25 november 2015, wednesday

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www.eastern-today.com For your copy of The Eastern Today in Changlang please contact: Raj Communications Near SBI bank Changlang Ph. No.-08471896580/ 09402905002

ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Issue 170

Why India Is Key to a Climate Change Agreement in Paris

Dibrugarh, Wednesday, November 25, 2015

The Youth In Punjab Is Addicted To This 'Terror' That's Threatening The State's Future

Page 8

Page 9

Price -

5.00

Lower interest rates drive up housing loan growth in smaller towns, cities

Pages- 12

Rijiju defends Govt., says debate over growing intolerance 'misplaced'

Page 6

Page 10

Change of guard at the top also fuels BJP’s Mission-84 change to Mission-126 in Assam

CROWNED PRINCE AND PRINCESS

Party President Amit Shah to blow party’s poll bugle in Dibrugarh for 2016 Assam polls on Friday

Rameswar Teli alleges Homen Buragohain for taking 15 lakhs from Congress to return award

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 24

Contd. on Page 4

ET CAPSULES Bike recovered Sonari, Nov 24: A Bajaj Platina bike bearing Regn.

No. AS 23 F – 1613 was recovered from besides the Disang River in Bhojo this morning. Although, the police searched for the rider there was no news till the filing of this report. The matter has created sensation in the area. - Correspondent

IOA AGM to be held on Dec 23 Guwahati, Nov 24: The Annual General Body Meeting of the Indian Olympic Association will be held on December 23 in Guwahati. The AGM assumes significance as the IOA will take stock of the preparation of the country's athletes for next year's Olympic Games and also discuss issues that have cropped up regarding the holding the 12th South Asian Games in Guwahati and Assam.(Correspondent)

BSF arrested arms supplier Dhubri : A man suspected to have been supplying arms and ammunition to the Assam based militant groups, was apprehended by BSF from Golokganj area of Dhubri district and handed over to Golokganj police today. (Correspondent)

General meeting Golaghat, Nov 24: United Chambers of Commerce Golaghat has announced a general meeting on 3rd December from 11 am at the office premises to discuss various problems and challenges faced by the business community. Working President Ganesh Pal and General Secretary Deep Kalita have asked its members to be present on the occasion. (Correspondent)

Minor injured in road mishap Dhubri, Nov 24: Saidul Islam, 6 of Salkata village under Fakirganj police station of Dhubri district sustained serious injuries when a speeding truck hit him at Salkata today. Islam, later was shifted to a private nursing home at Goalpara town in critical condition, a olice source said. (Correspondent)

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 24

Teli (middle) and Phukon (right) addressing the media in Dibrugarh. Pic - UB Photos

ULFA leaders ask Govt to include Anup Chetia in talks ET Bureau New Delhi, Nov 24

The pro-talks faction of ULFA today appealed to the Centre to include recently deported 'general secretary' Anup Chetia in the peace process saying without his participation, the dialogue would remain inconclusive. "There will be no political discussion without ULFA general secretary Anup Chetia's participation in the talks. We have appealed to the government to ensure his early release from judicial custody so that he can join us.

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As the saying goes: there is a downside to abundance too; Margherita region is a case in point which has reportedly now become a safe haven for coal thieves as this region has abundant coal reserves. These may soon be markedly diminished if coal thievery continues though. Conscientious denizens of Margherita are worried that after some years,

"Otherwise, the peace process would remain inconclusive," ULFA 'president' Arabinda Rajkhowa told reporters here after a meeting with Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi. A Home Ministry spokesperson said the ULFA leaders appreciated the efforts made by the government for repatriation of Chetia from Bangladesh to India. "The ULFA leaders requested to associate him (Chetia) in the ongoing peace process.

Contd. on Page 3

Chetia has decided to shun the path of violence A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 24

Ulfa general secretary Anup Chetia alias Golap Baruah has reportedly decided to shun the path of violence. This was stated by Chetia’s wife Monika Chetia in an interaction with the media after meeting her husband, who is currently lodged at the Guwahati Cen-

tral Jail. “I have been asked by my husband to say a few things to you – first he had thanked the Govt. of Bangladesh, Govt. of India, Govt. of Assam, the CBI and the media for his deportation to India and the events which followed, second he said that he has decided to shun the path of violence”, she added. On whether, Contd. on Page 3

Governor confers Mahabir Lachit Award 2015 on Environmentalist Jadob Payeng tall, defying the annual cycle of floods and constant erosion caused by the mighty Brahmaputra. People of Assam and North Eastern Region are proud of him and draw inspiration from his Mission. The Governor said that Payeng’s effort will go a long way in addressing global warming. Speaking on the historical day in Assam’s history, the Governor recalled the bravery and leadership of Mahabir Lachit Borphukhan and said that because of his courage,

ET Bureau Itanagar, Nov 24

The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa conferred Mahabir Lachit Award 2015, constituted by Tai Ahom Yuva Parishad, Assam on renowned Environmentalist of Assam Jadob Payeng on the occasion of Mahabir Lachit Divas, at Guwahati on 24th November 2015. The Governor congratulated Jadob Payeng for his dedicated endeavour of more than three decades long mission to save the forest cover. He said that Payeng’s forest stands

Contd. on Page 3

Gogoi demands Acharya's removal,appointment of 'permanent' guv A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 24

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Sunday demanded that the Centre appoint a 'permanent' governor for the state by replacing Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya who is holding additional charge. In a statement, Gogoi said, "To keep the unity of the state intact and to continue the devel-

Margherita turns into safe haven for coal thieves ET Correspondent Margherita, Nov 24

At a time when the entire nation is reeling under the impact of intolerance and several awards being returned by awardees, Dibrugarh BJP MP Rameswar Teli today kicked up a storm by saying that renowned journalist, author, litterateur and former President

of Asom Sahitya Sabha Homen Borgohain had taken Rs. 15 lakhs from the Congress to return his Sahitya Academy award. Teli was responding to a question from reporters during a press conference held at a city hotel, here, on the aftermath of the situation which has aroused due to the intolerance wave across the country.

Contd. on Page 4

coal in Margherita would be a thing of the past. Margherita was once known as an industrial town as there were many Plywood Industries but today educated unemployed youth of Margherita region have to depend on illegal coal thievery as there is hardly any other option for them, sources said. A visit by this correspondent to Hamukjan, Ledo, Contd. on Page 3

opment, a person with a broad mind should be appointed as the governor of the state."

He observed that Acharya had broken his oath taken as the constitutional head of the state by reportedly commenting that "Hindustan is only for Hindus", which had "demeaned" the post.

Contd. on Page 3

Nagaland PCC demands Acharya's replacement PTI Kohima, Nov 24

The Nagaland PCC on Monday joined the chorus condemning Nagaland and Assam Governor P B Acharya for his controversial remarks and demanded his replacement. "The Governor of Nagaland and Assam's statement that 'Hindustan is for Hindus' is unbecoming of a leader of his standing and is condemnable ... By uttering that India is Hindustan for Hindus has re-

vealed the agenda with which he was appointed to a Christian state like Nagaland," said a statement issued by Nagaland PCC President K Therie here.

Being the constitutional head of two states Acharya is expected to be more careful in his utterances, Therie said. "We demand that he be replaced immediately if he cannot uphold the Secular spirit of the Constitution of India ...

Contd. on Page 3

Tangbang Bangyang and Ngunthan Mema who were crowned Mr and Miss Chalo Loku, 2015 held at Khonsa on Monday. Pic - Gawang Sumpa

News on Page 3

Chopper crash lands in Nagaland; six hurt Agencies Kohima, Nov 24

Six occupants of a Pawan Hans helicopter were injured when it crash-landed at Meluri helipad in Nagaland's Phek district on Tuesday, a police official said. Those injured included officials of the state government and that of the National Disaster Management Authority, Director-General of Police L.L. Doungel informed.

The ill-fated helicopter was on a routine flight from Dimapur airport to Meluri.

Contd. on Page 3

Chopper carrying central disaster management team crashed near Meluri of Phek district in Nagaland on today.

Disaster management team was going to study the landslide area at Zhipu village. Pic - UB Photos

USUKA allege infringement of KA territory Sushanta Roy Diphu, Nov 24

United Students’ Union of Karbi Anglong and Hill State Demand Council has lodged a complaint with Deputy Commissioner Karbi Anglong alleging that Meghalaya PWD department has constructed an all weather road of about 500 meters at Jatalong War Basti which the organizations have claimed to be well within Chingthong MAC constituency of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council area. Both the USUKA and HSDC have also asserted that the Meghalaya government has also established office of Sericulture department at Hawang and Umat another bor-

dering area with Meghalaya.

PWSS schemes worth Rs. 68 lakhs and Rs. 84 lakhs respectively have been implemented at Umtelieh and Umserang where 200 low cost toilets have been constructed; construction work was done under protection of Meghalaya police and now the whole area has been declared as Nongtung district of Meghalaya and government signboard has been put-up. Both USUKA and HSDC have told the Commissioner Karbi Anglong to remove the encroachment and have blamed the Congress government of Assam of hatching conspiracy with Meghalaya government where Congress is in power to allow infringement within the territory of Assam.

Natural gas, crude oil production fall 1.8 and 2.1 per cent respectively in October Bhubaneswar, Nov 24

Natural gas production in the country declined 1.8 per cent in October 2015 compared to the same month last year, while crude oil production fell 2.1 per cent. Natural gas production increased for the first time in 5 years in Contd. on Page 4

WHEN GAS-OIL PRODUCTION TAKES A HIT Natural gas production in the country declined 1.8 per cent in October 2015 compared to the same m o n t h l a s t y e a r, w h i l e crude oil production fell 2.1 per cent.

Natural gas production during October 2015 was 2795.024 MMSCM (million metric standard cubic meters) which is 6.77 per cent lower than the target for the month and 1.82 per cent lower than the production during the corresponding period of last year.

ONGC saw its onshore fields producing 8.8 per cent more natural gas in October 2015 than in the same month last year, its offshore production was lower by 4.4 per cent of its levels last year.

Private producers seem to be the main cause for the dip in overall production, with their production levels in October coming in at a lower 6.6 per cent of their October 2014 levels.

HSPDP retain Nongstoin seat Congress lost due to wrongly informed by opponents, claims Mukul ET Correspondent Shillong Nov 24

Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma claims that the Congress candidate lost in the Nongstoin bye election is due to wrongly informed to the public by the opponents on many issues.

HSPDP candidate Diosstarness Jyndiang secured 11,189 votes while Congress candidate Gabriel Wahlang managed to get 8425 vote. Nongstoin is the seat of HSPDP and it was a six time for the party to retain this seat. Talking to media persons here on Tuesday, Sangma said, “The reason for our lost in the Nongstoin bye-election is due to wrong information spread by opponents against the good deeds to the electorates of the Congress government”.

He denied that the lost of election is due to wrongly selected candidate saying, “Has anyone sure that we lost because of the candidature?. Our candidate is new and young but the votes he gathered are very encouraging”.

Contd. on Page 3

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After a change of guard at the top level with the incumbent Siddhartha Bhattacharaya being replaced by the firebrand and union minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the Bharatiya Janata Party is all set to blow its poll bugle for the 2016 state assembly elections by organization of a massive party workers meeting in Dibrugarh on Friday. And to kick start its election campaign,

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Tezpur University makes Mandatory sale of tea through public Muga GI a reality for auction lowered to 50 per cent A Staff Reporter tured by the Bought Leaf tory sale of tea of the stakeholders Guwahati, Nov 24: In a ma- Tea Factory through public Bought Leaf Tea Factory

Shambhu Boro Tezpur, Nov 24: With its continued efforts, Tezpur University has succeeded in securing registration for Authorised User tag to 92 grassroots level Muga stakeholders in Assam. It may be recalled that Muga Silk was given a GI status in 2007 and subsequently in 2012 Muga Silk has got its own logo. Since then, there were only a few authorised users of the Muga GI in the entire State of Assam against approximately 27,800 stakeholders mentioned during the time of GI registration. As per the Indian Law on GI, only authorised users can use the GI mark and the logo on their products and registration procedure for the same is a highly complicated and rigorous process. Muga, the golden-yellow silk, is a unique indigenous product of Assam. But, over the years, the local farmers and weavers have not been sufficiently benefited with the GI tag due to lack of awareness. This has also been identified as one of the important reasons for bulk production of adulterated Muga flooding the Assam markets. The Tezpur University Intellectual Property

Rights (TUIPR) Cell took up the task of sensitizing the stakeholders about the benefits of securing Muga GI and encouraging them to complete the application process. In this regard, a workshop was conducted in April 2015 at North Lakhimpur under the stewardship of the IPR Chair of the University for grassroots Muga stakeholders (farmers and weavers) where "Authorised users’ applications" of 92 persons were filled up with the help of TUIPR Cell members.

This was followed by a rigorous verification and systematic arrangement of the applications by TUIPR Cell before finally sending to the GI office. Now these 92 applications have been accepted and published in the GI Journal No 72 of October 2015. The task executed by TUIPR Cell is a rare example where an activity of this magnitude has been undertaken with proven results.

Buoyed by this success, the TUIPR Cell proposes to help set up a State Level Group to formulate and set standards for Muga GI so that the GI can be more successfully enforced in Assam to check adulteration of Muga.

NPR should sensitise first for public ET Correspondent Shillong Nov 24: The pressure group had demanded that the national population register (NPR) should first create awareness for the people before going to implement in the State.

The groups raised strong objection to the implementation of NPR in the state without verifying the genuineness of the citizens. “The rampant enrollment of people will be a danger for indigenous people as the doubtful people might get enrolled in the NPR”, said KSU General secretary Auguster Jyrwa while talking to media persons here on Tuesday after the meeting with the government. “We demanded that the government should first create awareness for the people so that they will understand what the NPR is all about”, said Mr Jyrwa.

He said that the groups have asked the state government to take into confidence of Rangbah Shnong while implementing the NPR especially in

AFFIDAVIT I Amit Vishwakarma S/o Sriram Vishwaharma resident of Balugada Sah Colony Tinsukia 786146 shall hence forth be known as Amit Kumar Bishwakarma vide affidavit S.L. no.

598, Dated 07-11-15 before Notary Sailen Borthakur.

those localities where there are mixed population of different communities. The group said that they will not oppose the NPR but people should be well informed so that no doubtful person was enrolled in the NPR.

jor success for the Assam, in response to a letter dashed off by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through a Gazette Notification has lowered the mandatory sale of tea by the Bought Leaf Tea Factory through public auction system to 50 per cent. It may be mentioned that the Centre through a notification on April 15, 2015 had made it mandatory of the sale of 70 per cent of tea manufac-

Influx mechanism implementation wants more time ET Correspondent Shillong Nov 24: The meeting between the pressure groups with the Government had sought more time to implementation of comprehensive mechanism to check the influx into the State as the government has to conduct Social Assessment Impact for six months.

Talking to media persons here on Tuesday after the meeting, Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said that the government is pursuing aggressively for early implementation of checking of influx mechanism as many locations were identified for setting up of exits and entries in different location of the State.

“We have given to Meghalaya Institute of Government (MIG) to conduct the social assessment impact (SAI) and normally it will be taking six month times”, said Sangma.

“Most of land acquisition was completed in Khasi Hills while some remaining in Garo Hills region”, Mukul said adding that the government has already conveyed to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council to issue NOC for this purpose

Vide an affidavit before Notary at Dibrugarh on 5-102015, I made a correction of my wrongly mentioned name Bijoy krishna Dass to Bijoy Krishna Das for my all purpose.

land acquisition.

“The district administrations had sent letter to the ADCs (KHADC &JHADC) to issue NOC but they are yet to response on the matter”, he said.

The Chief Minister has also informed that the meeting has discussed on the Benami Transaction Act and the Residential Bill. “On these Bill, the law departments has asked time to study on them before giving final words”, said Mukul. “After the law department complete its exercise, the government will take them to Assembly for passing”, he added.Meanwhile, NGOs leader Joe Marwein said that the meeting is a follow-up to ensure speedy implementation to tackle influx mechanism into the state. “We tell the government to speed up the matter”, said Marwein. He informed that the NGOs have demanded the government to exempt the web of the Residential Bill for the indigenous people of the State. “We tell the government to exempt the indigenous people from the clutches of the proposed Bill”, said Marwein. Benami and Transaction Bill was also discussed to tighten the legal implication on illegal acts.

Assam Governor expresses concern over street vendors of Guwahati ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 24: Assam Governor Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya today expressed concern over the condition of around 45,000 street vendors in the state capital and suggested the GMC to initiate steps for them. Addressing a press conference here, Acharya said he had decided to hold a meeting with the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) authorities and representatives of the vendors.

"GMC should draw out a plan to provide them protec-

tion and also earmark some permanent sites for enabling them to do their businesses," he said. "The GMC should erect kiosks and give them those on rent by issuing periodical licenses.

This will not only give good source of revenue to the GMC as there are about 45,000 street vendors, but will help in keeping the city clean and give it a pleasant appearance," he added. The governor also informed that nine universities across the country have decided to open North East centres and

offer short-term courses on five tribal languages from the region. "I have also requested them to have chairs in the name of famous personalities from the North East. Manipal University in Karnataka will be the first to open a North East centre.

Other eight universities will also do the same gradually," he added. Talking about IS militants, Acharya said many states, including Assam, was in danger as youths were being influenced to join the jihadi group.

through public auction system to 50 per cent. The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Nirmala Sitharaman wrote a letter to the Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi apprising him about her ministry’s decision.

Gogoi while acknowledging the Union Minister’s gesture said that the State will be working relentlessly for the interests of the marginalised farmers and small tea growers in future too.

Jumbos damage property, paddy Kabir Mondal Dhubri, Nov 24: A herd of 70 to 80 elephants from Garo Hills of Meghalaya has been damaging the houses and standing crops in Panbari village located on the AssamMeghalaya interstate border of Dhubri district since the last couple of days. Neither Meghalaya nor Assam forest department has so far taken any step to drive away the wild elephants to the dense forests, villagers alleged.

FIR lodged against headmaster Kabir Mondal Dhubri, Nov 24: An FIR was lodged at Mancachar police station of Dhubri district yesterday against the headmaster of Janapriya Lower Primary School, Tarap Ali for allegedly assaulting the president of school management committee, Abdul Ali physically. Headmaster allegedly misappropriated the various school funds including the fund meant for purchasing uniforms of the students and that he was involved in grabbing the school land.

Jahangir Alom suspended from BJP Kabir Mondal Dhubri, Nov 24: Jahangir Alom, a member of Dhubri Zila Parishad from Fekamari Development Block and President of BJP Minority Morcha of South SalmaraMancahar district unit, was suspended from the party for alleged involvement in an immoral act in a Dhubri lodge on November 10. In a letter written sent to him by the party state secretary, Bhabesh Kalita informed him about his suspension from the post and instructed him to refrain from any party activities till further intimation, a party source in Dhubri informed.

List of hospitals in Dibrugarh with contact details & phone numbers, Assam Aditya Diagnostics & Hospitals Bordoloi Avenue, Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2302219, 2302225

G M Hospital AMC Road, Jalan Nagar Dibrugarh - 786 005

Brahmaputra Diagnostics & Hospital Near Indian AirLines City Office Paltan Bazar Dibrugarh - 786 005

Shrishti Hospital & Research Centre Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2300024, 2302099

Archana Trauma & Orthopaedics Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2302100, 2302099

Assam Medical College

Marwari Arogya Bhawan Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2302872, 2302051

Aastha Hospital

AFFIDAVIT

auction system thereby serving a blow to the interests of the farmers and small tea growers. In response to the notification, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi sent a letter to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry raising concerns of the notification and effect of the notification on the farmers and small tea growers. However, taking cognizance of the Chief Minister’s letter, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry slashed the manda-

Graham Bazar, A.T. Road Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2322547

Sanjivani Diagnostic & Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2303448, 2303458, 2301904

Sankardev Hospital Mancotta Road, Chowkidinghee Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2327717, 2327715, 2326960

Jalan Nagar, Dibrugarh - 786 002 List of Phones numbers: Emergency Room : 0373 - 2300627 Labour Room: 0373 - 2300022 Drug Deaddiction Centre: 0373 - 2302952 Community Medicine: 0373 - 2302994 RIA Centre: 0373 - 2302093

Dr. Pawan Bajaj's Skin Clinic Paltan Bazar, Opposite Aditya Hospital Dibrugarh

Dr Damani's Nursing Home Near Circuit House, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2300928, 2302873

Members of Bir Lachit sena brought out a procession in Jorhat on the ocassion of Lachit Divas today. Pic - Nekib Ahmed

ASTRO FOR YOU Today you will handle your relationships well . You will indulge in some furtive activity today. Be cautious about getting caught up in a fix where you have to shell out money.

Today you are likely to reach out for things that are beyond your reach and capabilities. Be assured that you will succeed in attaining your objectives through sheer force of you self confidence and self conviction. The first half of the day will provide you lots of love and affection of elders and superiors. You are likely to devote the evening to making yourself look smart good and feel great. A visit to a beauty parlour cannot be ruled out.

You will be bound by the bonds of love with your friends today. Deep introspection will provide the much-needed balm to your fragile state of mind. You need to keep your temper in check.

Sheer work pressure and bur-den of others’ work. Yet you will excel. In business, rivals and competitors will fail in their tactics.

There is a possibility of falling in love at first sight for those who are looking for love. It is a good day for romantic endeavours. Personal relationships will be marked by understanding. You will have a co-operative attitude towards your colleagues at work.

Your new appellation today could well be heart-break kid. Your expenses will overshoot the savings that you have made. You can expect conjugal bliss to bloom. Be advised to strengthen your bonding with the best, or rather, your spouse to lead a happier life.

Today you will feel close to your loved ones and will be able to spend the evening with them. Today you will be successful in whatever work you will take up. Your attractive personality will ensure that people will turn to you and seek your company today.

You may not be at the best of your health as agitation and irritation create pressure on your physical being. Watch your temper and tongue, or a critical situation may take an ugly turn. Keep away from unnecessary discussion with peers or colleagues. By the end of the day, you may ponder upon the problems and would be wise enough to arrive at solutions.

Your mood is high on expectations today. You shall plan meticulously before noon, and then in the afternoon, your plans shall fall in place, and deliver expected results. The opposite sex will find you intellectually stimulating and attractive. But be careful in matters of dollars and dimes in the evening.

The Sun is shining bright for you today! During the meetings and at the time of execution of assignments, you will play a pivotal role in your team. This will certainly win you some accolades from your bosses at work. Needless to say that such a positive response from the superiors will boost your self-confidence and improve your overall performance. You’ll spend a peaceful evening with family and friends.

You are not at a laid back person. You like to be active and be a part of the action happening all around. Now is your time! Take an initiative and grab the opportunity, after all, early bird catches the worm. Till the end of the first half of the day, you will be in a jovial mood. But, the mounting pressure of work may become difficult to handle. Learn to relax as it will help you increase your efficiency and be in a good mood.

Today you will find yourself caught in two minds. As a result of which, you will find yourself unable to take a firm decision. Put off important decisions until you find yourself in a better frame of mind. Post afternoon should see you bonding with old friends and you will begin to see old relationships in a new light. On the whole though, this will be a good week for you.

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

25-11-15 (WEDNESDAY) 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- Radio Report on Dibrugarh Book Fair 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-Sponsored Programme-Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P

PAGE 3

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

GSS Boleng conducts Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Spl Correspondent Bolen/Pasighat, Nov 24: In an effort to keep its surroundings clean while showing a path of social cleanliness to the nearby villagers, the students’ community and teaching staff of Government Secondary School, Boleng under Siang District has conducted a Swachh Bharat Abhiyan on 21st November 2015 under the guidance and supervision of Addl. Dy. Commissioner, Boleng, T. Mize and Headmaster GSS Boleng

Oyar Tabing. The road toward all community graveyards was cleaned properly while broadening its width covering more than 100 feet of its length. The road will connect the Gandhi village with the community graveyards. All the students and teaching staff participated voluntarily which was deeply appreciated by Head Gaon Bura and other villagers of Gandhi village as this Swachh Bharat Abhiyan work was a first of its kind in that area.

Tangbang Bangyang, Ngunthan Mema crowned Mr and Miss Chalo Loku, 2015 Khonsa, Nov 24: DC Tirap Ravi Jha said that the world was moving fast and asked the youth to move ahead by making a sincere effort to catch up with the rest. He was speaking as chief guest at Khonsa on 23rd November during Mr & Miss Chalo Loku pageant2015 organized by Nocte Chalo Loku Committee led by President Jiten Wangchha and Secretary Hapwang Lowang for a first of its kind in Khonsa as part of Chalo Loku celebrations which was sponsored by prominent public leader Wangmaan Lowangcha and his family. While appreciating the organizers and sponsors for efficient conduct of the event, the Deputy Commissioner said that

Chopper crash lands in Nagaland; six hurt

through such a platform the youth get an opportunity to showcase their traditional culture and talent and asked the organizers to involve participants from interior areas also.

While appreciating the rich culture of Tirap district, Jha passionately appealed to the youth to zealously guard their traditional culture and preserve for the posterity adding that their culture was their identity. The chief guest also told the huge gathering that efforts should be made to open tourism ventures to employ the youth gainfully and assured to extend all possible help and support from District Administration. The Deputy Commissioner further congratulated the crowned Mr

Nagaland PCC demands Acharya's replacement Contd. from Page 1

ber. Commercial chopper services had to be stopped in Arunachal Pradesh until 2013 when Pawan Hans restarted the service in the state and other parts of the region. Pawan Hans has been operating chopper services in Arunachal Pradesh, S i k k i m , Meghalaya,Nagaland and Tripura, as well as a daily Guwahati-Tawang service, for more than 15 years.

He (Acharya) should be relieved of his duties as governor of the two states and should perhaps be given time to pursue his religious fervor," the Nagaland PCC chief

Governor confers Mahabir Lachit Award 2015 on Environmentalist Jadob Payeng

Gogoi alleged that Acharya was working more as an "RSS Pracharak" than a constitutional head of the state.

Contd. from Page 1

"An initial report indicates that two of the six occupants were seriously injured. We have been told that they are being rushed to Kohima for further medical treatment," he said. Pawan Hans officials could not be contacted for comments. The accident happened because there was "no visibility while landing due

Contd. from Page 1

valour and military skills, he defeated the Mughal aggressors. The Governor urged upon the youth to draw inspiration from one of the greatest

to extreme dust," a government official said on condition of anonymity.

The latest accident does nothing to assuage the growing perception that Pawan Hans Helicopter Services Ltd has been running a very accidentprone service. In August this year, a Pawan Hans chopper crashed in Arunachal Pradesh killing a government official, a pilot and a crew mem-

warriors and Generals of North Eastern Region.

The Governor also commended the Tai Ahom Yuba Parishad for organising the Mahabir Lachit Divas for the third consecutive years. The

day commemorates the heroic exploits of the great Assamese general Lachit Barphukan, who led an army in the historic battle of Saraighat which saw the defeat of the Mughals.

Minister distributes free yarn to the weavers

Chalo Loku & Miss Chalo Loku and gave away the awards. Title Mr Chalo Loku went to Tangbang Bangyang while Title Miss Chalo Loku, 2015 went to

added. Acharya stoked a controversy on Saturday with his reported "Hindustan is for Hindus" remark and his attempt to clarify yesterday with another comment that Indian Muslims are "free to go Pakistan".

Gogoi demands Acharya's removal,appointment of 'permanent' guv Contd. from Page 1

"If Acharya is allowed to continue as Assam Governor, then he will work for BJP as an RSS Pracharak during the Assembly polls due next year," he said.

HSPDP retain Nongstoin seat Contd. from Page 1

“I want to convey my wishes to the people of Nongstoin for giving the support our candidate”, said the Chief Minister.

Surprisingly, the Chief Minister did not mention anything or convey wishes to the winning candidate of HSPDP and

Bomdila, Nov 24: Phurpa Tsering, Minister of HydroPower Development and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Dairy Development, Arunachal Pradesh has distributed Free Yarn to 139 weavers of Dirang and Thembang blocks under “Chief Minister Grant Loin Loom Scheme” at the Conference Hall of National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang held yesterday.

While speaking on the occasion as Chief Guest, the Minister said that, the Traditional dress of Monpa tribe are designed long back keeping in view of the cold climatic condition of the area and advised the weavers to produce separate fabrics which can be suitable for the warm climate also. The Minister also highlighted the various Flagship Schemes launched by the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki for the benefit of the people of state like Skilled Development Scheme, Chief Minister’s

Universal Health Insurance Scheme, Chief Minister Paryatan Vikaas Yojana etc. and exhorted the gathering to avail the benefits under this scheme to generate self-employment and sustain their family. He further informed that a land measuring half an acre have been acquired at Bodh Gaya in Bihar for the establishment of Cultural Hall cum Guest House for the Buddhist Pilgrims with the personal initiative of Chief Minister and expressed his deep gratitude to him on behalf of the people of West Kameng and Tawang. The Minster announced to keep provision for Rs. 15 to 20 Lakhs from his MLALAD Fund to provide the incentives to the poor and needy weavers of the Dirang area.

Speaking on the occasion, Dagbom Riba, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Dirang advised the weavers to take up weaving of Khada (Religious Scurf) which is commonly used in

every occasion and has potential to uplift the economic condition of the weavers. Encouraging the weavers, he said that the Traditional dresses of Monpa’s are very attractive in comparison to other tribes of the state and the weavers should keep continue to preserve and promote their rich traditional dresses. Earlier, the Deputy Director of Textile & Handicrafts, Bomdila Dorjee Phuntso highlighted the details of the “Chief Minster’s Grant Loin Loom Scheme” and urged the weavers to make best use of the benefit extended under this flagship scheme. The Programme was attended by Dr. D. Bhattacharya, Incharge Director NRC on Yak, Dirang N. Phaichulupa, Deputy Director (RAN), Dr. S.K Singh SMO(SG) Incharge CHC, Dirang, EE PWD, Anchal Chairpersons, ASMs, GBs and Senior Public Leaders of Dirang area. DIPRO

identified as one Mrs Gangkak and one Limbu Dozer operator who were serving at Yomcha for a long time. The driver of the vehicle succumbed to injuries in the wee hours today at General Hospital taking the death toll to three. The other who sustained injuries are Dego Ronya, his wife, Depla Ronya Taipodia, her son, Mardek Gangkak, Niter Yomcha, Yaluk Gadi, Marpe Potom, Abdul, a cook and Linluk Yomcha.

The survivor among the passengers is a courageous Taipodia kid who screamed for help and was back lifted by his Mamaji, Marpe Potom who too sustained multiple head injuries and both laid down unconscious on the road side after that self rescue.

In the absence of network connectivity at Yomcha, all arrangements at different places could be possible through a face book message and others from ADC through V-Sat installed in his office prior to his rescue movement. Meanwhile, KKWS has deeply mourned the death of three passengers and wished speedy recovery of the injured. DIPRO

standing among the Noctes of different villages in particular and district as a whole.

Lowangchha urged the youths of Noctes to follow in the footsteps of the

ancestors in preserving, protecting and promoting the aged old Nocte traditional culture adding that a society without culture is called animal.

(DIPRO)

Governor extends Chalo Loku, Guru Nanak Jayanti greetings ET Bureau Itanagar, Nov 24: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has extended sincere greetings to the people of the State on the joyous occasion of Chalo Loku. The Governor expressed hope and believes that while continuing the excellent tradition of celebrating the traditional festival, the socioreligious festival will be the binding force amongst the communities and also

help in showcasing the cultural mosaic of the State. On the auspicious occasion, the Governor joined the Nocte community in offering prayers to ‘Almighty Rang’ for peace, prosperity and well being of all. The Governor also conveyed warm greetings to all, particularly the Sikh community, as the festive occasion coincides with Guru Nanak Jayanti. He trusts that the occasion

will help all in imbibing Guruji’s divine ideals of humanity, equality and brotherhood. May these two festive occasions, inspire us to be better individuals with love and compassion for one and all, more particularly to the marginalized section of the society and guide us on the path of truth, rectitude, social harmony and unity and bring peace and prosperity in the society, the Governor wished.

ULFA leaders ask Govt to include Anup Chetia in talks Contd. from Page 1

The Union Home Secretary suggested to the seems remembering only government of India's the Congress supporters. representative to examine According to Sangma, the the request of ULFA leadCongress party lost the ers," he said. The meetelection due to the impact ing, under the chairmanof coal mining ban by ship of the Union Home NGT, the influx issue and Secretary, reviewed the many which in fact, the progress made in the government has taken up peace talks so far. Repreaggressively as per the as- sentatives of the governpiration of the people of ment of Assam also took the State. part in it. "Discussions

Sumo falls into deep gorge, three dead, ten injured Aalo Nov. 24: The ill fated Yomcha bound Tata Sumo carrying thirteen passengers including driver met with a fatal accident at Kalamati in between Tabasora and Yomcha leaving three dead and ten injured grievously yesterday.

The situation could have gone worse but for timely humanitarian interventions at all level in terms of immediate rescue operation, face book up loading and what sapping did wonders to save many precious lives.

The Yomcha ADC Kego Jilen immediately rushed to the spot with his entire manpower at Yomcha, rescued all eight injured to the General Hospital within a short time and later traced out the other missing three passengers and evacuated them too. West Siang DMO, Dr. Marbom Basar along with nurses too rushed up to Tabasora and later personally involved along with doctors and nurses in the treatment of patients at General Hospital Aalo. The KKWS and youth wing who gathered in large numbers took all initiatives to evacuate the seriously injured in the night and rest in the morning. The deceased are

Ngunthan Mema along with a cash award of Rs 30,000. Speaking on the occasion, Wangmaan Lowangcha said that this sort of event would bring unity, oneness, under-

were cordial and it was agreed to meet again as soon as mutually convenient to move the peace process forward," the spokesperson said. ULFA leader Shashadhar Choudhury said the next round of talks with the central government will be held in December in which Chetia is expected to take part. Chetia, who was arrested upon his deportation from Bangladesh about a fortnight ago, is currently in

a jail in Guwahati. Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said the central government is expecting a breakthrough in the ongoing talks with the ULFA soon. "Government has been talking to several groups in the Northeast. ULFA is one of them. We hope that a solution could be found soon," he said. ULFA hardliner Paresh Baruah is steadfastly opposed to any peace talks with the government.

Chetia has decided to shun the path of violence Contd. from Page 1

Chetia will join the pro-talks ulfa camp or Ulfa faction led by

Paresh Baruah had been the talking point in various quarters since his deportation to India. “On this issue, he said that since he has not submit-

ted the charter of demands placed by the protalks faction of the Ulfa, he will not be able to say anything on this as of now”, Monika said.

Margherita turns into safe haven for coal thieves Contd. from Page 1

Itakhola of Margherita region brought to light that more than 50 illegal coke coal bhattaa have been set up here. Meanwhile, an unemployed youth on condition of anonymity says, “I have never thought that one day I will become a coal thief.” In areas such as Pari Basti (Hamukjan), Jharna Basti (Ledo), Lal mati (Itakhola), Tel Khad Basti (Borgolai), Aradhara (Margherita), 6 Number Bagaan (Tirap Colliery), Haathi

Spot (Borgolai), coals are abundantly available and coal thieves from early morning 3:00 am till sunset supply coals to illegal coke coal bhattas using bicycles, Max pick up vehicles or by carrying. A shopkeeper in Ledo area says, “If coal business is shut down then we would be bound to close our shops also as there is no other source of income in this region.” It is said that more than 10,000 people are associated with this coal business directly or indirectly.

When this correspon-

dent contacted Mr Sanjeeb Kumar Barhoi, Margherita Sub Divisional officer (Civil), he said, “I have conducted a ground level survey as part of which I have ordered all coal trade contractors to provide photos, permanent address proof and local address documents of those persons who are involved in illegal coal business. Till now I have received three names who are involved in illegal coal business at Margherita region which I will submit to Margherita Police Station.”

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

AJYCP burns effigy of Dibrugarh MP as a mark of protest ET Correspondent Margherita, Nov 24: As a mark of protest, Asom Jatiyotabadi Yuba Chaatra Parishad (AJYCP) Margherita Regional Committee today burnt the effigy of Dibrugarh MP Rameswar Teli at NH 38 Margherita bus stand.

Kanchan Bora, General Secretary of AJYCP Margherita Regional Committee informed in this connection that on 21 May, 2014 they had submitted a memorandum in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi through Margherita Sub Divisional officer (Civil) regarding private coal mining at Margherita Colliery areas whereby the local youth are being forced to work for 12 to 14 hours daily and are being exploited adding that “till today nothing has changed in

this regard.” Bora alleged, “Narendra Modi before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls had promised that if BJP Government came to power then they shall change the scenario of India but after 1 and half years, no development has taken place.”

AJYCP further placed demands that coal royalties be increased and coal mining school be set up with 100 percent local youth re-

cruitment at Coal India Limited, Margherita.

Meanwhile, it has been informed that on 10 December, 2015 under the initiative of AJYCP Margherita Regional Committee, the AJYCP leaders of the Central Committee and Tinsukia District Committee shall take out a torch light rally at Margherita in protest against the exploitation of coal resources.

BJP lambasts Khorsing Ingti

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 24: Lachit Divas was in Dibrugarh too along with the entire state.

In Dibrugarh, a day long programme was organized by the Tai Education and Cultural Centre. A symbolic march was carried out from the Boiragimoth based office of the Centre to Chowkidinghee.

Dressed in traditional attire the symbolic representation of Bir Lachit Borphukon, Ismail Siddique and Bagh Hazarika immediately caught the attention of the onlookers in the morning hours. The procession concluded with the garlanding of the statue of Bir Lachit Borphukon at Chowkidinghee.

Peoples take out a cultural procession on the occasion of Lachit Divas at Dibrugarh. Pic - UB Photos

AATASU remembers Bir Lachit ET Correspondent Demow, Nov 24: The All Assam Tai Ahom Students’ Union (AATASU)

of Demow committee lit earthen lamps before the portrait of Bir Lachit as a mark of commemoration

at Demow today evening.

At the programme, hundreds of Tai Ahom students lit earthen lamps.

The district secretary of AATASU Ashini Gogoi dwelled at length on the bravery of Ahom hero

Lachit Borphukon and challenged those who are trying to politicize Lachit Borphukon.

Sushanta Roy Diphu, Nov 24: BJP stalwart of Karbi Anglong district and retired IAS officer Longki Phangso has described Hill Areas Development Minister of Gogoi cabinet Khorsing Ingti as a worthless person. While addressing a party meeting at Howraghat the home town of Khorsing Ingti and about 80 kilometers from Diphu yesterday, Longki Phangso in his public address raised the issue of chronic power shortage in Karbi Anglong in spite of producing 100 megawatt power from its natural resources. Longki Phangso told the gathering that the minister could have easily demanded 25 megawatt power from the 100 MW

capacity Karbi Langpi project exclusively for Karbi Anglong which would have solved the power crisis of this district “but the minister will never do so as he is unsecure about his vulnerable position; he is also afraid of losing party ticket if he does something beneficial,” Longki Phangso said in the meeting. Attacking the most powerful Congress leader of the district in his home town Phangch said that Khorsing Ingti never takes part in any debate or raises any question in the session of the Assembly; he requested all to watch the proceedings of Assam Assembly and see for themselves whether Khorsing Ingti sleeps in the assem-

Ngada on November 28

‘Chatok’ award 2015 Change of guard at the top also Philosophical lecture conferred at Ban fuels BJP’s Mission-84 change to held at Dibrugarh Theatre Mission-126 in Assam Gurudwara

Sushanta Roy Diphu, Nov 24: Ngada, the post harvesting festival of the Rengma Naga community inhabiting the Chokihola area of Karbi Anglong district of Assam will be observed on November 28 at Akhoiphuta Jongpha village, around 200 kilometers from Diphu. “This time Rengma Naga People’s Council is organizing the festival, Chief Minister of Assam Tarun Gogoi and Chief Executive Member of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Tuliram Ronghang will be chief guest and guest of honour in the open session,” said Thangshi Rengma, general secretary of Rengma Naga People’s Council. It may be mentioned here that Ngada is mainly a thanksgiving and merry making fiesta; this is also related to economic growth, cultural exchanges with the neighbors and planning for peace, harmony among the tribes. Organizers of Ngada have requested organizations and individuals to refrain from calling any strike on that day to help smooth conduct of the festival.

Shambhu Boro Tezpur, Nov 24: ‘Chatok’ a frontline socio-cultural organization headquartered here at Tezpur conferred their late Ram Prashad Bhuyan and Phuleswari Bhuyan and late Jitendra Nath Bhattacharya and Bimala Bhattacharya memorial ‘Chatok’ award 2015 to noted artist Benu Misra and noted musician and cine artist Ramen Baruah at a glittering event last evening at the Historic Ban Theatre here. Lalit Gogoi, DC, Sonitpur conferring the award that carries one citation, cash amount of Rs. 15,000/- and cloths to the awardees on behalf of ‘Chatok’ said, “Where words end music begins there. Artist is always firm and determined with whatever he creates. Unmatched sacrifice and contribution of artists like Benu Misra and Ramen Baruah have always been able to keep the cultural field of the state lively.”

Saying the Assamese society would always remain grateful to the contribution of artists like Benu Misra and Ramen Baruah, the Deputy Commissioner also observed that their creation, untiring effort through art to reflect the dignity of the society has been able to touch the thinking of the present society.

bly or asks questions. He mentioned that the Chief Executive Member of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, Tuliram Ronghang drives a car worth rupees one crore and his community people still wear only loincloth to cover their body. “Khorsing Engti travels with a fleet of luxurious cars wherever he goes but Chief Minister of Tripura and West Bengal always save the expenditure of the government by avoiding unnecessary expenses,” Phangso said. It may be mentioned here that both Congress and BJP have virtually began poll campaigning throughout the district and the mud slashing game against each other is intensifying with every passing day.

Lachit Divas observed in Dibrugarh

“Total development of the society is reflected through the process of a positive approach towards the betterment of the society being influenced by the art and culture.” He said adding that “we should not forget our origin”. Lamenting that the present day Assamese society is forgetting their own culture and heritage, he further said that it has led the society to darkness. Meanwhile, receiving the ‘Chatok Award 2015’ artist Benu Misra said that though modern science and technology has brought a change with unique facilities, its flamboyance has unknowingly dragged our feelings on life to darkness. “We the Assamese people always are engulfed in emotion and inclination towards globalization has gradually separated us from the logic based work of art and culture. We the Assamese people nowadays are living in a state of haziness and dilemma. We hope the elders would rescue us from this condition.” He said. On the other hand, artist Ramen Baruah, after receiving the award in his speech said, he appreciated the works of Chatok which have always been influencing the artists of the society.

Lakhimpur District AAWAA organises public meeting on ‘Beti Zindabad’ ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Nov 24: The Lakhimpur District Committee of All Adivasi Women Association of Assam (AAWAA) organised a public meeting on ‘Beti Zindabad’ on November 19 at the District Library Auditorium of the district. It is noteworthy that ‘Beti Zindabad’ is a campaign centered on the issues of the girl child called 'Girls forward – Beti Zindabad' launched nationally in the wake of dismal statistics brought to light by 2011 Census in connection with an averse sex ratio, that is 1000:919 under 0-6 years.

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 24: On Monday, a commemorative lecture on the topic ‘Convergence of the philosophies of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Srimanta Sankardeva as Contemporary Social Reformers in Medival India’ was held at Dibrugarh Gurudwara in connection with 547th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. Dr Nagen Saikia was present as the Chief Guest in the programme. Sardar Manjit Singh, working president the Assamese Sikh Association and a former General Secretary of Assam Sahitya Sabha was also present as the guest of honour in the programme.

Sardar Ajit Singh, Sardar Santok Singh also shared the dais along with them. Speak-

August, and then grew again in September, but has now again reverted to its ‘normal’ scenario of contracting year-on-year.

“Natural gas production during October 2015 was 2795.024 MMSCM (million metric standard cubic meters) which is 6.77 per cent lower than the target for the month and 1.82 per cent lower than the production during the corresponding

period of last year,” according to a statement from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. While ONGC saw its onshore fields producing 8.8 per cent more natural gas in October 2015 than in the same month last year, its offshore production was lower by 4.4 per cent of its levels last year. Private producers seem to be the main cause for the dip in overall production, with their production levels in October coming in at a

lower 6.6 per cent of their October 2014 levels. Here, again, the main culprits were the offshore fields, which saw a 10.6 per cent dip in their production levels. “Indigenous crude oil production (including condensate) during October 2015 was 3151.178 TMT (thousand metric tonnes) which is 2.53 per cent higher than the target for the month and 2.08 per cent lower than the production during the corresponding

ing on the occasion, Dr Nagen Saikia said, “We should idealize the teachings of Guru Nanak and Srimanta Sankardev and apply in our life. They were the great social reformers of the Bhakti age and spread the message of unity and peace.” Saikia taking the cue from the past said that both the cultures are same and flow the same philosophy which was taught by the great social reformers of Medieval India. Saikia spoke on the cultural and philosophies similarity of the two religions. Later, Sardar Manjit Singh also spoke about the contributions of Guru Nanak for the Sikh religion and appealed to the younger generation to idealize his teachings in their lives.

Eye operation by lions club ET Correspondent Dhubri, Nov 24 :17 patients suffering from eye cataract who were sent to Guwahati Lions Eye Hospital on November 20, were operated and lenses transplanted on November 22, returned Dhubri Last night.

Altogether 25 matured cataract patients from Dhubri district after having been

Natural gas, crude oil production fall 1.8 and 2.1 per cent respectively in October Contd. from Page 1

The national campaign is currently into its 4th year and attempts to address issues pertaining to right to safe birth of girl child and its forward linkages to life cycle approaches like poor nutrition, prone to trafficking, less education, rise in violence against girls etc.

With the rising number of cases reported in the media on violence against girls and women, the members of the organisation along with the masses, came and pledged together to think for 'Saving our daughters', 'Safety of our sisters', 'Respecting our mother' and 'Giving equal opportunity to

period of last year,” the release said. The dip in crude oil production was driven by a fall in Oil India’s (OIL) production performance in October. The company produced 2,65,949 tonnes of crude oil in the month, a decline of 10.5 per cent.

This dip in OIL’s performance was further exacerbated by the poor performance of the private players, who saw their October production levels declining 4.1 per cent. (Agencies)

eye screened at Dhubri Lions Club Service Centre were sent Guwahati Lions Eye Hospital by train for operation but operation of the rest of the patients could not be done on medical ground.The entire operation package was free of cost, secretary of Dhubri Lions Club, Sanjay Sethia informed.

Cattle smuggler apprehended ET Correspondent Dhubri, Nov 24 : A cattle smuggler,Lalchan Ali, 32 of Gaspara border village of Dhubri district was apprehended with Rs. 41,35O

by BSF while he was returning from Bangladesh at the border while 57 cattle heads were seized by 56 Bn.BSF from various arts of border under Sukchar olice station of Dhubri district today.

our wife or partner'. In the meeting, Brojenjit Singha, the Lakhimpur SP took part as the Chief Guest who said, "We should create an appropriate environment in every family for the girl child and for her education, health etc so that she can grow up like a boy does." Mukul Chetia, the Additional Session Judge cum Lakhimpur District Legal Service Authority spoke on witch hunting, domestic violence, PCPNDT Act etc at the meeting. Besides, Sabina Barla, the President of AAWAA, Lakhimpur District, Wilfred Topno, the President of Adivasi

Contd. from Page 1

the saffron brigade had roped in party heavyweight and President Amit Shah who according to the organizers of the rally will be addressing a gathering of around 50, 000 party workers. Addressing a press conference at a city hotel, here today, Dibrugarh MP and the Chief Co-ordinator of the rally Rameswar Teli said that party workers from 6 upper Assam party districts Golaghat, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Dibrugarh, Tinsukia and Sadiya will be attending the meeting to be held from 11 am at the old Govt. Boys high school playground, here. Apart from Shah, national organising secretary and one of the senior most leaders of the party Ram Lal, national general secretary Ram Madhav, state party President and union minister Sarbananda Sonowal, secretary – NE affairs Ajoy Jamwal and a host of other leaders will attend the party rally. The party has also formed a committee to ensure that there is maximum turn out for the meeting. Accord-

Sahitya Sabha, Godfrey Hereh, the Secretary of Nawa Bihan Samaj, Joseph Minz, the General Secretary of All Adivasi Student Association of Assam, Godwin Hemrom and David Soymorum, the Lakhimpur District President and Scretary of AASAA were among those who were present at the programme.

Nine-fold resolutions were taken in the meeting including AAWAA to be the stakeholder for the scheme meant for the Adivasis (tea and extea garden workers), proper implementation of Plantation Labour Act 1951 and checking for proper func-

tioning of Creche in the tea gardens, putting an end to girl child labour in the plantation, providing electricity in the tea garden lines, providing proper toilets in the tea labourer quarters, managing proper toilets and urinals for the girls in school from lower primary school onwards, checking girl child trafficking, setting up of one-stop grievance cell for women related issues and providing safe drinking water facility. Lalita Topno, the president thanked Action Aid India for taking up the noble initiative and extending support for holding the campaign programme.

ingly, Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukon has been given the responsibility of co-ordinator. “We have also arranged transportation of the party workers by train, particularly through the Dibrugarh – Ledo passenger and the Mariani – Tinsukia passenger. We are confident that we will be able to draw a gathering of around 50, 000 party workers”, Teli flanked by Phukon and Doomdooma MLA Dilip Moran said.

When asked about the party’s much hyped Mission-84, Teli replied that there is no longer any Mission-84 for the party. “We have changed it to now Mission-126, since we have a feeling that we can win in all the 126 constituencies of the state”, Teli said. When asked whether the party has made any strategical changes in the wake of the Bihar debacle, Teli said there is no comparison of Assam to Bihar. “In Bihar cast politics is rampant but in Assam there is no caste politics and the people of Assam are much more aware about the political scenario of the state compared to Bihar”, he said. On

the issue of mega dams, Teli said that the party will neither support the big dam lobby nor will go against it.

“We will only go by the reports of the expert committees. If the experts say there should be mega dams, there will be, if they say no, there won’t be any dams”, Teli said. On Bogibeel, the MP said that according to the railway ministry which is implementing the project, it will be completed by March, 2017 while the gas cracker project should be completed by this year end.

On the other hand, Phukon said that 15 workers have been invited from the booths and they will take the message to the grass root level and the voters. “There are 4842 booth committees in the six party districts which will have an important role to play during and ahead of the elections, since it is they who will carry the ideologies and schemes of the party to the voters”, the MLA said adding that the anti-incumbency factor of the present Tarun Gogoi led Congress government in the state which is now 15 years old will be the main issue for the party in the polls next year.

Rameswar Teli alleges Homen Buragohain for taking 15 lakhs from Congress to return award Contd. from Page 1

“Some persons are returning their awards since they owe their allegiance towards the Congress and they are doing so after taking money from the Congress party. Their sole objective is to defame Prime Narendra Modi”,

Teli said. When asked if Assam litterateur Homen Borgohain who had returned his award too fall in the same category, the MP said, “Of course, Homen Borgohain has taken 15 lakhs from the Congress and returned his award, and I am saying it on record”, he added. Teli

also said that actually there are many so-called celebrities who were running NGOs with international funds. “The Modi government has banned around 1500 such NGOs for various irregularities. This has led to the so-called intolerance wave throughout the nation”, he said.

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Indian Gorkha community an example of peace to nation: Chamling Gangtok, Nov 24: Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling attended the final day function of the Gorkha Bicentennary Mahostav at Dehradun on Sunday. He congratulated the Indian Gorkha community for the Mahostav to mark the glorious 200 years of the Gorkha history at Dehradun, informs a press release. In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the contribution of Gorkha community towards nation building. He read out a list of Gorkha freedom fighters and martyrs and mentioned that the community remains highly committed towards

security and defense of the country. Chamling said the Nepali speaking Indian Gorkha community is also an example of peace in the nation and gave the example of the peace and tranquility in Sikkim. He also spoke on the identity issue regarding the Indian Gorkha community. While every Gorkha community settled in different States must work with their State government seeking the welfare of the community, the identity of the Indian Gorkhas must be worked in close collaboration with the Central government, said Chamling adding that the 'only way

Jalpaiguri lawyer brutally murdered Kolkata, Nov 24: The West Bengal Bar Council has asked its members to stay away from work in all courts of the state on Tuesday in protest against the murder of a lawyer at Jalpaiguri town, Kishore Chanda, earlier in the day, according to its chairman Asit Baran Basu. The lawyer (52), the working president of the

Trinamul Congress' legal cell in the district, was killed in his chamber in the morning while he was attending to his clients. The Bar Council chairman, who rushed to Jalpaiguri, demanded immediate arrest of the culprits. Soon after news spread, hundreds of shocked people in Jalpaiguri assembled in front of the house of the lawyer, who was hacked to death. Investigating police officers pressed into service a sniffer dog this afternoon following pressure

from various corners, including ruling party leaders. No one has been arrested so far, while two persons, Chanda's driver and the deed writer, have been detained for interrogation. The duo was allegedly present there when the incident occurred.

Police said they have started investigating the incident by keeping all

possibilities in mind. "The persons who murdered him in his chamber with a sharp edged weapon were most probably known to lawyer Chanda," said a senior police officer in Jalpaiguri on condition of anonymity. Police suspect past enmity related with various court cases and land related problems as reasons behind the attack on Chanda, political sources said. Trinamul MLA from Rajganj, Khageswar Roy, who is Chanda's childhood friend, said: "He was brutally murdered in his chamber." (Agencies)

Tripura riot accused sent to jail after 35 years Agartala, Nov 24: After 35 years, Tripura police succeeded in arresting one of the accused in 1980 communal carnage on Sunday in the Kalayanpur police station area of Khowai district in The accused, 90 years old now, has been produced in Khowai district court on Monday.

The court sent him to jail for two weeks. The accused has been identified as Bishnu Kumar Jamatia, a resident of Owathilongpara hamlet in the Ghilatali area under Kalayanpur police station. During the communal riot in 1980, Bishnu allegedly murdered Madhusudhan Chowdhury, a non-tribal resident of Krishnapur village of Teliamura in broad daylight.

Madhusudhan was one of those hundreds of innocent civilians killed in tribal-non-tribal fight.

Slain Chowdhury's son Nagendra Chowdhury

had filed an FIR on June 10, 1980, against Bishnu Kumar Jamatia with Teliamura police station.

But he was absconding after the incident. Like all other 1980 violence related cases, this one was also transferred to CID for investigation.

Recently, CID got information from local sources that accused Bishnu, has been residing in the same house with a different name, Biswa Kumar Jamatia.

Police picked him up from the house and booked him under Sections 148, 149, 436, 325 and 302 of Indian Panel Code (IPC). He was produced in the court which sent him to jail.

According to police, during interrogation Bishnu Kumar admitted to his crime and sought mercy considering his age. At the time of incident, he was only 55 years old.

Now, he has become ill and feeble. (Agencies)

Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling to beat the identity crisis is through education'. Citing the example of Sikkim as the first State in India to intro-

duce and promote 100 percent organic farming, the Chief Minister urged the Gorkha students to wake up

to the rising call of the nation. India and the Gorkha community needs highly educated students in service oriented professional studies and civil services, he said. Chamling also gave emphasis on the need for promoting entrepreneurship in the community.

"Youngsters must skill themselves to become entrepreneurs rather than joining the service industry."

The rapturous crowd lapped up every piece of advice that the Chief Minister gave, loudly clapping and cheering his speech.

Chamling, too, was all praise for Dehradun and the

historical significance of the Khalanga battle fought here. "After watching the laser show depicting the cultural history of the Gorkha community and the great Khalanga battle, I feel that the young generation should be made aware about it. This episode in our history also shows the centuries-old connection we have with India," he said.

Visitors also enjoyed cultural performances including the Khukri dance performed by Gorkha soldiers, a stimulating laser show as well as delicacies available at the Gorkha Mahatsov.

(Agencies)

Apex Court rejects Marak's latest appeal for ST status Shillong, Nov 24: In a fresh turn of events the Supreme Court has rejected review petition of Tennydard Marak, who is pursuing the ST status case of Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, who filed a fresh appeal on November 16 .According to Marak, earlier his writ petition was dismissed on September 18 by the Supreme Court without any hearing in violation of the principles of natural justice after about 1 year and 4 months approximately stating that the Court was not inclined to continue with these petitions under Article 32 of the Constitution. However, Marak said that the power of judicial review conferred upon the Supreme Court under Article 32 of the Constitution is part of the inviolable basic structure of the Constitution. Moreover, Article 32 is "a great and salutary safeguard for preservation of fundamental rights of the citizens. This weapon as a safeguard

Tejashwi Yadav says he won't tolerate corruption Patna, Nov 24: Lalu Prasad Yadav's 26-yearold Tejashwi Yadav took charge as Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar on Monday. Addressing the media, Tejwashwi said, "We want to see Bihar as a modern state, a developed state." Yadav, who has been allotted the PWD ministry, said that his department's focus would on developing infrastructure. "Roads should reach all villages and tolas...will speed up the construction of roads," he said, adding, ""First I will take introduction (of bureaucrats) and then we will look at all the ongoing projects...(our) priority is development of Bihar."

"We will do our work with honesty and those who indulge in corruption will be dealt with strongly," Yadav stressed. (Agencies)

must be utilized and invoked by the Court with great deal of circumspection and caution", he said. After the dismissal of the case, Marak field an interlocutory application in the Supreme Court for appropriate direc-

tions and to recall the order of September 18 while urging the Court to hear the writ petition on merits and decided by the Court. "However, unfortunately, the Registrar of the Supreme Court of India in the letter dated November 3 said that at there was no reasonable

cause for entertaining the application at this stage and also intimated that he had ordered that an Interlocutory Application to be lodged under the provisions of Order XV Rule 5 of the Supreme Court

Rules,2013", Marak said The Registrar also wanted the petitioner to approach the High Court , which according to the petitioner is not viable as he had already sought the intervention of the High Court in the past.

However, the petitioner said that the order XV Rule 5 of

the Supreme Court Rules 2013 does not vest upon the Registrar the power and jurisdiction to reject the application for directions seeking recall of the order of September18 and restoration of the writ petition "The power and jurisdiction to recall the order and restoration of the matter lies solely with the Supreme Court.

The Registrar has exceeded its jurisdiction by passing the order. This is an error apparent on the face of the record and the Registrar failed to appreciate that the pleadings in the matter are complete", Marak said, while adding that his counsel was already substantially heard on the merits of the matter by the Supreme Court on March 20 this year. However, due to paucity of time the hearing remained incomplete, Marak added. According to him, the dismissal of the writ petition was a grave prejudice and serious miscarriage of justice.

(Agencies)

Woman among four Naxals held in Chhattisgarh Raipur, Nov 24: Four Naxals, including a woman, were arrested in Chhattisgarh's Maoist-hit Kankerdistrict, police said on Tuesday. The cadres, identified as Ramesh Vetti (22), Faguram Mandavi (21), Panchlal Usendi alias Baiga and Sumitra Darro alias Guddi (20), were apprehended by a joint team of Border Security Force

(BSF) and district police force yesterday, Kanker Superintendent of Police Jitendra Singh Meena told the media. Following an input about the presence of rebels involved in torching as many as 26 vehicles engaged in mining related task at Chargaon-Metabodli mines last month, the joint team of security personnel was dispatched towards

the spot, he said. After encircling the spot, the four Naxals were rounded up, the SP adding that during interrogation they confessed to their involvement with the banned outfit. The arrested rebels also admitted to being involved in setting ablaze vehicles in Chargaon mines on October 30 this year, he said. (Agencies)

Rhetoric cannot restore ties: Sharmila

Irom Sharmila (photo captio Imphal, Nov 24: Irom Chanu Sharmila has said that the age-old ties, love and amity among the valley and hill people of the State cannot be restored or strengthened by mere rhetoric but can be realised only by showing it in action. Sharmila was speaking to media persons after she was produced before the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Imphal West today.

Sharmila was brought to the Cheirap Court Complex at around 1 pm from Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences security ward where she is presently lodged. The next hearing of the case has been fixed for November 30. She said it is now the time to reflect on factors that are responsible for making the

valley-hill relations unstable. Sharmila stressed the need to introduce cultures, history and languages of different communities of the State in school syllabus so that people of the State come to know each other closely. She also said that frequent social interaction among the valley and hill people will foster better relations among the people. The anti-AFSPA crusader further said that people of the State could not elect good leaders as most of the people underestimate their voting rights. Sharmila further asked why huge amount of money has been spent in feeding her. She appealed to all sections of the people to extend support to her cause. (Agencies)

Naxals torch private bus in Chhattisgarh; passengers unhurt Raipur, Nov 24: Naxals torched a private travel bus in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Sukma district, after asking its passengers to alight, police said on Tuesday. Rebels also fired upon an antilandmine vehicle in which security forces had rushed to the spot to rescue the passengers. However, no one was hurt in the incident, they said.

The incident occurred last night near restive Tahakwada village on NH-30 under Tongpal Police Station limits, a short distance from the spot where 15 security men and a civilian were killed in a Maoist ambush in April last year, a senior police official told the media. The bus was heading to Hyderabad from Jagdalpur (Bastar's district headquarter) when it was attacked.

Around 50 cadres, most of them armed, surrounded the bus in a thickly forested patch near Tahakwada and asked the passengers to get down before setting it ablaze, he said. Subsequently, security forces were rushed to the spot in a Mine-Protected Vehicle keeping in view the sensitivity of the region.

Near Tahakwada, naxals fired few rounds on the MPV but soon fled from the spot as the back-up forces reached there and launched retaliatory action, he said. Later, the evacuated passengers were sent to their destinations in other buses, the official said. Yesterday afternoon, a government-run passenger bus too was torched by naxals in neighbouring Dantewada district. (agencies)

IFFI to be graced by Bengal films Kolkata, Nov 24: Eight films from Bengal have made it to the Indian Panorama section of the 46th International Film Festival of India in Goa this year.

Among the eight movies, "Anwar Ka Ajab Kissa" directed by Buddhadev Dasgupta is the only film in Hindi, others are in Bengali language.

Buddhadev, when contacted, said, "This (eight

films selected) augurs well for the cinema in Bengal."

The acclaimed director, who is now in Bangladesh for the outdoor shooting of 'Tope', said he wants to attend the IFFI. The festival concludes on November 30.

Late director B a p p a d i t y a Bandyopadhyay's "Sohra Bridge", which captures the beautiful landscape of the Northeast, is another

interesting selection starring Niharika Singh among others. Bappaditya had died on November 7 after a massive cardiac arrest. Before his untimely death, the promising director had got the news of the selection of "Sohra Bridge" for the Panorama section and he was keen to go to Goa. 'Cinemawala' by director Kaushik Ganguly, not yet released commercially, is

another interesting entry in the Panorama section starring Parambrata Chatterjee and danceuse-activist Alakananda Roy. Kaushik, an IFFI regular, whose previous films had bagged honours on the same platform, said, "The Goa festival has always been special for me as a director." The other five films which made the cut are: director Satarupa Sanyal's "Onyo Opalaa",

Srijit Mukherjee's muchhyped 'Rajkahini', Debesh Chattopadhyay's "Natoker Moto", 'Pakaram' by Sankar Debnath and 'Kadambari' by Suman Ghosh. A total 26 feature and 21 non-Feature films will be screened in the Indian Panorama section while 187 films from 89 countries will be showcased in the International Section between November 20 and November 30. (agencies)

Mizoram to be developed as Bamboo State of India Aizawl, Nov 24: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh addressing a press conference at Aizawl, Mizoram said, the government is committed to develop Mizoram as the Bamboo State of India. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the State of Mizoram is blessed with very high production of bamboo, which can be turned into a major source, not only for furniture but

also for paper supply to the rest of the country. This could, not only generate revenue for the State, but also create opportunities for youth outside India. In this regard, he said, he had already initiated an effort to reinforce Bamboo Development Board of India. Dr Jitendra Singh said that the successive Governments had neglected Mizorams vast potentials and this is an opportunity for the people of the State to ensure adequate implementation of various pro-poor Central schemes initiated by the Modi government.

Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the rising prevalence of cancer in the State, which is the highest in Mizoram and said, at the initiative of

the DoNER Ministry, very soon, we will have cancer care facilities in collaboration with other advanced institutes of the country like

Adyar Cancer Institute, Chennai. In this regard, he said, the local municipal bodies to be elected through the poll on 26th

November will be expected to play a crucial role by mobilizing local population to avail of the facility provided by the Modi Government. Mizoram has a high literacy rate of over 92%, next to the State of Kerala, said Dr Jitendra Singh and added that some of the scholars from Mizoram are occupying important teaching faculty positions in reputed colleges and Universities in the rest of the country. But, he said, the irony is that local government here has failed to bring up standard educational institutes which has led to brain drain to other parts of the country. (agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

PAGE 6

Nirbhaya case: NHRC issues notice to Centre and Delhi Govt.

New Delhi, Nov.24: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday issued notice to Centre and Delhi Government on complaint apprehending threat to society from the juvenile post his release.

NHRC has taken cognizance of a complaint received from the parents of 'Nirbhaya' who was brutally gang raped and murdered on 16th December, 2012 here in the national capital. The Commission observed that 'there is no doubt that the complainants have

undergone extreme agony and pain after the incident of rape and murder of their daughter. The fears expressed by them need to be looked into.'

Accordingly, it has issued notices with a copy of the complaint to the Secretary, Govt. of National Capital Territory of Delhi, the Commissioner of Police, Delhi and the Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India calling for reports in the matter within two weeks. Nirbhaya's parents, in their complaint, had stated that the juve-

Stagnating water cause traffic woes in Chennai Chennai, Nov. 24: Traffic was hugely affected in several arterial roads in Chennai on Tuesday due to the stagnating rain water which continued to disrupt normal lives. Several roads in Chennai were submerged as commuters faced a harrowing time motoring through waterlogged roads and traffic snarls. Cars and other vehicles were seen half

tance from the National Disaster Response Fund and from other Central funds towards the cost of immediate relief and restoration works and the extensive damage suffered in the aftermath of extremely heavy rainfall in different districts in the month of November, 2015," Jayalalithaa wrote to Prime Minister Modi. Keeping in view the urgency of the situa-

nile, who was largely responsible for the death of their daughter and was the most brutal amongst all the offenders, is sup-

posed to be released sometime in December.

They have submitted that such persons are threat to the life and liberty of

the common man. There should be a mechanism to keep a strict check on them so that people are not subjected to any risk of being harmed. The laws dealing with women and children should be strengthened. The complainants have also stated that the rate of recidivism (committing crimes again) is fairly high. The complainants have requested the Commission to recommend to the Government to prepare a plan to protect the citizens from such delinquent juveniles post their release and also

to strengthen the extant laws on the subject. The complainants have also cited the SORNA (Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act) which operates in countries such as USA, Canada and others. They have stated that similar law should be made operational in India. The complainants have also made a representation to the Home Minister, Govt. of India on the same subject. A copy of the representation has been submitted to the Commission along with the complaint.

(ANI)

India and Pakistan through the eyes of two partition-separated brothers New Delhi, Nov.24: "Through Orphaned Eyes" is a book written

by Ajay Singh, and traces the story of India and Pakistan through the eyes of two protagonists - brothers separated at Partition. The two brothers, one who goes on to become the head of Pakistan's ISI and the other who remains an unnamed Indian, chart their own destinies which reflect the course of their respective nations. The book brings out the

psyche of the people of the two nations as it takes you through their battles, their culture, cricketing rivalry and their battles within.

It traces Pakistan's linkages with the Mujahedeen and brings out how that relationship now threatens to tear it asunder. It also hints at how India's success story can be easily derailed by the rampant corruption and asks pertinent questions of the future of both nations.

The book was released

by General G D Singh and General Ata Hasnain, who also spoke on their own experiences. General Hasnain said that the book drew strong parallels with his own story, since he too had members of his family in both India and Pakistan. Many members of the audience identified with the theme and it seemed to strike a chord with most. When questioned about the title, the author said that more than the fact that the two

principle characters were orphaned at an early age, it reflected the fact that the two nations seemed to have been orphaned by their own leadership. Pentagon Press announced the release of their latest published book at a packed function at Kota House yesterday. The event was widely attended by members by a diverse and keen audience.

Through Orphaned Eyes

by Ajay Singh is available for Rs. 545/-. (ANI)

Rahul Gandhi backs Aamir, gives problem handling lessons to BJP drowned inside the water and people faced real difficulties to access essential services.

In the wake of the heavy rain-induced floods that have left around the city reeling from extensive damage, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa on Monday sought the Centre's aid by seeking funds for immediate relief and restoration works. "I write enclosing a copy of the Government of Tamil Nadu's detailed Memorandum seeking assis-

tion, Jayalalithaa has also requested the Centre to dispatch a team immediately to make its on-thespot assessment of damages and to release central financial assistance without any delay. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had ordered immediate release of Rs. 940 Crore central assistance for rain-hit Chennai. He also agreed to the Tamil Nadu chief minister's demand for a central team to be dispatched to the state to assess the damage and release funds for relief.

(ANI)

Anupam Kher urges Aamir Khan to spread 'hope' not 'fear' New Delhi, Nov. 24: Lashing out at Aamir Khan for saying that he and his wife had considered moving out of the country over the alarming rise of intolerance, Bollywood veteran actor Anupam Kher said that the actor should 'spread hope instead of fear'. In a series of tweets expressing disappointment over Khan's remarks, Kher asked if Khan would suggest millions of Indians to leave the country or to wait till the regime changes. "Dear @aamir_khan. #Satyameva Jayate u talked about evil practices but gave Hope. So even in 'Intolerant' times u need 2 spread Hope not Fear," Kher tweeted.

Questioning Khan's reaction, the veteran actor asked why he had not raised his voice earlier when the situation had been even worse. "Dear @aamir_khan. When did 'Incredible India' become 'Intolerant India' for you? Only in the last

7-8 months? #AtithiDevoBhavah.

Did you tell Kiran that you have lived through worse times in this country & but you never thought of moving out...

Did you ask Kiran which country would she like to move out to? Did you tell her that this country has made you AAMIR KHAN," he added in another tweet. Speaking at the eighth edition of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards, Khan had yesterday expressed "alarm" and despondency over the rise in such cases "in the last six to eight months". He had said that a sense a sense of "insecurity" and "fear" had seeped deep within society. "When I go home and talk to Kiran (Aamir's wife), for the first time she says,"Should we move out of India?" Khan said.

"She (Kiran Rao) fears for her child and what the atmosphere around us will be," he added. (ANI)

New Delhi, Nov. 24: Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday voiced his support for Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and lashed out at the BJP-led NDA Government for not handling the problems confronting the nation in the 'right way'. "Instead of branding all those who question the Govt and Modiji - as unpatriotic, anti national or 'motivated', the Govt would do better to reach out to people to understand what's disturbing them," he wrote in a series of tweets. "That's the way to solve problems in India- not by bullying, threatening & abusing!" he added. Reminding Aamir of his 'Incredible India' campaign days, the BJP earlier said that the former was free to ex-

press his opinion and added that India will love her people 'Qayamat se Qayamat tak'. "We all love Aamir Khan. He is a great actor, who makes even greater movies. But it's hard to agree with him when he says that India is intolerant. This is an 'Incredible India' which can never be intolerant.

'Qayamat se Qayamat tak' (forever and ever) India will love her people," BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra told here. Questioning the actor, who had been the face of the 'Incredible India' campaign, Patra asked as to how could the nation which treated outsiders like gods, hurt her own people. "Serving outsiders like gods is part of our culture. Aamir said this himself. Then how can India hurt its own citi-

Muslims and now it will be between tolerance and intolerance," he added.

Meanwhile, actor Raza Murad spoke out in support of Aamir, saying the latter has every right to voice his opinion. "It's easy to deny problems existing in the country from air conditioned rooms, one must go to the camps of Kashmiri Pandits or Muzaffarnagar victims to see how the

New Delhi, Nov. 24: Asserting that communal incidents have declined since the BJP-led NDA Government came to power, Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday said the ongoing debate over growing intolerance in the nation is 'misplaced' while urging the society to come together and address this issue. "The record shows that the number of communal incidents in the country has come down since we have come to power.

Since NDA came to power, the total number of communal incidents has come down compared to 2013. All this debate is misplaced, there are issues, which the society as a whole must come together and address," Rijiju told the media here. "To just make a blatant statement that during NDA rule or Prime Minister Narendra Modi's (rule),

the country has become intolerant is not the way.

It unnecessarily tarnishes the image of the country.

Total number of deaths due to communal violence has come down since 2013 and early 2014 when the UPA was in power," he added. Rijiju's comment came a day after Bollywood actor Aamir Khan expressed "alarm" and despondency over the rise in such cases "in the last six to eight months".

Aamir, who was speaking at the eighth edition of the Ramnath Goenka excellence in journalism awards yesterday, said that a sense a sense of "insecurity" and "fear" had seeped deep within society.

It may be recalled here that the rising intolerance has become a contentious issue over the last few months with several prominent writers, poets, filmmakers and intellectuals raising their concern on the issue. (ANI)

US issues global travel alert for holidaying Americans over terror threats

zens? I request him to not leave the nation as we won't find a country like India anywhere, that loves him so much," Patra added. Speaking at the eighth edition of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards, Aamir had yesterday expressed alarm and despondency over the

rise in cases displaying intolerance in the last six to eight months. He had said that a sense a sense of 'insecurity' and 'fear' had seeped deep within society. "When I go home and talk to Kiran (Aamir's wife), for the first time she says, 'Should we move out of India?'" Khan said. (ANI)

Aamir wouldn't have been star in 'intolerant' India, says Ashok Pandit Mumbai, Nov. 24: Filmmaker and social activist Ashok Pandit on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Aamir Khan over his recent remarks on growing intolerance, saying the actor would not have been a star if the nation was intolerant.

Pandit also said that 'pseudo-secularism' and 'pseudo intellectualism' have become a fashion in the country. "I am very saddened by Aamir Khan's statement. If he wants to leave the country then he is free to do so. This country has given him stardom, the country has clapped for him and stood beside him.

If this country was intolerant then Aamir Khan would not have been a star," Pandit told. He also said that a trend is emerging in which a person speaking about intolerance is being considered intelligent.

"Aamir Khan and Kiran ji have divided the nation by making such a statement.

Earlier, the division used to be between Hindus and

Rijiju defends Govt., says debate over growing intolerance 'misplaced'

people are living," Murad told. Speaking at the eighth edition of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards, Khan had yesterday expressed alarm and despondency over the rise in cases of intolerance in the last six to eight months. He said that a sense of "insecurity" and "fear" had seeped deep within the society. "When I go home and talk to Kiran

(Aamir's wife), for the first time she says, 'Should we move out of India?'," Khan said. "She (Kiran Rao) fears for her child and what the atmosphere around us will be," he added. Khan was later heavily rebuked by fellow actor Anupam Kher, who said that the actor should 'spread hope instead of fear'. Expressing disappointment over Khan's remarks, Kher in a series of tweets asked if the actor would suggest millions of Indians to leave the country or to wait till the regime changes. "Dear @aamir_khan. When did 'Incredible India' become ' Intolerant India' for you?

Only in the last 7-8 months?

Atithi Devo Bhavah. Did you tell Kiran that you have lived through more worse times in this country & but you never thought of moving out... Did you ask Kiran which country would she like to move out to? Did you tell her that this country has made you AAMIR KHAN," he tweeted. (ANI)

Washington, Nov. 24: In the wake of the deadly 13/11 Paris attacks and the following world-wide threat, the U.S. State Department has released a global travel alert for Americans who are on their holiday travels, asking them to maintain caution and avoid large crowds. "U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using transportation. Be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds or crowed places. Exercise particular caution during the holiday season and at holiday festivals or events.

U.S. citizens should monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities," the State Department said in a statement. This travel alert is effective for three months and expires on February 24, 2016. Further asking Americans to be vigilant in their trav-

els, the alert said that 'extremists' have been targeting large sporting events, theatres, open markets, and aviation services. "Authorities believe the likelihood of terror attacks will continue as members of ISIL/ Da'esh return from Syria and Iraq. Additionally, there is a continuing threat from unaffiliated persons planning attacks inspired by major terrorist organizations but conducted on an individual basis," the alert read. The alert comes after the ISIS killed 130 people in several Paris locations and while Brussels, the capital of neighbouring Belgium, is on lockdown and a massive manhunt in on for the main Paris suspect- Salah Abdeslam. (ANI)

Mali hotel attack: Police show photos of two dead suspects London, Nov. 24: Mali police have showed images of two dead men who they claimed were the "authors" of the attack on the Radisson Blu hotel in the capital Bamako.The pictures on Mali state television were of two young black men, one of them lying on a metal gurney. The police have appealed for those with information about the men to come

forward. Twenty people plus two gunmen died in Friday's attack on the Radisson Blu hotel. The victims included six Russians, three Chinese, an American, a Belgian, a Senegalese and an Israeli. Jihadist group Al Mourabitoun and al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) had claimed responsibility for the attack. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Nepal parties agree to table constitution amendment bill Kathmandu, Nov. 24 : The major political parties of Nepal have agreed to table an amendment bill that will accommodate the demands of Madhesi people over the division of their homeland and better representation in the constitution.This move is likely to reduce violence after 4 protesters were killed in police firing during a blockade in the volatile Terai region along the Indian border on Sunday.Nepalese Prime Minister K P Oli called a meeting of all major political parties at his resi-

dence this morning to find a way out of the ongoing political crisis in the nation.Nepali Congress, CPN-UML, UCPNMaoist, Rastriya Prajatantra Party-Nepal, Rastriya Prajatantra Party and Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum-Democratic agreed to proceed with the Bill, currently pending.The bill seeks to include a provision for inclusive and proportionate representation in the Parliament and allocation of seats on the basis of population.The Parliament is scheduled to meet on Thursday. (ANI)

Islamabad's call against revenge executions angers Dhaka Islamabad, Nov 24: Bangladesh yesterday negatively responded to Islamabad's call for Dhaka to refrain from carrying out revenge executions through flawed trials, terming it "interference in the internal affairs" of the country which was formerly a part of Pakistan.Bangladeshi government summoned Pakistan's High Commissioner Shuja Alam and lodged strong protest over Pakistan's condemning the executions of two pro-Pakistan opposition leaders who were both charged

High Commission in Dhaka said, adding that Alam was conveyed displeasure of the Bangladesh by acting foreign secretary Meezanur-Rehman, who said executions is their internal matter. Pakistani envoy assured Meezan he would convey the reaction to Islamabad, the official added.The opposition parties say the trials were politically motivated while independent observers say the process adopted for the trials has stark flaws.Chowdhury had been convicted on of charges of torture, rape and genocide during the 1971

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

New Myanmar government to tighten safety after jade mine disaster Yangon, Nov 24: Myanmar's newly elected government said today that it plans to tighten safety controls at the country's poorly regulated jade mines after a landslide swept over a mining encampment, resulting in a death toll expected to reach around 200 people. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a resounding victory in the country's Nov. 8 polls, but her government could risk conflict with powerful vested interests controlling

Myanmar's jade mines if it moves too forcefully to rein in their business.The jade business is dominated by companies linked to leaders of the previous military government, ethnic armies and cronies with close connections to the former junta."We will have to review the existing regulations and if necessary will require the companies to have safe and adequate dump sites when they apply for licenses," said Nyan Win, a senior member of the NLD and spokesman for the

party.The NLD will dominate the new parliament when it sits in February, though a quarter of seats are retained for unelected military officials."If existing regulations have this provision, we will have to enforce it," the NLD spokesman said.The value of jade production in Myanmar is estimated to have been around $31 billion in 2014, according to researchers from environmental advocacy group Global Witness.Rescue workers were still searching for the bodies of some 100

missing people, having already recovered 113 following the disaster at a jade mine at Hpakant, in Myanmar's remote northern mountains. The landslide was caused by a gigantic slag heap of debris excavated from mines, which subsided in the early hours of Saturday and slid over the makeshift settlement at its foot, burying the miners as they slept. Poorly paid workers, many of them migrants from other parts of the country, work in the mines or pick over dump sites for

war, while Mujahid was 'found guilty' on charges of genocide, conspiracy in killing intellectuals, torture and abduction."We have noted with deep concern and anguish the unfortunate executions" Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesman Qazi Khalilullah said in a statement the other day.Pakistan also took notice of the international community's reaction to the flawed trials, he added.

(Agencies)

Missing Japanese woman's body found in Dhaka Dhaka, Nov 24: Days after she was reported missing, a Japanese woman was found dead in an apartment in Bangladesh capital Dhaka, police said. A Detective Branch team of Bangladesh Police on Tuesday found the body of the woman who was living in Dhaka for about 10 years, Xinhua reported citing police officials.The name of the woman was not known immediately, said the Dhaka Metropoli-

tan Police (DMP) official, adding that she was missing for a few days. The official said DMP hoped to provide more details on the issue at a press briefing later in the day.Last month gunmen shot dead a Japanese man in Bangladesh's Rangpure district, police said, in the second attack claimed by Islamic State (IS) group jihadists.

The Bangladeshi government has denied the claim.

(Agencies)

Three arrested trying to sell aviation fuel Kathmandu, Nov 24: Chitwan police have arrested three individuals, along with an aviation fuel tanker, while trying to sell the fuel at Belchowk-7 in Bharatpur on Monday.The police arrested a local buyer Binod Awasthi, along with the driver Somlal Tamang, 34, and middleman Kishori Patel of Birgunj, red-handed while trying to sell the

aviation fuel from a Kathmandu-bound tanker, Na 2 Kha 4365.

A police source has informed that the arrested individuals offered Rs 50 as bribe to Narayangadh Area Police Inspector to cover-up the matter.However, the trio were arrested along with the bribe money, tanker and sold fuel and have been taken to District Police Office for further action. (Agencies)

slides were not followed and that the national government would need to take a more active role."The federal government needs to intervene to impose stricter restrictions," he said.

(Agencies)

Chinese Journalist, 71, Appeals 7 Year Jailing Indian authorities file case against Lankan navy

Beijing, Nov 24: A 71year-old Chinese journalist appealed today against her seven year jail sentence for "leaking state secrets", a conviction condemned by free speech advocates worldwide.Dozens of police officers blocked access to the Beijing high court where Gao Yu appeared for an hour-long hearing.The session was "closed" to outsiders, Gao's lawyer Mo Shaoping told media, adding he did not expect the guilty verdict to be overturned.The septuagenarian has suffered from heart problems during her detention, but seemed "reasonably healthy", Mo said. Named one of the International Press Institute's 50 "world press heroes" in 2000, Gao has been a consistent critic of

the ruling Communist party's authoritarian policies.A court ruled in April that Gao leaked a 2013 directive by the Communist party named "Document number 9" to a Hong Kong media outlet.The document warned of the "dangers" of multiparty democracy, independent media, "universal" definitions of human rights and criticism of the party's historical

record, according to copies widely circulated online.The hearing comes as China's President Xi Jinping oversees a crackdown on dissent which has seen hundreds of lawyers, activists and academics detained in recent years, with dozens jailed.China's already close controls on the media have been further tightened, reporters say.

State security prevented

journalists and around a dozen foreign diplomats from standing near the court, telling them it was "not appropriate".Gao's jailing was condemned by human rights groups and free speech advocates, while Washington called for her "immediate" release and the EU demanded Beijing "review" her trial. A consistent advocate for democracy and free speech, Gao was imprisoned following the government crackdown on student protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989.Her political writings saw her jailed for six years in the 1990s, also on a charge of "leaking state secrets".She was detained again in the lead-up to the Tiananmen crackdown's 25th anniversary last year. (Agencies)

Pakistan Proposes Dates for Saarc Meet with 1971 war crimes, making another blow to already uneasy relations between the two states.Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury and Jamaat-eIslami secretary general Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid were hanged at Dhaka Central Jail on Sunday."Yes, High Commissioner Shuja Alam was called at the foreign ministry," an official at Pakistan

pieces of the semi-precious stone that have been left behind. Ye Htut, the spokesman for the President's Office, said that safety measures put in place by the state government following previous land-

Islamabad, Nov 24: Pakistan has proposed to host the 19th Saarc Summit in Islamabad in November next year with three separate dates.A senior foreign ministry official said that Pakistan has circulated three separate dates for the summit in November next year.

Butthe member states are yet to confirm. According to the official, Pakistan has proposed Nov 11-12, 17-18 and 25-25 for the summit, which will be followed by a meeting of the Saarc Council of Ministers at foreign minister level.Earlier, Pakistan has hosted two summits of the regional grouping in 1988 and 2004.At present, Nepal is the chair of the regional bloc as the host of the 18th summit which was held in Kathmandu in November last year. During the 18th Saarc Summit in Kathmandu, the eight-member regional block had agreed to hold the meeting every two years.With Pakistani already sending a proposal

for the 19th summit, pressure is mounting on Nepal to complete the meetings of various Saarc mechanisms, including the inter-summit that reviews and assesses the progress made in the past and takes up new agenda for the new summit.For this, according to Nepali officials, Nepal has proposed March 14-17 for the inter-summit that includes programming committee meeting at the joint secretary level, standing committee meeting at the foreign secretary and Saarc Council of Ministers meeting at the foreign minister level.Nepal has drawn flak for failing to expedite the Saarc process as the chair of the regional bloc - earlier due to an earthquake on April 25 and now due to ongoing political standoff and unrest in the southern plains.Saarc inter-summit a key mechanism that usually takes place in the middle of two summits.

The inter-summit also sets tone for the upcoming summit, makes rec-

Colombo, Nov 24: The Marine Police of the Indian Coastal Security Group (CSG) have registered a case against the Sri Lankan navy for allegedly attacking fishermen from Rameswaram on November 21, when they were fishing on the high seas, north off Rameswaram fishing jetty.A complaint was filed by Rameswaram fisherman A. Varghis, who suffered head injury in the incident. The Sri Lankan navy allegedly attacked the fishermen with iron balls, stones and bottles, The Hindu newsp a p e r reported.Mandapam Marine police registered a case against the Sri Lankan navy under Sections 427 (causing damage) and 324 (voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons) on Monday.Varghis, who had been in fishing for more than three decades, said in

his complaint that they were fishing 25 nautical miles north off, Rameswaram fishing jetty on Saturday night, when the Lankan navy attacked them, hurling iron balls and bottles and caused damage to fishing nets.Sceptical about the case, U. Arulanandham, president, Alliance for the Release of Innocent Fishermen (ARIF), said that by registering the case, the police had recorded the attack incident. Many such attack incidents went unnoticed as the fishermen failed to lodge complaints, he said.Registration of the case in the present attack incident might not help bring the Lankan naval personnel to face trial in an Indian court but would help record the incident and secure compensation to the affected fishermen, he added. (Agencies)

Verdict on Fakhrul's bail Nov 24 ommendation for meetings and sets the agenda among others. 'We have completed some of the meetings of programming committee and others and some are in pipeline. So we are happy with the progress made by us as Saarc chair," said Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi. A meeting at the Saarc foreign minister level will be held first, which will be following meetings at foreign secretary and secretary levels. The inter-summit is expected to review the progress made during the Kathmandu declaration of the 18th Saarc summit and matters pertaining to strengthening Saarc's mechanisms. Issues re-

lated to the Saarc Secretariat, connectivity, trade, transit, poverty alleviation will also figure. Saarc has a host of inter-governmental mechanisms, eleven Regional Centres and four specialised bodies.A Comprehensive Study prepared recently by the Saarc Secretariat spells out measures to make Saarc a robust and dynamic regional entity.

Several recommendations made in the study have already been approved by the Inter-Summit Session of the Saarc Council of Ministers held in February 2014 in the Maldives. The summit has also recommended proposals to strengthening the process. (Agencies)

Dhaka, Nov 24:The High Court has fixed November 24 to deliver its verdict on three petitions filed by BNP acting secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir seeking bail in three arson and vandalism cases.The HC bench of Justice Md Rezaul Haque and Justice Md Khashruzzaman fixed the date on Monday.Deputy Attorney General Fozlur Rahman Khan said: "The court has supposed to deliver its verdict on the pleas yesterday [November 22] and had asked the government to submit Fakhrul's medical report on the day of the verdict."However, he said the government submitted the report on Monday.The deputy AG said: "The court will give

its verdict tomorrow .On June 21, the High Court had granted ad interim bail to the BNP leader and issued separate three rules asking the government as to why he should not be granted regular bail in the cases.The Supreme Court on July 13 gave him six weeks' bail on medical ground. His bail was extended two times.On November 2, the Appellate Division asked him to surrender before a trial court rejecting his plea of bail extension in those cases filed with Paltan police station on January 4, 5 and 6.It also directed the High Court bench to hear and dispose of the rules in two weeks.The next day, the Metropolitan Magistrate concerned had sent Fakhrul to jail on his surrender. (Agencies)

China Slams UN for 'Irresponsible' Criticism of Deportations Beijing , Nov 24:China has accused the United Nations of making "irresponsible remarks" in its recent criticism of China, Thailand and Vietnam over deportations, insisting none of those deported were refugees.

Ravina Shamdasani, spokeswoman for the UN's Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), had on Friday told reporters that Thailand had deported two recognised Chinese refugees who

had been due for resettlement in a third country.Pointing to allegations of widespread torture in Chinese police custody, Shamdasani urged Thailand to stop deporting people, including potential refugees, to countries where they could face "an imminent risk of grave human rights violations".But Beijing's mission to the UN in Geneva insisted the Chinese pair were not refugees."Two criminal suspects, illegally staying

in Thailand and suspected of crime of organising other persons to secretly cross the national border, have been repatriated according to law," it said in a statement.It added that the pair were suspected of endangering "national security" and had pleaded guilty, decrying that Shamdasani had "linked China-Thailand cooperation on combating transnational crimes with the so called refugee issue and 'torture'

issue."China said its cooperation with Thailand on the issue was "in conformity with international law and practice" and did not fall under the UN's R e f u g e e Convention."Such hasty and irresponsible remarks went beyond the mandate of the OHCHR, to which China would like to express serious concern and dissatisfaction," it said.The mission dished out the same criticism for Shamdasani's remarks

on another case, in which Vietnam reportedly sent nine North Koreans, including a one-year-old and a teenager, to China - North Korea's main ally. Shamdasani had warned that the North Koreans may have been repatriated from China to their home country, "where they would be at risk of very serious human rights violations".

The UN urges all governments to refrain from returning people to North Korea, which stands ac-

cused of committing "systematic, widespread and gross" human rights violations.

The Chinese mission did not speak specifically of the nine, but insisted it had a right to deport North Koreans entering as illegal economic migrants."The OHCHR made irresponsible remarks on the cooperation between countries on the issue of illegal migration, referring to illegal migrants as refugees," it said. (Agencies)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Why India Is Key to a Climate Change Agreement in Paris As world leaders gather in Paris for climate talks, expect India to play a major role in any agreement at COP21.

Myanmar landslide Dark underbelly of a man-made disaster According to some local official of Myanmar, dumping by several jade-mining companies had created a mountain of soil about 200 feet high, which then collapsed. No heavy rains or unusual weather has been reported in the area. But as result, the victims were largely poor, rural villagers who sought a living by sifting through soil for deposits of the precious green stone. Jade mining attracts thousands of migrant workers from across Myanmar. Officials in Kachin state say the death toll is so hard to estimate because many of the workers are migrants, making it hard to know exactly how many people actually live in the town.

Kachin state is home to valuable deposits of highquality jade, coveted by Myanmar's northern neighbor, China, with which it shares a border. A report from Global Witness, a group that investigates misuse of natural resources, says the industry was worth up to $31 billion in 2014, and is controlled by elites and government officials linked to the previous ruling junta. The death toll from a landslide near a jade mine in northern Myanmar passed 100, local authorities say, and there are fears that the number will rise further. As of Monday morning 105 bodies had been recovered from the site of the landslide, said Zin Mar Aung, an official at the Relief and Resettlement Ministry in Kachin state, adding that the search continues.

The landslide on Saturday buried dozens of huts in Hpakant, a town known for its vast jade mines.

It was also unclear exactly who owned the mines surrounding the site of landslide. The jade industry in Myanmar is almost completely run by associates of the former junta, as well as smaller ethnic armed militias operating in the area. Also Myanmar's historic November 8 election ushered in a largely civilian-led government for the first time in the country's recent history. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a majority of seats in the legislature. This grants them the power to determine the country's new president, a process that must be completed by the end of March. Her party is expected to take control of parliament on January 31. But Global Witness and others are of the view that members of Myanmar's old guard still have a grip on power through their control of crucial resources, including jade, gems and other minerals. The military also has a quarter of seats reserved in the legislature and the ability to pick key ministers. The jade business is substantially controlled by political hard-liners who command no popular support, but might attempt a comeback or campaign or sabotage if they have the means to finance it.

Towards women empowerment Women can seek 'stridhan' back if marriage not dissolved Now a woman can always seek her 'stridhan' back from her husband and his family members even if the marriage has not been dissolved by a judicial decree of divorce, the Supreme Court has ruled. A bench comprising Justices Dipak Misra and Prafulla C Pant distinguished between 'judicial separation' and 'decree of divorce' and said that the woman, if not divorced, will have the right to seek 'stridhan' from the custodians which may include her estranged husband and his family members. 'Stridhan' is movable or immovable assets, received during the lifetime, by a woman either prior to marriage or at the time of marriage or at child birth.

According to the bench, "We have to see whether retention of stridhan by the husband or any other family members is a continuing offence or not. There can be no dispute that the wife can file a suit for realisation of the 'stridhan' but it does not debar her to lodge a criminal complaint for breach of trust.

The concept of 'continuing offence' gets attracted from the date of deprivation of stridhan, for neither the husband nor any other family members can have any right over the stridhan and they remain the custodians".

The Supreme Court quashed the order of a trial court and the Tripura High Court, which had held that a woman cannot claim dowry after separation from her husband and criminal proceedings cannot be initiated against the husband and in-laws for not handing over the properties. It said that Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act is meant to provide help to a woman and the courts should adopt sensitive approach towards such complaints.

However, there is a distinction between "a decree for divorce and decree of judicial separation; in the former, there is a severance of status and the parties do not remain as husband and wife, whereas in the latter, the relationship between husband and wife continues and the legal relationship continues as it has not been snapped", it said, adding that a woman can take judicial remedy to claim stridhan if she is not divorced.

In the instant case, the woman got married in 2005. Five years after tying the knot, her husband moved a family court seeking separation from her and the court passed the order in his favour in 2010.

Alleging that her husband and in-laws were not handing over jewellery and other assets gifted to her by family and friends, she approached the trial court which dismissed her plea saying it was not maintainable. The HC also upheld the order without going into the merit of her plea.

Raymond E. Vickery Jr When the nations of the world meet in Paris later this month, the focus will be on climate change as well as terrorism. Of the two, climate change has the long-run potential to be more deadly and disruptive than the terrorism that recently reared its ugly head in Paris. What India finally offers in Paris and how the United States and the developed world respond to that offer may well determine the success or failure of the effort to stave off environmental disaster by holding the world's temperature increase to 2째 Centigrade over pre-industrial temperatures at the end of this century. India has made a climate change offer in the form of its "Intended Nationally Determined Contribution" ("INDC"), and its final position will be built on its INDC. However, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry already has singled out India for criticism as "more cautious" and "more restrained" than others. India is the third largest greenhouse gas emitter and a primary leader of the "G-77" group of developing nations. Many members of this now 134-country strong group will be strongly influenced by what India does. Thus, the reality is that no satisfactory deal is likely to be reached without India. The stakes could hardly be higher for the world, for India, and for the United States. The litany of calamities predicted by most responsible scientists if there is failure to hold the temperature increase below 2째 C is long and well known.

Rising and warming seas, changes in the quality and availability of water, decreases in food production, unbearable heat, and more highly destructive weather events will affect most nations. However, no other major country is likely to suffer more than India. India is already enduring summers that melt roads and kill people. Some 60 percent of its population makes its living from agriculture, which will be particularly affected.

Most farmers will be hit by drought while some will be flooded. A large portion of the Indian population lives in coastal areas and low-lying islands. These areas will be subject to more and deeper flooding and consequent population displacement. Northern India is dependent in large part on runoff from glaciers that are shrinking in the face of climate change. Already, rampant disease vectors are in-

creasing in scope and deadliness. For India, climate change is a slow-moving disaster. The United States will also suffer from climate change, but, being the richest nation on earth, it will have the means to protect its population to a far greater extent than does India. Since the United States prizes its relationship with India, there are other national interests that will be affected by the impact of what India and the United States do together on climate change. The U.S. now views its long-term security and the spread of democratic values as dependent on a rebalance to Asia.

An India disproportionately ravaged by climate change and at odds with the U.S. on this issue will not be the strong and vibrant democratic partner necessary to balance an authoritarian China to make a success of this strategy.

In U.S. political terms, domestic acceptance of the sacrifices necessary to meet climate change goals will be impossible if significant efforts in the country are seen as ineffective because of indefinitely rising greenhouse gas emissions from India.

China has pledged to end its increases in CO2 emissions by around 2030. India has made no such pledge. Even though India is in a very different developmental situation than China, India is widely viewed as the recalcitrant party. The prediction that Indian CO2 emissions will surpass those of the U.S. by the middle of the century adds to this perception.

Many in the United States ask, "What is the use of Americans making significant sacrifices to ameliorate climate change if these sacrifices will be negated by India's increasing emissions?" For some time, India sought to negate this perception by relying solely on the "climate justice" argument, and this position is still prominent in its INDC. According to this argument, the developed economies caused the problem by their profligate burning of hydrocarbons and dumping their greenhouse gas refuse into the atmosphere. It is only just that India has a right to increase its emissions indefinitely in the name of uplifting the poor and bringing electricity to the more than 300 million Indians who are without electrical power.

There can be no 'climate justice' "when the per capita emissions of many developed countries vary between

7 to 15 metric tonnes, [and] the per capita emissions in India were only about 1.56 metric tonnes in 2010." Amid this backdrop, India cannot be asked to cut its emissions.

Further, as India's Minister of Power, New and Renewable Energy, and Coal Piyush Goyal has argued to the author and others, the just principle should be "polluter pays." All of this is true.

However, all nations have arguments built on "justice" or "fairness" for not doing more in regard to climate change. If all parties hold to these positions, the result will be that the 2째 C. target will be exceeded and an environmental catastrophe will ensue. Most nations are concerned about others being "free riders" - that is to say reaping the benefits of a satisfactory agreement without making a sufficient contribution. One person's "climate justice" is often seen as another's "free rider."

Many argue that India simply wants to free ride as a beneficiary of the sacrifices of others. Fortunately for India, the United States, and the world, India in its INDC has now moved beyond its traditional "climate justice" position. India's offer came only shortly before the midnight October 1 United Nations deadline and long after the other top greenhouse gas emitters, including the U.S., China, and the European Union, had made their offers. However, when it did come, the Indian INDC was substantive and provided a way forward. India's climate change offer consists mainly of three parts: (1) to reduce India's emissions intensity per unit of GDP 33 percent to 35 percent from 2005 levels by 2030; (2) to achieve "about" 40 percent installed electric power capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030; and (3) to create an additional "carbon sink" of 2.5 to 3 billion tons of CO2 equivalent through afforestation by 2030. It is difficult to compare India's offer directly with those of the other leading atmosphere polluters.

This is so not only because of the variations in capacities for reduction but also because of differences in terms, time periods, and methods of calculation. For example, the United States offers to increase its share of electricity from renewables to 20 percent and India offers an increase to 40 percent. But the Indian offer includes electricity from hydro where the U.S. offer excludes it, and the Indian target date is 2030 whereas the U.S target date is five years earlier at 2025.

India offers to "save carbon

emissions to the tune of 3.4 million tons" while the U.S. says it will cut greenhouse gases by 26-28 percent by 2025. Clearly these offers are not equivalent, but the U.S. already emits so much more in carbon emissions that it is difficult to measure the relative quality of the offers.

Nevertheless, a coalition of non-partisan research organizations, known as the Climate Action Tracker, has rated the Indian offer significantly above that of the United States and just behind those of the E.U. and China. Even so, considering the cumulative impact of all the offers that have been submitted, the United Nations Environmental Program reports an "emissions gap" indicating the world is less than halfway to the emissions cuts necessary to reach the 2째 C target. All will have to do more than their initial offers, and the good news is that the Indian INDC offers a way forward. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has just emphasized at the meeting of the G-20 in Turkey, the Indian way forward includes the many initiatives of his government that affect climate change.

The part of India's offer that has received the most favorable comment is the goal of having 100 gigawatts of solar and 75 gigawatts of electric power from other renewable sources by 2022.

Coupled with this is a focus on financing mechanisms necessary to move from reliance on coal, diesel, and gasoline to more clean energy. India has imposed a Rs. 200 (approximately $3.20) per ton tax on coal that is going directly to renewables and has cut subsidies and raised taxes on oil and gasoline.

Most importantly, India has begun to focus on what it will cost to make the transition to clean energy and the role of the private sector and outside financing necessary to make the shift. India in its INDC seems to recognize for the first time the role private finance must play in reaching its clean energy goals.

India has placed a price tag of $2.5 trillion on its needs for clean energy capital between 2015 and 2030. Obviously, this amount of money, multiplied by the needs of other developing nations, will not come from domestic or international governmental sources alone. Thus, India indicates that it is willing to turn to the domestic and foreign private sector in conjunction with governmental sourcing to obtain financing.

It is authorizing issuance of tax-free investment bonds and is highlighting the role

of its own private sector through Corporate Social Responsibility schemes and direct business action to address climate change.

Minister Goyal has gone out of his way to participate in Secretary Kerry's Climate and Clean Energy Investment Forum. He met recently with private sector finance representatives in Mumbai on the subject of clean energy, and the Government of India has set up RE-Invest, an elaborate program to encourage private investment in renewables. Thus, India has accepted in principle the proposition that private financing in conjunction with carbon taxation and public finance is the way forward to meet its climate change goals. However, the question remains as to whether India will move far enough away from its traditional statist economic approach and insistence on aid from the United States and other developed countries to reach a satisfactory agreement in Paris.

Conversely, no deal is possible in Paris unless the United States and the other developed economies are able sufficiently to suppress their own uses of carbon based fuels while mobilizing sufficient financing from both their private and public sectors to assist India and the other developing nations. There are mixed signals from both India and the United States on these questions. In its INDC, India still clings to some of the language of the past. India warns against "commercial opportunity" in regard to climate change.

It asks that clean energy technologies be transferred "free of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) costs" and asks for a regime where "facilitative technology transfer replaces an exploitive market driven mechanism."

Whether India will be willing to make the domestic reforms in electricity pricing that could provide reliable income streams sufficient to attract private capital is still

very problematic. India still seems to place undue reliance on foreign government contributions to a UN "Green Climate Fund" to fund its clean energy needs. It is unlikely that the United States will be able to meet even Obama's commitment of $3 billion for the Green Climate Fund. Even "mobilizing" $100 billion, as pledged in Copenhagen by the developed economies, pales by comparison with the $2.5 trillion India says it needs.

The United States and other developed nations must work closely with their private sector funding sources to have any hope of mobilizing the capital needed by India and other developing countries for the development and implementation of clean energy and amelioration techniques. It is unclear that the U.S. and the governments of other developed countries are doing so. Thus, a successful outcome in Paris requires a deal between India and the United States which will, by extension, encompass the other developing and developed countries. This deal will require a balancing between India's willingness to move sufficiently toward market-driven financing and a United States ability to sweeten its financial offerings with a combination of public and private financing. Indian insistence on a strict "polluter pays" concept without a willingness to accommodate market principles or a U.S. insistence that India find its way forward without significant subsidized assistance will not result in a satisfactory outcome.

Whatever happens in Paris, it will be only a step on the journey to bending the curve of pollution that threatens the planet. The need for accommodation between developing countries as represented by India and the developed countries as represented by the United States will remain if the journey is to reach the goal of averting catastrophic climate change.

The Menace of Pollution

Sir, The level of pollution, like in the rest of the big cities of India, is fast increasing in Assam. With rapid urbanization, concomitantly pollution level is assuming an alarming proportion. The pollution level is all the more palpable in Guwahati and in all other big

towns. Accumulation of plastic debris is posing a threat to the hygiene of these urban areas. We may find it difficult to accept that dumps of plastic litter we throw into water, particularly during rainy season are flowing to the big river and those dumps of plastic debris are carried by the big river (in our case it is the Brahmaputra) to the ocean. Fragmented plastic spread to all the directions of the sea and get embedded on the ocean floor to be consumed by fish and other marine creatures that causes great harm. Increasing awareness and concerns among the people over pollution prompts the law making authority to enact several acts to control pollution. Man's greed to overexploit nature led to many calamities resulting into the death of hundreds of people. Uttarakhand tragedy is a case in point. One cannot get a proper idea of the sheer scale of destruction in Uttarakhand.

People caused severe damage to nature in their greed to overexploit it. Indiscriminate deforestation has accelerated the natural flow of water resulting into erosion. Excessive interference with the ecology is responsible behind many disasters. It is good to notice that vehicular pollution has been brought down by legislation of tough laws. But newer ugly faces of pollution keep surfacing. Many rag-pickers are seen burning wires to take away the copper or aluminium.

Of late, it has started to prove to be a menace. Again some garages in the central area use to do spray-

painting in the open and emit toxic smell that are very much detrimental to the health. Who will check this pollution monster? We, through your popular daily make an appeal to the pollution control department of Assam to look into the menace.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

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, NOVEMBER 25

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The Youth In Punjab Is Addicted To This 'Terror' That's Threatening The State's Future Sadhavi Khosla Punjab, the land of five rivers, the sanctified place which has been blessed by ten Sikh Gurus, and many Pirs and the valiant warriors of the nation, is crying in agony today. The state which was once known for its sheer beauty, lush green farms, gleaming water streams, and stunning backdrops, is now popular for some spiteful reasons as well. Being home to beautiful cities that are dotted with resplendent shrines, Gurudwaras, temples, ashrams, and cultural monuments, Punjab has now fallen in a trap of a menace. Even with a disguise that does not reveal the true picture of what's happening inside the soul of Punjab, the state fails to stop the bleeding deep within. To be honest, my heart bleeds when I witness my Punjab bleeding, and this time it is not because of the Khalistan Terrorism, but 'Narcoterrorism'. Partition, Khalistan, Operation Blue Star, communal riots, Black Thunder, terrorism, migrations and the failure of the mighty state Government to provide employment opportunities to the youth, along with the easy access to drugs, all this has collectively led Punjab to go to rack and ruin. The bloody inheritance of India's partition hit the skids, and Punjab was the state which suffered the most during the 'Unforgettable Divide' and continues to do so, as a result of the seeds of vulnerability and vengeance that were sown almost 68 years back in time. The

partition of the nation that took place in August 1947, was more of a partition of Punjab then the entire nation. It was a brutal dissection of Punjab, and time after time, the place has seen poignant situations that sink the hearts of those who genuinely care for the state. With the pain of being politically divided twice in less than half a century, Punjab has certainly descended into chaos. It was first divided during the partitioning of the Indian Empire along religious lines in 1947, and yet again in 1966 on linguistic basis, when Punjab, Himachal and Haryana were formed out of the erstwhile Punjab state. And then, came the era of Green revolution in the 1970s - taking the people of Punjab away from the seamy side of life. It was the time when India's first agricultural revolution completely reformed the traditional farming system, and with it Punjab acquired the valuable status of being the "food basket" of India. While the nation enjoyed the tremendous growth in agricultural production and the muchneeded food security, Punjab celebrated its affluence and the accreditation of being 'the most prosperous state of India'.

With boundless prosperity, vibrancy, increased per capita income, better standards of living and larger than life image, the people of Punjab were reveling in the thrill of good times. However, the other side of the picture was not apparent to many.

When the Green revolution flourished in Punjab, many of its fundamentalist leaders, who were liv-

ing high off the hog, assumed that the state has enough money and power to become a separate entity. This boded disaster and regional disparities, communal riots along with the rise of Sikh fundamentalism turned up in the state. A terrifying situation arose when a Sikh fundamentalist leader, Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, began killing Hindus in large numbers in an attempt to create a Sikh state to be named as called 'Khalistan', and slayed several innocent lives. Although the initiator of terrorism was Sant Bhindranwale, but there were several other factors including communal politics played by the Akali's policy of appeasement and communalism, followed by the Congress.

The rise of terrorism in Punjab I believe, was largely fueled by the Akali leaders and they backed it fully till the end.

With this, Punjab's tryst with decade-long terrorism began until Sardar Kanwar Pal Singh Gill (KPS Gill), the then Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, crushed it. KPS Gill not only restored the peace in the state, but also helped India in retaining its unity and integrity. I believe that India in general and Punjab in particular, owes a lot to this legend for his contribution in thrashing terrorism in the state. Never in his dreams would KPS Gill have imagined that the peaceful state which he left in 1995 will once again hit by terrorism - and this time it will bleed the tears of being in the clutches of drugs. Over the past decade, Punjab has experienced deceleration of its economy, and has been seeing dwindling positions in the list of prosperous states of the country. Punjab, as of today, lags behind its counterparts, not only in terms of industrial growth but also in the agricultural sector, due to stagnancy. There are no jobs, no future in farming, industry has literally moved out of the state, and deep-rooted

corruption has left the state in dismay. Punjabis who are famous for their courage, hard work, honesty, compassion and enterprising approach towards life, are now losing these attributes to the evil drugs. Trans-border terrorism and the Khalistan movement which divided Hindus and Sikhs had been the prime cause for which we heard so many families crying every day in the past. And, today, once again Punjab is crying, due to the insidious demon of narcotics sharpening its claws in the entire realm. It would not be immature to say that this is nothing but a dangerous trap into which the spirited Punjabi youth are being led, on whom the future of the nation depends. At present, more than 75% youth in Punjab is hooked to dangerous drugs like heroin, smack, cocaine and many synthetic drugs. Out of these 75% addicts, about 30% are HIV-positive people.

According to the latest report by the Narcotics Control Bureau, Punjab alone has registered 50 percent of the total drugrelated cases in the country. But, as pitiful as it may seem, the Akali Dal Government which is led by the Badal family continues to live in a state of denial, even when the names of many of their top leaders have appeared for running the drug nexus. One of these big shots that is involved in the Narcoterrorism that has clasped Punjab in its grip is said to be a close relative of the Badal family. No wonder the Badal family is refusing point blank to be involved in the matter! After hearing and reading numerous articles and stories on the drug abuse that is ruining my homeland, I decided to get firsthand information on what exactly is happening there. My recent visit to Amritsar left me in tears, shock, disbelief and distress after having witnessed the entire situation with my eyes. I came across a sight which I will never forget in my life - the agony and pain

of all those mothers who had lost, or who are going to lose their children because of drugs, wrenched my heart. Being a mother myself, I could imagine the pain of a mother, who raised her son with lots of efforts, hopes and desires, and then loses him to appalling drugs. For me, there is no bigger pain in the world than what these mothers have to bear when they see their children dying a slow death every single day. The village, Jagdev Kalan, near Amritsar carries a painful history. The place which encountered the worst slayings of Hindus

by Sikh terrorists, and lost more than 30 people in terrorism in 1987, has today become a cremation ground for its residents who are gradually jumping into the fire that was set alight by drugs.

In the past two years, this village has lost around 30 people because of drugs.

I heard several painful tales of this deserted village wherein each house has been mourning after losing a loved one, either due to terrorism or due to drugs. My visit to Swami Vivekananda Drug DeAddiction Center in Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, Amritsar and OTS center located inside the Civil Hospital of Tarn Taran revealed the scale of the problem. Impossible to quantify precisely, the situation is undeniably immense and worrisome for the entire country. An overwhelming majority of addicts in these centers belong to the age group of 15 and 35, which is a harsh reminder about the risk of losing the entire generation to drugs. I was shocked to see the drug epidemic and the mounting pressure on the health infrastructure which the state offers. I interacted with some of the drug addicts, who to my surprise were regretful, as well as, sad to see themselves in that vulnerable state. In fact, some of them were scared of the fact that they may not live long and were dejected of being unable to get out of this nexus, even when they

are willing to do so. Many of these addicts are incapable of affording the deaddiction treatments and, hence, they continue to consume drugs, because that at least gives them an opportunity to earn money by becoming a peddler. So, it would not be wrong to state that it is a vicious cycle, and those who are trapped inside it, don't see any ray of hope. I can clearly recall that one drug addict met me, and he was carrying his daily dosage of heroin (smack) in his pocket. He requested for rehabilitation assistance, which he was not receiving in spite of his will to get rid of the menace. In reality, Punjab's de-addiction centers are facing a shortage of staff, including counselors and psychiatrists. After seeing the unfortunate ordeal prevailing in Punjab, I am unable to understand why the State Government has still not formed strict drug policy reforms, even when the whole state has reached such a severe level of substance abuse?

Why there are no adequate facilities available for the addicts? Why are the rehabilitation centers not accessible free of cost? The Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, Sukhbir Singh Badal still refuses to acknowledge the fact that Punjab has the highest number of drug addicts in the country. I want to tell him that I saw drugs being sold openly outside the Civil Hospitals in Amritsar and Tarn Taran, two majorly affected districts of his

state. Drugs are easily available in all the medical stores near various schools and colleges in the state. As a matter of fact, people there made a mockery of the situation by asserting that - "In Punjab, it's easier to fetch drugs than water." You might be surprised to note that more than 70% of the jail inmates across the state are drug addicts.

During my stay in Punjab, every single person or an addict that I met with raised their voice against the Akalis, and the Badal family in particular, for the rise of drug addiction in the state, over the past decade. It might be beyond belief for many of us, but several big names, mainly of the representatives of renowned political parties, largely from the Akalis and some from BJP have come into light which are said to be involved in this drug mafia. In actual fact, on a number of occasions, some of these delegates have been caught redhanded as well while smuggling drugs, but to no avail! What Punjab needs right now is a strong political and social will to fight this war against drug terrorism.

There's a huge nexus and in order to make Punjab drug free, the triangle of Politicians/Police/Smugglers that are involved in the drug menace needs to be broken. This war against drugs is a far bigger challenge, than what the war against fundamentalist terrorists was.

We are in need of a strong iron hand, in the

form of another KPS Gill to save the state once again. Only someone like him with similar courage and tactical sharpness, can stand like a rock against all the odds in the state, and crush the menace and regain its glory.

The BJP Government at the center, including PM Modi, has closed its eyes when it comes to the outrageous state of affairs in Punjab. Their softer approach towards Akali Dal and the Badal family has led to mis-governance and Akali Goondaraj in the state.

Mr. Modi had promised that if the BJP-led NDA will come into power, it will put an end to the act of pushing drugs into the Indian Territory from across the border. But, unfortunately, these words were nothing else than exaggerated rhetoric. Looking at the current scenario, it is quite difficult to find the one who can save Punjab.

Everybody knows everything but nobody has the courage to raise voice against this peril, which is poisoning the state with time. Haunted by the fear of losing their children to drugs, most of the families in Punjab are either migrating out of the state or sending their children abroad. The land of Guru Nanak and Bhagat Singh once again needs a 'Messiah'. The state which had outperformed rest of the India, in terms of growth & prosperity in the past, must be saved, and I hope that it happens before the wheels fall off.

Years After Recovery, I'm Still Judged By The Mental Health Issue I Used To Have Jhilmil Breckenridge For anyone with a mental illness "label", they know only too well that they are judged with that label forever. Whether they are a functioning individual or not isn't considered. If she is singing one day, she must be manic. If he is quiet sometimes, oh he must be in depression.

It's as if people are not allowed to have normal moods anymore, and worse is how the stigma attached to mental health diagnoses affects you outside, at work, in relationships, how society views you. I have a friend, who never discloses at work that she has an issue or takes medication for the fear of being judged. Or another who hides his illness from his children.

All of these things are done precisely because of the constant judging, the stigma and discrimination that surround anyone with a mental illness label. In simple

terms, mental health issues can be caused by life stresses, psychosocial issues, sometimes it may be genetic and some people are more predisposed to being affected.

It's often a temporary condition and recovery is very, very possible in many cases, especially if the person affected wishes to take an active part in his or her healing.

In my case, I read extensively on the subject and embarked voluntarily upon a CBT (cognitive

behavioural therapy) model of help, also the fact that I had been incorrectly labeled did not help! In other cases, it may be a lifelong management of a condition and there are several ways of dealing with it.

But even years after recovery, now that I am a fully functioning and productive person, I am continually judged with the label I had years ago, "oh she is bipolar," as though that is the only thing that defines me.

Discrimination at the workplace is also widespread. With many em-

ployers unwilling to take on people with mental health issues, this is one of the largest groups of any disability that is unemployed. Often people have no option but to resort to hiding the fact that they have any issue just to get work. In many cases, it is discrimination that prevents people from getting help. "I'm not crazy," they say, when they think that perhaps they should go see a therapist or get help.

And it's precisely the conditioning we have all had growing up, from our parents or society around, "oh, you know, that person is crazy" and talking about what they did in hushed whispers.

If we grow up thinking that to have any mental health issue is being crazy and that is the last thing we want, obviously it is hidden for as long as possible. Why can't it be treated like a medical condition, which is what it is, and be casual? "Oh, I have diabetes, so no sugar, please," is treated much differently to "I

have anxiety disorder."

In a survey of over 1700 adults in the UK, Crisp et al. (2000) found that: (1) the most commonly held belief was that people with mental health problems were dangerous - especially those with schizophrenia, alcoholism and drug dependence, (2) people believed that some mental health problems such as eating disorders and substance abuse were selfinflicted, and (3) respondents believed that people with mental health problems were generally hard to talk to . People held these beliefs regardless of their background, education or position in society and when questioned about whether they would employ people with mental health problems, the answer was less likely.

Stigmatization comes in many forms, distrust, avoidance, pity, gossip, etc. Stigma is also prevalent in the classroom where teachers expect sufferers to underperform and this

may not be the case! A lot of the common beliefs about 'mad' people stem from media. Cinema often portrays schizophrenics in stereotypical and violent roles, which reinforces what people generally believe about people with mental illness. These go a long way in continuing to make people behave in a discriminatory way to-

wards anyone affected.

Worse than the external stigma and discrimination around mental health is the internal stigma. It's a condition that often affects people's self esteem and their own beliefs of recovery are linked to the self stigmatization. If they believe they can't recover, all the medication and therapy in the worlds will not

help. There is often increased social isolation, and this is often linked to a self belief that they will not be liked. In the UK, there has been a huge campaign to end stigma.

A similar approach will be needed in India, one of the worst countries in the world when it comes to how it deals with those affected with mental health conditions.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

BUSINESS

Lower interest rates drive up housing loan growth in smaller towns, cities New Delhi, Nov 24: The demand for new homes in smaller towns and cities and lower interest rates seem to be driving up housing loan growth, which has gone up by around 19% till September. Unlike the past when bigger lenders like SBI were top performers among the public sector players, the action has now shifted to smaller lenders such as Syndicate Bank, Andhra Bank, Central Bank of India and UCO Bank, some of which are registering growth rates higher than private players such as ICICI Bank and HDFC. Syndicate Bank, for instance, has seen its home loan portfolio expand 76%, while Central Bank and Andhra Bank have seen

a rise of over 30%, indicating that housing activity in smaller cities is picking up. ICICI Bank's home loan book has expanded by around 28%, while HDFC has seen a 23% growth. In contrast, the growth at SBI was just around 15% during the year to September 2015. For the public sector banks as a whole, outstanding home loan grew by 18.7% to Rs 4.78 lakh crore at the end of September, compared to a 14.9% growth witnessed till the end of September 2014, data compiled by the finance ministry showed. But the worry for the government is the low demand for financing of affordable housing. Although the finance ministry had set a target of 30% for

Stake in HK newspaper to be bought by Jack Ma Mumbai, Nov 24: Alibaba Group Holding's founder Jack Ma is in talks to buy a stake in the publisher of Hong Kong's South China Morning Post, according to people familiar with the matter, in what could make him the latest Internet-industry tycoon to pursue the revival of a traditional newspaper.

Discussions are at an advanced stage, two of the people said, asking not to be identified because the negotiations are private. A signing ceremony will be announced soon, one of the people said. Once the world's most profitable newspaper, SCMP has followed the path of other mastheads with falling earnings and shrinking circulation as readers shift online. Control of the city's premier

English-language broadsheet has been unchanged since Rupert Murdoch sold most of his stake to Malaysian billionaire Robert Kuok in 1993. The SCMP and Alibaba declined to comment.When asked whether he's interested in buying the SCMP, Ma said in an interview this month that he's "watching a lot of companies right n o w. " A t t e m p t s t o reach Kuok's group that owns the SCMP were unsuccessful.

(Agencies)

the current financial year, the growth up to September was a mere 4.7%, half the rate witnessed a year ago. This was mainly due to low offtake in the sub-Rs 5 lakh segment. Data compiled by the finance ministry showed that The maximum rise was seen in the over Rs 25 lakh segment, which registered a 36% growth. A pick-up in demand is good news for the real estate sector which has been grappling with a pile of unsold apartments with several developers facing difficulties in repaying debt.

A revival of the real estate sector is also seen to be crucial for demand in sectors such as steel and cement apart from generating more jobs.

(Agencies)

come into force after the requisite regulatory clearances have been secured from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)," a statement issued by the company said. Max Bupa is already the 7th largest private health insurer in In-

49%. Bupa was the first foreign insurer to announce its intent to increase its stake to 49% in its Indian health insurance subsidiary after the government relaxed FDI participation rules for insurance companies.

"Since that announcement in January 2015, Bupa and Max India have been working to align their JV agreements with the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill 2015 for Indian-owned and controlled businesses.

The new agreements will

dia and has over two million customers. The company has focused on individual policies through multiple sales channels, including agency, bancassurance, telesales and online. Even after the transaction, Max India would be the largest shareholder. "The cash received from the transaction will support growth aspirations of the Max Group as well as for Max Bupa," said Rahul Khosla, managing director, Max India.

(Agencies)

FM asks state-owned banks to clean up balance sheets

HOMING IN ON HOMES The demand for new homes in smaller towns and cities and lower interest rates seem to be driving up housing loan growth, which has gone up by around 19% till September.

Unlike the past when bigger lenders like SBI were top performers among the public sector players, the action has now shifted to smaller lenders such as Syndicate Bank, Andhra Bank, Central Bank of India and UCO Bank, some of which are registering growth rates higher than private players such asICICI Bank and HDFC.

Syndicate Bank, for instance, has seen its home loan portfolio expand 76%, while Central Bank and Andhra Bank have seen a rise of over 30%, indicating that housing activity in smaller cities is picking up.

ICICI Bank's home loan book has expanded by around 28%, while HDFC has seen a 23% growth. In contrast, the growth at SBI was just around 15% during the year to September 2015.

For the public sector banks as a whole, outstanding home loan grew by 18.7% to Rs 4.78 lakh crore at the end of September, compared to a 14.9% growth witnessed till the end of September 2014, data compiled by the finance ministry showed.

FSSAI allows use of 'stevia' in select products FMCG majors afforded a sigh of relief Pune, Nov 24: In what has come as a relief to FMCG majors, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has allowed the use of natural sweetener stevia (steviol glycoside) in selected products, including soft drinks, dairybased beverages and desserts. Till now, many companies in India have been using aspartame, a high-intensity artificial sweetener in their products. Aspartame's use in food products has been the cause of concern among consumers due its alleged health concerns.

In August, New Yorkbased food and beverage company PepsiCo dropped aspartame from its zero-calorie drink Diet Pepsi in some markets such as the US over public outcry. Vipul Prakash, VP, beverages category, PepsiCo India, said, "The approval of stevia is a welcome step for the industry. We believe this

will encourage innovation and help the industry to bring forth more choices for consumers." Moreover, the approval of stevia, a plant-based extract, could also open the floodgates for many new products to enter the domestic market, as globally, many MNCs use it as an alternative to sugar and other artificial sweeteners. Stevia's natural origins help them create a 'healthy' brand image of their products. "Pepsi True and Coke Life that are marketed as lowcalorie carbonated drinks in some markets, use a mix of stevia and sugar.

Since, stevia was not allowed in soft drinks in India, these companies couldn't bring in those products since they are very sensitive about fiddling with ingredients and changing the resulting taste. Now that hurdle has been removed," a senior executive of a large beverage firm said.

Along with many FMCG companies such as Coke and PepsiCo, stevia supplier Pure Circle, have been batting for stevia's approval in India for some time. "These companies are looking at the long-term potential," said Arvind Singhal, retail expert and founder of Technopak. "At present, the market for diet drinks in India is very niche. But one has to remember that

India has a big diabetes problem. As awareness grows, consumers will start looking for alternatives to sugary products.

Having stevia in the armoury could prove to be a boon for FMCG companies." Apart from aspartame and now stevia, acesulfame K, splenda, sucralose and saccharine are some of the other artificial sweeteners allowed in India. (Agencies)

New Delhi, Nov 24: After filing several complaints against e-tail giants such as Snapdeal, Flipkart and Amazon over alleged FDI violations in e-commerce, the country's apex traders' body Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has finally decided to fight fire with fire by launching its own hyperlocal e-commerce venture called e-lala.

Supported by around 5.5 crore small traders with brick-and-mortar stores, who have been wary of big e-tailers eating into their revenues, e-lala aims to be a disruptor in

the country's booming ecommerce space. "The primary difference between a Flipkart and elala is that a trader who owns a physical store can only sell his products on the site. Second, in case of other e-tailers, all transactions are handled by them. In our case, HDFC Bank will handle the payment gateway and buyers will pay the sellers directly," said Praveen Khandelwal, general secretary of CAIT. E-lala aims to rope in around 50,000 traders as members by March next year. These sellers would have to pay

a commission of around 3% to e-lala for every transaction. "Other etailers take a huge margin from sellers, from 730%. As e-lala takes off, we will ask participating members to take stake in the company. The aim is to make it an online marketplace for small traders run by small traders," said Khandelwal. For deliveries, e-lala will depend on the local traders, who will be making the sale. For inter-state transactions, the portal will partner with logistics companies. Ever since the entry of big retail, neighbourhood kirana

and electronics stores have sought to reinvent themselves in a bid to ward off competition from foreign as well as domestic players. In fact, they have been vocal opponent of FDI in multibrand retail and the BJP government, which counts small traders as a large vote bank, has shied away from the entry of overseas players although is yet to reverse a decision on the issue taken during the UPA regime, fearing it would send negative signals to global investors. (Agencies)

New Delhi, Nov 24: Finance minister Arun Jaitley asked stateowned banks to clean up their balance sheets at the earliest, stressing that they have all the powers to deal with willful defaulters. The minister during his meeting with heads of public sector banks (PSBs) also reviewed interest rate in the light of key policy rate reduction by RBI in September. Besides, the institutional measures being taken to assist banks in reducing NPAs were also discussed in the second quarterly performance review in six

months. The gross NonPerforming Assets (NPAs) of public sector banks rose to 6.03% at the end of June, as against 5.2% in March this year. "When we took assessment of certain sectors which had a higher level of NPAs, some particular defaulters which are common thread running across several banks did crop up for discussion," he told reporters after the meeting. The public sector banks, he said, "have all the powers... Banks today have full authority and autonomy to take action against them (defaulters)".

(Agencies)

Banks to encourage solar panels

Bupa picks up additional stake in its insurance JV Small traders look to fight e-tail giants with E-lala Mumbai, Nov 24: UK insurer Bupa has picked up an additional 23% stake in its health insurance joint venture with Max India for Rs 191 crore in an all-cash transaction. A statement issued by Max Bupa Health Insurance said that its foreign parent Bupa has executed agreements to increase its stake from 26% to

PAGE 10

Indore, Nov 24: Banks may soon chase you to fund installation of solar panels on your rooftop, and that too at concessional rates. The finance ministry has advised banks to "encourage" home loan or home improvement loan applicants to install rooftop solar photovoltaic systems and include the equipment cost in the home loan.

Given that there are few takers so far, the issue figured in the discussions with public sector bank chiefs recently. The move is part of an overall push to renewable energy and banks have been "requested" to offer a 1% interest concession for renewable energy projects to propagate the use of green technology. This is in addition to suggestions of a new fund-raising and lending model, where state-run lenders such as

SBI and PNB, through their overseas branches, are expected to borrow from multilateral agencies such as World Bank and provide rupee loans to borrowers through their branch network in the country. An internal assessment by the finance ministry has shown that the mode would help banks lend below the base rate by avoiding hedging costs that add up to 6-8%.

Lending below base rate is something that the Reserve Bank of India does not allow currently. The RBI has already included financing of renewable energy projects under the priority sector lending limit, which includes loans up to Rs 10 lakh to individuals but not much lending has taken place so far, prompting the government to step in and ask lenders to prepare a special scheme with specific targets. (Agencies)

world, and we are committed to widen the reach of the programme to help

and sensitise even larger portion of people in India and abroad." (Agencies)

Tata Power's Club Enerji goes online Mumbai, Nov 24: Club Enerji, Tata Power's nationwide movement, has been relentlessly working towards spreading the message of being responsible citizens by conservation of energy & resources across the country, with a strategic focus on nation building.

In line with this commitment and inspired by the Digital India programme, the Company today announced that it has scaled up the magnitude

of this initiative by launching an online module of the Club Enerjiprogramme. The module is hosted on the Club Enerji website h t t p : / / www.clubenerji.com/ and users would simply need to register for a detailed access to it. The objective of this initiative is to reach out to a larger audience and impact a larger group of IT skilled children with a vision to transform by adopting a

holistic and robust approach towards conservation. The module aims to not only urge the wider audience to conserve energy, resources, and their civic and moral values, but also give them a detailed understanding of the ways in which depletion of resources is occurring, and its various repercussions. This will aid in significant increase of the visibility of the program, and help it reach out to the global audience

as well. Speaking on this initiative, Anil Sardana, MD & CEO, Tata Power, said, "As a part of our 100 year celebration, we are determined to strengthen our programme and reach out to a global audience to encourage the IT skilled children of today to become Responsible Citizens of tomorrow. The online module is aimed at making the future generation realize the importance of a sustainable

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Features

Page 11

HORTICULTURE Aromatic Nutmeg Cultivation Nutmeg is an evergreen perennial tree that reaches about 10 meter height and produces two different spices. Nutmeg and mace are the output of this tree.

Nutmeg is actually a dried kernel of the seed whereas mace is dried aril surroundings of the seeds (Nutmeg is the shelled, dried seed of the plant Myristica fragrans, and mace is the dried net-like covering of the shell of the seed). Nutmeg tree belongs to the family of "Myristicaceae" and genus of "Myristica". Nutmeg & mace are used to make medicine. Nutmeg and mace are used for diarrhea, nausea, stomach spasms and pain, and intestinal gas.

Nutmeg is used as condiment in sweet foods. Dutch dishes use the seasonings in ground form. Nutmeg oleoresin is used in preparation of meat products, soups, sauces, baked foods, puddings etc. Nutmeg oil is used in cosmetics and toiletries.

Benefits of Nutmeg The following are some of the benefits of Nutmeg: Nutmeg aids in pain relief.

Nutmeg is good for digestion. Nutmeg is good for people who have Alzheimer's disease. Nutmeg is good for brain function. Nutmeg is helpful in Insomnia patients. Nutmeg is good for oral health.

Nutmeg helps leukemia patients. Nutmeg helps to lower the blood pressure.

Nutmeg helps in maintain the bone health. Nutmeg helps to dissolve kidney stones. Nutmeg helps in elimination of toxins from the body. Nutmeg helps in reduce inflammation and irritation of skin. Nutritional values in Nutmeg: Vital B-complex vitamins including vitamin C, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A and anti-oxidants which are essential for optimum health.

Climate and Soil Requirement for Nutmeg Cultivation Nutmeg crop grows well in humid and warm cli-

matic conditions. This crop requires an annual rainfall of 150 cm above.

These trees grow up to 1000 meters above msl (mean sea level). The best suited soils for Nutmeg cultivation are sandy loam, clay loam and red laterite.

Draught and water stagnation conditions are not suitable for Nutmeg farming. Nutmeg grows best with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 Nutmeg grows best with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0.

Propagation in Nutmeg Cultivation Propagation is mainly done by seeds. As Nutmeg trees are perennial and dioeciously in nature, an alternative method of propagation is in progress.

Epicotyls grafting, patch budding and approach grafting are most successful in Nutmeg propagation.

Land Preparation, Spacing and Planting in Nutmeg Cultivation Land should be ploughed thoroughly till it attains fine tilth stage and to destroy any weeds from previous crops. When it comes to nursery raising seedlings, naturally split and healthy fruits should be harvested during the June & July months. The seeds should be extracted from the pericarp and sown immediately in sand beds of 1.5 meter width and 15 cm height. Make sure to provide regular watering for better and quick germination. Usually, the germination of nutmeg seeds start from 1 month to 3 months after sowing. An about of

3 weeks old sprouts should be moved to polythene bags that contain mixture of good soil, sand and well decomposed farm yard manure in 3:3:1 ratio.

Once the seedlings attain 18 to 24 months, they can be transplanted to main field.

Growing Nutmeg in Nursery The planting in the main field should be done at the onset of monsoon/rainy season. Dig the pits of 0.75 meter x 0.75 meter and these pits should be filled with organic manure and good soil 2 weeks earlier to actual planting. The spacing varies widely and spacing of 7 meter to 8 meter appears to be sufficient. In case of grafting, 5 meter x 5 meter should be optimum. It is recommended to protect the nutmeg plants from sun scorch by providing the shade in the early stage.

Permanent shade trees should be planted when the site is on hilly slope and when this crop is grown as monocrop.

Manures and Fertilizers in Nutmeg Cultivation Usually, Organic manures should be applied in Nutmeg plantation. Bonemeal is popular among the growers. Generally, manures should be applied in shallow trenches or pits dug around the trees. However, a dose of 20 grams of 'N' (45 grams urea), 20 grams of P2O5 (110 grams of superphospahte) and 50 grams of K2O (80 grams of muriate potash) should be applied during initial

year and 500 grams 'N' (1100 grams of urea), 250 grams P2O5 (1,550 grams superphosphate) and 100 grams of K2O (1650 grams muriate of potash) per year should be applied in subsequent years for fully grown trees of 15 year or more.

Irrigation in Nutmeg Cultivation Generally, Nutmeg plants require good irrigation for high yield and quality of fruits. However, the frequency of irrigation depends on the season, moisture holding capacity of the soil and plant age. Usually, in dry and summer seasons, it requires frequent irrigation.

Intercropping in Nutmeg Cultivation During initial stage of plantation, any low growing vegetable crops and be cultivated as intercrops in Nutmeg cultivation. Nutmeg can be best grown as an intercrop in old coconut orchards, clove, areca-nut and coffee gardens, where light shade conditions are suitable.

Intercultural operations in Nutmeg Cultivation During initial years, regular mulching of plant basins should be carried out after slashing weeds and shading in summers. Banana trees can be grown for shading purpose in the early stage of Nutmeg plantation.

Pests and Diseases in Nutmeg Cultivation The hard scale Saissetia nigra occurs on the pencil thick branches & desaps the tissues. The infested

ripening splits-up to reveal single, centrally situated oval shaped hard kernel popular as "nutmeg spice." This seed kernel is closely enwrapped by crimson-red, lacy or thread like arils known as "mace." Both spices feature a similar warm, sweet aromatic flavor.

Processing Nutmeg tree yields up to three times in a season.

Once harvested from the tree, its outer coat or husk is removed and discarded.

Just underneath the tough husk is the golden-brown color aril, known as "mace," which firmly enveloping around the nutmeg kernel. Mace is gently peeled-off from its kernel surface, flattened into strips, dried, and sold either as whole (blades)

flavor and aroma and command less price.

This spice tree is a large evergreen plant that thrives well under tropical climates. A fullygrown tree may reach about 50-60 feet in height and is the source of nutmeg and mace, two invaluable spices. The nutmeg fruit, indeed, is a drupe about the size of an apricot which up on

or finely ground powder.

Nutmeg kernel is then dried under the sun for several days to weeks. At larger commercial set-ups, this process is accomplished rather more rapidly over a hot drier machine until the whole nutmeg rattles inside the shell.

Its shell is then cu-open and a single, shriveled nutmeg kernel is then taken

out. Finally, nuts are dipped in lime-water in order to prevent insect infestation and seed germination.

Health benefits of nutmeg 1.Nutmeg and mace spice contains many plant-derived chemical compounds that are known to have been anti-oxidant, disease preventing, and health promoting properties.

2. The spicy nut contains fixed oil trimyristin and many essential volatile oils such as which gives a sweet aromatic flavor to nutmeg such as myristicin, elemicin, eugenol and safrole. The other volatile-oils are pinene, camphene, dipentene, cineole, linalool, sabinene, safrole, terpeniol.

3. The active principles in nutmeg have many therapeutic applications in many traditional medicines as anti-fungal, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, digestive, and carminative functions.

4. This spice is a good source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, zinc and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese and copper are used by the body as co-factors for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and as a co-factor for cytochrome oxidases enzymes.

5. It is also rich in many

Botryodiplodia theobromae.

Water soaked lesions are seen on the fruits, the tissues of which become discolored and disintegrated.

Premature splitting of the pericarp and rotting of mace and seed are the main symptoms of the disease. The internal tissues are found rotten.

The fallen fruits become enveloped with the growth of the organism. The disease can be controlled by spraying 1% Bordeaux mixture. The other diseases include leaf blight, leaf spot, sooty mould and the algal leaf spot.

Harvesting and PostHarvesting in Nutmeg Cultivation Generally a female nutmeg tree starts fruiting from the 6th year and the peak harvesting period reaches after 20 years. The nutmeg fruits will be ready for harvesting 9

months after flowering. In Nutmeg farming, flowering and harvesting continues throughout the year.

The nutmeg fruits ripen and become ready for harvesting when their pericarp splits open. Harvesting should be done by bill hook. The outer fleshy portion should be removed and the mace should manually be separated from the nut.

The nuts and mace should be dried separately for 3 to 5 days.

Yield in Nutmeg Cultivation Generally, yield of the crop depends on the soil, weather conditions, farm management practices. In nutmeg cultivation, at 8th year, 480 kg mace/ha and 3122 kg nuts/ha can be obtained. The yield will increase in subsequent years, a potential yield of 4,800 kg mace/ha and 31,000 kg nuts/ha can be obtained from 25 years old trees.

FLORICULTURE Polyhouses prove to be a great boon

Nutmeg Nutrition Facts Pleasantly aromatic, nutmeg is actually seed kernel of fruit-nutmeg. It is one of the highly prized spices known since antiquity for its aromatic, aphrodisiac, and curative properties. Nutmegs are evergreen trees, native to the rain forest Indonesian Moluccas Island; also known as the Spice Islands.

Botanically, the plant belongs to Myristicaceae family of medium to large trees. Its scientific name is: Myristica fragrans.

Besides M. fragrans, several other species of Myristica grown all over the tropical regions including M. argentea, M. malabarica (Indian), and M. fatua. Although they are similar in appearance to M. fragrans, they, however, have less intense

shoots invariably develop sooty mould cover. It can be controlled by spot spraying with quinalphos 0.025%.

Leaf spot and shot hole: Sunken spots surrounded by a yellow halo are the initial symptoms. Subsequently the central portion of the necrotic region drops off resulting in shot hole symptoms.

Central portion of the necrotic region drops off resulting in shot hole symptoms.

Dieback symptoms are also observed in some of the mature branches. On young seedlings drying of the leaves and subsequent defoliation are seen. The disease can be controlled by spraying 1% Bordeaux mixture two or three times during rainy season.

Fruit rot: This is caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and

vital B-complex vitamins, including vitamin C, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A and many flavonoid anti-oxidants like beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin that are essential for optimum health.

Medicinal uses 1. Since ancient times, nutmeg and its oil were being used in Chinese and Indian traditional medicines for illnesses related to the nervous and digestive systems. The compounds in this spice such as myristicin and elemicin have been soothing as well as stimulant properties on brain.

2. Nutmeg oil contains eugenol, which has been used in dentistry for toothache relief.

3. The oil is also used as a local massage to reduce muscular pain and rheumatic pain of joints.

4. Freshly prepared decoction with honey has been used to relief of nausea, gastritis, and indigestion ailments.

Selection and storage In the stores, one can get the nutmeg kernel as well as its fine powder. Try to buy whole nuts instead of its powder form since oftentimes it may be adulterated with other inferior quality nutmeg varieties.

Choose well-sealed pack,

from the authentic brands from reputable selling company, which mentions its package and expiry dates.

Once at home, store whole nuts as well as ground powder inside an airtight container and place cool, dark and dry place, where it can stay for several months.

Culinary uses Both nutmeg as well as mace is used in cooking recipes. Mace has delicate flavor and gives saffron like color to the food items. Whole kernels generally preferred over powdered form since they possess more essential oils, which thus, give rich flavor and freshness to recipes. In general, completely dried kernels are either grated or milled just before being added at the last minutes of cooking.

Here are some serving tips: 1.Nutmeg and mace are being employed in sauces, soups, and in confectionary.

2. Aromatic mace spice is especially used as a colorant and flavoring agent in sweets, pie, cakes, donuts, etc.

3. The spice is also being used as one of the common ingredients in curry powder to marinate meat and vegetable dishes in many Asian countries.

Until a few years ago, monkeys and pigs destroyed everything the farmers grew in the villages around Jubbar Hatti, 25 km from Shimla. Today the same farmers earn big money from growing exotic vegetables like bell capsicum or carnation flowers, but inside a cluster of polyhouses spread across five panchayats in a 25,000 sq m area. Offering safety from animals and untimely rains, polyhouses can come up even on very small holdings, and the government offers subsidy too. Ram Gopal, President of the region's Marketing Cooperative Society, says that after unsuccessfully trying various methods to save their crops and livelihood, the farmers hit upon the idea of polyhouse farming during a visit to Shimla's horticulture department.

In fact, a polyhouse yields more produce than a samesized land holding. Moreover, as the region has no extreme climates, the polyhouses here don't require temperature regulators. Ram Gopal and a few other farmers underwent training at Pune and set up their polyhouses with the help of bank loans and government subsidy. In less than five years, Ram Gopal has constructed five polyhouses of different sizes (mainly growing bell capsicum, cucumber, and carnations), repaid Rs 13.5 lakh loan, renovated his house and bought a car a few months ago. "I earned more than Rs 1 lakh on a single day from my red bell capsicum produce, which fetched over Rs 260 a kg, even though this variety is usually priced Rs 105 to Rs 110." Attracted by such success, 37-year old Praween left his tech-

nician job at Ambujas to take up polyhouse farming.

Today he has half-a-dozen polyhouses ranging in size from 50 sq m to 350 sq m.

"I am earning at least two to three times the salary I got at the Ambujas," he says. Several unemployed youth in the area have decided against migrating to cities for jobs and instead set up their own polyhouses, also called modern greenhouses.

"What has really drawn them to polyhouse farming is the fact that it requires much less hard work and they can put their education to use here," says Praween.

The local Marketing Cooperative Society currently has 39 members and 20 share holders. Kamal Kant Mehta, the latest to join the group, has started growing tomatoes in 560 sq m polyhouses. The society is constructing a cold storage facility at a cost of Rs 7 lakh, prompting the farmers to diversify into experimental cultivation of ice-

pending on the crop - cereals, vegetables or fruits - annual income from similar-sized polyhouses is estimated at Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. Additionally, income can be generated round the year through multiple crops, including off-season vegetables, which fetch premium prices. Official figures show that Himachal Pradesh's annual output of off-season vegetables has touched 1.4 million tonnes, generating a turnover of about Rs 2,500 crore. There is potential for even greater growth as only around 10 per cent of the cropped area currently grows off-season vegetables. Polyhouse cultivation started in Himachal Pradesh in 2009 under the Kisan Bagwan Samridhi Yojana. Today, with an eye on the countrywide market for off-season vegetables, the State government has enhanced its subsidy for polyhouses to 85 per cent

berg lettuce, leek, broccoli and lillium flowers. According to a study by Nabard Consultancy Services (NABCONS), polyhouses in Himachal Pradesh yielded three to five times more vegetables than open farms. Under traditional farming, one acre can generate an estimated annual income of Rs 20,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh. De-

under a Rs 100-crore YS Parmar Kisan Swarozgar Yojana. The target is to construct 4,700 polyhouses measuring 83.535 lakh sq m.

Training is mandatory under the four-year scheme aimed at increasing vegetable production, raising farmer's income and creating employment opportunities for over 20,000 people. Courtesy: Floriculturetoday.org

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"Not having Dale in the team is a setback because not having the services of the best bowler in the world is never a nice thing."

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Hashim Amla SA Captain

PAGE 12

Changlang football Club(B) edge past NFC Miao 1st Wangnia Pongte Memorial Football Tournament ET Correspondent Changlang, Nov 23: Changlang football Club (B) overcame NFC Miao 1-0 in a close encounter of the 1st Wangnia Pongte Memo-

Golaghat VKV shines at CBSE sports ET Correspondent Golaghat, Nov 24: Students of VKV Golaghat have performed extremely well at the games held across various parts of the country.

In swimming, Anamitra Phukan of Class 8 secured 2nd position in 50m backstroke at East Zone CBSE swimming tournament held at Kalyanpur UP and has qualified for the National Meet. Meanwhile, Trishna Gogoi bagged runners up position in the under-14 category at the CBSE East Zone Table Tennis Tournament held at Guwahati. In athletics, held in Odisha, Deepjyoti Bora of Class 8 bagged 2nd in 100m; Subhangana Gogoi of Class 8 bagged Gold.

Ankrit Saikia of Class10 bagged Gold in javelin throw and won 2nd position in discuss throw. All have qualified for the Nationals.

rial Football Tournament at Changlang. Both the teams played some good football and were neck-and-neck. The strikers of both the teams were quick and

ANI Johannesburg: World number one golfer Jordan Spieth has expressed that he is excited about the sport's return to the Olympics and said that he is treating next year's megaevent as a 'fifth major'. The American golfer, who won Masters and US Open back-to-back earlier this year, is expected to lead a four-strong American attack in the 60-man field at the Rio Games.

Changlang football Club (B) beat NFC Miao

1-0

Today’s Match Mount Sinai School Vs Lanwang FC

Spieth said that winning a gold medal was also his priority besides winning a major championship. The 22-year-old sporting marvel said that he was hoping to compete in the Olympics and meet incredible athletes from around the world and insisted that they were going to approach it as a fifth major. Golf will make a return to the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro next year after a hiatus of more than a century.

ANI London: Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has insisted that their

League match against PSV Eindhoven is a must-win as they are looking forward to secure a last-16 berth. The Dutchman, however, described PSV as a strong team and insisted that it won't be easy to beat them.

Manchester United are currently leading the Group B after claiming victory over third-placed Wolfsburg and CSKA Moscow. They will now play against PSV, who are currently at the second spot in standings, on November 26.

Gerrard to don Liverpool jersey once again ANI Los Angeles: Former Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard is all set to play for his side once again as he has agreed to play for the club's 'Legends' side in Australia next year. Expressing his excitement on his return to Anfield, Gerrard said it would be great to play with the official Liverpool Legends.

According to reports, the veteran midfielder has spoken to current manager Jurgen Klopp about training at Melwood. The 35year-old, who had captained Liverpool for 12 years before his departure, admitted that it would be an emotional moment to play in front of his fans

talizing on a pass from the left flank while Amir Lohar increased the lead in the 52nd minute. Sanjeev Maji scored the third goal for his team in the 68th minute.

Sanjeev received a pass from the midfielder Shankar Urang and deftly put the ball into the net. In both the proceedings, Tamulbari Tea Estate emerged as the domineering team.

Indoor stadium inaugurated in Glaghat ET Correspondent Golaghat, Nov 24: Golaghat MLA and Minister PWD today inaugurated an Indoor Stadium at HPB Girls’ College. A meeting was held which was presided by Dr Bonti Rani Gogoi and Minister Mrs Neog, Dr Ajit Baruah Nirmala Buragohain Mu-

teams came in the 70th minute when R. Chaitang of CFC(B) found the back of the net.

Tomorrow, Mount Sinai School will take on Lanwang FC.

Spieth to treat Olympics Van Gaal eyeing Champions League last-16 berth as 'fifth major' upcoming Champions

Tamulbari Tea Estate in quarter finals Sports Correspondent Dibrugarh, Nov 24: Tamulbari Tea Estate drubbed Sealkatee Tea Estate 3-0 in the Arun Jalan memorial prize money inter-garden running trophy football tournament here at Mokalbari Tea Estate playground in Dibrugarh. For Tamulbari Tea Estate, Shankar Urang drew first goal in the 13th minute capi-

troubled the defenders from both sides. The goalkeepers were also brilliant today as they managed some spectacular saves. The goal which separated both the

Results

nicipality Chairman Ghanshyam Barphoi among others were made to sit on the dais. Meanwhile, a sum of Rs 1.20 crore was sanctioned of which Rs 70 lacs were sanctioned by UGC. The programme was coordinated by Palash Handique.

Kohli says facing India's spin triumvirate `not pleasant`

ANI Nagpur: Indian test captain Virat Kohli believes that he would have find it 'really difficult' had he been put to bat against India's spin triumvirate of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Amit Mishra. "As a captain, I am delighted Ashwin is in my team along with Amit Mishra who brings in lot of variations for us and Jadeja, who is very consistent. All these three put together, if I was playing against them, I would find it really difficult to score off. It's not pleasant facing all three together. I am glad we have all three in our team," Kohli told media ahead of the third Test against South Africa in Nagpur. Heaping more praise on spin spearhead Ashwin, Kohli said that the 29-year-old off-spinner has gone back to basics and is becoming a better bowler everyday. "Ashwin has gotten back to basics in last six months, one can hardly see the carom ball. He is relying on his natural bowling action and he is getting fit-

ter and that is helping his bowling. He is now able to put that force behind the ball and get more turn and bounce off pitches other bowlers find it difficult to get it from. He is becoming a better bowler everyday," the Test captain added. Ashwin and Jadeja were the chief tormentors with the ball as they wreaked havoc on the

Dale Steyn ruled out again in another blow to Proteas ANI Nagpur: South Africa pace spearhead Dale Steyn has been ruled out of the third Test against India in Nagpur after failing to sufficiently recover from a groin strain sustained during the opening Test. The 31-year-old premium pacer experienced a tightness in his groin during the second day of the opening Test in Mohali and was ruled out of the second drawn Test in Bengaluru. Team captain Hashim Amla on Tuesday said that the right-hander was unlikely to take the

McIlroy eyes Grand Slam post Dubai triumph

again, adding that he is looking forward to get on the pitch. Gerrard, who is

currently on a post-season break from his team Los Angeles Galaxy, will repre-

sent Liverpool in a match against a team of Australian counterparts on January 7.

AAU Agricultural Sports Meet 2015 underway ET Correspondent Jorhat, Nov 24: Assam Agricultural Meet 2015 is underway at AAU, Jorhat campus playground here. Dr. Kamal Mallav Buzarbaruah AAUvice Chancellor inaugurated the four day sports extravaganza while Col. Rajeev Kumar Singh from the Jorhat Military Station 41 Sub-area HQ attended as the guest of honour. Col. Singh lauded the role played by students today.

He received the salute from the contingent of the different de-

partments and colleges under the AAU of the state which are in the fray including College of Agriculture, College of Home science, College of Horticulture, College of Sericulture, College of Fishery and College of Veterinary Science.

All together 800 AAU students from different AAU colleges are participating in the sports meet. During the inaugural day-ceremony Dr. Dipak Kumar Borah, Director Students’ Welfare, Dr. Dipti Kumar Baruah, Dean faculty

agriculture, were among other faculties who were present on the occasion. In the march past Hostel no. 12, Hostel no. 2, Hostel no. 4 bagged 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes respectively.

Meanwhile other events like athletic events, football, volleyball, badminton, weightlifting, singing competition preliminary round have started while final results will be out on day 2 evening, informed Ranjid Saud, the PRO of Assam Agricultural University (AAU) here today.

ANI Dubai: Former world number one golfer Rory McIlroy has said that one of his goals for 2016 is to play in the Masters tournament which would consequently complete hisGrand Slam's set of winning all four majors. McIlroy, who failed to defend both his British Open and PGA Championship crowns, ended his season by claiming victory at the DP World

South African batsmen by claiming 12 wickets apiece.

Besides, Mishra played a vital role in the first Test by removing batting marvel AB de Villiers twice. India would take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series if they beat the tourists in the third Test starting tomorrow. South Africa won the preceding T20 and ODI series.

Tour Championship in Dubai. Reflecting on his performance, McIlroy believed that he has done extremely well and ended the season on high. The Northern Irish player further said that now he has to focus on his fitness and try to get healthier and stronger to play well in the upcoming events. The Masters Tournament will be played in Augusta from April 7 to April 10.

field on Wednesday. "Dale Steyn won't probably play in this Test match, I don't think his injury has recovered fully," said Amla on the eve of the Nagpur Test. "Not having Dale in the team is a setback because not having the services of the best bowler in the world is never a nice thing," the captain added. "But we've got to deal with it and, hopefully, the guys who play will get a chance to stand out," said Amla. Earlier, pace bowler Vernon Philander was ruled out the remainder of the series with an ankle injury.

Real Madrid backs coach Benitez post Barcelona defeat ANI Madrid: Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has offered his support to coach Rafa Benitez following his side's embarrassing 0-4 defeat against Barcelona in their La Liga clash. While backing Benitez, who was also asked to resign, Perez said that the team will give complete support and confidence to the former. Perez insisted that the team has been struggling since January and the coach needs time to fix things.

With their second defeat of the league, Real have slipped down to the third spot, with 24 points from the 12 games which they have played. Real will now lock horns with Eibar on November 29.

Men's junior hockey team returns home to a warm reception Hockey India has rewarded the players and the coach with Rs 1,00,000 each.

PTI New Delhi: The triumphant Indian men's junior hockey team returned home to a warm reception after clinching the Asia Cup title in Malaysia. he team reached here late last night and Hockey India officials and fans received the players at the airport with the

beating of the drums and with garlands. India had begun the campaign on a winning note by defeating Japan 2-1, followed by a close match with host Malaysia 5-4 and a 4-1 defeat of 4-1. India drubbed Oman 9-0 in the quarterfinals and then beat Japan 6-1 in the semi-finals. In the summit

clash, India beat arch-rivals Pakistan 6-2 to lift the trophy. Almost fifty per cent of the goals India sored came from drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh who top-scored with 15 goals and was awarded the Top Scorer of the Tournament.

Indian goalkeeper Vikas Dhaiya proved his mettle as

opposition sides could barely find the board and he took the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament award.

Hockey India has rewarded the players and the coach with Rs 1,00,000 each and the support staff with Rs 50,000 each for their performance. On arrival, a beaming and proud coach

Harendra Singh, said, "It was a fantastic tournament for us. Our players were in peak form and our on field strategy and tactics helped us to dominate our opposition. We have garnered a lot of learning?s and confidence from our win and will hope to carry the winning momentum into 2016."

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