23nd dec

facebook.com/easterntoday

@easterntoday

For business, mail at: md.easterntoday@gmail.com

cmyk

cmyk

www.eastern-today.com For your copy of The Eastern Today in Khonsa please contact:

Ph. No.-08471896580/ 07085295635

ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Issue 198

Employability of University Graduates

Dibrugarh, Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Goodies that bring sweet tidings

Page 8

ET CAPSULES Bogibeel Bridge Dibrugarh, Dec 22: Dibrugarh MP, Rameswar Teli raised the issue of Bogibeel Bridge in Lok Sabha today during zero hour. He expressed his concern about the slow progress of the construction work of the bridge. Considering the importance of the bridge he demanded speedy completion of the same. (Correspondent)

AJYCP blocks train Dibrugarh, Dec 22: AJYCP blocked Kolkata bound Kamrup Express in Banipur, Dibrugarh as a mark of protest against Central Government's decision to grant asylum to Bangladeshi Hindu migrants in Assam.

They demanded immediate withdrawal of the notification and implementation of dual citizenship in Assam. (Correspondent)

Railway track blocked at Tinsukia

cmyk

Tinsukia, Dec 22. Continuing with its protest against Central Government's decision to grant asylum to Bangladeshi Hindu migrants in Assam, AJYCP carried out a rail roko protest in Tinsukia on Tuesday. As part of the protest members of AJYCP blocked railway track at Bahadur Charali for over 1 hour starting at 11.00 in the morning, affecting Tinsukia bound Passenger train. They demanded immediate withdrawal of the notification and implementation of dual citizenship in Assam. (Correspondent) Teacher commits suicide Morigaon, Dec 22: One Shyam Lal Das, Assistant Teacher of Machkhowa Kahibari ME School under Kopili Block of Morigaon district committed suicide by hanging himself from a tree at his residence in the morning today. The family source alleged that Shyam Lal Das had been working as a teacher in the school for the last 22 years without salary and his school was not provincialised till date.

Though the Elementary Education Department of Assam government has prepared the list to include the school as government school yet his post was not sanctioned leading the teacher into taking the extreme step.

This is the second suicide case of a teacher in Morigaon district. Earlier, one Assistant Teacher Kamal Bordoloi of Nabheti ME school committed suicide in the month of September due to nonpayment of salary.

(Correspondent)

An ANSU activist holds a placard during the protest. Pic - ET Photo

Page 10

Page 6

(Nyishi) us as ‘junglee’ and even wanted to shift the state capital from Itanagar, we have filed a case against Kalikho pul and he should be arrested.

Since the arrival of this Governor JP Rajkhowa his activities have been anti development of the state and engaging in politics. So he should immediately go or the President of India should recall or remove JP Rajkhowa from his post for which we have already submitted memorandum to the President of India recently.”

The Nyishi Students’ Union President Byabang Joram addressing the gathering said, “We are not against any community but we are very much hurt by the defamatory and derogatory words in the voice clip which has been circulating in the social media.

Contd. on Page 3

Changlang Students Union protest alleged atrocities upon civilians by Assam Rifles Sets 7 day deadline for administration and police to initiate action against Assam Rifles ET Correspondent Changlang, Dec 22

At a time when the security forces including the Assam Rifles units stationed in Arunachal Pradesh are on high alert against possible militant strikes, the influential All Changlang District Students Union (ACDSU) today set a 7 day deadline for the Changlang

district administration and the police to initiate action against an Assam Rifles officer who had picked up three persons including two students and physically tortured them before handing them over to the police. The students union also submitted a memorandum in this regard to the Deputy Commissioner of Changlang and Superintendent of Police,

Changlang today. The union also filed two FIRs in this regard at Changlang police station and Namtuk police station.

Mengpa Haisa, the President of ACDSU said that the incident took place at around 5-30 pm on Sunday when Moikam Haisa, a student of RGB College and the assistant finance sectary of ACDSU was waiting at the Arunachal bus stand

Arunachal PWD minister highlights state govt's performance A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 22

Taking a dig at opposition BJP and dissident MLAs for alleging that Chief Minister Nabam Tuki-led Arunachal Pradesh government did nothing tangible, PWD Minister Gojen Gadi today highlighted the achievements with documentary evidences. Gadi told reporters that that the progress of mini secretariat buildings (MSBs) and cement concrete roads (CCRs) are highly satis-

factory with the PWD making all possible efforts. While the percent-wise progress of MSB at Namsai (Phase-1) was 95%, Changlang 65%, Sagalee 50% & Khonsa 30%, the tendering process for Daporijo & Ziro MSB was on and for Roing and Tezu, the financial bids opened were under scrutiny, Gadi said. The percent-wise completion of CCRs included Capital Complex (80%), Ziro (30%), Aalo (phase-I) (80%), Yingkiong (phase-I) (80%), Pasighat (phase-I) & Roing (40% each), Longding,

Khonsa & Changlang (35% each) and work at Tezu awarded a month back. While the MSBs are built under special plan assistance allocated in 2013-14 and 2014-15, all CCRs are state flagship programmes, he said, adding that work has been taken up in district and ADC HQs to improve road connectivity on need-basis for which the state government had allocated Rs 30 crore in the last Budget.

Contd. on Page 3

BJD MP poses question about his motion on Arunachal Governor ET Bureau New Delhi, Dec 22

BJD leader B Mahtab on Tuesday, December 22 raised the issue of Arunachal Pradesh governor's conduct and enquired about the fate of a 'substantive motion' he had moved in the Lok Sabha for a discussion on the issue. Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, an MP from the state, objected to it, saying the matter was in the

court, even as Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Rajiv Pratap Rudy was seen asking him not to speak. A substantive motion is a self-contained independent proposal submitted for the approval of the House and drafted in such a way as to be capable of expressing a decision of the House, like all resolutions. Mahtab said the matter of Governor Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa's action in the state was not in the court.

The recent developments saw rebel Congress MLAs joining hands with BJP in passing a noconfidence motion against Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, with the Gauhati High Court staying the proceedings.

Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the matter was under her consideration and she will soon take a decision, as the BJD leader noted that time was short with the Session getting over tomorrow.

Rail blockade by AJYCP, police detain protesters ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 22

Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chhatra Parishad (AJYCP) Golaghat District Unit today undertook a rail blockade programme at Furkating Railway Junction in Golaghat to protest against the government's alleged ignorance towards fulfillment of their various demands like implementation of dual citizenship, inner line permit, etc.

Contd. on Page 4

in Margherita along with a village boy to go to Changlang.

“As they were about to start their journey in a car, a team of Assam Rifles personnel came and surrounded them”, he said. Later, the 14 Assam Rifles personnel led by Capt.

B.K.Singh started questioning them and manhandled Contd. on Page 3

Itanagar DC imposes curfew around Raj Bhawan A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 22

Anticipating breach of peace and tranquility around the Raj Bhawan Complex due to dharna and processions, Deputy Commissioner cum District Magistrate, Itanagar, Mige Kamki issued prohibition orders against dharna, strike, unlawful assembly “which may disturb peace and tranquility within 100 metre radius of the Raj Bhawan area under Section 144 Cr. PC, I, as on December 21, 2105. Further, parking of private vehicles along the road within 100 metres in front of the Raj Bhawan main gate and Raj Bhawan Helipad gate during night has been prohibited.

BSF plane crashes near Dwarka, 10 killed; PM Modi pained over loss of lives

The wreckage of a Border Security Force aircraft which crashed near Dwarka in Delhi.

Agencies New Delhi, Dec 22

All the 10 people on board a small Ranchi-bound BSF plane carrying technical personnel were killed when it

crashed near Dwarka on Tuesday and burst into flames just outside the IGI airport here shortly after take-off. While three bodies were found just outside a water tank in a completely charred condition, the

rest were pulled out of the water tank, police said. The plane carried two pilots and eight technicians.

Contd. on Page 4

Himanta files 100-crore defamation suit against Assam CM A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 22

Senior BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday filed a Rs 100-crore defamation suit against Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and dared him to prove, or at least provide detailed information about any criminal case against him as

claimed by the latter. “I have today filed a defamation case in the Kamrup Civil Judge’s court against CM Tarun Gogoi for making an allegation against me through a newspaper report that there are several criminal cases pending against me.

Himanta Biswa Sarma

Contd. on Page 4

EC asks authorities in Assam to map vulnerable places to ensure free and fair polls A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 22

The Election Commission on Tuesday said it has asked district police chiefs and dis-

trict magistrates in Assam to map all vulnerable places in the state so that free and fair polls to the legislative assembly could be held next year. "Political parties have briefed us

Assam Govt to offer cashless medical scheme for regular govt employees, pensioners A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 22

The State Government decided to provide a comprehensive, cashless medical scheme for the regular government employees, pensioners and their dependents. This was in-

about the role money and muscle power can play in the upcoming elections.

Contd. on Page 4

Senior journalist DC Jain passes away

formed by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi in a meeting with Sodou Asom Karmachari Parishad (SAKP) in the conference room of his office in Assam Secretariat on Tuesday.

Contd. on Page 4 Dharamchand Jain

Northeast fund utilisation pattern being reviewed, says Jitendra Singh ANI New Delhi, Dec. 22

The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER) has said the ministry is seriously reviewing the pattern and process of utilisation of government funds allocated for the devel-

opment in the region. Speaking at an interactive programme organised by the Federation of Industry and Commerce of North Eastern Region (FINER) here on Monday, Dr Singh said there are a number of factors responsible for inadequate utilisation of the allocated funds. "In addition to the need to increase the

amount of allocated funds, there is also an urgent need to overcome the factors responsible for inadequate utilisation of allocated or available funds." "Often funds are not released, because the Detailed Project Reports (DPR) for new projects are not available on time, and as a result, Contd. on Page 3

ET Correspondent Nalbari, Dec 22

Renowned litterateur, senior journalist Dharamchand Jain passed away at around 6.30 this morning at a private hospital in Guwahati where he was undergoing treatment for the last two days. He was 70. Born in 1944 at Jaipur in Rajasthan, Jain completed his childhood education at Nalbari LP School and passed the matriculation from Debiram Pathshala High School in 1961.

Contd. on Page 4

Juvenile Justice Bill Ulfa (Ind) welcomes passed in Rajya Sabha Bihu forum’s step ANI New Delhi, Dec 22

AJYCP activists block train at Bahadur charali demanding ILP for Assam and dual citizenship. Pic - Arjun Mishra

Pages- 12

Unnecessary to amend Juvenile Justice Bill: Ram Jethmalani

ANSU takes out mass rally demanding Arunachal Governor’s recall Several student unions under the banner of All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) today took out a mass peace protest from Akashdeep to Indira Gandhi Park in Itanagar demanding recall of Arunachal Governor JP Rajkhowa.

Around 1000-1500 protesters carrying placards and banners saying ‘ANSU demand recall/ removal of Governor JP Rajkhowa for anti development of Nyishi area and state as a whole’, ‘Immediate arrest of Mr Kalikho Pul, Former Finance Minister for defaming the Nyishi community’ took part in the rally. Briefing the media at IG Park, Byaban Joram Sadi said, “We are not communal, we are not against any community but against Kalikho who described

5.00

Delhi Metro signs MoU with Solar Energy Corporation of India

Page 9

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 22

Price -

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday passed the Juvenile Justice Bill.

The parents of December 16, 2002 gang-rape and murder victim were continuously protesting the release of the juvenile convict, while urging both the government and the Opposition to pass the bill.

The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Bill, 2014, provides for the trial of those between 16-18 years as adults for heinous offences. Also, anyone between the age of 16-18 who commits a less serious offence may be tried as an adult if he is apprehended after he attains the age of 21.

Contd. on Page 3

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 22

The Ulfa (Independent) has welcomed the initiative taken up by the Sadou Asom Bihu Sanmelan Samanayrakhi Samity to bring some level of discipline during bihu programme, particularly stage functions by artists, by imposing some restrictions. In a

statement e-mailed to ‘The Eastern Today’, Capt.

Arunudoy Asom, the assistant information and publicity secretary while welcoming the steps taken up by the samity stated that from hence nobody will be allowed to sing hindi songs or perform hindi dances during any bihu stage Contd. on Page 3

cmyk

Dalam Studio Near parking stand Khonsa

PAGE 2

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

Doomdooma all set to celebrate Vajpayee’s 91st birthday ET Correspondent Doomdooma, Dec 22: The tea city Doomdooma is all set to celebrate the 91st birthday of the two time former prime minister, a poet and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee in collaboration with the Doomdooma unit of Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM). The venue of the program is the town field where the twoday long program will be staged as on December 24.

On December 24, an art contest will be organized among tiny-tots from 10 o'clock in the morning.

Children up to twelve years can participate in the Draw-

CAE produces commendable results in All India Level Exam ET Bureau Borjhar, Dec 22: As per the recently announced result of the All India Examination held by Director General of Civil Aviation, basically known as DGCA under Ministry of Civil Aviation, Govt. of India, the students of College of Aeronautical Engineering (CAE) has produced excellent results. In comparison to the national pass percentage of 18%, the college stands strong with a passing percentage of 92.3%.

It is already known that as per the newly revised Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR), CAE is the only College all over India which has got its approval. No other College was able to get approval from DGCA after this. It is quite impressive for the College to have achieved this success only within six years of its birth. Without receiving any form of aid from Govt. or private body and with its sole and continuous effort, this unique educational Institute of this pocket region of North East has set an example with its achievement. In addition to this in the past years, the students passing out from this College have been successfully employed by various aviation departments and companies like Tata Lockheed Martin, Drukair, Air Vistara, Global Vectra etc which in itself is a very promising scenario for the students of the entire North East who are planning to develop a career in Aviation.

Cash looted from Canara Bank ET Correspondent Mangaldai, Dec 22: An incident of cash loot from the Kharupetia branch of Canara Bank in Darrang district has been reported last night. According to bank sources, miscreants broke into the bank and looted a small cash amount of around Rs 6000 as their attempt to break the main locker failed. The miscreants have also damaged the ATM centre of the branch in an unsuccessful attempt to loot it.

Police has started investigation but till filing of this report no arrest has reportedly been made.

For sale AVEO Chevrolet 61,000 km (2006) Call - 9435421479

ing Competition which is scheduled on the day. This competition will be followed by a Dance Competition which has been divided into two sections A and B and will begin sharp at 11 o'clock. Children up to 12 years of age should enroll in section A while the above 12 years of age should enroll in section B. On the following day, the president of BJYM, Ravi Dubey will unfurl the flag at 10 o'clock in the morning which will be followed

by Sahid Tarpan (tribute to martyrs) which will be conducted by the vice President of BJYM, Ranjay Jaiswal.

Senior social worker of Doomdooma Chiranjilal Goyal will cut a huge sized special cake and prayers will be offered to Almighty God for the long and healthy life of Vajpayee. A fruits distribution program will be conducted by the Doomdooma Town Committee president Dulu Arandhara and activists. At 12 o'clock saplings will be planted by the vice President of the Doomdooma Town Committee Kapil Pandey. At a cultural program by Doomdooma Mahila Morcha Vande Matram and inspirational songs will be sung. A

friendly volleyball match will also be played. In a general meeting to be held late noon, Chief Guest Sarbanand Sonowal (Union Sports and Youth Welfare Minister), Jorhat MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, Dibrugarh MP Rameswar Teli, Doomdooma MLA Dilip Moran, State President of BJYM Diplu Ranjan Sharma, president of Tinsukia unit of Bhartiya Janta Party Bhawen Sharma, President of BJYM (Tinsukia unit) Kushkant Bora will participate. In view of the Vajpayee's birthday, presi-

dent Samiran Gogoi and joint secretaries Binod Budhia and Surendra Yadav of the Welcome Committee have invited all people to take part in the function and the President of BJYM Ravi Dubey and Secretary Gautama Mitra have urged the people to make it a grand success. It is expected to be worthwhile to see what gift the representative of Union Government Sarbanand Sonowal brings to Doomdoomites on the birthday of Vajpayee with a section of the people viewing him as future Chief Minister of Assam.

CM rings up DC Barpeta regarding Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Barpeta Satra A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 22: In view of the controversy generated regarding the issue of visit of MP Rahul Gandhi to Barpeta Satra, the Government of Assam wants to put matters straight for appraisal of the general public. On the evening of December 10, Chief Minister

rang up the Deputy Commissioner, Barpeta regarding MP, Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the Barpeta Satra.

The Deputy Commissioner called the Burha Satriya of the Satra to discuss the matter. The Burha Satriya informed the Deputy Commissioner that as he was in a period of confinement

(due to birth of his granddaughter) he was not presently involved in the day-today affairs of the Satra. A meeting was convened by the Deputy Commissioner in her office chamber attended by several office bearers of Barpeta Satra Parichalana Samiti. The meeting discussed thread-

bare regarding the visit of MP Rahul Gandhi to the Satra. Despite prolonged persuasion by the district administration, the office bearers of the Barpeta Satra remained adamant in their stand not to allow MP Rahul Gandhi into the Satra premises thus sparking a needless controversy.

Motapung Beel turns into paradise for migratory birds ET Correspondent Doomdooma, Dec 22 : Maguri Motapung Beel in Tinsukia district has become a paradise for migratory birds and they have started flocking here. As the winter is progressing into its peak, many places in upper Assam have become a haven for avian visitors.

Different species have reached the beels and are seen enjoying the season's greetings in the local water bodies.

Chatak, Lajuki Dhapalika, Kamsarai, Samukbhanga, Dhritaraj are the local known birds which are being seen with the avians. However, their life is threat-

ened as some poachers keep an evil eye on them, capture them and are sold in the international markets. Some local villagers capture them either to eat its meat or to sell in the market. “The tourism ministry should locate these sites and develop them as bird sightings so that more jobs to local

unemployed youth and international money can be fetched.” A local opined adding that the Tinsukia Wildlife Division officials should keep a vigil and take stern action against poachers and illegal bird merchants to save these innocent and 'useful nature creatures'.

SPORTS

Sonari Commerce College zonal champions DU Inter College Cricket Tournament

ET Correspondent Sonari, Dec 22: Sonari Commerce College defeated Sonari College by 8 wickets to become the zonal champions in Zone – C of

the Dibrugarh University Inter College Cricket Tournament. Through today’s victory, Sonari Commerce College had also earned a quarter final berth of the

tournament – the main round of which will be held at the varsity campus shortly. In today’s zonal final played at the Sonari public playground, Sonari College were bundled out for a meagre 41 runs after the side won the toss and decided to bat first. Surajit Buragohain (10) and Bharat Phukon (6) tried to build up some resistance but failed against some sharp bowling from the opponent bowlers. Sagar Singh was the pick of the bowlers picking up 4wickets for 14 runs in his 6 overs while Rajdeep

Ghosh took 3 wickets for 7 runs in his 5 overs.

Rajdeep Ghosh was also the top scorer (10) for his side while Arun Kumar Shah scored 9 as the team achieved their target quite easily losing only 2 wickets. Rajdeep Ghosh was declared as the man of the match while Surajit Buragohain was adjudged as the man of the series.

Earlier, both the teams were introduced to Dr. Bimal Chandra Gogoi, Principal, Sonari College, Arpan Baruah, Vice-Principal and Mritunjoy Das, President, Sonari Press Club.

Annual Sports Meet concludes at KV Mangaldai Mayukh Goswami Mangaldai, Dec 22: The Annual Sports Meet organized by the authority of Kendriya Vidyalaya Mangaldai to showcase the budding sporting talents of their students concluded at the school premises last afternoon. The meet featured many sports events including boys’ volleyball, girls’ kabbadi, 100 and 50 meters race among others. Competitions for some sporting events for amusement like the frog whopping, balloon bursting etc were also held for students of lower primary level. After the screening rounds, final rounds of all the events have been conducted on the day. The team events were played between four different houses formed among the students of the school.

In the Kabbadi event which was held only for girls and divided into two groups depending on their age group, Narmada House emerged champions in the

Artists perform during the annual function of Asom Satriya Sanskritik Kendra, Dibrugarh held at district library auditorium recently. Pic - S.L. Bhuyan

ASTRO FOR YOU Today you will land up in a tricky or hazardous situation. You will feel compelled to wade against the tide, which may not be such a productive thing. Nothing seems to be going your way. Take some time off for yourself to relieve the stress.

This day you will have an urge to take a trip, be it a small one. You are likely to enthusiastically make detailed plans and arrangements, arranging for funds and getting in touch with all those you desire to take along.

It is possible that you may ultimately scrap your plans and choose to stay at home. However, be sure you’ll be making that trip in due course.

You will make a reputation for yourself as a leader in your social circle.

You yearn for something in your heart, and need to concentrate your energies upon attaining it. Your creative mind will come up with solutions today, to certain questions that have been perplexing you for quite some.

You will get a surprise gift or good news from your friends or relatives.

You will enjoy with your family. You will get the affection and co-operation of family members. Happiness and rapport in domestic life is indicated.

You will relentlessly try to find means to progress at the workplace today.

You will remain steadfast in your resolutions. You will not allow those working under you to slack. You will need to let go of your inhibitions and fears to be happy in life. You will receive the benifice of highly placed superiors.

Emotions that have been locked in the inner recesses of your heart might just surface today. You may develop an emotional attachment with your material possessions. However, if you don’t find your surroundings conducive, you will feel extremely restless.

Today will be an auspicious day for starting any new work. In the office you will be assigned new positions and you shall excel in the same. Whatever work is undertaken by you will see you attain success in it. Today is a lucky day for you.

Today, there may come up situations which may test your patience. However, it would be wise to sit and sort out all the differences with your colleagues or family members or your partner.

It’s time for invitations and grooving all night long. And even eat like a glutton. But, for a change you are not on a mood to party, though it is unlike you. You reject the idea of socialising and hitting the dance floor.

And your friends do not like your changed avatar.

You’ll kick start the day in high spirit which will take everyone by surprise. You will shift gears at work so that you can perform more efficiently and productively. Such a change will boost your confidence as you will see the positive results for yourself. Most of the day, you will work like a busy bee, but at the end you will listen to music or be with your friends to relax your mind.

Cooperative and supportive, your colleagues will help you improve your performance at work. Also, your creativity will win you praises from one and all. The day will have a perfect end as you will spend quality time with your friends and family.

Today you will get attention from the opposite sex and this will play an important role in your success in the near future. Due to the favourable alignment of the planets you will receive more than your expectations.

Even though you are a calculative and cautious person, you will tend to be aggressive, outgoing and willing to take risks today. This could also translate in you trying your luck in uncertain fields like gambling, stocks or betting.

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

23-12-15 (WEDNESDAY)

Students of Kendriya Vidyalaya Mangaldai take part in march past on the occasion of Annual Sports Meet. senior category while Kaveri House came up as the winners in the junior category. On the other hand in the volleyball limited only for boys Brahmaputra House and Kaveri House emerged as champions in the senior and junior categories respectively. After the finals secretary of the Assam Taekowando Asso-

ciation Dilip Dowka, sports organizer Rajib Kr Deka, cultural activists Bhanu Deka Saharia, journalist Mayukh Goswami, member VMC Puspa Chetry and others gave away the prizes to the winners. Earlier on the day the meet was inaugurated by veteran academician Rajendra Nath Baruah in the presence of

principal of the school Saroj Kr Choudhary and other staff of the school which was followed by presentation of colourful cultural programmes by the students. Prior to the final rounds of competitions participants of all the four houses performed march past and also took part in oath taking ceremony.

5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-50 A.M-Naam 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Surar Satsori 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Karpumpuli 7-35 P.M-Ujjwal Bhabishyat 8-15 P.M-University Broadcast 8-00 P.M-Parikrama 10-00 P.M-Question Hour in Parliament Sd-/H.O.P

PAGE 3

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

DRDA meeting in Siang District CCTV installed at strategic locations ET Correspondent Pangin, Dec 22: An executive coordination meeting of District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) was held at conference hall of DC office Pangin, Siang District under the Chairmanship of PD, DRDA, Tajing Jonnom, yesterday in the presence of ZPC Chairperson Opung Jerang, BDOs and all the ZPMs and ASMs of Siang District. While chairing the maiden coordination meeting of DRDA

Land mapping, verification exercise Roing, Dec 22: The District Administration of Lower Dibang Valley District has carried out a month long exercise to map and verify the land possessed by the Health and Education Institutions of the district by engaging officials from the land management, health and education departments.

Altogether mapping of the 108 Govt Educational Institutions and 22 Govt Hospitals/Health Centres has been completed recently. Processes to issue legal documents like the Land Possession Certificate to these health and education institutions by the district administration are being undertaken in order to restrain any encroachment of these areas in future. (DIPRO)

after creation of DRDA at Pangin, he was hopeful of getting support and cooperation from Panchayat members and general public to nourish the growth of the department to great height. He also informed that the DRDA is fully functional now and schemes under IAY, IWMP, etc. are being implemented; however, registration under MIS is being rigorously followed in the ministry of rural development GOI for early reg-

istration to implement the MGNERAGA schemes for which he appealed to everyone present to cooperate with the department for successful implementation. Participating in the meeting ZPC, Opung Jerang extended her thanks to PD DRDA for first ever coordination meeting and also urged the BDOs to implement the scheme in a transparent manner to create assets for the public.

Vodafone service launched Seppa, Dec 22: The East Kameng Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh formally launched Vodafone Service at Circuit House, Seppa today. While formally launching the Vodafone service by lighting lamp in the presence of Administrative officers, staff of Vodafone Spacetel Ltd and retailers, DC Sandeep Kumar Singh extended thanks to the Vodafone company for introduction of Vodafone service at Seppa and was optimistic about seeing that its services were also spread in other parts of the district – Chayangtajo and Bameng.

He stressed on the need to maintain effective network service and stability without disruption and in turn appealed to the people to cooperate with them and

spread awareness among the people enabling the company to deliver their best communication services. Sr. Manager, Vodafone Spacetel Ltd Sanjib Bora gave an overview of the Vodafone service through power point presentation saying that Vodafone believes in a customer-first approach while accomplishing its objectives in a safe and secure environment. He said that the launching of Vodafone service and ‘know your customer’ event are aimed at bringing awareness and for improving the technical know-how of customer onboarding process and procedure. He also explained on provisions of M-Pesa empowering the customers to send and receive money through mobile service. (DIPRO)

38 Assam Rifles distributes computers to promote IT awareness

Changlang, Dec 22: In order to ensure public safety in Changlang township area and instill sense of security among the citizens the District Administration, Changlang in association with Department of Police and Changlang Township

Trade and Commerce Association, installed CCTV surveillance at twenty six strategic locations in the market with monitoring facilities at three locations. Launching the CCTV surveillance among the gathering of Officers, Police personnel and

ET Bureau Guwahati, Dec 22: HK Jaggi, General Manager, NF Railway (Construction) and General Manager NF Railway had a courtesy call on the Governor of Assam, PB Acharya on December 20, 2015. In the meeting, Governor of Assam stressed on the needs for further improvement of security of passengers in trains, cleanliness in the trains and Railway Stations. He also requested the Railway authority for giving opportunity to local youth in vending at Railway Stations and improve quality of vending stalls.

He also requested General Manager for introduction of more number of trains

HK Jaggi, GM, NF Railway is seen with His Excellency the Governor of Assam.

on Lumding-Silchar section to mitigate the demand of people of Barak Valley

38 Assam Rifles on 21 December, 2015. Students present on the occasion were informed about the importance of computer literacy and its application to a range of occupations later in life. The role of local populace and education in restoring normalcy and

combating terrorism was also highlighted. The school Principal and students were appreciative of the efforts of the Assam Rifles to alleviate the problems of the locals and conveyed their heartfelt gratitude for this gesture shown by the Assam Rifles.

Juvenile Justice Bill passed in Rajya Sabha Contd. from Page 1

Several parties, including NCP, CPI (M) and DMK, pushed for sending the Bill to a Select Committee, arguing that further examination was required to decide whether the age for punitive action should be reduced to 16 years from the current level of 18 years.

Parents of the December 2012 gang-rape victim watched deliberations in the Rajya Sabha as Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi pushed for the Juvenile Justice Bill.

Parents of the victim have said that the convict could escape after spending three years in a correction home only because the law is weak. Moving the Juvenile

Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Bill for consideration and passage, Maneka Gandhi today said the legislation is compassionate and comprehensive in nature. The Bill was taken up against the backdrop of uproar over release of juvenile convict in the heinous gang-rape and murder of a 23-year-old girl on December 16, 2012.

Rangia doctors protest against vandalism ET Correspondent Rangia, Dec 22: The doctors of Rangia Civil Hospital today organised a protest programme against the vandalism of some people on Tuesday. The public of village Bangalikuch vandalized the entire hospital including the ambulance, medicines and some valuable machines of the hospital following an accident which took place at NH 31

near village Bangalikuchi on Monday night. Dr. Dilip Baishya, the superintendent - in - charge described the vandalism as inhuman activity and strongly condemned it. They also observed an hour long strike wearing black badge in protest of the incident.

The hospital authority filed an FIR at Rangia police station and have demanded immediate arrest

o f t h e m i s c r e a n t s . D r.

Bhabendra Nath Bardoloi, Jt director, Dr. R a j i b B a r b o r a , S e c y.

AMSA Rangia Unit, Dr. Dilip Baishya, suptd, Dr. Safiqul Haque SDM-HO, Dr. Mukul Bhatta including other doctors and staffs participated in the protest programme. They also demanded proper security arrangement for the doctor and staffs on duty.

area. HK Jaggi, General Manager, NF Railway (Construction) and Gen-

eral Manager, NF Railway assured the Governor of Assam action on the issues

New Delhi, Dec.22 (ANI): Mobile major Apple has slashed prices of its latest iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus by up to 16 percent in India.

Currently, the price for the iPhone 6s (16 GB variant) is available between Rs.52,000 and Rs. 55,000.

The new price tag is expected to draw more customers to purchase the new devices.

The company is trying to revive demand for the October-December quarter, which is said to be the 'strongest period' for Apple due to its flagship launches in September.

Recently, Apple had also slashed the price of its bestseller iPhone 5S in India. iPhone 5s are now available in price range of Rs.24,999 upwards, as opposed to Rs. 44,500 and above in September.

Sand suppliers oppose mechanized excavation ET Correspondent Diphu, Dec 22: The Sand Mahaldars and Suppliers Association, based at Manja 16 kilometres from Diphu have requested the West Division Forest of Karbi Anglong and all social

Contd. from Page 1

ET Correspondent Haflong, Dec 22: Aiming to provide quality technical education to the local populace, state-of-the-art IT hardware which included Computers with UPS, were distributed among the local schools at Harangajao in a ceremony organized by the

ness groups. It will also help prevent the potential offender in committing petty crime in the market area, he added. That latest development will definitely deter the wrongdoers from committing any crime in the market area. (DIPRO)

GM NF Railway calls on Assam Governor

and student organizations of Karbi Anglong to take steps to remove all the e x c a v a t o r s a n d Ta t a Hitachi machines installed at Kasomari located within the general area of Phanglopat inside Northern forest

Northeast fund utilisation pattern being reviewed, says Jitendra Singh

Delegates and students pose for a group photo at the event.

Executive members of Changlang Township Trade and Commerce Association, the Deputy Commissioner, Changlang expressed his hope that the new development in township area will benefit Administration, security forces, citizens and busi-

Apple iPhone 6s and 6s Plus prices slashed in India

funds get lapsed, projects get delayed, and the total cost of the project also gets escalated. Secondly, sometimes after the release of the first initial instalment of funds, the subsequent grants do not get released because of the failure of the State Governments to furnish Utilisation Certificates (UCs) on time," said Dr Singh, who is also MoS for PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, To overcome these delays, he said, his Ministry has worked out a number of new methods, including online submission of DPRs and UCs as well as involvement of the Delhi based Resident Commissioners for follow up of the projects of their respective states. Dr Singh said he would welcome suggestions from the business community, as also from Members of Parliament from northeast, as to whether the ministry could

modify the procedure related to DPRs and Utilisation Certificates so that the State Governments do not have a reason to complain, and at the same time, the Ministry of DoNER is also able to make full use of the funds available. Since the exercise on the Union Budget is going to begin shortly, the Ministry would approach the Union Finance Ministry for enhancement of allocations available under different heads for development of northeast, he added.

He said he is of firm belief that the North-Eastern Region is endowed with immense trade potential to develop as "Asian Trade Hub", which can also do business with countries across the eastern borders.

"However, because of certain factors, many of which are correctable, the progress in this direction has been slow. Due of personal interest and follow up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we shall be able to achieve this objective," he hoped.

Ulfa (Ind) welcomes Bihu forum’s step Contd. from Page 1

programmes organised during the 7 days of Magh Bihu starting from Sankranti (Jan. 13). “Nobody will be allowed to sing hindi songs or perform hindi dance even if it is composed by them”, the statement said. “Performance of hindi songs and dances during Bihu time will be considered to be extreme insult to Assam and every Assamese against which we will initiate strict and timely

action”, the statement said. It might be mentioned that in a bid to curb unwarranted controversies and to ensure that there is discipline during bihu functions, the samity had formulated some guidelines for the artist and the bihu samitees to follow. “The guidelines are also aimed in curbing down unfortunate accidents which had already ended the lives of many promising singers, artists, musicians and technicians during the past”, an office bearer of the samity said.

range of West Division Forest of Karbi Anglong allegedly owned by Sankar Chaudhary and Suman Chaudhary of Dimapur, Nagaland. The organization has mentioned in a press release that the machinery are

not only hampering the interest of the manual labour force associated with this trade but also hampering the ecosystem of the river. In the press release it has also mentioned that neither Sankar nor Suman Chaudhary

has any valid permission from Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council or department of Forest to operate such machines and have become the bones of contention for various stakeholders associated with this business.

ANSU takes out mass rally demanding Arunachal Governor’s recall Contd. from Page 1

We are not junglee, it is 21st century and we also live in houses.”

Former All Nyishi Youth Association President Bamang Taji

also addressed the media at IG Park and said that all these are happening due to political leaders’ indifference and that they should unite and work for development of the state

and the people. Further, ANSU threatened to intensify their agitation for the cause of Nyishi while they have declared Capital bandh call on 28th December 2015 from 5 am to 5 pm.

Changlang Students Union protest alleged atrocities upon civilians by Assam Rifles Contd. from Page 1

them too in the name of their alleged links with NSCN militants.

“They then forcibly took the trio to an undisclosed location and severely tortured them – both mentally and physically – after which they were handed over to the police at Margherita police station at around 8 pm”,

the President said. Further, the three of them were brought to Changlang with intervention from the Officer-in-charge of Changlang police station T. Tangjang and the members of ACDSU. What is more surprising is the fact that the Assam Rifles officer and his men did not pay any attention when the student

showed his identity card, Haisa said. The student leader also claimed that Capt. Singh who belongs to the Eagle Company of the 14 Assam Rifles and his men also asked the PIN of the ATM carried by the student. “We will start a strong democratic agitation if our demands are not fulfilled within seven days”, Haisa said.

Arunachal PWD minister highlights state govt's performance Contd. from Page 1

Asked to cite the reasons behind the delay, Gadi attributed it to legal litigation citing the example of Bomdila.

Stressing on the cooperation of the people, Gadi said that the reconstruction of 218.5-mt span steel suspension bridge over River Siang at Nubo funded by DoNER has been complete and would be inaugurated soon.

When asked about the dilapidated condition of the

Capital Complex road, Gadi admitted of receiving numerous complaints. But he reasoned that the Centre wanted but failed to float the tender and entrusted the responsibility to PWD CE. But non-availability of hot mixture plant with the contractor delayed the process. The plant is expected to arrive here tonight and made functional within few days to begin full-fledged work.

The DPR for developing the four-lane with CCRs would be submitted to

Union MoRTH within December to expedite the process, he said. The PWD has a target to accomplish all the MSBs and CCRs by March 31 next, he said. Recalling that the Union MoS (Finance) Jayant Sinha on November 2 last after reviewing state financial position here had certified the state government's fiscal management as excellent, the allegations of financial mismanagement by various quarters hold no ground, Gadi said.

AASU stages sit-in demonstration over failure to revive the CCI plant ET Correspondent Bokajan, Dec 22: The Karbi Anglong district unit of AASU today staged a 3 hour sit-in demonstration in front of the Cement Corporation of India plant at Bokajan, expressing concern over the repeated failure of the centre to revive the 140 Crore expansion project of the “long neglected and over exploited plant facing threats of closure”. The student body also demanded 100% local recruit-

ment and other development projects in the specific area.

The CCI plant at Bokajan was declared sick and handed over to Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstructing (BIFR) in the year 1998. The provisions of the BIFR Act 1985 were valid for only 7 years.

However, following good revenues from the plant, the centre decided to keep the plant running. It is noteworthy that almost all the manufacturing

units of this industry viz. Raw mill, Coal mill, Kilns etc are outdated and require immediate replacement. "The centre alloted Rs 140 crore for expansion of Bokajan Plant in the year 2007. But, execution began three years later. CCI plant at Bokajan is a huge profit making industry with a production capacity of 600 mt/day and with an aim to double its production, a Banglore based construction company – M/S

Promet was engaged to execute the expansion project in the year 2011. The new dust control system was also part of the project and was supposed to be completed by August, 2013.

However, much to our surprise, less than 20% of the revival project has been executed till date and the construction company retired over stalemate at insisting on 60 percent payment for completion of civil and technical works" – said an

official source. In a statement here, the student body strongly condemned the conspiracy of the Delhi lobby to derail the expansion project towards reviving the ailing plant. Later, the student body submitted a memorandum to the Chief Managing Director, CCI Ltd, New Delhi through the General Manager, CCI, Bokajan pressing for the early execution of the expansion project in the general interest of public.

The Karbi Anglong district unit of AASU submits memorandum.

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

AGP slams Assam govt ET Correspondent Margherita, Dec 22: Dr Om Prakash Sahu, senior AGP leader of Margherita slammed Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi led Congress Government of Assam today alleging “dirty politics with Bhojpuri people of Assam by declaring Chatth Parv as a state holiday before the

2016 Assembly Election”.

Dr Sahu said that Bhojpuri people are the prime targets and that they are insecure about the Congress Government adding that Bhojpuri people living in Assam receive extortion notes and were brutally killed. Dr Sahu informed that earlier AGP former Chief Minister

Prafulla Kumar Mahanta also declared Chatth Parv as a state holiday but when the Congress government was formed they withdrew it only to declare making it a state holiday again. Dr Om Prakash Sahu also alleged massive scams, innocent killings and other atrocities during the Congress rule.

Zilla Chairperson for timely submission of labour budget Ziro, Dec 22: Zilla Chairperson, Lower Subansiri District Hage Kobin emphasized on timely submission of labour budget by all the PRI members to the BDOs for onward submission to the government, while chairing the 48th Governing body meeting of the DRDA, Lower Subansiri. Since all the projects under DRDA like MGNREGA, IAY etc are demand driven, utilization certificates should be sub-

Sensitization meeting on family planning service held ET Correspondent Tezpur, Dec 22: A sensitization meeting on family planning service was organized by Behali Unit NHM Sonitpur at the conference hall of Behali BPHC today under the chairmanship of Dr. JC Bey, sub Divisional medical and health officer, Behali BPHC under here.

All the ASHA supervisors of Behali block PHC attended the meeting along with other health officials of the block. District NHM officials, Sangeeta Das, Media Expert and Pulokesh Borah, District family planning coordinator also addressed the occasion.

Sangeeta Das, Media Expert stressed the importance of information education communication, behavior change communication among the participants.

Various IEC videos were displayed among the gathering related to the family planning. The meeting ended with vote of thanks to the hall by the SDM & HO.

Chah Shramik Mukti Sangram Samiti protests ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 22: The tea garden labourers in Golaghat district in spite of their hard work are still deprived of many fundamental needs, it has been alleged. The tea garden labourers are unable to get any government aided facilities like IAY house, water supply, electricity, fair price shop's items and other things. Today, Chah Shramik Mukti Sangram Samiti, Golaghat District Committee protested in front of the DC office and demanded fulfillment of the basic needs of the tea tribes community. The protesters demanded issuing land patta to the labourers of all Revenue Circles in Golaghat, providing IAY houses, incrementing of daily wages up to Rs 400, providing pure drinking water and adequate medical facilities. The protesters of CSMSS submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner in this regard.

mitted on time, so that there is no obstacle in fund flow from the centre, he advised and added that the Management Information System (MIS) automatically detects unused funds and fund flow could be delayed. He however cautioned that the funds should be used judiciously and for the overall development of the district.

ADC Nending Chatung participating in the meeting said that the wages meant for the workers should per-

colate to them, so that the workers are encouraged to carry out quality work. PD Toko Audil presented the physical and financial achievements under various RD Programs during 201415 and 2015-16. ZPM Raga Maga Mala, ZPM Yazali Taba Techi, ZPM Yachuli Joram Yania, ZPM Pistana Neelam Mangha, ZPMs Punyo Paya, Tilling Sambyo, ACPS, BDOs and officials from RD department attended the meeting. (DIPRO)

APCC says, BJP has no right to ask about utilization certificate from Cong ET Correspondent Tezpur, Dec 22: Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) Spokesperson and former education minister Ripun Bora today claimed that State BJP Chief Sarbananda Sonowal has no right to ask about the fund utilization certificate from the state government except Finance Minister and Prime Minister of India.

Addressing a press conference at Hotel Fern here this

MLA Rameswar Dhanowar who has been representing Digboi as a legislator for the last 38 years has not done a single development work and also could not solve the unemployment problem at Digboi.

“Rameswar Dhanowar in his 38-year term as Digboi legislator has neglected many Government Schools of Digboi while he for his own benefit started Education Business at Digboi by opening RD

Contd. from Page 1

Hundreds of protesters of AJYCP Golaghat blocked the Furkating Railway Junction and due to this Avadh Assam Express Train had to halt for hours. Later a team of

Junior College and RD Junior Academy,” alleged Pappu Dutta. In this connection, on 28 December, Chaatra Mukti Sangram Samity Tinsukia District Committee invited all the denizens of Digboi to participate in the protest programme demanding shutting down of the RD Junior College and RD Junior Academy permanently, said Lakhya Jyoti Gogoi and Pappu Dutta.

Bandhan Bank opens at Teok-Jogduar ET Correspondent Teok, Dec 22: The newly established nationalized banking organization, the Bandhan Bank’s TeokJogduar Branch was opened on 19th December 2015.

The Bandhan Bank’s TeokJogduar Branch was inaugurated by Md Rafique Uz Zaman, Chairperson of the Teok town committee where Mr Rajib Bordoloi, cluster head of Jorhat division, Mr Ranjit Bhatta, Branch Head of Jogduar branch, Mr Dilip Baruah, Assistant of branch head, Mr Biplob Bikash Gogoi, customer relations officer, Mr Litan Shil, tailer of the branch, Mr Tarachand Munda, sales officials, senior educationist Mr Ashok Borah and more than hundreds of invitees and customers were present. The concern bank officials told the media persons that there were more than hundreds of

The meeting was convened as a sequel to a series of meetings between the Chief Minister and the SAKP to discuss and resolve various issues of the employees and pensioners of the State. With regard to the arrear pay of the employees, Chief Minister Gogoi said that the Government would an-

Chief Keef Live Bang 3 Tour (2015) and Pretty Ricky Live in Miami (2014), the noted actress accompanied with the five member ZTV team along with her comprising Kamakhya Narayan Singh, (Director), Vidya Soni (Producer), Abhisek Srivastav (Camera person) and Rahul Singh (Asstt. Camera person) came over to the spot on Monday for a documentary film on tourism with the theme “Traveler XP”

Golaghat Police reached the spot and tried to remove the blockade. But the protesters clashed with the police. At last, police detained all the protesters and took them to Golaghat Police station.

Senior journalist DC Jain passes away Contd. from Page 1

A graduate from Nalbari College Jain, did his post graduation in Hindi. He joind as a lecturer at Nalbari Commerce College from where he retired in 2006. Jain also served the Assam Tribune, Sentinel, The News Time and Purbanchal Prahari as a district correspondent.

Besides, he wrote two books in Assamese and Hindi. Jain also translated some popular writings of late Trailokyo Nath Sarma, Saurav Kumar Chaliha and Nabaknta Baruah into Hindi. He was elected to the Nalbari Municipality Board as a ward commissioner. Jain was associated with various socio literary organizations of the district. His sudden death was widely condoled by various organizations of the town. He is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.

Contd. from Page 1

banking accounts which were opened on the opening day of the branch. The Branch Head of Jogduar

branch Mr Ranjit Bhatta gave thanks to all for grand participation at the opening function.

nounce before Magh Bihu as to what extent the arrear pay will be disbursed to the employees.

On the issue of pay to the muster roll workers at par with Grade IV employees it was informed that the matter was with the empowered committee constituted for the purpose and the decision will be taken upon the submission of report by the Committee. Moreover, conceding the demand of the SAKP,

Chief Minister Gogoi said that necessary modalities would be completed to declare Kati Bihu as a Government holiday. Chief Secretary Vinod Kumar Pipersenia, Additional Chief Secretary Subhash Chandra Das, Additional Chief Secretary MGVK Bhanu, President of SAKP Basab Kalita and General Secretary Nagen Das along with others were present at the meeting.

against the backdrop of North east region. The team was camping at Bhalukpung eco-camp. Before taking lunch the actress wanted to have a bath and accordingly went down to the river while she slipped on a mossy boulder under the river water. An NDRF team accompanied with the rafting group of Nameri Eco-Camp has been continuing the search operation to trace out the body. However, as per the information gathered

They also mentioned that the Election Commission should ensure that all state government officials involved in the election process should remain neutral," Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi said at a press conference here on Tuesday. "The district magistrates and superintendents of police have been instructed to conduct intensive scrutiny of hooligans and criminals, who were found involved in violence, and all these people should be kept under watch. CEC Zaidi was accompanied by

towards the region by the BJP led NDA government.

Attacking Sonowal the senior congress leader further said that Sonowal is projected for the CM candidate for the state in the days to come but it is a shameful matter that “a person like Sonowal who has no proper knowledge even on the central funds without which development of a state is never possible can be assigned such a responsible post.”

Contd. from Page 1

According to BSF PRO VN Parasar ten people travelling in the plane included three senior official identified as captain Prashad, captain Rajesh Jhivrin and Deputy Commandant Dilip Kumar. The accident happened at around 9.50 am when the plane crashed into the airport boundary wall and landed in a sewage treatment plant while returning back due to apparent technical problem five minutes after it took off

for Ranchi. BSF sources said the technicians were on the way to Ranchi to repair a helicopter. Home Minister Rajnath Singh rushed to the crash site.

PM Modi tweeted, “Pained by the loss of lives in the BSF plane crash in Delhi. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased.” Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi also expressed his condolences. “Extremely sad to learn of the BSF plane crash near Delhi airport.

My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.”

Eyewitnesses said the

plane hit a wall before bursting into flames and then crashed into a water body. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Mahesh Sharma has launched an inquiry into the incident. Sources have said that DG-level talks between India and Bangladesh have been cancelled in the wake of the plane crash. The 10 on board the ill-fated aircraft comprised the pilot, who was a second-in-command rank officer of SIB, the co-pilot, who is a Deputy Commandant, six technicians, one engineer and one crew member.

Himanta files 100-crore defamation suit against Assam CM Contd. from Page 1

I will later also file a criminal case against him,” Sarma, who was till a couple of years ago Gogoi’s most trusted lieutenant, but joined the BJP in August this year, said at a press conference.

Sarma complained that Gogoi has been making unfounded allegations against him for the past few days “To which I cannot and should no remain silent.”

Gogoi had reportedly alleged that Sarma was accused in several cases including the Louis Berger scandal and the Saradha scandal without any basis, Sarma said.

“There is no case against me as alleged. Moreover, I

am not an accused in any criminal case. I would be only too glad if chief minister Gogoi shares whatever information he has about I being an accused in the cases that he has been talking about,” the BJP leader said. Gogoi’s allegation, made in New Delhi was published on December 16 in The Assam Tribune, Sarma said, pointing out that the newspaper too has been named a pro-forma respondent in his case.

The BJP leader on Tuesday also hit out at Gogoi for complaining that the BJPled government at the Centre had withdrawn the 90:10 ratio funding pattern to Assam. “CM Gogoi has been chanting like a mantra that the Narendra Modi government has withdrawn

the 90:10 ratio funding pattern to Assam. While the UPA government had in 2013-14 allocated Rs 900 crore for the IAY scheme to Assam the NDA till September in 2015-16 has already released Rs 878 crores. Had the 90:10 funding pattern been withdrawn, the funds would have been much less,” Sarma claimed.

Likewise, he also said that while the UPA government had released Rs 573 crore for MGNREGA for Assam during 2013-14, the NDA has till September in 2015-16 released Rs 502 crore. “These two figures are enough to prove that the NDA government has not curtailed funds or changed the funding patter to Assam,” Sarma said.

Election Commissioners AK Joti and OP Rawat.

Zaidi said the commission will monitor all incidents with political overtones taking place before the assembly polls. "We will try to cover the maximum polling stations with Special Forces. We will ensure that central police forces are deployed in all polling stations," he said. He said district magistrates and superintendents of police have been asked to execute all pending non-bailable warrants, to start the arms deposit process and take action for seizing illegal arms from now on. Observing

that most of the parties were in favour of elections held before the Rongali Bihu festival in mid-April, Zaidi said they have taken note of the suggestions. He said the poll panel assured that an effective mechanism will be put in place to ensure that the election was free and fair.

The commission, however, did not finalise the dates for the polls. It needs to complete the entire poll process

by June 5 next year. Stating that the poll panel lays stress on "error-free electoral rolls", he said they would work towards plugging the gaps between the census population and electoral roll

population, and ensure that every eligible person was on the electoral rolls. The total number of voters on the rolls was 1.92 crore approximately on October 12.

This figure includes six lakh new voters of 18 to 19 years of age. Emphasising on the elector's photo identity card (EPICs), the poll panel chief said they would plug the existing three percent gap in Assam and ensure that each and every voter gets the identity card. He said the final electoral rolls will be published on January 11, but it would be subjected to continuous updating for those left out.

Meghalaya Sports Minister satisfied with SAG preparations

ET Correspondent Shillong, Dec 22: Minister for Sports and Youth Affrom the operation team till fairs, Meghalaya Zenith filling of this report the Sangma while addressing body is not yet found. The the media in Shillong on youths had gone on a trip to Tuesday regarding the onthe place and today was going preparations for the their second day in upcoming 12th South Asian to be hosted jointly Meghalaya. “They had Games at Shillong and Guwahati come from Guwahati last from February 5-16, 2016, morning. Their family after inspecting the venues members have been in- in Shillong, expressed satformed. Rituraj’s sister has isfaction with the progress already reached the place of of the work related to develaccident,” the local SP said, opment of sports infrastrucadding that the names of the ture for the upcoming intertwo friends have not been national sports event in the ascertained as yet. city. The venues which will

ZTV anchor Mahim Khan drowns in Jiabharali ET Correspondent Tezpur, Dec 22: ZTV anchor and Mumbai based established celebrity, Mahim Khan, a producer and actress drowned in the river Jiabharali at Tipi near Bhalikpung along the Assam-Arunachal Border last evening at around 4.30 pm while she went down to the river to take a bath. According to the information available here with the correspondent, popularly known for Nub TV (2014),

money for the SAF game which will be held in February next at Guwahati. The state needs Rs 142 crore but till date only Rs. 22 crore have been released. He also said that on November 29, during 2014 financial year Assam government asked a fund of Rs. 2535 crore for the mitigation of flood problem. But the central government has sanctioned only Rs. 330 crore only because of severe indifferent attitude

EC asks authorities in Assam to map vulnerable places to ensure free and fair polls

Assam Govt to offer cashless medical scheme for regular govt employees, pensioners Contd. from Page 1

during Budget session like the Standing Committee in Parliament. “But this procedure is not known to Sonowal. He has no proper knowledge about any government procedure for which after six months of office his central government held up his important portfolio of Skill Development.” He opined and further added that being a Sports Minister Sonowal is a total failure in sanctioning

BSF plane crashes near Dwarka, 10 Rail blockade by AJYCP, killed; PM Modi pained over loss of lives police detain protesters

Chaatra Mukti Sangram Samity Tinsukia District Committee to stage protest on Dec 28 ET Correspondent Margherita, Dec 22: Chaatra Mukti Sangram Samity Tinsukia District Committee announced that on 28 December, 2015, it shall gherao the residence of Digboi MLA Rameswar Dhanowar as a mark of protest. Lakhyajyoti Gogoi and Pappu Dutta, President and Secretary of Chaatra Mukti Sangram Samity Tinsukia Distrct Committee, respectively, said that Digboi

afternoon Bora further alleged that during the last 20 months of BJP led government it has never sanctioned proper fund to the state government. “Rather they have curtailed 40-50 pc from every allotment against different schemes while most of the funds under special schemes have been closed.”

He alleged adding the Assembly Public Accounts Committee used to give utilization report every year

host the South Asian Games in the city are Indoor Stadium, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Special Areas Games, North Eastern Hills University (NEHU) or NEHU Indoor Stadium and Jawaharlal Nehru Sports Complex, Polo. Addressing media persons at the JN Complex in the city, Sangma said that the target for completing the preparations is January 15 and expressed confidence that the implementing agencies will keep pace with the deadline. He informed that

among the eight disciplines to be hosted in Shillong, it has been recommended that taekwondo and wushu be held in NEIGRIHMS, badminton and boxing in NEHU and women’s football, table tennis, and judo in the JN Sports Complex and archery in the first ground, Polo. Sangma also said that there is a Games Secretariat in place in the city to ensure that the Games are conducted smoothly. While informing that the opening ceremony of the event will be held in Guwahati on February 5 and subsequently in Shillong

February 6, Sangma said that he was elated at the fact that an event of the magnitude of SAG was being held in the city. Sangma informed the media that the state is preparing to host the national games in the year 2022. Chief Executive Officer, SAG Organizing Committee, Shillong, Mr. RK Sharma was also present on the occasion.

Responding to a query, Mr. Sharma assured that the Games will be conducted smoothly and the logistics including the security arrangements will be given outmost importance.

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

Year 2015: Kalam's death, militancy related incidents in Meghalaya Trinamool MP gets Meghalaya, Dec 22: The logue for peace with hill-state movement lead- April last year. It said the of much-loved small groups of armed ers - Congress veteran compliance with the direclife threats, Mamata death former President APJ militants culminated Patty Ripple Kyndiah tion will, to a great extent, Abdul Kalam after he with another peace pact and Hill State People's help in suppressing clancries vendetta collapsed while deliver- signed with the United Democratic Party presi- destine mining of coal in Kolkata, Dec 22: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday cried "intolerance" and "political vendetta" after her party's Lok Sabha member Sudip Bandyopadhyay said he had got death threats. Banerjee, on a visit to East Midnapore district, said she had ins t r u c t e d Bandyopadhyay to raise the issue in parliament as well as write to Home Minister Rajnath Singh besides filing a police complaint. Without taking names, the chief minister said the MP was getting the threats for

being vocal in parliament. "They are threatening Sudip to kill him in Delhi and dispose off his body in Kolkata.

This is nothing but intolerance. "What kind of vendetta is this?

Sudipda is getting death threats for being vocal in parliament. "Every party has the right to speak on any issue.

Voices cannot be muzzled in a democracy. "If they do not want the opposition to speak, let them impose Emergency. I have instructed Sudip to raise the issue in Lok Sabha," she added. (Agencies)

Woman in Tripura battered for having 'love affair' Agartala, Dec 22: A 60year-old tribal woman in Tripura was beaten mercilessly and left unconscious by some people who accused her of having an illicit love affair, the police said on Sunday. The woman was rescued on Saturday morning and taken by her neighbours to a hospital where her condition was stated to be critical. The incident took place in Ujan Chandrapur village under Puratan Raj Bari police station of South Tripura district late Friday evening. "When the victim was returning home from NREGA

(Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) work, she was first tied with a tree and then beaten ruthlessly by some locals, mostly women. Later her head was shaved," said S.K. Paul, sub-divisional police officer of Belonia in South Tripura. Some of the local people accused the victim of having an illicit love affair with a man of her Bhil community. The woman's family members denied the accusation. Six people, including four women, have been arrested in connection with the incident. (Agencies)

Elaborate security arrangements in Aizawl for peaceful Christmas Aizawl, Dec 22: Elaborate security arrangements have been made in and around Aizawl city to ensure peaceful celebrations of Christmas and New Year festivals, Aizawl district SP Lalhuliana Fanai on Tuesday said. Fanai said that night foot patrolling between 6 PM and 5 AM began from Friday night last by teams of armed and unarmed policemen in Aizawl across all police sta-

tions. He said mobile checking of drivers was conducted to prevent drunken drivers from driving buses, maxicabs and taxis. Three police helplines were established at the New Market Area to help people during Christmas shopping. SPs and Co mmandants were detailed on a rotation basis to oversee the security arrangements every night, he added.

(Agencies)

Elaborate security arrangements have been made in and around Aizawl city

Newly-elected village head's kin killed over poll rivalry Azamgarh, Dec 22: A 34-year-old nephew of a newly-elected village head was killed and three others injured in a firing on Tuesday by alleged supporters of former Gram Pradhan Mahendra Yadav over panchayat poll rivalry in Mehnagar area here. Supporters of former Gram Pradhan Mahendra Yadav fired indiscriminately on supporters of newly elected village head, Kamlesh

Yadav, at Asusa village, Superintendent of Police Rakesh Chandra Sahu said. During the firing Kamlesh's nephew Rajesh Yadav was killed on the spot and three others were injured, he said.

The injured have been admitted to a private hospital, where condition of two were stated to be serious, Sahu said, adding heavy force has been deployed in the village.

(Agencies)

ing a lecture at IIMShillong and militancyrelated incidents were among the major happenings in Meghalaya this year. Meghalaya deeply mourned the death of the 'Missile Man', who visited the state thrice during his presidency. "His passing away in the state's capital city of Shillong will bear testimony to the bond he shared with the people of Meghalaya," said Chief Minister Mukul Sangma after his death. Unabated militancy-related incidents claimed the lives over 65 people in militancy-ridden Garo Hills region. The government's efforts to enter into a dia-

A'chik Liberation Army (UALA) recently. The peace pact is the third after the ANVC and its break-a-way faction, the ANVC-B, signed agreements with the state last year. The continuous reign of terror may have been one of the reasons for the ruling Congress suffering a major defeat at the hands of the Purno A Sangma-led National People's Party in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council polls.

While the NPP won 10 seats, the Congress bagged only seven of the 29 seats it contested, with the rest pocketed by Independents. BJP also pulled a surprise win

Meghalaya deeply mourned the death of 'Missile Man', who visited the state thrice during his presidency.

when its candidate B B Hajong edged past Congress candidate J C Hajong from Zikzak council constituency in Chief Minister Mukul Sangma's home assembly seat. The state government welcomed the land swap deal with Bangladesh hoping that it would bring economic benefits to the people re-

siding in the border areas.

Even as the state stands to gain over 240 acres and would hand over 41 acres of land to n e i g h b o u r i n g Bangladesh, Chief Minister Sangma exhorted that the 'boundary of discord' will now turn into an area of vibrant trade and commerce to build a bond of friendship. Two

dent Hoping Stone Lyngdoh - passed away this year. The state mourned the death of Lyngdoh, known for steadfastly leading a movement against any attempt to mine uranium in the state. The state government also approved the Meghalaya Apartment Ownership Ordinance, 2015, to regulate the ownership of individual apartments across the state. In January, the National Green Tribunal directed the Meghalaya government to submit a complete report adopted for the purpose of promoting scientific and permissible mining of coal which was banned since

the state. However, the NGT ban on coal mining and transportation of coal in Meghalaya's Jaintia Hills region resulted in many of those engaged in the activity switching to turmeric farming for their livelihood. The state was also hit by a power crisis with the Comptroller and Auditor General attributing lack of prudent financial management and consequent non-payment of huge energy dues for it.

This has also resulted in extra and avoidable cost of Rs 102.87 crore to the power corporation over the past five years, CAG said in its report tabled in the State Assembly.

(Agencies)

Governor lauds contributions of Son stabs father's killer, chops body the Church to society drawn from Mawpat, Oakland Bivar Road, Keating Road, Mawlai and Polo. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police M. Kharkrang, while speaking as the chief guest, said, "Christmas is not about new clothes or cakes but it is the season to serve one another. While there are numerous poor families and we are not able to help them all at once, efforts are on to identify and help them as well."

Pointing out that the iniAssam Regimental Centre Choir performs during the Pre-Christmas Celebration at tiative to help the people Raj Bhavan on Monday. was an attempt to Shillong, Dec 22: ment, infant mortality Mawlai, Assam Regi- strengthen the policeBringing in Christmas rate and issue of single mental Centre and public connection he cheer, Governor V. mothers, and expressing United Churches' Asso- lauded the services of Shanmuganathan on hope that such issues ciation. In another event, Batesi TV in identifying Monday highlighted that will be alleviated in the Sadar Police Station in the poor families. He exChurches have shown years to come. As part of collaboration with Batesi pressed hope that other compassion and dedica- the pre-Christmas cel- TV, distributed blankets, police stations will foltion by serving the ebration at Raj Bhavan cakes and other necessi- low the footprint of the people, while also taking here, Christmas carols ties to 17 poor families Sadar PS. Christmas cognizance of the prob- were performed by the at a function held at the songs were sung to enlems faced by people Choir Groups of Choral hall of the Police Station. rich the occasion. ranging from unemploy- Evangelist Choir, These families were (Agencies)

GNLA left alone as other groups smoke peace pipe Shillong, Dec 22: GNLA, the prominent militant group in Garo Hills, is left alone with its splinter groups either smoking the peace pipe or surrendering themselves to join the mainstream. A senior police official on Monday provided the success story of the police for the last three weeks in terms of neutralizing the militant groups. The official said that besides signing peace pact between UALA and Meghalaya government on December 18, the constant police operations resulted in the surrender of Timudh D. Marak, Cin-C of AMEF and Sangjan Arengh, chairman, AMEF before DGP Rajiv Mehta recently . This was followed by an encounter between the remaining AMEF groups and East Garo Hills Police in which one AMEF cadre Lekichand Sangma was injured on December 17. Further, police arrested two AMEF cadres Chandra Marak (27) and Itdom Marak (17) and recovered arms and ammunition, GNLA ID Cards, demand notes and seals of AMEF from the place of occurrence. This operation

then led to the surrender of nine more AMEF cadres before Davis N.R. Marak, Superintendent of Police, East Garo Hills on December 18 which included the newly appointed chairman Tangsil G. Momin @ Cheang and C-in-C Winder Ch. Marak @ Matchang.

They also deposited one SLR rifle with one magazine, one SBBL gun, 3 9 mm Pistols, 4 7.65 mm pistols, SLRs and other ammunition.

Winder Ch. Marak @ Matchang, who sustained bullet injuries on December 17 at Jangchigittim near Nongchram, East Garo Hills was taken to Rongjeng CHC for medical treatment and later referred to Civil Hospital Williamnagar for treatment. This marks the end of road for AMEF, according to police. Similarly, there was a major cleansing operation in West Garo Hills led by Mukesh Kumar Singh, SP West Garo Hills, Bruno A. Sangma, Additional .

SP s and Vivekanand Singh, SDPO Dadenggre. The focus in West Garo Hills was on ASAK and ANLA groups. ASAK groups

had carried out kidnappings in West Garo Hills particularly in Bogularbhita Tikrikilla - Damal Asim area. The modus operandi of ASAK was to either lure the victims (mostly non-tribal businessmen) or kidnap the labourers working in pineapple, bettel nut gardens. They kidnapped three traders Habibor Bepari, Monju Bepari and Mukaddas Ali from in October 2014 from Bamundunga market.

They extorted money from one Blenson Momin of Alokdia in March 2015 and kidnapped his son-in-law in April 2015 from Alokdia. They also kidnapped two labourers, Mojidur Hussain and Nur Amin in July 2015 from Renchigre. They murdered one Garo person and threw the body in Domisalgre in November 5. Their activity also centered in and around Jangrapara, Amphang and Debragre markets. Some of the ASAK members were earlier part of UALA who managed to escape from Dajugre camp which was busted by police last year. The ASAK cadres under

the leadership of Lance Corporal Abri Sangma alias Gathare provided food, shelter and other supporst to wandering militant groups of GNLA, LAEF, UALA . They were on the run due to heavy pressure from the people and due to counter insurgency operations by police.

With the active co-operation from public, almost the whole group is now behind the bars.

Both the surrendered and arrested from ASAK amounted to a total of 29 Similarly, West Garo Hills police also launched operations against ANLA in connection with the kidnapping case of one Zafar Ali of Padeldoba, where four ANLA cadres were arrested Sengbath D Marak Dinesh Ch Sangma Hef R Marak and Dadibar D Sangma. According to police, a significant aspect of these operations is that thirty three probationary deputy SPs who joined Meghalaya police recently have been taking part in these operations including women police personnel.

(Agencies)

into 12 pieces

Moradabad, Dec 22: The son of an Indian murder victim has confessed to stabbing his father's killer to death and chopping his body into 12 pieces, one for every year since his father was slain, media reported on Tuesday. Alam Khan was aged 12 when he saw his father being murdered by a family friend in 2003. He had secretly planned his revenge ever since and finally seized his chance last week when he invited the killer over for a drink. After getting Mohammad Rais drunk at his home in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Khan knifed him to death before using a hammer and hacksaw to dismember the body, he told reporters on Monday after his arrest. He and an accomplice then packed the body parts into plastic bags which they threw

into a river. When the bags washed up on the river's banks, police were only able to identify Rais from a surgery scar on his torso. Khan was arrested after witnesses recounted how Rais had last been seen visiting his home, and made a full confession. "I played some music at full volume and cut his body into 12 pieces," Khan. Khan had never told anyone about the identity of his father's killer and had instead waited for 12 years to "realise his dream" of taking revenge. He was "happy it was now done".

Police Superintendent Ram Suresh Yadav told that Khan had confessed to his crime with an "utter lack of remorse". The murder weapons, including the hammer and hacksaw, had been recovered from Khan`s home in the district of Moradabad, Yadav added.(Agencies)

BJP slams Nitish government over rising crime graph Patna, Dec 22: The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday slammed the Nitish Kumar-ledBihar government for the sharp rise in crimes and its failure to check it. Leader of opposition Prem Kumar said the Nitish Kumar government has failed to control crime. "Where is the rule of law in Bihar despite repeated claims of Nitish Kumar?"

Kumar asked. He said the crime graph was rising with each passing

day. "Chief minister should explain to people where is the rule of law".

Prem Kumar said the law and order situation was deteriorating in the state since the Grand Alliance of Janata DalUnited, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Congress came to power in Bihar last month. Quoting media reports, he alleged that cases of murder, extortion, kidnapping and atrocities against women have increased in the state.(Agencies)

Shillong abattoir ready for inauguration in January Shillong, Dec 22: After several delays and numerous controversies, the abattoir at Mawlai Mawroh is finally complete and ready for inauguration in January. Informing this here on Monday, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Deborah Marak said the project is fully completed and only a date is required to be fixed for the inauguration. "I will find out from the chief minister when he is free and we will inaugurate it," Marak said.

Once the abattoir becomes fully functional, Shillongites can enjoy

clean and hygienic meat.

The abattoir has been constructed at a cost of Rs.22 crore by the Rapsang Group of Companies, Shillong, in collaboration with Real Growth Company, Chennai. The State government has already notified members of a management committee which will oversee the operations of the slaughter house at Mawlai Mawiong. The abattoir will have a capacity for slaughtering 160 large animals, 240 pigs and 240 small animals (goats) each day.

(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

PAGE 6

Unnecessary to amend Juvenile Justice Bill: Ram Jethmalani CPI (M) to oppose JJ New Delhi, Dec.22: Former law minister Ram Jethmalani on Tuesday said that there is no need to amend the Juvenile Justice Bill, adding that it was totally 'unnecessary' to change it just because of one incident. "I don't know if it will be passed, but according to me it shouldn't be passed," Jaithmalani told reporters. "The Juvenile Justice Bill is completely fine and there is no need to amend it just because of one incident. It is totally unnecessary," he added. The BJP had earlier assured

disappointed Nirbhaya's parents that the Juvenile Justice Bill would be passed in the Parliament.

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien said the Bill should be passed in the Parliament on Tuesday without any further delay after having a healthy discussion. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on also stuck to their guns in opposing the Juvenile Justice Bill, saying 'lowering the age of Former law minister Ram Jethmalani juveniles is not in the interest of justice'. With showing its inability to the juvenile in the the Supreme Court prohibit the release of Nirbhaya gangrape case

AAP allegation, malicious and tarnishing Jaitley's reputation, says his advocate

Advocate Manik Dogra on Tuesday said that all allegations made by the AAP Party are baseless

New Delhi, Dec. 22: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's advocate Manik Dogra on Tuesday said that all allegations made by the Aam Aadmi Party are baseless and malicious and aimed at tarnishing the reputation of his client. "Our argument was that all the allegations made by the AAP are wrong, baseless and malicious. This is only to tarnish the reputation. Mr. Jaitlety has filed a suit for damages seeking the damage of 10 crore

against the defendant. We are very confident and hopeful for the success," Dogra told the media here.

He also added that all defendants individually and collectively have made themselves liable to compensate the plaintiff for a sum of Rs 10 crores.

Jaitley had filed a criminal defamation complaint against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwaland five other leaders of AAP for allegedly defaming him in the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) controversy before a Delhi court which took cognizance on his plea. Jaitley's action comes in the backdrop of attacks on him by Kejriwal and other AAP leaders over alleged irregularities and financial bunglings in Delhi's cricket body, DDCA, of which he was the president for about 13 years till 2013. (ANI)

DDCA case: PM Modi believes Jaitley will come out with flying colours, says Venkaiah Naidu New Delhi, Dec.22: Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will come out with flying colours in the DDCA rowjust as BJP veteran L.K. Advani was acquitted in the Jain hawala case. "The Prime Minister has said that Jaitleyji will come through with flying colours in the same way as Advaniji did in Hawala case. Same thing is going to happen with regard to the allegations of Arun Jaitley because they want to cover up their own failures and scams," Naidu told media here. Criticizing the Congress Party for defaming NDA leaders and government ministers, Naidu said: "They(Congress) tried the same with Sushmaji, Va s u n d h a r a j i and Shivrajji, they only

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.Venkaiah Naidu

want to defame the government," he added. Jaitley on Monday had filed a criminal defamation comp lain t ag ain s t D elh i Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and five other leaders of AAP for allegedly defaming him in the DDCA controversy before a Delhi court which took cognizance on his plea. Jaitley had also filed a civil defamation suit of Rs. 10 crores against Kejriwal and other AAP leaders.

(ANI)

Call drop issue: HC refuses to stay TRAI's notification New Delhi, Dec. 22: The Delhi High Court on Tuesday refused to stay the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) notification by which the regulatory body had imposed fine on dropped calls. The TRAI had given an undertaking that no fine will be levied till next hearing. The next date of hearing has been set on January 6 and the notification will come into effect from January 1st, 2016. The Delhi High

Court had earlier sought response of the TRAI on a plea challenging its tariff order making it mandatory for cellular operators to compensate subscribers for call drops from January 1. The telecom operators had sought quashing of the TRAI's October 16 ruling mandating service providers to pay subscribers Re 1 per call drop experienced on their network, subject to a cap of three a day. (ANI)

in the absence of laws, telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday said the ruling dispensation at the Centre is keen to pass the Juvenile Justice Bill and was also ready to bring supplementary agenda on it in the Parliament.

The apex court had dismissed the petition of Delhi Commission of Women (DCW) Chair-

person Swati Maliwal against the release of the juvenile offender in the December 16 gang rape case, saying 'there has to be a clear legislative sanction' in this regard. Rejecting the DCW's petition, the apex court earlier said that under existing law detention cannot go beyond three years. (ANI)

"I don't know if it will be passed, but according to me it shouldn't be passed," - Says Jaithmalani

Netaji issue maybe raised during PM Modi's visit to Moscow: MEA New Delhi, Dec.22: The Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) on Tuesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate a dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin to access KGB files on Subhas Chandra Bose during his two-day visit to Russia. "The Netaji issue has figured in the visit recently, something which the foreign minister had mentioned to her counterpart. I won't prejudge the Russian response till we get it," Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar told a press conference here. Replying to a question on Russia supporting India for joining UNSC as a permanent member Jaishankar said: "I think the Russian support for

India joining the UNSC(United Nations Security Council) as a permanent member has been not in doubt for many years now. It's been stated at very high level publicly and confidential as well. I think the issue is not as they are for India or not for India.

There are countries where this issue can be asked legitimately but not with Russia." "The issue which we are discussing with the Russians is what is the optimal way of reaching that core. Obviously we have certain views on that and they have certain views on that, this is the subject which we discuss with each other as two countries have great confidence and trust in each

others. The Human Rights Watch suggested in a letter to the US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. The Human Rights Watch analysed information from the US military, MSF, and other sources and found that there is a strong basis for determining that criminal liability exists. Under the laws of war, hospitals have special protections from attack, and attacks on them can be war crimes. "The attack on the MSF hospital in Kunduz involved possible

New Delhi, Dec. 22: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Tuesday stuck to their guns in opposing the Juvenile Justice Bill, saying 'lowering the age of juveniles is not in the interest of justice'.

"We have opposed the Bill in the Lok Sabha and would also oppose it in Rajya Sabha. We do not see that lowering the age of juvenile is in the interest of justice," CPI (M) leader Brinda Karat told.

The CPI (M) leader also pointed out that treating 16 years old as an adult was totally wrong,as there is a difference between a child and an adult. "A child treated like an adult is not right. They are including 16 years children in the category of criminals who commit heinous crimes.

They are sending a child to Tihar jail among criminals, this is totally wrong," she added. CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury has ear-

Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar other," he added. Prime Minister Modi leaves for Moscow on Wednesday at 1 p.m. on a two-day visit to attend the 16th India-Russia annual summit, with expectations riding high on major agreements in the defence and nuclear sec-

tor. Prime Minister Modi will also raise the Netaji issue with the Russian President. Netaji's relatives had earlier requested the Prime Minister to access KGB files on Subhas Chandra Bose with Russia during his visit. (ANI)

war crimes," said Sarah Margon, Washington director at Human Rights Watch and added that ongoing US inquiry will not be credible unless it considers criminal liability and is protected from improper command influence. According to the Human Rights Watch, the US military justice system's poor record prosecuting alleged war crimes in Afghanistan and Iraq, exemplified by new accounts of alleged abuses by Navy

SEALs, shows the need for a criminal enquiry outside the military chain of command.

According to Margon, US military commanders who oversaw the Kunduz military operation shouldn't be deciding who gets prosecuted for the MSF hospital attack and that the US government should recognise that its resolution of this horrific incident will have repercussions for US military operations far beyond Afghanistan. (ANI)

New Delhi, Dec. 22: Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday assured the parents of Nirbhaya (December 16 gang rape victim), that he would be extending all his support to get the Juvenile Justice Bill passed in the Raya Sabha. "We are meeting everyone because the Bill is to be tabled today.

He (Rahul Gandhi) has said that he supports the Bill and would support it," Nirbhaya's mother told the media here. "We are hopeful that the Bill

Union Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan nance Minister. Then who is running? Why didn't the debate it further? We want

New Delhi, Dec. 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to make a two-day visit to Moscow to attend the sixteenth Annual Summit from December 23 and 24. The Summit would commence with a private dinner hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Summit would begin on the second day with the Prime Minister interacting with Russian and Indian CEOs. Before the interaction, the prime minister would also lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. The prime minister would also visit the Russian Emercon which is an emerin Delhi. Meanwhile, facility, disaster facility. He BJP MP Kirti Azad told gency be shown how the the House the Congress will handles civil dishould stop disrupting country sasters through this. proceedings, and in- Prime Minister Narendra stead "demand a time- Modi will also bound SIT-monitored Friends of India atmeet probe" into the DDCA Moscow Expo Centre. the He row. Earlier on Monday, is then scheduled to adJaitley filed a defamation dress the Indian commusuit in a Delhi court against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and five other Aam Aadmi Party leaders for issuing allegedly false and defamatory statements against him and his family members in the DDCA row(ANI)

the debate should take place. There is no other issue with congress. They want to hide themselves from National Herald case.

They just want to create ruckus without any discussion," Pradhan told the media here. Rejecting the charges against him in the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) controversy as 'baseless and devoid of truth', finance minister Arun Jaitley on Monday claimed the opposition Congress had spent much more than he did in renovating a stadium

economic turmoil based on a robust education system. A developing country like India needs innovative solutions to challenges in renewable energy, climate change, drinking water, sanitation and urbanization. It is incumbent on our universities to align their research priorities with these challenges. Our

universities must be breeding grounds for creative pursuits and cutting-edge technology.

They must inculcate in their students scientific temper and a spirit of inquiry," said President Mikherjee Mukherjee said central universities are intended to be a vehicle for social transformation. They must

would be passed today," she added. The meeting of the victim's parents with Congress vice president comes a day after they met Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha to urge him for the passage of the Bill in the Upper house. The Juvenile (Care and Protection Of Children) Bill, 2015, which seeks to lower the age of juvenile from 18 years to 16 years, is scheduled to be taken up in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi nity, after which he would depart for India. India and Russia have shared a privileged relation from time immemorial. During the previous summit, the leaders of the two nations had discussed largely about expansion of economic ties. The two nations also share close nuclear ties.

Russia is already constructing 12 nuclear plants in the country. Further discussion is also expected in this regard. The Prime Minister is also expected to visit Kabul on his way back, but this is yet to be confirmed by the MEA. (ANI)

BSF plane crash: All 10 dead bodies recovered

Central universities should align research priorities with contemporary national challenges: Mukherjee New Delhi, Dec. 22: President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said central universities should align research priorities with contemporary challenges of the country while attending the 2nd Convocation of Central University of Karnataka at Kalaburagi. "Nations have from times past overcome poverty, social malaise and

lier stated that the Left parties were still of the view that the amendments should go to a Select Committee. Meanwhile, Government has assured parents of the December 16 gang rape victim that the bill which will allow juveniles between 16-18 years to be tried as adults in heinous crime cases will be passed today. The parents of the victim met Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi at his residence in New Delhi on Tuesday. (ANI)

PM Modi set to visit Russia for 16th Annual Summit

BJP ready to debate on the DDCA issue: Dharmendra Pradhan New Delhi, Dec. 22: Union Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhanon Tuesday said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is ready on debate on the DDCA issue and alleged that the congress wants to hide themselves from the National Herald case as they were demanding Jaitley's resignation in Lok Sabha on Monday. "No one is running away from this DDCA issue. On Monday this issue was raised in the Lok Sabha by congress deputy chief Venugopal ji and it was answered by the Fi-

CPI (M) leader Brinda Karat

Rahul Gandhi assures Nirbhaya's parents of passing Juvenile Justice Bill

Human Rights Watch: US should conduct criminal enquiry in MSF Attack Washington DC, Dec. 22: The Human Rights Watch said that the United States Government's investigation into the October 3, 2015 airstrike on a Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders, MSF) hospital in Kunduz, Afghanistan should be treated as a criminal matter. The attack, involving an AC-130 gunship firing for at least 29 minutes on a designated medical facility, killed at least 42 people and wounded dozens of

Bill in Rajya Sabha

reach out to people in their region by disseminating knowledge, encouraging innovation, promoting environmental conservation and developing skills. They must elicit participation of talented local youth, increasing their employability and ushering in upward mobility of the deprived. (ANI)

10 dead bodies have been recovered who died in the BSF plane crash

New Delhi, Dec.22: All ten dead bodies of the passengers who died in the BSF plane crash were recovered on Tuesday afternoon here in the national capital. "All ten dead bodies have been recovered. We recovered three bodies from

outside and other seven from water tank. The investigation is underway as to find out how the accident occurred.

We had deployed 20 fire tenders. The water tank is located in Shahbad near the railway crossing," Chief fire officer Santok Singh told. In a tragic accident, all the ten passengers onboard were killed after a Ranchi-bound BSF Superking aircraft crashed at Bagdola village in Sector 8, Dwarka here on Tuesday morning. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Myanmar man in murder plot set free Yangon, Dec 22:A Myanmar national who was alleged to have tried, with three others, to kidnap and kill a countryman was given a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNATA) by a district judge yesterday. Yae Wynnt Oaung, a 33-yearold trader, was set free after being in remand since June 24 for abetting a conspiracy to commit murder.He was also given a six-week jail term for driving offences, which was backdated to his remand. Oaung was said to have schemed with Phyo Min Naing, 31; Zaw Min Hlaing, 37; and Kyaw Kyaw Aung alias Aung Aung, 29; to abduct Mr

Aye Maung Maung Thet, 29, from a multi-storey car park in Pasir Ris Street 71 on June 20 and take him to a Changi chalet in order to kill him.Two of the men were alleged to have tapered the victim in the bid to abduct him, but they bolted after his cries for help attracted passers-by. Aung Aung fled the country days later and is still at large.

Oaung, who was not at the crime scene and Naing were arrested the next day at a chalet at Changi, where an array of items recovered included potential murder tools such as a chainsaw, kitchen knives and a cleaver.At yesterday's

Pak SC justifies rejection of review of Mumtaz Qadri's death sentence Islamabad, Dec.22 : The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ruled out any chances of it reviewing its October 7, 2015 judgment to sentence Malik Mohammad Mumtaz Qadri, the killer of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer for allegedly committing blasphemy, to death.Expressing its dismay and regret over repeated demands by Qadri's defence team for a review of its final verdict, the apex court, a five-page detailed explanation of why it had rejected the petition for review of its judgment, said, "All contentions

have already been attended to in the October 7 judgment under review in some detail.""No error patent on the face of the record was pointed out

by Qadri's counsel against the October 7 judgment," the Dawn quoted Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, who headed the apex court bench which had dismissed the review petition, as saying. Mumtaz Qadri, who is currently lodged in Rawalpindi's Adiyala Jail, was convicted of killing Salman Taseer at a market in Islamabad on January 4, 2011. (ANI)

First body recovered from China landslide, 85 still missing Beijing ,Dec 22: The first body was pulled today from the rubbles of construction sites collapsed due to one of China's worst landslides that hit an industrial park in the country's manufacturing hub, with hundreds of rescuers mounting a massive operation to find 85 people still missing.Citing an initial probe about the disaster which left 85 people missing, the Chinese Ministry of Land and Resources said large amount of soil and waste from the Hongao construction site was dumped there.The body recovered this morning was the first confirmed death, with the chance of finding survivors decreasing by the hour .Using life detectors, excavators and drones about 3,000 rescue workers carefully dug through the nearly stretching up to 10 football fields for survivors. The rescuers were close to reaching

the first floor of a buried office building last evening, the report said.

Experts flown to the area for rescue operations dug five large pits through which they tried to detect signs of life using life detectors.Beneath the mud lies 33 low rise buildings, 14 factories, two offices, one canteen and three dormitories of the industrial estate of Shenzhen.Workers at the site said the soil swept down from a height of 150 metres to the industrial parks, leaving over 100,000 square metres of debris with a depth of up to 10 metres."Risks of landslide are already there, and precautionary measures should be taken when soil waste on the hill reaches 50 metres high," a researcher surnamed Ma, who specialises in geological exploration at Shenzhen Investigation & Research Institute Co, said.

(Agencies)

Using life detectors, excavators and drones about 3,000 rescue workers carefully dug through the nearly five-storey mud pile

Myanmar man in murder plot set free hearing, deputy public prosecutor John Lu said the prosecution had reviewed the evidence in the case and sought the DNATA for Oaung.It is understood Oaung's lawyer R. S. Bajwa had also made submissions to the

public prosecutor, which led to yesterday's turn of events.Mr Lu said that in the course of the probe, Oaung was found to have committed 116 charges of driving without a licence and without valid insurance. These offences

were committed over three weeks in June, all over the island, from Orchard Road to Hume Avenue and East Coast Parkway.Prosecutors proceeded with 20 charges while the 96 remaining were taken into consideration.District Judge Low Wee Ping said: "It's quite amazing you drove all around Singapore without a driving licence and without valid insurance coverage."He convicted Oaung and sentenced him to a week's jail for each of the 20 charges in total, and ordered that the first three of both sets of charges run consecutively, with the rest run-

ning concurrently.The jail term was backdated to when he was first taken into custody in June.Oaung came to Singapore on a social visit pass on June 1 to manage his import and export business.It was Hlaing, who is a Singapore permanent resident and is currently in remand, who rented the Toyota vehicle used by Oaung. Oaung's mother, Madam Tin May, 60, was present in court yesterday and said through a translator: "I am relieved and happy with the result and am grateful to the Singapore justice authorities as well as the efforts of my son's lawyer." (Agencies)

Pak awaiting details of Saudi-led coalition against terrorism, says Sartaj Aziz Islamabad, Dec.22 : The Government of Pakistan is awaiting details of the Saudi Arabia-led coalition against terrorism, Sartaj Aziz, the Adviser to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Foreign Affairs, told the Senate that Pakistan on Monday, and warned that Islamabad must avoid "complicating the process by prematurely discussing it".However, Senate Chairman Raza Rabbani reminded Aziz that the matter was being discussed in parliament and not at any other forum.The Senate also made a note of Aziz not being in position to give satisfactory answers to specific questions on the issue raised by Rabbani and some opposition members, reports the media.Aziz was quoted, as

saying that every country had the right to decide which activity it was going to participate in."We are working outconsultations are in progress to work out as to which kind of activities are we going to participate. There is intelligence sharing, capacity-building. we are yet to decide which activity is desired. We support every action against terrorism," he added.Aziz further stated that the government is in the know about the coalition a little bit and details would be shared with the house when they become available. He said terrorism was an important issue for the Muslim world and, therefore, they should not prejudge the matter and allow the process to go on.Saudi Arabia announced on

Sartaj Aziz Tuesday that it had forged the 34-nation alliance of Muslim countries for fighting terrorism and extremism, which included Pakistan.Senior foreign ministry officials have reportedly expressed surprise over Pakistan's inclusion in the new group,

and said Riyadh had not taken Islamabad on board.

But subsequent developments revealed that Saudi Arabia had been given a secret commitment regarding joining the alliance, about which the Foreign Office was not aware. (ANI)

Bangladesh court orders arrest of 24 people for Rana Plaza factory collapse

A Bangladesh court has ordered the arrest of 24 people and the seizure of their assets Dhaka, Dec.22 : A judicial magistrate's court in Bangladesh has ordered the arrest of 24 people and the seizure of their assets after they failed to turn up to face murder charges over the collapse of a garment factory that killed more than 1,100 people in 2013.Senior judicial magistrate Mohammad Al Amin issued warrants against the accused fugitives for the collapse of the Rana Plaza factory compound., The incident has been described as one of the world's worst industrial disasters. The police

have been asked to report on the arrest of the fugitives by January 27, 2016.Among the 41 who have been charged with murder is Sohel Rana, the owner of the nine-storey complex on the outskirts of Dhaka which collapsed on April 24, 2013, at the start of the working day.

At least 1,138 people are known to have died in the tragedy, and rescue workers struggled for weeks to retrieve bodies from the debrisMore than 2,000 people were injured, and many of them lost their limbs. (ANI )

A court in Bangladesh has ordered the arrest of 24 people charged in the Rana Plaza fire who failed to turn up in court. More than 1,100 people died in the tragedy and a total of 41 have been charged with murder.

Korea willing to assist Sri Lanka to develop fishing industry

Chinese province clamps new rules to regulate media Beijing, Dec 22: A Chinese province has clamped 10 new rules to regulate media including publication of news items on national security, publishing reports without official verification and paid news coverage, in a move to further tighten the grip on the state media. Hunan Province's media watchdog and state-run Journalists' Association have jointly released 10 rules regulating media workers' conduct in an effort to preserve the reputation of the press and to tackle proliferation of false information and paid news coverage. It included regulations on media

workers' political stance, professional behavior and economic interests.

The regulations warrant the media professionals against publishing information or rumours from the Internet before verifying them. Media should not publish news stories declaring any parties guilty before the courts pass judgment, it said.

Analysts say these stipulations could help crack down on rampant Internet rumours.

Though both print and television media expanded rapidly in recent years, it still remains largely government controlled. He Hui, an expert from the Public Relations

and Public Opinion Institute of the Communication University of China, said that "the regulations have arisen from the government's need to enhance management of journalism andfrom the industry's need for better self-discipline. Paid coverage and the publication of online rumors have been long-standing issues, and strengthening related management could reduce such behaviors to some extent."

Media workers should not reveal or seek profit from information they obtain by taking advantage of their duties, including national or trade secrets, or information

violating an individual's privacy, the regulations said. They also ban media from making personal profit through blackmail, using news coverage as a means of reprisal, writing news stories for payment from non-media parties and arranging interviews without possessing a journalist certificate.The regulations also ask that media workers not report on news that jeopardizes national security, affects social stability, goes against common moral standards, goes against the public interest, the worship of money and hedonism.

(Agencies)

Kerry asked to give humanitarian parole to B'deshi bloggers Washington, Dec 22: A coalition of free expression and human rights advocacy groups has appealed to US Secretary of State John Kerry to provide temporary visa to Bangladeshi secular writers, bloggers facing threats following brutal killings by extremists. "We write to urge the US government to provide humanitarian parole for a limited number of high-profile Bangladeshi secularists at imminent risk of attack."The dire situation that these writers face fits the criteria and high threshold applicable to the granting of humanitarian parole," said the letter addressed to Kerry. Signatories to the letter include PEN American Centre, the Association of American Publishers, the Centre for Inquiry, City of Asylum Pittsburgh, Freedom House, Human Rights First, Human Rights Watch, and Reporters

Without Borders. Humanitarian parole is a discretionary visa-granting programme intended to provide emergency relief to individuals at risk who would otherwise be inadmissible to the US. The State Department can appeal to the Department of Homeland Security for the parole in cases of compelling urgency. "Bloggers and writers in Bangladesh have nowhere left to turn, as they face both death threats by extremist groups and fear of arrest on charges of blasphemy by government officials seeking to appease religious authorities," said Karin Deutsch Karlekar, PEN's Director of Free Expression Programmes who recently testified at a US Congressional briefing on the subject. "Dozens of Bangladeshi writers now living in hiding have reached out to our organisations for support

John Kerry and protections their own government is unwilling or unable to provide, creating an insurmountable atmosphere of violence and impunity. Forced to choose between their desire to express themselves and their personal safety, these writers have no other option but to seek solace outside Bangladesh," she said.

Suzanne Nossel, Executive Director of PEN America, said that having championed global efforts to defend internet freedom and fend off threats to religious lib-

erty, the US should take the lead to save the lives of these bloggers who face the very real risk of being murdered for the crime of expressing their views online. "Humanitarian parole offers a viable way for the US to bring these terrified bloggers to safety," she added. The letter said extremist groups pose a threat not only to writers in Bangladesh, but have proven that they are willing to attack and kill American citizens, and to threaten writers outside of Bangladesh's own borders. Six secular writers, bloggers and a publisher have been hacked to death in Bangladesh in the past two and half years, five of them since January this year, with families and friends of the deceased alleging failure on the part of police in bringing perpetrators to justice. (Agencies)

The Minister has explained that for the development in the fisheries field using modern technology it is important to impart knowledge and training

Colombo, Dec 22: The Government of South Korea is willing to extend fullypledged support to promote the Fisheries Industry in Sri Lanka, the Korean Ambassador to Colombo Won-sam Chang has informed the State Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Dilip Wedaarachchi, the Fisheries Ministry said.At a meeting with the Sri Lankan minister recently, the Korean envoy has discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of fisheries.Ambassador Won-sam Chang has said that his country is willing to extend all support in the form of knowledge, training and technological facilities for promoting the future fisheries sector in Sri Lanka.The Minister has explained that for the development in the fisheries field

using modern technology it is important to impart knowledge and training to attract the young into the sector and pointed out the necessity to establish a training college.The Korean Ambassador who had appreciated the facts presented, the enthusiasm and the commitment of the State Minister to fisheries sector, said that he is giving preference, to give a Fisheries College to produce professional in the fisheries sector who could compete with the world fisheries industry and said for that a discussion should be made with the Institute.The Ambassador has officially handed over an official invitation of the Korean Government to the State Minister Dilip Wedaarachchi to visit Korea to explore the Fisheries Sector in that country.

(Agencies)

Guatemala detains 33 migrants from Nepal, Bangladesh Kathmandu, Dec 22: Guatemalan authorities on Monday detained 33 undocumented migrants from Nepal and Bangladesh found being transported in a bus on the outskirts of the capital and presumed to be trying to make it to the United States.The group, all men, was arrested on Sunday in the east of Guatemala City during a police operation triggered by a tip-off about possible smuggling of migrants in the area, the AFP quoted police as saying in a statement. There were 16 Nepali and 17 Bangladeshis on the bus, the statement

said, adding that they were also suspected of wanting to enter the United States.

They were taken to a hostel run by the state migration service in the south of the capital. It is still unclear how the men made it from their homelands in South Asia to Central America.However, in June, Guatemalan officials arrested four Guatemalans suspected of smuggling migrants from Asia and Africa to the United States. And in August, police discovered 11 Nepali, seven Bangladeshis, a Salvadoran and a Honduran holed up in a house in the south of the country. (Agencies)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

Employability of University Graduates Food processing in India An initiative look forwarded by every Indian The Indian food industry is poised for huge growth, increasing its contribution to world food trade every year.

In India, the food sector has emerged as a high-growth and high-profit sector due to its immense potential for value addition, particularly within the food processing industry.

Accounting for about 32 per cent of the country's total food market, the food processing industry is one of the largest industries in India and is ranked fifth in terms of production, consumption, export and expected growth.

The total food production in India is likely to double in the next 10 years with the country's domestic food market estimated to reach US$ 258 billion by 2015.

The Government of India has been instrumental in the growth and development of the food processing industry. The government through the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) is making all efforts to encourage investments in the business. It has approved proposals for joint ventures (JV), foreign collaborations, industrial licences and 100 per cent export oriented units.

The Indian food and grocery market is the world's sixth largest, with retail contributing 70 per cent of the sales. It is projected to grow at the rate of 104 per cent, touching US$ 482 billion by 2020.

The Indian food processing industry accounts for 32 per cent of the country's total food market, 14 per cent of manufacturing GDP, 13 per cent of India's exports and six per cent of total industrial investment. Indian food service industry is expected to reach US$ 78 billion by 2018.The Indian gourmet food market is currently valued at US$ 1.3 billion and is growing at a CAGR of 20 per cent. It is expected to cross US$ 2.8 billion by 2015. The online food ordering business in India is in its nascent stage, but witnessing exponential growth. The organised food business in India is worth US$ 48 billion, of which food delivery is valued at US$ 15 billion. With online food delivery players like FoodPanda, Zomato, TinyOwl and Swiggy building scale through partnerships, the organised food business has a huge potential and a promising future.

According to the data provided by the Department of Industrial Policies and Promotion (DIPP), the food processing sector in India has received around US$ 6,429.15 million worth of foreign investments during the period April 2000-June 2015. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) estimates that the food processing sectors have the potential to attract as much as US$ 33 billion of investment over the next 10 years and also generate employment of nine million person-days. In order to promote food processing industries, increase level of processing and exploit the potential of domestic and international market for processed food products, Vision Document-2015 was prepared by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. The document envisages trebling the size of investment in the processed food sector by increasing the level of processing of perishables from 6 per cent to 20 per cent, value addition from 20 per cent to 35 per cent and share in global food trade from 1.5 per cent to 3 per cent by 2015. According to the Ministry, an investment of Rs 100,000 crore (US$ 16 billion) would be required in 2015 to achieve these targets.

Parliament passes Bill To prevent atrocities against SCs, STs The issues of exclusion and discrimination assume special importance in the Indian context wherein Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), who together constitute nearly onefourth of the Indian population, have traditionally suffered from social exclusion.

Though such caste system has diluted over the years with the constitutional safeguards after the Independence, SCs still face social exclusion and discrimination in their daily lives. Their voices for their rights, entitlements, dignity and justice are frequently suppressed with atrocities on them by other caste groups.

This happens so even after the comprehensive constitutional safeguards and laws enacted over the years for the protection and development of SCs as well as STs. This week the Parliament passed a crucial bill that provides for stringent action against those involved in crimes against scheduled castes and tribes, wrongfully occupying their land or dedicating such women as a 'devadasi'. The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill also provides for establishing special courts to try such offences and the rehabilitation of victims and aimed at prohibiting the commission of offences against members of the SC and ST communities.

Assaulting or sexually exploiting an SC or ST woman is an offence under the bill which states that any intentional touching of an SC or ST woman in a sexual manner without her consent, using words, acts or gestures of a sexual nature, dedicating an SC or ST women as a devadasi to a temple, or any similar practice will be considered an offence. Wrongfully occupying land belonging to SCs or STs is an offence under the bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha in August. It also declares as an offence garlanding with footwear, compelling to dispose or carry human or animal carcasses, or do manual scavenging, abusing SCs or STs by caste name in public, attempting to promote feelings of illwill against SCs or STs or disrespecting any deceased person held in high esteem and imposing or threatening a social or economic boycott. The Bill also specifies that a non-SC or ST public servant who neglects his duties relating to SCs or STs shall be punishable with imprisonment for six months to one year. The measure, which seeks to amend the 1989 Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, also has certain new categories of actions to be treated as offences like forcing an SC or ST individual to vote or not vote for a particular candidate in an illegal manner.

Pranjal Bezborah Employment is getting a job. Employability is about having an effective mix of skills, attributes and attitudes to function successfully in required roles. Employability can be taught and developed.

Today, there is a strong feeling that the skills of graduates do not match the needs and expectations of the employment sector. In India, unemployable graduates pose a greater problem than the unemployment itself.

Our higher education institutions produce tens of thousands of graduates every year. But a large number of our graduates are unemployable or possess the basics skills necessary for any industry role.

According to a report (2013) by Aspiring Minds, an employability solutions company, around 47 per cent of the graduates produced by our higher education system is unemployable.

Another study reveals that the employability of our graduates ranges between 10 per cent and 26 percent. On the contrary, our industry is unable to fill up as much as 36 per cent of the entry-level positions.

This can severely limit our national economic progress and can trigger large-scale public unrest.

The alarming statistics of large number of the country's graduates not being employable in the knowledge economy needs greater attention with intervention at higher education level.

The employability gap has to be bridged at any cost.

Education leads to formation of human capital and is an important investment for the development process. Many traditional societies

deeply feel challenged by the typhoon of changes sweeping across the world. To meet the challenges, Planning Commission suggested four pillars of education. ¨ Learning to know or capacity to absorb new knowledge; whether the young person's mind are being trained so that throughout their lives they can continue to absorb the exploding knowledge that doubles every five years. ¨ Learning to do means that the knowledge imparted to young people should also make them capable of gainful employment so that they become productive members of society. ¨ Learning to live together, that is, education does not involve merely developing individual skills; it also needs to encompass the necessity for young people to become positive and integrated elements of their respective societies. ¨ Learning to be, that is, education must contribute to the all round development of each individual's mind and body, intelligence, sensibility, aesthetic sense, personal responsibility and spiritual values.

Now question arises what are these skills, which are expected by the employers of the graduate workforce?

What are these skills, which describe 'quality education' and such an education is capable of fostering in its products?

The five top skills identified by employers and required of the educated workforce are ¨ Time Management ¨ Ability to work under pressure ¨ Accuracy and attention to details ¨ Oral communication skills ¨ Managing different skills at the same time The UNESCO document on "Thematic debate: The requirement of the World of work", has added a few more to this list, as flexibility, innovativeness, creativ-

ity, entrepreneurship, versatility and teamwork.

These skills today are parameters by which the quality of higher education is assessed. Such education enables, persons, societies and even nations to acquire competencies required for living meaningfully in a competitive globalised world. In most cases, degrees, qualifications and certificates, offered by universities have been on the basis of enrolment with no regard to the actual usefulness.

To monitor change in the employment market and to design new approaches to research and development related activities have not been taken up seriously.

All the programmes offered by our universities should be directly beneficial to the students in terms of their employability. Students should be able to provide what society actually expects from them. Wherever this synchronization is weak, the programmes, courses and the products will not receive social acceptability and credibility.

To enhance employability skills of the students, higher education institutions first of all sensitize the teachers about the employability of the graduates. The institutions need to include employability skill training of the students across the academic disciplines. Following are some of the skills expected of our graduates by the employment sector. ¨ Soft Skills -personal grooming and body language ¨ Communication verbal and non-verbal ¨ Impact of Attitude in work situation - inculcating positive attitude ¨ Change Management - Inner quality focus through creativity to increase flexibility towards change. ¨ Emotion Management ¨ Self motivation for effectiveness - target orientation ¨ Team work dynam-

ics and workplace ethics ¨ Process Improvement ¨ Health, safety and security.

While the government's focus is on skill development to increase employability of our young graduates, there is a need to lay a strong foundation through innovative education and learning systems that will improve the fundamentals of the country's competitiveness and economic growth. This will make a fundamentally strong nation with a large pool of skilled scientific, managerial and technical human resources. No technology, machinery or natural resources will make us a stronger economic power unless we have a large pool of empowered and skilled human resources produced by our higher education system.

It is well established that the employers - both national and international prefer in their employees, a right mix of innate potentials and a wide range of skills and competencies that are required to perform a wide range of tasks.

One of the recent surveys conducted in our country brings out the employers' preferences of the graduates. They are interested in the po-

tential employees, a set of capabilities that include the practical application of knowledge, confidence, willingness to learn, the amount of information to which they are exposed to, their urge to excel in the job, ability to lead, ability to accept individual responsibilities, ability to learn new tasks with fewer instructions and wider perspective of life. Fortunately, these expectations of the employers relate to the realm of values, skills and competencies, which can come along with any of the academic studies, provided adequate care is taken while learning, utilizing all the opportunities and facilities available at the universities and colleges.

The coming world will be full of challenges and risks. The purpose of educational system is to prepare students for facing these challenges and taking risks. The whole society has to come up in this great task of preparation of the future citizens. One has to come out from the traditional way of learning, and adapt themselves with the new technologies, new skills and competencies to make them employable. The role of educational administrators will be to

train the future teachers for the coming years.

To sum up with the story of an engineerone day, the engineer was called to power generating plant where the generator was running at very-low speed.

He saw that the flywheel was out of alignment, so he took a hammer and as the wheel rotated to the right position, tapped it slightly to spring it back into place. The generator quickly came to full speed, and the problem was solved.

The plant manager asked the engineer, "How much do I owe you?"

The engineer replied, "Five hundred and fifty rupees."

The plant manager exclaimed, "Five fifty for hitting a wheel with a hammer?"

"No sir", said the engineer. "For hitting the wheel, the charge is fifty rupees. The five hundred rupees were for knowing where to hit it." We may not know what type of educational institutions, students, economy, technology are there in the coming years, but we can be certain that they will all involve "knowing where to hit the wheel".

The writer is a professor in the Department of Commerce, Dibrugarh University

Guwahati Refinery In A Quandary

Sir, It is reported that the Brahmaputra is drying up alarmingly. The reasons behind this unprecedented

drying of the rivers is attributed to the building up of titanic dam in china. The number of dams constructed in China is all set to spell disaster to Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Bangladesh. The phenomenon now starts engulfing the Guwahati Refinery. The matter of drying up of the Brahmaputra has come to such a pass that it prompts the refinery authority to ponder over closing down of the Refinery. The main source of water, be it for supply of water to the members of the families of the staff and to some localities of Noonmati or for use in refining of the crude Oil is waning alarmingly. Many critics are of the views that in the winter, drying up of the Brahmaputra is not new but this year the level of drying may be more than those of the previous years. The refinery authority could have anticipated the crisis and accordingly could have made certain alternative steps like boring deep well to obviate the crisis. Depending solely on the river water is illogical for an organization of the stature of Indian Oil Corporation, so resourceful and affluent. It is also unlikely that Government of India can diplomatically prevail over China to arrange for releasing more water. It summer, the same dams in China may wreck havoc to Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Bangladesh. Some ways and means must be hammered out to tide over the crisis. Now, it re-

mains to be seen, if the refinery authority meekly surrenders to the fate or tries to hammer out some means.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

Corrigendum The correct mathematical formula in the article "The man who knew infinity " by Indra Kr. Bhujel published on 22nd of December should have been: 13+ 123 and 93 + 103 We regret for the error caused.

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

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

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

Op

Page 9

ed

Goodies that bring sweet tidings What's Christmas without marzipans, guava cheese, fruit cake and kulkuls? It's these Yuletide sweets - natalancho kunsvar that unite families in the true spirit Ornella of Christmas - elders handling the stove, men making the dough, girls adding the garnish and those without chores getting the much envied job of becoming chief tasters.

Cythnia D'Mello, a marketing professional and baker from Gorai, has fond memories of her mom, seven sisters and visiting cousins from Mangalore making severaldabbas of sweets.

New combs, she remembers, were purchased for rolling kulkuls - a ribbed maida sweet - on their teeth.

Some Mangaloreans like spreading egg white over fried kulkuls followed by sugar paak (syrup). Others just roll

it in icing. East Indians mix sugar directly with dough for the spirals to stand out, make their kulkuls smaller and colour them in bright hues someD'Souza thing even Goans do. Diamond-shaped shankar pali follows the same recipe.

Other delights include butter cookies in fun shapes and icing, ribbon cake in swirly patterns with three distinct colours, flower or star shape maida-based roce cookies, also an Anglo sweet, made either from rice for crispiness or maida for a rubbery feel.

Married into a Goan family, homemaker Prescilla Dias, 53, adds more sweets to the list - rice laddoos, like pinaag but with Mangalorean canesugar jaggery, marblesize guliyos, literally jaw-breakers but a chewy delight.

Then, there's khara kaddi which is your typical gaatiya, and chaaklis with different parts of Mangalore making their own versions by adding or subtracting spices.

Ann Dias, 63, an Anglo-Indian and Dadar-resident, has been in demand for her Christmas delicacies since the early 1980s.

She remembers standing on a stool to assist her grandmother or cook while her father worried about her complexion getting ruined.

Typical Anglo sweets, she says, are savouryand-sweet butter biscuits, brownies and fruit cake with elaborate icing, silver confetti and Christmas holly ornaments, kulkuls and caramelised milk toffees.

East Indians approach this confection queen for their staples tartlets (multi-colour coconut balls in maida

baskets), bolinhas (coconut and maida buttons) and milk cream cookies with cashew sprinkles.

There's marzipan, an East Indian patent, earlier almond-based but now made of cashews, and guava cheese with an orange-pink hue because of its lime juice quotient.

Goans call this Portuguese original peraad and use palm jaggery for a rich brown result.

Dias shares a secret.

"Leave the vessel over a tava for 20 minutes so the pulp simmers and condenses on its own.

You don't need to stir even once!" After its cut into diamonds, some dust them with sugar powder.

Easties go gaga with nankatai biscuits too, shaping them into clubs, spades and hearts, while Goans opt for a classic round. Another shared sweet is date-roll, a biscuity bullet with the goodness of date and

The World Bank Just Gave A Whopping $1.5 Bn Loan To India's Swachh Bharat Mission For This mance by the states, and the need to focus on behavioural changes as two important components of the project.

According to the World Bank, 2.4 billion people lack access to improved sanitation globally and more than 750 million of them live in India. A major chunk of this population amounting to 80 percent, lives in rural areas.

A majority of the Indian rural population continues

their open defecation-free status and improving waste management in rural areas.

The financing mechanism of the project provides states with a flexibility in innovating and adopting their own delivery models, the World Bank said.

The international bank will also provide a parallel US $ 25 million technical assistance to build the capacity of select state governments in implementing community-led behavioural-change programmes targeting so-

monitoring and evaluation.

According to Soma Ghosh Moulik, lead water and sanitation specialist and project's task team leader, large-scale social mobilisation for behaviour change is critical at the community level for the success of the programme.

Progress towards the key indicators-which will form the basis for releasing incentive grants to the states-will be measured through independent verification assessments. Na-

to defecate in the open.

People practising open defecation suffer from various illnesses, stunting and harassment.

Project Details Under the project, the states and their implementing agencies will be given incentives for meeting performance standards which will be measured against their ability to reduce open defecation, sustaining

cial norms to help ensure widespread usage of toilets by the rural population.

The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation will play the overseeing and coordinating role for the programme and support the participating states.

Funds will also be used to develop the capacity of the ministry in programme management, advocacy,

tional annual rural sanitation surveys will be carried out annually by a third party to monitor the progress.

The project will also finance specific activities to strengthen the current monitoring and evaluation system to capture timely, relevant and reliable information on the programm's progress. Courtesy: Down to Earth

Karnika Bahuguna The World Bank has approved loan worth US $ 1.5 billion for the Swachh Bharat MissionSupport Operation Project to help India realise its dream of improved sanitation access in rural areas and end the practice of open defecation by 2019.

The loan given by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development has a maturity period of 18 years, including a grace period of five years.

The project will support Swachh Bharat MissionGramin over five years using a new performancebased programme which links funds to results. The mission focuses on ensuring the usage of toilets as well as their construction.

"One in every 10 deaths in India is linked to poor sanitation. Studies show that low-income households bear the maximum brunt of poor sanitation," Onno Ruhl, the World Bank country director for India, was quoted as saying in a release.

The project will result in bringing significant health benefits to the poor and the vulnerable sections living in rural areas, Ruhl added.

He also talked about incentivising good perfor-

Research Says TV Crime Shows Can Influence How We Think Of Rape And Sexual Consent

There are many kinds of rape myths that feminists have busted, for example, 'she was asking for it'; 'if someone is drunk, they were responsible for their rape'; 'you should not go out at night, if you do not wish to get raped'. We have also learnt from feminism that taking your partner's consent is necessary before having sex and that you should say "No" to unwanted sexual advances.

A new research paper published in the Journal of

Health Communications: International Perspectives says that there is a correlation between the crime drama genre and knowledge of the above mentioned rules. The authors (Stacey J. T. Hust et al) of the paper (Law & Order, CSI, and NCIS: The Association Between Exposure to Crime Drama Franchises, Rape Myth Acceptance, and Sexual Consent Negotiation Among College Students) argue that although previous research had indicated that

exposure to crime dramas increased tendency to ask make people question for consent before sex. myths around why rape hapHowever, those exposed to pens and increases their CSI show the exact oppochances of insite intent in tervening b e h a v i o u r. when they Abhishek Jha They also come across a found that case of sexual assault,there those exposed to the NCIS seems to be a difference franchise had a tendency to when one studies different not refuse unwanted sexual TV series within the genre. activity.

The researchers surveyed Now some of you who 313 college freshmen and might have watched one put them through a quesshow or the other may or tionnaire that asked for their may not agree with the reresponses on common rape sult. But before you do eimyths. Then they did some ther, there is a rider. The restatistical analysis (some searchers haven't done number crunching for meaenough research to find out surable results) and found whether watching all these some interesting results. three shows might counterTheir research shows that act any negative effects of a those exposed to the show particular show. Also, only Law & Order have debehavioural intentions and creased rape myth accepnot actual behaviour was tance. That is, they were measured in the research. more likely to question So watch the TV show you these myths and were unwant to as long as you keep likely to believe in them. your thinking caps on or Also, these people, rethere might be trouble. Scisearchers say, showed an ence has said so.

walnut stuffing.

Almost every Goan sweet has coconut and jaggery. Like bebinca, seven layers condensed from coconut milk, egg and jaggery. Earlier, Goans made this sweet over hot coals with the vessel additionally heated with flaming coconut shells on its lid.

Each strip is now baked separately. Palm jaggery in coconut-and-rice dodol and pinaag let diabetics enjoy Christmas, while oil derived from this rhythmic stirring was used to massage children and lactating women.

Like the English Christmas plum cake, Goans have baath and East Indians, coconut cake thali.

Both include coconut and rava. But Goans let this batter soak longer. So baath acquires a thick crust and texture, while the cake slides like butter down your throat.

Joe Rose, a veteran Konkani theatre person who ran the now defunct Rita Stores in Dhobi

Flower-shaped crunchy roce cookies; fruit-shaped cashew marzipan and halfmoon shaped coconut-and-jaggery neuories -ruchikrandhap.com

Talao, stocked sweets and wares from Goa, composed a song on neoruleo - how these half-moon sweets were six inches big and packed with sweetened coconut,

but have now shrunk with an almost empty inside so they rattle like a child's toy when given a shake.

What is fast disappearing, say old timers, is the

Portuguese gons or gaush or nest that is now only found in Salcette, Goa coconut strips dunked in hot sugar syrup and arranged as a nest with a raspberry centre.

How Speed Limits That Make Little Sense Are Adding To The Road Safety Crisis In India In a tragic incident late on the night of December 14, an over-speeding car hit a divider, killing the co-passenger in Delhi's South Extension area. According to the National Crime Records Bureau(NCRB), 48,654 persons died in 2014 in road accidents due to over-speeding. This means that almost 33% of over-speeding cases result in fatalities. Incidentally, over-speeding also remains the single biggest cause of road accident deaths in India with over 36% of all road traffic accident deaths occurring solely due to this reason.

The Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE) recently conducted a detailed study of traffic management for the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D). In the study, it was found that100% of vehicles were driven above the prescribed speed on select National Highways at spots with speed limit signages. This is a clear indicator that not only are the speed limit signages ignored by drivers, but the percentage of vehicles flouting the limit shows the unscientific nature in which speed limits are assigned in the first place, as they are not in sync with vehicular capabilities, road geom-

etry, and even road quality.

Having lower speed limits is an exercise followed by enforceRavitej ment authorities across the world, as it arguably gives the authorities a false understanding that road users would automatically adhere to the limits, in addition to easier interception of offending vehicles. But logic dictates that road users will continue to drive at a speed that they may think is safe, with complete disregard to the prescribed speed limit as may be displayed on the highway.

As an example, the Mumbai-Pune expressway has the lowest speed limit for any expressway in the world 80 km/h - yet has the highest number of accidents and fatalities for a highway of its class.

In fact, in a study conducted in about 20 countries, it was found that up to 90% of drivers believe they are above-average, low-risk drivers and that they can drive over the limit without placing themselves at high risk. Although human perception of highway safety is often misplaced, and inaccurate personal judgment of one's own driving is a leading cause of mishaps, better road geom-

etry with accurate speed limit determinants can, in fact, lead to uniformity and better enforcement.

Prasad A n o t h e r drawback to having lower speed limits is that with the absence of proper accident investigation as is the case with India, road contractors are indirectly allowed to avoid liability in case of any accident due to improper road design, as it becomes easy to blame the driver for driving above the speed limit, even if it is set unreasonably low. Even enforcement authorities frequently ignore overspeeding as an offence due to the ambiguous nature of setting blanket speed limits on differing classes of roads.

Having said that, increased speed limits does not mean that they be done arbitrarily without scientific understanding of the road geometry. A blanket speed limit on a particular class of roads is neither advised nor desirable. It was only after 25 years, in August 2014, that the government decided to revise the speed limits on all National Highways by way of a notification. Light motor vehicles are now permitted a maximum of 100 km/ h.

However, the nature of

the notification is such that this speed limit has been set without taking into consideration the difference in quality of different National Highways. Indian highways have seen a constant expansion since independence with projects being fast-tracked now. We have 2-laned, 4-laned, 6laned as well as 8-laned National Highways, each of which warrant speed limits based on comprehensive research on the quantum and type of traffic, type and level of development alongside, road function, proportion of vulnerable road users, environmental emissions, grade separations and the presence of merging or diverging lanes.

Having safer roads is not a simple question with a binary solution, but a complex network of different aspects that come into play. Effective enforcement, being an important pillar to having safe roads, requires effectiveness of all these aspects including speed limit indicators. The question, therefore, is not to whether increase or decrease speed limits to ensure safer roads, but whether a scientific analysis of speed limits on all classes of roads, on a case to case basis, is a necessity or not. It's time our policy makers agree that it is.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

BUSINESS

Delhi Metro signs MoU with Solar Energy Corporation of India New Delhi, Dec 22 : The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) will now jointly collaborate on taking up an 'off site' solar power project, to maximise the use of renewable energy, mitigate the impact of regular increase in grid tariffs and to reduce the carbon footprint. A fresh Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with this objective was signed today in the presence of DMRC's Managing Director, Dr. Mangu Singh and other

senior officials from DMRC and SECI. DMRC intends to take 1,000 MU annually from "offsite" renewable sources, through a one stop solution. As per the MoU, both the organisations shall collaborate for sourcing additional requirement of power by DMRC from other developers /generators not on DMRC sites within NCR region. In the initial phase, 500 MWp capacity of ground mounted solar power projects within a duration of three years is targeted.

Both DMRC and SECI

Adani Power shares zoom over 9% Mumbai, Dec 22: Shares of Adani Power surged over 9 per cent after the company announced incorporation of a subsidiary, which is expected to push the group's ambitious plans in Jharkhand.

The scrip went up soon after the group informed the stock exchanges that a wholly-owned subsidiary firm, Adani Power (Jharkhand) Ltd, has been incorporated. The stock zoomed 9.25 per cent to settle at Rs 30.70 on BSE. During the day, it jumped 11 per cent to Rs 31.20. At NSE, shares of the company climbed 9 per cent to Rs 31.40. In terms of volume, 31.91 lakh shares of the firm changed hands at BSE and over one crore shares were traded at NSE during the day. "Adani Power Limited (APL) has incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary com-

pany Adani Power (Jharkhand) Ltd (APJL) in India, which is registered with the Registrar of Companies, Gujarat, in Ahmedabad on December 18, 2015," the company said in a filing to the BSE. The company further said APJL, which is yet to commence its business operations, is "incorporated as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company for its business purpose". Adani Power is into generation, distribution and supply of power, among others.

Adani Group had in June this year said that it is looking to invest Rs 50,000 crore for producing urea, methane, power and subst i t u t e n a t u r a l g a s (SNG) in Jharkhand. An MoU with Adani Group was signed with Jharkhand government e a r l i e r t h i s y e a r.

(Agencies)

RCOM sells 150 flats for Rs 330 crore Delhi, Dec 22: Reliance Communications said it has sold nearly 150 residential flats in Navi Mumbai for Rs 330 crore as part of its asset monetization plans aimed at lowering debt. "The disposal marks the commencement of RCOM's monetization programme for surplus real estate owned by the company," the company said in a statement. The entire proceeds from the monetization of real estate will be utilized by RCOM for repayment of debt, as part of its overall deleveraging plans, the statement said.

RCOM has set target to cut its debt from Rs 39,894 crore to under Rs 10,000 crore. Anil Ambani-led firm said that it has already received more than 50% of

the sale proceeds of nearly 150 residential flats situated at Sea Woods complex in Navi Mumbai, and the balance amount will be realized during the current financial year, upon completion of documentation, currently underway. RCOM said that it also expects to finalize and announce plans very shortly for monetization of its real estate asset measuring nearly 4 acres, situated at a prime location in New Delhi (just off Connaught Place). On December 4, the RCOM said that it has signed a nonbinding pact to sell its cellular towers to private equity firm Tillman Global Holdings and TPG Asia in an estimated Rs 30,000-crore deal to pare debt. (Agencies)

Indian IT companies paid $23 billion taxes in US New Delhi, Dec 22: Indian technology industry paid $22.5 billion in taxes during the financial years 2011-15, besides investing $2 billion in FY 2011-13 in the US, Parliament was informed on Monday. "The Indian tech industry ... supported 4,11,000 jobs in FY2015 directly or indirectly," commerce minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in a written reply to Lok Sabha.

She quoted data from a report 'Contributions of In dia's

Tech Industry to the US Economy', published by the Indian IT Industry body Nasscom. The US government hiking of Visa fee is likely to adversely impact the Indian IT Industry . Almost all Indian IT companies would pay between $8,000 and $10,000 per H-1B visa from April 1, when the next annual H-1B visa filing session starts, making it quite unsustainable economically for them. (Agencies)

shall jointly develop an 'Action Plan' to source solar power on mutually agreed terms and condi-

tions, from sources other than solar power generated on DMRC sites. The whole process of tender-

ing and conducting bidding process / e-auction shall be conducted by SECI. DMRC shall enter into Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Developer as may be decided by DMRC out of the names selected and forwarded after the whole tendering process by SECI. In order to carry out the above mentioned ambitious project, DMRC and SECI will constitute a Joint Development Team (JDT) which will consist of senior officials from both the organisations. The Joint

Development Team shall decide the ACTION PLAN in achieving the objective of DMRC in the best manner possible through collaboration with SECI. As per the MoU, both the companies have also decided to extend the understanding incorporated in an earlier MoU dated 17th Sep 2013 and further collaborate for the development of Solar PV Projects (ground mounted, rooftop and other possible modes) at identified DMRC sites.(ANI)

PepperTap buys Jiffstore, raises another $4 million Bengaluru, Dec 22 : Gurgaon-based on-demand grocery service PepperTap has acquired Bengaluru-based hyperlocal grocery delivery startup Jiffstore in a cash-and-stock deal.The deal details were not disclosed.

Jiffstore was founded

by ISB drop-out Shameel Abdulla, and his friends Aswin Ram, Satish Basavaraj and Sandeep Sreenath in 2013. It was also part of TLabs incubator and had raised a total of $500,000 in funding from Unitus Seed Fund and Times Internet last year. Jiffstore will completely merge its operations with PepperTap

and its 40-memberteam will join PepperTap's Gurgaon and Bengaluru offices.

"We have always been strong on the tech side and had tied up with almost 120 stores. But Jiffstore was operational only in Bengaluru while PepperTap was all-India. We were both operating in the same space so it made sense for us to join hands with PepperTap," said Abdulla. PepperTap also announced on Monday that it had closed its Series B round of funding by raising an additional $4 million from Innoven Capital. Kolkata duo buys 10% in B'luru firm Kolkata: Industrialists

Siddharth Pansari and Apurva Salarpuria have picked up a little over 10% stake in Bengaluru-based home interior solution startup Design Cafe. Pansari is the director of Primarc Group which has interest in real estate and retail while Salarpuria Sattava group of Apurva is in real estate and hospitality. The managing director of Design Cafe, Shezaan Bhojani, described the

company as one-stop solution for home decor. The Design Cafe brand is owned by a company called GS E Commerce. The company has an orderbook of Rs 5 crore and in the next fiscal, it has set a target to achieve a turnover of over Rs 30 crore. Design Cafe promoter duo Shezaan Bhojani and Gita Ramanan now hold 54% in the company.

(Agencies)

Indian drug companies may face more scrutiny Mumbai, Dec 22: Domestic drug companies will face increased scrutiny from global regulatory agencies, including the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), with the top two companies Sun Pharma and Dr Reddy's now under regulatory glare. Sun Pharma joined the long list of companies last week against whom warning letters have been issued this year, while in November the USFDA raised concerns on Dr Reddy's manufacturing practices at three of its plants. A total of seven companies have been issued warning letters this year by the US regulator, raising issues of manufacturing lapses at their facilities in India.

Indian companies will

continue to be under FDA observation, with a higher number of inspections. "This (warning letter) is a cause of worry as serious manufacturing lapses have been pointed out by the regulator," says Sujay Shetty, leader (pharma), PwC India, says. At present, 38-40 investigations are on at more than 25 companies across the country. India accounts for around 30% (by volume) and about 10% (value) in the $7080 billion US generic market. Over the years, India has become a dominant player in the US generic space, with a large number of plants and increased scale of operations, exporting key drugs and injectables from the country. "Now there's increased pres-

sure on domestic companies, and an intense scrutiny from the US FDA and other regulatory agencies globally, post two large companies having come under FDA action. We will need to perk up," says an executive working with a large industry player. Usually, the regulator's action has an adverse impact on the company

for a few quarters. But analysts say most companies are able to resolve the issues over two to three years. An analysis of the period 2009-12 suggests domestic companies received 13 warning letters, of which eight (61%) were resolved, with six of those being resolved within two years. (Agencies)

TECHNOLOGY

Acer Liquid Z630S Price: Rs. 10,999/Design Acer Liquid Z630S comes with a pebble design with rounded corner that reminds us of Samsung's Galaxy S3 in a subtle manner. The rear panel of the smartphone boasts of a brushed metal finish that wards off any kind of fingerprint smudges.

Display Acer has equipped the Liquid Z630S smartphone with a large 5.5-inch display that is ideal for all multimedia requirements of a user. The display has a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels that ensures an HD visual quality for its users. Moreover, the display comes with Lumiflex technology from Acer that helps in clear rendition under direct sunlight. The display is also protected by a Dragontrail glass for added protection.

User Experience Acer has ensured that the user experience offered by the handset is top notch as it comes with Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system out of the box. The stock Android has been skinned with Acer's own Liquid UI, which enhances the overall visuals of the operating system as well as utility.

Performance and Battery Life Coming to the performance, Acer Liquid Z630S is a power-packed device as it comes equipped with an Octacore processor with a clock speed of 1.3 GHz. Moreover, this handset happens to be one of the few smartphones under INR 10,000 to come with a massive RAM of 3 GB. Moreover, this handset comes running on a bigger 4000 mAh battery to last for a day disregarding the usage pattern.

Camera Technology

Coming to the imaging technology, this budget segm e n t smartphone comes with an 8 Megapixels snapper on its rear panel for routine phot o g r a p h y.

However, the feather in the hat is the fact is that the front panel of the handset also features the same 8 Megapixels shooter, much to the delight of selfie lovers.

Connectivity Acer Liquid Z630s is a dual SIM smartphone that offers both 4G LTE and 3G connectivity to its users for high speed Internet. Also, the de-

vice features connectivity options like Bluetooth, WiFi, microUSB and GPS for ease of usage.

PAGE 10

Neemuchwala may succeed T K Kurien as Wipro CEO Bengaluru, Dec 22: Wipro is abuzz with speculation that chief operating officer Abid Ali Neemuchwala will succeed T K Kurien as CEO early next year and that Kurien will be elevated to the position of vice-chairman. Kurien, who turns 58 next year, will complete his five-year tenure as CEO in January. Some senior executives in Wipro, who did not want to be named, said the recent exits of healthcare head Sangita Singh and media & telecom head Ayan Mukerji are being seen as part of the larger restructuring under way at the top. So too the elevation of four top executives as president over the past few months. These in-

clude energy and utilities head Anand Padmanabhan, global infrastructure head G K Prasanna, application services and strategic alliances head Bhanumurthy B M, and banking & financial services head Shaji Farooq. When asked Wipro about the matter, the company sent the following statement: "The board of directors of Wipro Ltd has not taken any such decision. Any such decision will be taken by the board of directors based on the recommendation of the nominations committee and will be communicated to the stock exchanges.

We don't want to comment any further on this speculation." (Agencies)

In race for Sebi top job Mumbai, Dec 22: State Bank of India chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya has turned out to be a dark horse for the top job at the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi). The government in coming weeks will finalize the successor to incumbent U K Sinha, whose term ends on February 17, 2016. Most candidates being talked about as frontrunners have largely been bureaucrats or have a regulatory background. They include some Sebi board members, Ramesh Abhishek, former chairman of the erstwhile Forwards Market Commission (FMC), and former RBI deputy governor Subir Gokarn. The post of Sebi chairman is equivalent to that of a secretary in the government. The position has gained importance following FMC's merger with Sebi. The government had floated an advertisement seeking applications for the post on August 24, seeking candidates, aged 50-60 years, including from the private sector. It is not clear whether Bhattacharya had applied for the job because the search committee was allowed to recommend the name of any suitable person even if the individual had not submitted an application. The committee included the cabinet secretary and the economic

SBI chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya

affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das. The notice listed "a person of ability, integrity and standing who has shown capacity in dealing with problems relating to the securities markets or have some special knowledge or experience of law, finance, economics, accountancy, administration or in any other discipline" as the eligibility. If appointed, Bhattacharya would be the first commercial banker to lead the market regulator. Although three former Sebi chairmen were from IDBI, they were appointed before the development finance institution was converted into a commercial bank. Among the former chiefs of Sebi, M Damodaran and S S Nadkarni had worked as chairmen of IDBI before taking charge, while the marker regulator's first head, S A Dave, was an executive director at IDBI. Sinha, prior to taking charge at Sebi, was chief of UTI Mutual Fund. His predecessor C B Bhave, a former bureaucrat, headed the NSDL.(Agencies)

Toshiba cuts jobs, sells plant, projects red ink Tokyo, Dec 22: Scandalplagued Japanese manufacturer Toshiba Corp. is cutting 6,800 jobs after projecting a net loss of 550 billion yen ($4.5 billion) for the fiscal year through March 2016.

Toshiba said Monday it will slash the jobs in its personal computer, video product and consumer electronic businesses. The job cuts equal about 3 per cent of Toshiba's overall employees. It is also selling its TV plant in Indonesia. Toshiba, which also makes nuclear power plants, has repeatedly apologized after acknowledging it had systematically doctored its books over several years to inflate profits by 152 billion yen ($1.3 billion). Officials have said that mangers set unrealistic earnings targets, under the banner of creating a big "challenge," and subordinates faked results.

The scandal at one of the nation's top brands highlights how Japan is still struggling to improve corporate governance, despite efforts to beef up independent oversight of compa-

nies. Toshiba said the job cuts in Japan will be by early retirement, but a significant number of overseas jobs will also be involved and steps will vary by each nation. It did not immediately have a detailed regional breakdown. Earlier this year, Toshiba said it is selling facilities for making computer chips related to image sensors to Sony Corp. Toshiba is also in trouble because it operates and is decommissioning, with Hitachi and other companies, the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant, which went into meltdowns after the March 2011 tsunami. Toshiba said it had not yet fully calculated the impact of the nuclear disaster on its books. The latest earnings projection means Toshiba is sinking into its second straight year of red ink, after racking up a nearly 38 billion yen ($312 million) loss for the fiscal year that ended in March. Japanese media reports said the loss forecast for this fiscal year would be a record for Toshiba, surpassing the massive losses during the Lehman financial crisis. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

Features

PAGE 11

HORTICULTURE HORTICULTURE

Colocasia- Farmers' all time favourite crop Colocasia (Colocasia esculenta), an important member of family Araceae is known as Kashriew in Khasi, Kachu in Assamese and taro, eddoe, dasheen or old cocoyam in Hindi. All the plant part i.e leaves, petioles, corms and cormels are eaten in some or other parts of north eastern region. It is an important source of food during lean period and feed for livestocks. It is abundantly grown both in nature and kitchen garden of the farmers. The farmers are generally growing local varieties as a mixed crop.

Nutritional value : It is a rich source of carbohydrate, minerals and vita-

mins. Starch is a main constituent of carbohydrate in colocasia. Peel contains non starch nutrients and can be used as feed. The calcium oxalate content varies from 0.1 to 0.4% on fresh weight basis. The irritating effect can be removed after boiling.

Soil and climate : The best soil is sandy loam or alluvial with abundant organic matter and moisture holding capacity.

The land should be ploughed 2 to 3 times after applying adequate quantities of organic manure. It requires a warm humid climate with a mean temperature above 20oC. In natural habitat, it is commonly found

Source: eagriculture.in

near water sources. This crop also survives well at high altitudes on hills if frost- free conditions remain during the cropping season. An annual rainfall of 200 cm, well distributed during growth period is required for optimum tuber yields. When rainfall is low, yield is reduced.

Planting material : (a) Small corms or setts cut from large corms. (b) Cormels or setts cut from large cormels.

The planting material i.e. corm / cormels should be true to type, 40 - 50 g in weight, disease/insect free, without cuts and fully sprouted at the times of sowing.

Time and method of planting: May - June is the best planting time for Meghalaya. Planting is done on well prepared land in pits filled up with farm yard maures and burnt leaves, straw, bushes etc. Sprouted corms or cormels are planted 5 - 7 cm deep at a spacing of 40 - 50 cm between and within rows in the pits. When plants grow to about 30 cm height, the soil around is loosened and earthing up is done.

Water and weed management: There is sufficient rainfall in the re-

gion throughout the growing period. Therefore proper drainage is required to avoid the water logging. Weed problem is more critical at early vegetative growth and during late season.

Keeping the plots free from weeds during initial periods of crop growth helps in better growth.

Weeds are generally removed manually. Mulching with dried leaves just after planting reduces the weed growth. Mulching with black polythene is found beneficial for both reducing the weed and increasing the yield.

Varieties : Farmers generally grow local types which are available with them. ICAR Research complex for NEH Region, Umiam has identified several genotypes / varieties like ML - 1, ML2, ML- 9, BCC - 1 and Nadia Local which are not only high yielding but also moderately resistant to leaf blight, a major disease colocasia in this region.

Manure and fertilizer: Being a tuber crop it responds well to manure and fertilizer application.

Well rotten FYM or compost should be applied at 12 - 15 t/ ha at the time of sowing. In addition 220 kg urea, 375 kg SSP

and 134 kg MOP should also be applied per hectare. One third dose of urea and full dose of SSP and MOP should be given at the time of planting, while the remaining two third doses of Urea should be applied in 2 - 3 split doses at 30 days interval after every weeding. Initial application of NPK helps in rapid development of early leaves.

The second application should be given after 2 3 months of sowing in order to ensure rapid and normal development of corm. Due to high rainfall, leaching of nutrients is faster in this region.

Therefore fertilizers especially N should be applied in the form of several split doses. Earthing - up should be done after each top dressing.

Plant protection: Colocasia is not affected by serious diseases and insects as in other parts of the country. But in this region it is generally affected by following diseases and insects.

Leaf blight : Leaf blight of Colocasia is the most destructive and this is common in the region due to high rainfall during cropping season. When weather is cloudy, rainfall coupled with moderate temperature & high

INSECT FARMING

Insect can be the buzzword Jayanta Kumar Sarma The Northeast has a huge potential for insect farming, a trend growing globally to replace the traditional source of animal protein In the present-day context of modern farming for alternative protein sources, insect farming is an option many are increasingly looking at worldwide. The growing global interest in insect farming is not without reason. It is based on a need that will be felt in some year to come. It is predicted that the pressure on the existing agro-ecosystem will increase manifold due to the increase of population across the world. By 2050, it will be even more critical as the need will go beyond the planet's capacity to grow food. If the process and practices of agricultural production and increase of human population go in the same pace, it will lead to shortage of agricultural land, water, forest and fishery and pose a challenge to food and nutritional security for the growing human population.

In this context, different initiatives are being taken up worldwide for sustainable agricultural systems.

One of the important areas evolving in a modern way is harnessing alternative sources of animal protein through a smart farming system.

When it comes to counting ecological foot print, the concept of conventional animal farming to produce animal protein falters, say in terms of its pressure on land resources, energy efficiency, waste management, requirement of space, Against such odds,

insect farming is emerging as the most ecologically smart system of farming, as per an FAO report of 2013. The forward to the report titled "Edible Insects -- Future Prospects for Food and Feed Security" (FAO forestry paper-171) ay -- "It is widely accepted that by 2050 the world will host 9 billion people. To accommodate this number, current food production will need to almost double. Land is scarce and expanding the area devoted to farming is rarely a viable or sustainable option. Oceans are overfished and climate change and related water shortages could have profound implications for food production. To meet the food and nutrition challenges of today - there are nearly 1 billion chronically hungry people worldwide - and tomorrow, what we eat and how we produce it needs to be re-evaluated.

Inefficiencies need to be rectified and food waste to be reduced. We need to find new ways of growing food."

The report also mentioned that there is wrong public perception about insects as only pests.

However, insects can become food at a low environmental cost, can contribute positively to livelihood and play a fundamental role in nature.

The edible insects contain high quality protein, vitamins and amino acids. It has high food conversion rate, i.e. quantum energy and material converted to food.

For example, crickets can produce the same amount of protein as pro-

duced by cattle, sheep, pigs and broiler chicken but its feed requirement is six times lesser than cattle, four times lesser than sheep and twice lesser than pigs and chicken.

Besides, insects emit less greenhouse gases and ammonia than conventional livestock. Therefore, it is an important avenue for a smart farming system.

There are also other uses of insects in human life.

Insects deliver a host of ecological services that are fundamental to the survival of the humankind. They play an important role as pollinators in plant reproduction, in improving soil fertility through waste bioconversion, and in natural bio control for harmful pest species. They provide a variety of valuable products to human beings such

as honey and silk and medical applications such as the maggot therapy. In addition, insects have assumed their place in human culture as collection items and ornaments and in movies, visual arts and literature.

The practice of human consumption of insects as food is called Entomophagy. The eggs, larvae, pupae and adults of certain insects' species have been taken as food by human beings from the prehistoric period and it will continue to be an item of human nutrition in postmodern period.

It is estimated around two billion people in the world take insects as part of their traditional diet. More than 1900 species have reportedly been used as food.

Globally, the most com-

Source: nezine.com

monly consumed insects are beetles (Coleoptera) 31 percent, caterpillars (Lepidoptera)- 18 percent, bees, wasps and ants (Hymenoptera)- 14 percent, grasshoppers, locusts and crickets (Orthoptera) - 13 percent, cicadas, leafhoppers, plant hoppers, scale insects and true bugs (Hemiptera) -10 percent, termites (Isoptera) - 3 percent, dragonflies (Odonata)- 3 percent, flies (Diptera) - 2 percent and other orders - 5 percent.

But majority of them are mainly collected from normal wild ecosystems. So the decline in the number of insects in a particular ecosystem may exert negative impact, particularly in destabiliing the natural food chain and ecological balances. Therefore, the question of farming

Source: 1.bp.blogspot.com humidity, the epidemics of diseases is favoured.

The diseases appears on the foliage first as purple to brownish circular water - soaked lesions of 1 - 2 cm in diameter, usually at the tip, base and margins of the leaves.

Control : The diseases can be controlled by using 2 - 3 spray of Dithane M - 45 at 2g/liter of water followed by Ridomil at 2 g/ liter of water after 15 days of first application. The spraying should be started 3 - 4 months after planting if symptom appears, otherwise one prophylactic spray of through regulated way without disturbing the natural ecosystem is considered an important issue in the last decades. What it required is a systematic approach of farming, which comes from pragmatic research and development work in the field of Entomology, Entomophagy and Insects Farming.

Since 2003, insect farming is being considered an important new scientific endeavour in the world.

Under the initiatives of FAO, there are some excremental trials in Central Africa, Thailand and Laos along with different collaborative research, which frame some ground rules for insect farming in different ecological zones of the world.

It may provide new potentialities and benefits.

Many research findings indicate that insects farming also strengthens insect conservation and exerts positive impact on associated forest ecosystems, like the Mopane worm and the Mopane woodland's ecological association and benefits as documented in a research work in South Africa (Parry, Wayne: Study: Eating bugs could reduce global warming.

Christian Science Monitor, 22 February 2012).

There is ample scope for insects farming in North East India. Already, many insect varieties are part of the traditional food system of the different ethnic groups of the region, along with ethno-medicinal practices based on insects as therapeutic measures. For example, the giant water bug , predacious diving beetle, house cricket, red ant, eri and muga silk worm, termite, locust, water scavenger beetle, etc. are commonly consumed by many ethnic groups of the region, viz. the Nagas, Kukis, Hmars, Adis, Galos, Nyshisss, Apatanis, Tangshas, Bodos, Mishings, Dimasas,

Dithane M - 45 at2 g/ liter of water is sufficient.

Corm borer : (Haplosonyx chalybaeus): It is a serious insect of Colocasia. The larvae makes holes in developing corms and corms become unmarketable and unfit for consumption.

Control : Carbofuran 3G at 1.5 kg a.i. /ha applied in root zone when egg laying ooze is observed at plant base.

Entomogenous fungi Beauveria bassiana at 109 spores/ml found effective to control the grubs.

Leaf webber : The larvae rolls the leaves and feeds on them thereby reducing the photosynKarbi, etc.

Many insect parts and components are also used in rituals and festivals, such as using the red ant's egg at the time of Bohag Bihu --mainly by different ethnic groups in Upper Assam. It is believed that the red ant egg energies the body. In April, 2015 (at the time of the last Bohag Bihu), red ant egg were reportedly sold in Naharkotia town at the rate of Rs.1800 to 2100 per kg from the last year's Rs. 800 per kg. According to Mridupaban Phukan, a wildlife enthusiast and wildlife photographer from Naharkotia, the ants were collected by people from different wild habitats and brought to the market for sale for Bihu.

There was a time when the Nyishi and Galo tribes of Arunachal Pradesh consumed 81 types of insects.

A study has documented that the termites consumed in Meghalaya contains 82 - 87 percent protein, 1.3 2.7 percent carbohydrate and 4.7 to 6.7 percent amino acid along with minerals, which is much more than having vegetarian food, salmon and boiler chickens (Current Science,Vol.103,No1,2012 page-10).

Another study in Karbi Anglong has found that 40 species of insects are consumed by local ethnic groups, out of which 32 species are identified which belong to 23 families, 27 genus and 8 orders.

Out of these, 26 species have the potential for better utilisation as food and 6 have medicinal value along with food quality.

Over the years, local people have consumed it in different forms, i.e. cooked, roasted, fried, raw or mixed with other ingredients.

(The Bioscan, Vol.2, 515-521, 2010). There are some example too of how ethnic groups of North East India have had a food system where insects are also considered food. Moreover, there are other

thetic area of the leaves.

Control : collect the leaves and burry them in soil. Collection of adult during June- August hiding below the leaves and leaf bases. Crop should be sprayed with Endosulfan at 2 ml/ liter of water.

Harvesting and yield: Crop gets ready for harvest when most of the leaves begin to turn yellow. Generally, it takes 6 - 8 months after planting depending upon the variety. Damage to tubers should be avoided while harvesting. Generally 20 25 t/ ha tuber yield is obtained by adopting improved package of practices. smaller animal sources of protein used by many communities of the North East apart from insects, like pila, crab, etc.

However, nowhere in NE India will you find till date any professional farming experiment conducted on insects or for other small animal. Some of the important issues of research in the area are study on life cycle of different edible insects, the trend of its growth and development in different ecological situation of the region, experimental field research on farming in different agro-climatic situation and development of guidelines on practices, safety measures, quality control, etc. for farming.

There is the scope for value addition from insect products too. For instance, ant egg oil, edible protein powder from dry insects, insect papad, insect powdered biscuit, etc.

It is high time the research organisations and institutes in the region carry out such research to tap the potential of insect farming in the region. It will lay out n vital avenue for smart farming system in the region, strengthen the area by employment generation, safeguard the indigenous food system, and provide food and nutritional security. It must be considered a major component in the agenda of Organic North East of the present Central Government.

(Jayanta Kumar Sarma is a freelance consultant in the area of Environment and Development and he has been working with NGO, Educational Institutions, private entrepreneurial farm and government agencies of North-east region. He did his Post graduation in Geography from Gauhati University and Post Master in Natural Resource Management from IIFM.) Courtesy: Nezine.com

Ozil's mastery inspires Arsenal to 2-1 win over Man City

Olivier Giroud of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's second goal with team mates during the Premier League match against Manchester City.

ANI London: Mesut Ozil proficiently played the role of instigator to help Arsenal claim a 2-1 win over error-prone Manchester City and moved closer to within two points of surprise Premier League

leaders Leicester City. The German midfielder set up superb goals for Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud to help Arsenal, which haven't won the title since 2004, secure their third consecutive win.

Ozil provided his 14th and

15th assist of the season as Arsenal held a commanding 2-0 lead in firsthalf stoppage time. Although Yaya Toure pulled one back for City in the 82nd minute, it was too late for them to score an equaliser.

Uncapped Boland replaces injured Coulter-Nile ANI Melbourne: Australia have called in uncapped pacer Scott Boland as a replacement for injured Nathan Coulter-Nile for the Boxing Day Test match against West Indies.

Confirming the omission of Coulter-Nile for the second Test, Cricket Australia physiotherapist David Beakley said that the 28-year-old had dislocated his right shoulder and that he would not be available for the next match. Nathan suffered injury on his right shoulder while fielding in the Big Bash Twenty20 League for the Perth Scorchers on Monday.

Boland, who appeared in 27 domestic matches, was

earlier named as a shadow player in the first Test in Hobart, which Australia won by an innings and 212 runs. Australia are currently leading the series 1-

0 against West Indies and the two sides will next play in Melbourne from December 26 followed by the third Test in Sydney, starting from January 3.

Mangaldoi all out for 166 Nuruddin Cricket Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 22: Mangaldoi were bundled out for 166 runs in 58.5 overs in their first innings after winning the toss and electing to bat against Bongaigoan in the twoday Nuruddin Ahmed se-

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

PAGE 12

McCullum to bid adieu to international cricket in Feb 2016 ANI Hamilton: A day after New Zealand won the Test series against Sri Lanka 20, skipper Brendon McCullum has announced that he will be retiring from all forms of international cricket in February next year. Confirming the news, the 34-year-old batsman said that the home series against Australia in February will be his last. "Ideally, I would have preferred to wait until after the Test in Christchurch to make this news public. However, the schedule for naming the ICC World T20 squads means I couldn't have

nior district cricket tournament at DDSA stadium.

Alakesh Das slammed 27 off 21 balls with the help of five boundaries and one six. Anchal Saikia contributed with a steady knock of 25 runs with the help of three boundaries. For

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 22: Oil India FC, Duliajan today thrashed 2nd Assam Police Battalion, Makum 60 in the third quarter final of the ongoing fourth Swargadeo Sarbananda Singh Invitation PrizeMoney Football Championship organised by AllAssam Muttock Yuba Chatra Sanmilan Central

Sports Correspondent Haflong, Dec 22: The 6th All Assam Girls’ Sub-Junior Hockey Tournament, 2015 concluded on Monday with Naharkatiya emerging as the champions defeating Duliajan 6-1 at the N.L. Daulagupu Sports Complex, Haflong.

Thaisodao Thaosen, EM of NCHAC was present as the chief guest during the closing ceremony while Ihuing Pame, Colonel

Australian female cricketer banned

Amir's return will be great for Pakistan, says Inzamam

ANI Sydney: An Australian female cricketer has been handed a two-year suspended ban after being found guilty of placing bets, totalling only Aus nine dollars, on the 2015 men's World Cup final. According to reports, Angela Reakes b r e a c h e d Australia's anti-corruption code after she placed bets on the Player of the Match award in the summit clash, in which Australia defeated New Zealand to claim the coveted title for the fourth time. In addition to the suspended ban, the 24-year-old will be required to educate other cricketers on anti-corruption issues.

Mohammad Amir that the tainted player performed extremely well in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), adding that he hopes the bowler would continue with his present form.

The former right-handed batsman also expressed his views on next year's World T20 in India, saying that his side had en-

tered every World Cup tournaments with a hope of beating the arch-rivals. Inzamam also urged his country's side to break India's unbeaten record against Pakistan in the game's pinnacle event. Meanwhile, Amir will play for Karachi Kings along with Shoaib Malik in the inaugural edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Earlier, left-hander Amir had displayed an impressive form in domestic matches after ending his five-year ban for spotfixing three months ago.

Considered as one of the most promising talents, Amir had taken 51 wickets in 14 Tests and 25 in 15 one-day internationals before he was handed a five-year ban for bowling deliberate no-balls by pre-arrangement during the fourth test against England at Lord's in 2010.

New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum speaks during a press conference to announce his retirement.

man will play his 100th Test against Australia in Wellington from February 12 and will retire af-

ter the second and final Test of that series, in Christchurch from February 20.

Oil India FC in semis

Bongaigoan, Sunil Ranjan Saikia hauled seven wickets by giving away 63 runs. In reply, Bongaigoan were 54/2 at stumps.

Pratijit Baishya and Faznur Rahmanur were at the crease on 11 and 7 runs respectively.

ANI Karachi: Former Pakistan Test skipper Inzamam-ul-Haq believes that the inclusion of disgraced fast bowler Mohammad Amir will turn out to be great for Pakistan cricket in future. Lavishing praise on the 23-year-old lefthander, Inzamam said

managed this without causing a lot of confusion and speculation - something I was keen to avoid," he was quoted as saying.

He asserted that he loved his opportunity to play for, and captain the New Zealand team, but all good things have to come to an end, and he was just grateful for the wonderful experience of playing for his country.

Kane Williamson, who recently became the world number one Test batsman, will captain the Black Caps at the World Twenty20 in India, which starts on 8 March.

The swashbuckling bats-

Committee at Janamukh ond and the teams’ third Rajiv Gandhi Sports Sta- goal, a couple of minutes dium in Tinsukia district. later in the 44th minute. F. Oil India FC opened the Wary of Oil India FC scormade i n g Sarbananda Singh Football i t through 4 Mandila 0 Rongmei in the 33rd in the 65th minute when he minute. Minto Boro coolly deflected the ball scored the second goal for into the goal after a pass his team in the 41st from Minto Boro. The fifth minute. He added his sec- goal was scored by Sunil

6th All Assam Girls’ Sub-Junior Hockey Tournament-2015 concludes

Uncapped pacer Scott Boland

cmyk

cmyk

"Ideally, I would have preferred to wait until after the Test in Christchurch to make this news public.

However, the schedule for naming the ICC World T20 squads means I couldn't have managed this without causing a lot of confusion and speculation something I was keen to avoid."

Brendon McCullum

R K Singh attended as the guests of honour along with other dignitaries. It may be mentioned here that it was the f i r s t t i m e t h a t Dima Hasao hosted a hockey tournament till date. All together 10 teams from different parts of the state took part in the tournament. The tournament was organised

by Haflong Hockey Association with the support of Assam Hockey.

Murmo in the 82nd minute while Nobin Rabha made it 6-0 in the 85th minute.

Oil India FC hit the ground running and never allowed the p l a y e r s o f 2 n d APBN to get hold of the match. Tomorrow, City Police, Guwahati will take on Barekuri Football Coaching Centre in the final quarter-final.

Guwahati enter final Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 22: In the first semifinal of the 6th All Assam Junior Men’s Hockey Championship 2015 organised by Assam Hockey Association in association with Samonnay Sangha, Tinsukia under the guidance of Tinsukia District Sports Association, Guwahati beat Morigaon 1-0 and booked their berth in the final. Guwahati reached the semis after Duliajan refused to play the quarter final in protest of a decision of the referee.

In the other quarterfinals, Morigaon beat Silchar 5-0, Kalibor defeated Sivsagar 5-0 while Tinsukia beat Hojai 2-0. In the second semifinal, Tinsukia will play Kaliabor.

Altogether, 16 affiliated units of the state hockey body are participating in the championship.

F1 champ Hamilton reveals struggle with dyslexia ANI London: Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has shed light on his struggle with dyslexia at school and expressed that he wants to build schools for poor kids after he calls curtains on his glorious career.

Hamilton, the threetime world champion, revealed that he had struggled as a dyslexic during his childhood, adding that 'school was not a lot of fun for me'. The Mercedes racer, who hails from a humble

JayBee Auto Agencies Pvt. Ltd. Chiring Chapori, T.R. Phukan Road P.O. Dibrugarh- 786001, Assam Duliajan- 786602

F1 Champion Lewis Hamilton

background, insisted that he would get out of the racing world once he retires from

F1 and that he would provide good education for the deprived children.

An ISO 9001 : 2008 Company Ph - +919954748962/ +918811098573 Email : jbaapl_dib@jaybee.biz

Printed, Published and Owned by NIKH KHOPI and Printed at PEE GEE(India) Ltd., C/O Asomiya Khabar Pulibor, Jorhat-785006 and Published from T.C Borah Building, 1st Floor, Next to Sankardeva Hospital, Mancotta Road, Chowkidingee Dibrugarh-786001, Assam. Email: editor.easterntoday@gmail.com. For advertisement: advt.easterntoday@gmail.com

Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

cmyk

cmyk

Tele : Dibrugarh, 0373-2328944, for circulation contact: 8471896580, Telephone & Fax: 0373-2328944.