth a visit. You can also head to places like Siju Cave and Napak Lake. There are plenty of scopes for trekking and climbing in the park as well. (Agencies)
day exploration in this natural place watching birds, flora and fauna, and wildlife. Spread on an area of 218 square kilometer, this place is a prime birding area of this region. The popular species in this area are wards trogon, chestnut crowned warbler, streakthroated Barwing, greentailed seabird, goldenbreasted Fulvettas, and Bay woodpecker. The multi-hued presence of birds has enough charm in it to make the visitors lose their night's sleep. Pakke wildlife Sanctuary The visitors move from Eagle nest to Pakke wildlife sanctuary and they need to know for sure that this would take a complete day. Situated in the East Kameng district, this area shares a common border with Assam. Pakke is the distinguished birds' sanctuary with an enviable avian population of more than 300 types of resident and migratory birds. One of the important species in the birds' population is attractive Hornbills. Kaziranga National Park-Tezpur This UNESCO protected site, Kaziranga National Park, is a hot destination of tourists from across the
nation. The elephant ride with the help of mahouts is the main attraction for all. Kaziranga, situated in Golaghat and Nagoan districts in the statehood of Assam, is one of the best Tiger reserves of Northeastern India. For long, this has stayed a heaven for the bird lovers as the sanctuary houses almost 500 avian species. The spectacular sights of Swamp Francolin, palecaped pigeon, Bengal Florican, wreathed hornbill, Jerdon's Baza, slender-billed vulture, pallas's fishing eagle, imperial eagle, Pied Harrier are delights to the eyes of bird watchers. Manas National ParkAssam Manas National Park, coming along BarpetaManas road in Assam is a magnificent site for bird watching. Also declared as a UNESCO protected site, this also houses the most beautiful bird sanctuary. Home to 380 species of colorful avian population, bird lovers take the delight of watching Great Hornbill, which is endangered species in the world of birds. Blacktailed crake, red-headed trogon, swamp francolin, Marsh and Jordon's babblers, Pied Harrier, Bristled grass birds and
Finn's weaver are some of the spectacular species in the birds' population in Manas national Park. Siju Birds SanctuaryMeghalaya Nokrek Natural Park is famous as one of the most beautiful bio-reserves, situated in Meghalaya. Located at the west of West Hills, this natural habitat is the home to different endangered species in wildlife and birds. Once the visitors step in to this national park, they make it a point to visit Siju birds' sanctuary, located nearby. The avian population in this birds' sanctuary is spectacular with their different species, colors, and breeds. It is a natural home to native as well as migratory birds. The specialty in this population is the
Siberian docks and visitors flock to watch peacock pheasant, which is another exquisite species in the population of birds. Shirui National ParkManipur Although, Shirui national park is not famous as a natural park, it has an amazing presence of birds. As the park keeps open in May and June, visitors come to the park to have views of dazzling sights of birds. Visitors take the pleasure of watching rare birds like Blyth S. Tragopan and Mrs. Hume bar backed Pheasant. Murlen National Park Located in the Champhai district of Mizoram in north-east India, this park is spread on the
200sqaure kilometer area. Situated at 245 kilometers of East of Aizwal, it has Chin Hills in its close proximity. The visitors to this park take the delight of 150 species of birds living in this natural paradise. Phawngpui National Park Located in the blue mountains of Mizoram, Phawangpui National park is a paradise for nature lovers. Spread on lush greenery of 550 kilometers, this natural biosphere is home to innumerable species of birds. Some of the best species among the flock are blyth's tragopan, falcon, sunbird, pheasant, hornbills, and grey sibia. November to April is the best time to visit Phanswgpui national park. (Agencies)
Pani Dihing Bird Sanctuary: A paradise for bird lovers Arnab Ghosh Assam is famous for its tea, natural splendor, amazing hills and a spectacular wildlife. There are several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in this north eastern state that attract thousands of footfalls. Visiting Manas and Kaziranga National Park is quite commonplace for tourists, but Assam also has some lesser known but amazing wildlife zones. Bird lovers can head to the Panidihing Wildlife Sanctuary- a natural habitat for various rare and migratory bird species. Nuances of Pani Dihing Wildlife Sanctuary Located in the northern fringe of Sivasagar dis-
trict in Assam, the Panidihing wildlife Sanctuary comprises of an amazingly rich wetland ecosystem. It is about 22 km away from Sivasagar town. It is located between the Demow and Disang rivers. It is also close to the Brahmaputra River. After the government identified the region as a vital birding area, Panidihing wildlife Sanctuary was set up. That was way back in 1996. How and when to visit It is not hard to reach the bird sanctuary since it is well linked with the major cities in Assam. Reaching the sanctuary by road is the best option for visitors. You may also reach by hiring a taxi from Jorhat station. The Dibrugarh airport is almost 90 km away. Buses
and taxis are available from Dibrugarh to reach Sibsagar too. While you can visit the sanctuary anytime the best season is the months between November and March. During these months several migratory birds can be seen in the sanctuary and you may miss them while visiting at other times. The Sivasagar Tourist Lodge is used by most tourists
for accommodation and it is not far from the sanctuary. What to see Nature and bird lovers have a gala time at the Panidihing Wildlife Sanctuary. There are various types of shrubs and plants in the region. Ornithologists have found more than 260 species of birds in the sanctuary so far. Almost 70 species of spectacular migrating
birds also throng the region in winter months. The most commonplace species of birds found in this sanctuary include greylag goose, red crested pochard, spotbilled duck, ferruginous duck, open bill stork and Shoveller etc. The variety of goose and duck species is amazing. Another common species seen here is the whiterumped vulture. Preying birds like fishing eagles are also seen in abundance. The chirping and twitters of these birds fill the atmosphere in the sanctuary. Visitors are never bored in this haven of birds. While watching and taking snaps of myriads of birds, they can also spend a day away from chaos of city life in the sanctuary. (Agencies)
The David Scott Trail: A panoramic place One of the most frequented treks of Meghalaya, the David Scott Trail is a place that is a must-visit place in every adventure and nature lovers' bucket list. One of the most beautiful treks in India, the David Scott Trail is a wonder to experience. Located about one hour from Shillong, the 4-5 hour walk takes you past clear
streams, roads winding through mesmerizing greenery, hillocks, gushing waterfalls, valleys, forest groves and a Khasi village nestled
on a hilltop. David Scott Trail is a remnant of the British Rule in India, which was left behind by a British Administrator named David Scott. His operations and reach stretched about 29 years (1802-1832) in the Khasi Hills and the surrounding low lying areas which are now in Bangladesh and the Indian states of Meghalaya
and Assam. Zigzaging around a rough elevation of about 1400 m, this was originally the horse-cart road that connected the
plains of Slyhet (now in Bangladesh) to Assam. As soon as you start your journey on this mesmerizing trial, you will find yourself leading from picturesque Ladmawphlang village to Mawphlang, which has their own significance in the pages of Khasi culture and history. An excellent place for a night camp. David Scott Trail provides a panoramic view of the beautiful valley below, if gone uphill. With low granite and sandstone cliffs popping here and there, this trail has a charm of its own. The occasional viewing of cascading waterfalls and the untouched greenery only adds to its charm. Getting nostalgic about his visit to the trail, Delhi-based student and nature enthusiast, Nitin Rai says, "It was 2014, when some of my Khasi friends suggested me that I visit the David Scott Trial. As such I packed by bags and with a couple of friends left for Meghalaya to walk this trail. Upon reaching
it, my happiness knew no bounds on seeing what a beauty it was. With narrow roads passing amidst the woods, the mesmerising rock formations and soothing clear pools will leave anyone in a state of pure bliss." However, certain pointers should be kept in mind while walking down the trail: o One must take a guide along. o Wear a sturdy pair of boots as the route is quite a rough one laddened with sharp stones and pebbles. o People should carry sufficient bottles of water with themselves in order to keep the body hydrated.
o Carry a couple of energy giving chocolates, dry fruits etc. o Rub some sunscreen on the exposed parts of your body to avoid getting a tan. o Carry a torch and swiss knife for any kind of emergency along with you. o Be careful while carrying kids as it is quite a long stretch of the walk. o Avoid going in the rainy season. Where to stay: The best place to stay while making a oneday trip to the David Scott Trial is to stay in and around Shillong or Sohra. Courtesy: Northeasttoday.in
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"We are thankful to the judiciary for taking a positive step for cricket lovers of the capital. We will now put all our energies towards hosting a successful game."
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Chetan Chauhan DDSA Vice President
PAGE 12
Changlang Leo and Changlang Football Club (A) register wins 1st Wangnia Pongte Memorial Football Tournament ET Correspondent Changlang, Nov 19: In today's matches of the 1st Wangnia Pongte Memorial Football Tournament at Changlang. Football Club Leo defeated Upper Changlang FC 3-1 in the first match of the day. For Football Club Leo, Ngepu Ngemu opened the scoring in the 13th minute through some skillful play. The lead was doubled in the 25th minute by Timchi Techi. Upper Changlang FC tried their level best in the first half but were unable to breach the opposition defence. In the second half as well the attacks kept coming from the teams but the goalkeepers managed to keep the strikers at bay. Upper Chnaglang football Club managed to get the deficit down by scoring in the 65th minute through Joseph Maitaih. However, that counted for little as Thangpong Tangha made it 3-1 in the 68th minute. There were no more goals in the match, thereby the match ended 3-1. In the second match of the day, Changlang Football Club
Amla wants batsmen to fire in Nagpur Test ANI Bengaluru: South African Test captain Hashim Amla has said that he wants his misfiring batsmen to play to their potential when they will take on India in the third Test in Nagpur next week. "It would have been great for us to get some confidence after the poor starts with the bat but Nagpur is a different Test and hopefully that is when it starts," Amla said. The tourists failed to overturn their batting slump as they struggled against India's spin attack before being bundled out for 214 in their first innings during the rain-marred Test in Bengaluru. "From a team point of view I don't see a lot of positives to take to be honest, but every time there is a disappointing session or a disappointing day of cricket it is the reflection that happens afterwards that is more valuable than most things," the captain added. South Africa are trailing 10 in the four-game series after losing the first Test by 108 runs in Mohali.
(A) thrashed Supa Stricker Football Team 6-0. CFC (A) were all over SSFT from the very first minute and never allowed the opposition to get a grip of the proceedings. For CFC(A), Emay Lulin scored a hattrick. He scored in the 3rd, 49th and 67th minute. Roseng Mamai scored a brace accounting for goals in the 50th and 55th minute. Dongmum Taidong made it 6-0 in the 69th minute to cap off an emphatic victory. Tomorrow, Zaaro Football Club will take on New CHG United.
FC Leo defeated Upper Changlang
3 -1 Changlang Football Club (A) thrashed Supa Stricker Football Team
6-0
Today’s Match Players seen in action between the match of Football Club Leo(Black jersey) and Upper Changlang FC(Purple Jersey) while in the other CFC(A) players in Red Jersey head forward towards the opposition goal with the ball. ET Photo
ANI Hong Kong: Indian shuttlers made a quick exit from the ongoing Hong Kong Open Super Series after failing to cross the opening hurdle in their respective opening round contests. PV Sindhu, a two-time bronze medallist at World Championship, couldn't lead the Indian charge in the absence of world number two Saina Nehwal as she suffered a 17-21, 9-21 defeat against
India open with five medals in Track Asia Cup ANI New Delhi: The Indian contingent brought cheers to the hosts' camp by winning five medals (1Gold, 3 Silver & 1 Bronze) on the opening day of the Track Asia Cup at the IG Stadium Complex Velodrome. Anu Chutia opened India's campaign by winning a silver medal in the 500 meter Race Distance event in the Junior Women category. In the event, there was no match of new cycling sensation SAI National Cycling Academy (SAINCA's) Amritha Reghunathan (39.927s) who grabbed gold after beating India's Anu Chutia (40.093). In Women Elite event of 500m Race Distance, India's 20 year old Deborah managed to get silver medal in 35.776 seconds, after losing to Korea's Kim Wangyeong who completed in 35.179 seconds. Deborah im-
Belogoni overcome Singlijan Avik Chakraborty Dibrugarh, Nov 19: Belogoni Tea Estate defeated Singlijan Tea Estate 3-1 via tiebreaker after regulation time ended in a 3-3 draw in the Arun Jalan memorial prize money inter-garden running trophy football tournament 2015 organised by Mokalbari Kanoi Tea Estate in association with Dibrugarh District Sports Association here today at Mokalbari Tea Estate playground in Dibrugarh. Altogether, 22 teams participated in the tournament. Belogoni Tea Estate opened their account through Dinesh Rajowar in the 12th minute only for Singlijan’s striker Binod Rajowar to equalize it by converting a pass from Ravi Shankar from the left flank in the
ANI New Delhi: Removing the final stumbling block to host the fourth Test between India and South Africa at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, the Delhi High Court on Thursday issued a directive to the Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) to deposit a sum of one crore rupees as entertainment tax with the state government in two installments. "The outcome is that the learned judges have agreed to our request. The Delhi government will not create any hindrance on account of the match. They will allow the match to take place. The learned court has
19th minute. Belogoni again struck through Amar Rajowar in the 52nd minute who scored from a powerful long ranger. Jitu Mora of Singlijan however equalized the goal in the 70th minute. Shortly after, Singlijan took the lead in the 73rd minute through Ravi Shankar who converted a pass from Binod Rajowar from the right flank. Two minutes later, Belogoni found the through Rico Karmarkar. Before the referee called for tiebreaker, regulation time of the match had ended in a 3-3 draw. For Belogoni, Rajen Karmarkar, Sadu Mora and Amar Rajowar converted their spot kicks with Bitu Mora missing the target. On the other hand, Jitu Mora netted the only goal for Singlijan.
said that we have to pay one crore rupees as a goodwill. This one crore has to be paid in two installments in four weeks time," said a relieved Chetan Chauhan, who is the vice-president of DDCA. "As far as other clearances are concerned, we will work and we will form a committee to look after this and we will try to get clearances and approvals as soon as possible. Even the T20 World Cup will be played and also the game against Sri Lanka in February," the former cricketer added. The court has asked the Delhi government not to withhold No Objection Certificate to the
DDCA for the final Test of the four-match series, which starts from December 3. Justice Mukul Mudgal has also been appointed as an independent observer to oversee the affairs of the final Test. Earlier on Wednesday, the court had paved the way for Feroz Shah Kotla to host the game and directed the MCD to issue Provisional Occupancy Certificate. The DDCA has been mired in controversies over allegations of financial irregularities, with the capital's cricket body supposedly required to pay entertainment tax in excess of Rs 24 crore to the excise department.
Indian shuttlers make hasty exit from Hong Kong Open
Results
Zaaro Football Club Vs New CHG United
DDCA gets `conditional nod` to host India-SA fourth Test
proved her own national record of 37.680 seconds in the same event which she created in the National Games early this year in Kerala. Indian Junior Women was much better today and showed very good temperament. Junior Women Team of Anu Chutia and Rajesh Nayana won Gold Medal for India in Team Sprint event with a timing of 39.702s. Uzbekistan won the silver of this event with a timing of 41.852. While Women elite team of Deborah and Kezia Vargheese won Silver in Team Sprint event with a timing of 37.402 while Korea (35.835) won the Gold of this event. One bronze for India also came in Team Sprint event in Junior Men Category where the team of Emerson, Arkaprava Baul & Ranjith Singh showed their best pedalling and clocked 51.067.
reigning World Champion Carolina Marin in the women's singles event. In men's singles, Kidambi Srikanth, Ajay Jayaram and H.S. Prannoy also bowed out of the tournament early. Sixth seed Srikanth went down to China's Tian Houwei 1621 21-15 22-24 in a gruelling contest that lasted over one hour and 13 minutes. Meanwhile, two-time Dutch Open champion Jayaram suffered a 17-21,
12-21 loss against top seed Chen Long. Rising shuttler Prannoy also went down to Japan's Kenta Nishimoto 15-21, 21-18, 6-21 in the first round. Meanwhile, 2010 Commonwealth Games champions Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa endured a disappointing outing as they lost 12-21 15-21 to Korean pair of Jung Kyung Eun and Shin Seung Chan in their tournamentopener.
Superstar in final Avik Chakraborty Dibrugarh, Nov 19: Superstar, Makum edged past Bismile Football Club 1-0 in the second semifinal of the 9th Gold Cup organized by Surjoyadaya Sangha Chetia Gaon under the aegis of Chabua Sports Association today at Chetia
Gaon field in Chabua. Altogether, eight teams participated in the tournament. Bablu Karmarkar of Superstar, Makum scored the lone goal in the 3rd minute. Superstar, Makum will now play Surjoyadaya Sangha in the final on November 29.
England to tour Proteas without injured Finn, Wood ANI London: England have suffered a major injury blow ahead of their fourmatch Test series against South Africa as the former side will head into the tour without the service of two of their key fast bowlers Steven Finn and Mark Wood. Both the bowlers have failed to recover fully for South African tour after suffering their respective injuries during the recently concluded threematch Test series against Pakistan. Finn suffered a foot injury before the first Test in Abu Dhabi, while
Wood was ruled out of the squad due to ankle injury in the final match at Sharjah. Meanwhile, allrounder Ben Stokes, who suffered a shoulder injury during the third Test, has recovered enough to be available for selection. England are likely to select five fast bowler in the squad for the upcoming Tests which might include Jimmy Anderson, Stuart Broad, Liam Plunkett, Chris Jordan and Chris Woakes. The two sides will play four-match Test series, starting from December 26 in Durban.
Mukesh Kumar surges ahead at the halfway stage, Dharma placed second on the Day 2 of the Master's Golf in Digboi. Laxman Sharma. Digboi, Nov 19 : The Sixtime winner Mukesh Kumar of Mhow surged ahead at the halfway stage of the Rs. 30 lakh IndianOil Servo Masters Golf 2015 being played at the Digboi Golf Links in Digboi, Assam, after his solid second round effort of four-under-68. Mukesh, who totaled 10-under-134 for the first two days, led by one stroke from Bengaluru’s M Dharma. The cut was declared at three-over-147. Fifty-four professionals made the halfway cut. Meanwhile, Mukesh Kumar (66-68), who was one off the lead in tied second after round one, seemed to be coming into
his own at one of his favourite venues during round two. The 50-year-old seasoned campaigner was off to a sizzling start with a 20feet birdie putt on the first. Mukesh missed a sitter on the very next hole but rallied with another long birdie conversion from 15 feet on the fourth. Mukesh added three more birdies to his card on the seventh, ninth and 11th thanks to some excellent chip shots all of which landed within three feet of the cup. He then closed out his round with seven straight pars even though he missed some short birdie putts on that stretch. “I recovered well after the early bogey on the second
and played some brilliant chips. However, it was a poor putting day for me except for the first few holes. I missed a lot of short putts on the backnine. Nonetheless, I’m in a great position at the moment and will look to build from here on,” said Mukesh. He added, “Coming to Digboi is always special. I try to remember my past experiences of winning here to boost my confidence. I know the course very well and therefore I’m able to recover from tough situations more often than not.” However, M Dharma (6768) of Bengaluru climbed up from overnight tied
fourth to second place after his second round of 68. Dharma, who had made a 20-feet eagle after driving the green on the third in round one, mixed five birdies against a lone bogey in round two. Three of his birdies came as a result of good chip-putts from the edge while he sank an eight-footer on one of them. Dharma, a winner on the PGTI, narrowly missed his second eagle of the tournament when his 10-feet putt just shaved the hole on the seventh. Dharma said, “All aspects of my game have clicked over the last two days and that’s the reason I find myself in contention here. I’ve always played well in
Digboi, having posted some low scores in the past. I’ve also had a top-5 finish here. “I missed the cut in the last few events so I’m delighted to be back in the hunt this week. I’m playing well but things have just not been going for me. I hope that changes over the next two days,” added Dharma. However, the Noida duo of overnight leader Gaurav Pratap Singh (6571) and Vikrant Chopra (67-69) occupied tied third place at eight-under136. While Gaurav scrambled through the day with four birdies and three bogeys, Vikrant made four birdies which included a 20-feet conversion and a lone bogey. Sri Lankan N
Thangaraja shot the day’s best of 66 to share fifth place with Kolkata’s Shankar Das (71) and Om Prakash Chouhan (68) of Mhow at seven-under137. Shankar thus slipped three places from his overnight tied second. Defending champion Shamim Khan (71-72) of Delhi returned an evenpar-72 to be tied 21st at one-under-143. Meanwhile,all the six local players, four professionals and two amateurs, missed the cut. Deven Bhumij in tied 55th at four-over-148 was the highest-placed local professional at the end of round two. He missed the cut by one shot.
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