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ASSENG/2015/64205
Vol. 1
Issue 202
Narendra Modi: The Limits of a Political Rock Star
Dibrugarh, Sunday, December 27, 2015
JOBS &
Tolum also demanded that the Governor must tender a public apology infront of the people for hurting the sentiments of the people of the state. Stating that the Governor has painted a poor picture of the
ET CAPSULES Governor conveys condolence to Rijiju Itanagar, Dec 26: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has condoled the sudden demise of Shri Khelo Rijiju, brother of Shri Khiren Rijiju, Minister of State (Home Affairs). In this hour of crisis, I join my wife Smti Rita Rajkhowa and the people of Arunachal Pradesh to pray to the Almighty God to give you and other members of the bereaved family enough strength and courage to bear the irreparable loss. I also pray for eternal peace of the departed soul, the Governor said in his message to Shri Rijiju, MoS (Home). (Bureau)
Road mishap claims 2 Dergaon, Dec 26: Two persons died on the spot when a newspaper carrying vehicle of The Telegraph bearing Regn. No. AS01-GG-9735 and a coal laden truck bearing Regn. No. AS01-DD-1966 collided at Balijan on NH-37 near Dergaon early this morning. The truck was headed towards Guwahati while the newspaper vehicle was heading towards Jorhat. The dead are Pankaj Medhi, the driver of the van and Pranab Kalita, his assistant. The assistant of the truck was also injured critically. (Correspondent)
There is no law and order problem in the state unlike other states where rape, murder, extortion and looting at gun point is taking place, then how can the Governor say that there is jungle raj in Arunachal! Even if the current political crisis ends politically or by the court injunctions the NES will launch the tirade against governor and Pul.
Have a reason to believe the infamous audio clip was of Mr. Kalikho Pul who termed Nyishi as wild, underdeveloped, quarrelsome, land and property grabber. on 16 and 17 December 2015 by allowing a assembly sitting in a community hall with a clandestine motive to enable him to recommend president’s rule in the state to please his political boss at the cost of peace and tranquility of our state,” added Bengia. Demanding for law enforcing authority to complete the investigation process immediately and
Declaring that even the current political scene ends politically or by the court injunctions the executive members of the NES will launch the tirade against governor and Pul, Bengia also stated that both had dragged the name of the Nyishi community to the street in the furtherance of political ambitions and till the duo understand fully that the Nyishi live with dignity and have glorious past. Later on NES also appeal entire publics of the state not to allege that NES is communalizing the issue as NES is fighting only for the welfare of the Nyishi peoples and fight against those who has portrayed bad image to the Nyishi people.
Assam CM Tarun Gogoi accuses PM Modi for trying to destabilize Arunachal
Tarun Gogoi during a pre-poll rally in Jorhat. Pic - Nekib Ahmed ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 26
“Modi is trying to exploit Assam as well as Arunachal Pradesh by deputing his agents in the North-eastern states”, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said this during a pre-poll rally in Jorhat held at the Bisturam Baruah hall. During his speech, Gogoi stated that the crisis in Arunachal was
systematically triggered by Modi through his divide and rule policy. Gogoi said both the Governors of Assam and Arunachal were very clearly taking the side of the saffron brigade which they are not supposed to do as per the Constitution of India. Gogoi mocked the BJP by stating that if the party wishes to win the hearts of the people of the state they should not sleep but rather try to win the hearts of the people
Gogoi said both the Governors of Assam and Arunachal were very clearly taking the side of the saffron brigade which they are not supposed to do as per the Constitution of India.
Itanagar, Dec 26: In view of the preparation for ‘At Home’ function on the Republic Day and on-going construction works in the Raj Bhavan compound, the Raj Bhavan Visit under ‘Know Your Raj Bhavan’ is suspended for some time. The Raj Bhavan regrets for the inconvenience to the visitors, who had planned for a visit in coming days.
Commenting on the demand of lawmakers demanding 100 percent hike in their salary, distinguished Indian Constitutional expert Fali Sam Nariman on Saturday said they would be entitled even to 100 percent salary increase, provided that they gave all their time to Parliament.
Xmas wildfire claims more than 100 homes in Aus
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"In England, Parliament sits throughout the year, except for a few weeks here and there, because there is no provision, in England or in America, for an ordinance. In India, we have under our constitution, a provision for an ordinance, which is lawmaking during recession of Parliament, and that is why our Parliament only sits for 80, 90 or 100 days in a year," he said.
Jeraigaon gives ULFA leader, Anup Chetia a hero’s welcome Struggle for Assam will continue, but in a democratic way: Anup Chetia A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 26 The ULFA General secretary Anup Chetia was given a rousing welcome at his home, in Jeraigaon, by hundreds of well wishes. He straightaway went to the Jeraigaon field, one kilometer from his home, where a public meeting was held to felicitate him. Chetia, was granted bail on Wednesday and released from jail thursday evening. As soon as, Chetia reached the gateway of the village beside the NH-37, at around 2.45 pm a loud cheer went up. A traditional troupe of “gayanbayan” welcomed him and was accompanied by the loud beating of drums and cymbals as he got down from the open vehicle. Shouts of “Anup Chetia zindabad”, “Jai Aai Asom”, “Ulfa Zindabad” rendered the air. Chetia was left misty-eyed and speechless by the affection showered on him as people rushed to touch and hug him. His old friends, classmates, relatives and family members were there to receive him. Senior Ulfa leaders including Arabinda Rajkhowa, Pradip Gogoi, Prabal Neog and Jiten Dutta accompanied him to the field where he was felicitated. An emotional scene followed soon after as he walked past his home. Finding his el-
Anup Chetia, who was released on Thursday evening, stepped out a free man after 18 years since his arrest in Dhaka in December 1997 for illegally entering Bangladesh. Pic - Arjun Mishra
der brother Suren Baruah standing in front of the house he couldn’t hold back his emotions and ran forward to embrace him. Without stepping inside his home he then proceeded to the Jeraigaon school play ground. The Ulfa leader also paid tribute to Dinesh Baruah, the brother of Ulfa (I) commander in-chief Paresh Baruah who was gunned down by unidentified gunmen in February 1992. Jeraigaon in Chabua is the birthplace of both Paresh
Asom Sahitya Sabha’s 2-day pre- centenary celebration begins at Kawoimari “Ratnapal Setra”
of Assam democratically. CM Gogoi said that when they came to power in 2001, they started work from ground zero and have succeeded in removing most wooden bridges with newly constructed ones. CM Tarun Gogoi, however lauded his party workers at the grass root level and compared them with Sainiks of the forces.
"Therefore, it is of the essence that all members of Parliament must, even this limited period of 80 or 90 days, sit and must devote their full time and attention," he added. And if they wish, on the question of principle, to walkout, said Nariman, they are entitled to walkout, but not to disrupt Parliament, not to walk in. Contd. on Page 3
Baruah and Anup Chetia and both are cousins. Addressing the public meeting at Jeriagaon, Anup Chetia firstly paid homage to those who sacrificed their lives for their motherland. He said that he has not betrayed ULFA, and he was there because he was arrested to Bangladesh and the Indian Government released him to take forward the peace talks. “I would have been happy had Paresh Baruah been by my side in taking forward
the peace dialogue with the central government,’’ he said. He also added that the struggle for Independent Assam has not ended, but they are simply adopting the means of dialogue to put forward their demands. Suren Baruah, elder brother of Anup Chetia said , “I am very happy to see Gulup and hope that he would take forward the peace talkswith the central government in a positive way.” Anup Chetia said, Contd. on Page 3
Staff Reporter of ‘The Eastern Today’ conferred award for excellence in journalism A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 26
Contd. on Page 3
100% hike only if MPs devote full time to Parliament: Nariman ANI New Delhi, Dec. 26
Golaghat, Dec 26: Marwari Sammelan, Golaghat celebrated the foundation day of Marwari Sammilan by donating prescribed books to the students of about Rs 10,000 in presence of the headmistress and teachers of Arakshi Prathamik Vidyalaya, situated at Bagarijeng Pulibar, Golaghat by the president P.D Verma and the secretary, Deepak Agarwal along with some executive committee members Jagadish Sharma, Raj Kumar Agarwal, Pawan Bawari and Rajendra Chandak. (Correspondent)
charge sheet Kalikho Pul as per the law of the land NES further said that “We have a reason to believe the infamous audio clip was of Mr. Kalikho Pul who with his behest interest to fulfill his political ambitions at the cost of dignity of the Nyishi community termed Nyishi as wild, underdeveloped, quarrelsome, land and property grabber etc”.
JP Rajkhowa, Governor
Demands that the law enforcing authority should complete the investigation process immediately and charge sheet Kalikho Pul as per the law of the land.
‘Raj Bhavan Visit’ suspended temporarily
Foundation Day observed
cmyk
OBJECTIONS FROM THE NES
peaceful state NES also asked MoS (Home) Kiren Rijiju to prove himself by recalling the governor immediately if he is not involved in the present political turmoil and to guide the BJP MLAs not to hobnob with the dissident in other party members of the state assembly. “The Governor has added salt to the injury by his action to incite law and order problem
Pages- 12
Centre understated subsidy bill by Rs 44,941 crore in FY15: CAG Page 9
Nyishi Elite Society demands Governor’s ouster for his alleged Jungle Raj in Arunachal comment Taking serious note on the reported statement of state governor JP Rajkhowa during an interview with an Assam based news channel - DY365 – which was broadcasted on 18 December, 2015, the influential Nyishi Elite Society (NES) today demanded a public apology from the Governor and also his ouster from the state. Governor Rajkhowa had reported stated that Jungle Raj in Arunachal is going on …. Addressing media persons, here, at Arunachal Press Club NES President Bengia Tolum said that there was no law and order problem in the state unlike other state where rape, murder, extortion and looting at gun point is taking place, then how can the Governor say that there is jungle raj in Arunachal.
5.00
CAREER
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A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 26
Price -
Chief secretary of the apex literary body Dr. Paramananda Rajbangshi paying his tribute. Shambhu Boro Ratnapal Setra/Kawoimari, Dec 26
The two day long Pre - centenary celebration of Asom Sahitya Sabha got under way from today at Kawoimari “Ratnapal Setra” in Jugal High School Play ground along NH 15, around 20 kms from Tezpur with the probhat phery programme in the morning at around 6 am. It was followed by opening of various sub
committees by distinguished personalities of the area. At 9 am altogether 62 presidents of Asom Sahitya Sabha and it’s District committees were commemorated in a mass commemoration programme. The programme was initiated by 62 distinguished personalities from various walks of the society including litterateur, academician, social workers, Contd. on Page 2
Amarjyoti Borah, A staff Reporter of ‘The Eastern Today’ reporting from Guwahati was yesterday awarded the prestigious Jyoti Prasad Agarwalla award for excellence in journalism at a function at Tezpur. The award was given by the Purvottar Pradeshiya Marwari Yuva Manch during the inaugural session of the thirteenth state convention which was held at the District Library Campus of Tezpur. On the same platform award for literature was given to Udai Bhanu Pandey and an award for social service was given to Devashis Sharma. The awards consisted of a cash
Amarjyoti Borah, A staff Reporter of ‘The Eastern Today’ award of Rupees eleven thousand, a citation and a shawl. Borah has been a journalist for the past ten years, and prior to his joining the Eastern Today, he was associated with the Down to Earth magazine, and besides this has also worked for several leading national and regional publications.
Janakipathar villagers find out unique way to get rid from man-elephant conflict Mritunjoy Das Sonari, Dec 26
At a time when the man-elephant conflict is on the rise across the state villagers in upper Assam’s Janakipathar village has found out a unique way to get rid of the problem. Janakipathar is one of the Assam – Nagaland interstate border village in upper Assam’s Sivasagar district which has witnessed massive depredation by herds of marauding elephants in the past. According to data available, more than 35 people have lost their lives in the Janakipathar
and its adjoining villages in the past 10 years due to attacks by elephants. On the other hand, more than 20 elephants too have been ‘poisoned to death’ by a section of villagers as ‘revenge’ against the beasts. However, with the ‘invention’ of the local level solution villagers at Janakipathar claim that they have almost settled the issue. The solution is villagers have dug huge nullahs in and around their houses which prevent the elephants from entering the location. “These nullahs are around 10 feet in depth and around 8 feet wide. The el-
ephants are unable to cross the nullahs due to which we are safe now”, a villager said. Earlier too, the villagers had found out other ways like constructing tree houses to get rid of the elephants. “However, these tree houses can only be used by the youths. Children, the aged, women and those suffering from various diseases cannot climb up the trees”, the villagers said. The villagers also came down heavily upon the state forest department for its total negligent attitude in finding a lasting solution towards the problems. “Whenever, there are at-
tacks by elephants the forest department personnel come with some crackers and a few litres of kerosene to light torches to push back the elephant herds; however the very next they come again and destroy our standing crops, huts and whatever that comes their way”, another villager said. The forest department has a policy of providing compensation against loss of life and property, but the villagers claimed that they hardly get any kind of compensation neither from the forest department nor from the civil administration.
Villagers have dug huge nullahs in and around their houses which prevent the elephants from entering the location
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Dalam Studio Near parking stand Khonsa
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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
Assam rifles sponsor Foundation day of yoga training one local dimasa body observed at Mangaldai youth for iti course ET Correspondent, Haflong Dec 26 : With an aim to provide vocational skills and quality technical education to the local populace, the 38 Assam Rifles has sponsored one local youth namely Mr Goponjoy Hasnu, s/o Shri Boinon Hasnu, Village-Washobil, PO-Diyungmukh, Dima Hasao District (Assam) for the ITI (Welder Course) being run by the Assam
Rifles Institute of Technology (ITI), Silchar. The institute runs a well structured course which include trade theory and practical as well as employability skills. The locals and parents of the youth conveyed their heartfelt gratitude for this gesture shown by the Assam Rifles and pledged their support towards the efforts being undertaken to usher peace into the area.
Union Human Resources Minister to address rally at Nalbari Ramen Kalita Nalbari, Dec 26: In order to strengthen the organizational base of the party in the lower Assam districts, BJP is going to hold a zonal workers meet on December 28. “The party has decided to gather as many as 50,000 party workers from six lower Assam districts namely Nalbari, North Kamrup, Baksa, Barpeta, Bajali and Chirang,” Ashok Sarma the district BJP president informed. Addressing a press conference, Sarma said that the Union Minister for Human Resources Department Smriti Irani; National General secretary of BJP, Ram Madhav; State president
and Union Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare, Sarbananda Sonowal; National secretary Dr. Mahendra Singh, former Congress MLA, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma will address the gathering among others party leaders. He added that the BJP has 2452 booth committees in 19 constituencies under those six districts. All the booth committees are directed to participate in the mass rally to make it a grand success. The press meet was attended by former MLA Jayanta Malla Baruah, district secretary Banadwip Deka and state secretary Bhabesh Kalita.
ET Correspondent Mangaldai, Dec 26 : Vigyananda Yogashram , a local yoga training institution observed its foundation day here on Friday . According to a statement issued by the organization the day long function began with the unfurling of the organizational flag by its founder president Yog-guru Hiranya Garbhadeb followed by lightening of the ceremonial lamp by leading
entrepreneur of the state Mukul Ch Deka. The celebration also featured yoga demonstration by the students of the institution, interaction among the present and ex students along with the people present and the open meeting among others. The open session was addressed by few distinguished guests including Manoj Kumar , Deputy Commissioner, Darrang, senior physicians Dr
Amarendra Narayan Deb , Dr Prashanta Goswami , Arup Bora of Vivekananda Kendra , Mangaldai and Kamal Kishore Agarwala , Director of Mangaldai Maharshi Vidya Mandir among others. However the limelight of the programme was the cultural show mixed with some physical activities presented by the young trainees of " Prerona Ashram" based at village Borkola near here, the statement added.
Cleanliness drive carried out in picnic spots
Centenary Celebration of North Lakhimpur Govt HS School commented in an interview with media persons that CM Tarun Gogoi did so with a view to reap political benefits by transferring the bureaucrats and the officers who are involved in the activities of NRC update in the state and thus he has violated the verdict and directions of the honourable Supreme Court (SC). He added that the CM never
cultural activities besides the common citizen who had assembled for the event. Rich tributes were paid to those who had unmatched contribution towards the Assamese language, literature, culture and heritage. Paying tribute to the literary icons chief secretary of the apex literary body Dr. Paramananda Rajbangshi said that besides taking various initiatives in taking forward Assamese language and literature Sabha is always sincerely dealing with the issue of how to take for-
ward the language, culture, literature and heritages of other ethnic community of the region to strengthen the brotherhood and communal harmony among the different communities of the region. Stating about Sabha’s history Rajbangshi further said that Sabha has been observing the December 27 as Padmanath Gohain Baruah while December 27 as the establishment day of the apex literary body. “The Sabha will be observing a universal commemoration day every year to remember those literary icons for whom people of the region have got a platform like Asom Sahitya Sabha”, he
ASTRO FOR YOU You can make a difference to others’ lives. Considerate and thoughtful, today, you will be treasured more than ever as a boss, colleague, parent or beloved. Utilise this exchange of energy to sort out difficult issues.
Today, you will toil as if you have to conquer Mt. Everest. You may not get a standing ovation or a medal of honour for your hard work and dedication, but you will be lavishly appreciated by your superiors and colleagues. The task will require a lot of character and even a few changes in your disposition, but you will do this with ease. Today is a crucial and fascinating day for you. You will learn and gain from your bosses and elders. Peers and siblings may extend their full support to you. Your chances of winning legal battles are remote, so an out-of-court settlement may be your best bet. Under the strict instruction of Additional chief secretary of Assam Government, MGVK Bhanu to maintain cleanliness in the picnic spots, the PHE dept. Golaghat took up a cleanliness drive along the Dhansiri river. Pic - Amit Nagori
ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 26: Under the strict instruction of Additional chief secretary of Assam Government, MGVK Bhanu to maintain cleanliness in
the picnic spots. The Public Health Engineering department along with an NGO carried out a cleanliness drive in and around Dhansiri river of Golaghat and also in-
stalled three Ringwell Dustbins. Golaghat DC. Anowarul Haque visited the place and surveyed the same and appealed ragpickers to maintain the spot clean.
wants to have the NRC updated before the forthcoming Assembly Election for the interest of the vote banks and that is why he is playing politics with the NRC update process by transferring bureaucrats. It is here to be mentioned that the SC has instructed the Governments not to depute and transfer the officials who have been taking part in the activities of the NRC update for the sake of a pure Elec-
He added that the CM never wants to have the NRC updated before the forthcoming Assembly Election for the interest of the vote banks and that is why he is playing politics with the NRC update process by transferring bureaucrats. toral Roll. Regarding the issue, the students' leader alleged that the State Govt. had not followed the instruction of the SC. "We
will lodge complaint in the SC very soon with regard to it against the CM and the State Government" he said.
Asom Sahitya Sabha’s 2-day pre- centenary celebration begins at Kawoimari “Ratnapal Setra” Contd. from Page 1
New SP of Sivasagar district Anand Prakash Tiwari delivering his speech during a public meeting on the prevailing situation in the district. Pic - Firuz Ahmed
Financial gains are on the cards today. Happiness will fly in as you receive some good news from an overseas friend. If you have feelings that you haven’t expressed to someone you dearly love, today is a good day to go ahead and let them know. The evening promises rejoicing and relaxation.
“Gogoi and his government hindering NRC update" - Samujjal Bhattacharya ET Correspondent, Lakhimpur, Dec 26: "Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and his government are hindering the NRC update process in Assam due to sheer political reasons"alleged Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharya, the chief adviser of All Assam Student Union (ASSU) here today. Bhattacharya, who came to Lakhimur today in order to take part in the programme of the Concluding Ceremony of the
OFFICER TALK
maintained. However, at the side line of the scheduled programme the chief secretary of the apex literary body replying to the query on Bihu Suraksya Samittee’s decision regarding proposed role in celebrating Bihu functions he said that Sabha has already sought the copy of the decision of the Bihu Suraksya Samittee to analyze the matter. “We must be disciplined in every sphere of life including culture, but it is to be maintained liberally.” He said on the issue. Meanwhile, as per the scheduled programme, at 11 Am a children programme “Kuhi’ was held. The event was in-
augurated by Aditya Ankur Nath and conducted by Abhigyan Krishna Mahanta while Gyandeep Boro spoke on the occasion as chief speaker and urged the society’s all concerned to provide a space to the budding twigs and the common children like them to live in a peaceful world so that they too could do something for the society. In this event many children showed their talents by performing songs, dances and one Act play. It was followed by a programme “Aideor Junaki Baat” at 12 noon and a programme “Yuba Sangshad aru Ramdhenu”
CHILD ARTISTS
(Youth Parliament/platform and rainbow) at 1 pm, a multi-lingual poet’s meet at 2 pm. In the evening a cultural nite was held. The next day’s highlight is unfurling of 99 flags of Asom Sahitya sabha and presentation of Asom Sangeet “O …mur Apunar desh……” at 8,45 Am which will be graced by artists, litterateurs, students leaders, writers, and many distinguished personalities of the society. At 9 am unfurling of main flag of the Sabha by President of Asom Sahitya Sabha Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bora, cultural procession at 11 Am and open session at 1 Pm.
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A picture of winners ICCW children art contest -2015 from Darrang district with their prizes on Friday at Mangaldai. Pic - Mayukh Goswami
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Today, the force is with you. Well, at least part of the force that deals with being a smooth talker. It is your power of expression that comes to the fore and stands you in good stead. Having mastered the art of communication, you now are a wizard of words who conjures showers of pearls with a mere twist of the tongue. When in doubt, people will simply walk up to you for some inspiring talk, and go home satisfied. Take a break today. Replace the mundane with something exotic. Attend private dos and social meets and be gregariously gregarious. No matter what you do, some days are just not happening. Considering the random mood swings that affect you today, it’s in the best interest of others that you put up a ‘Beware of me’ sign. By being forewarned about it, you should be capable of handling your erratic behaviour. Just remember that nothing can affect your mental balance, and that this is just a phase. After slogging hard through the the day, you may desire to relax and pamper yourself later in the evening. Your mind shall take over the proceedings today. And it shall, in all likeliness, draw you to the work bench and keep your nose to the grindstone. But your heart will flutter like a butterfly, and if you manage to strike the right balance, you may win over your special one and your boss too. Be set to capture the flag and sing the victory song in whatever task you take up today. Your subordinates will be the ones needing your support and motivation. At the end of the day, the icing on the cake would be the smile you take to bed. The achievements of the day may make you feel like you were born to succeed in life. Yes, you will be successful in whatever you do today, even if you don’t try too hard for it. But it’s important that you at least take an initiative and not expect rewards to come for no reason. Make the most of the day for fortune may not be as favourable tomorrow. Your friends and those you socialise with will praise you for your sterling quality and powerful personality. If Elvis Presley is who you dreamed of being, today may be your day! You seem to impress one and all, and even money flows in! You play smart today and everything seems to work in your favour. Take care, as things may not be as they seem. You probably jumped out of bed this morning itching to talk to someone. And why not, since all your latent power of expression will spring out like a jackin-the-box today. The pearls of wisdom you shower on people who are downin-the-dumps today will make them feel good about their bluesy, taciturn selves.
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
27-12-15 (SUNDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 6-30 A.M-Sponsored Programme-"Sojai Tooloo Jeewanar Path" 6-50 A.M-Dihanaam 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) 9-00 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-20 A.M-Seuji Chora (Children's Programme) 11-00 A.M-MANN KI BAAT (P.M Shri Narendra Modi's Address to the People of the Nation) 12-05 P.M-Surar Satsori 1-10 P.M-Ghar Jeuti (Women's 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 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raaijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 8-00 P.M-Assamese version of MANN KI BAAT Sd-/H.O.P
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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
20th ITBP on Civic Action Christmas celebrated at CRC, Naharlagun Programme at Doji Jeku:
Aalo Dec 26: The Beemisaal Bees of 20th ITBP organized a Civil Action Programme to mark the Good Governance Day at Doji jeko village on 25th Dec last. The day long programme was marked by distribution of goods to the fire victims by Brig Mohan Singh Commandant ITBP and SS Gill Deputy Commandant. This programme was initiated under
the guidance of Shri Kiren Rijiju, MOS for Home Govt, of India who sent the team to the fire affected village on his behalf. The district administration also handed over Rs 1.2 lakhs to the victimâ•™s family. Shri Dagli Doji ASM and Committee members extended their heartfelt thanks to Shri Kiren Rijiju, ITBP and district administration for showing good gestures in the hour of crisis.
100% hike only if MPs devote full time to Parliament: Nariman Contd. from Page 1
"Today, the problem is not the walking out, the problem of political parties is they walk in in the floor of the House and disrupt the proceeding, which is erroneous and should not be done," he added. When asked about a 'No work no pay' bill moved by him as an MP in 2003-04, Nariman said, "This was a private member bill. When I moved the bill, I remember, there was great applause and great acclamation, but then the bill never saw the light of day, because as a nominated member, after my six-year term, I ceased to be in Parliament from 2005 and the bill lapsed. Therefore, there was no discussion on this private member bill." Suggesting measures to check repeated disruption of the Parliament functioning, Nariman said Parliament itself would have to do it. "Parliament is the supreme and almost sovereign body that we have under our Constitution, and
unless all members get together and decide what to do about it in the interest of the country, I don't think that Parliament can go on for too long," said Nariman, who is also senior advocate to the Supreme Court. "But, it must go on, because the parliamentary system of government is the best system of government provided we work it well," he added. When told that lawmakers were demanding 100 percent hike in their salary, Nariman told ANI: "They would be entitled even to 100 percent salary increase, provided that they gave all their time to Parliament." "In England, Parliament sits throughout the year, except for a few weeks here and there, because there is no provision, in England or in America, for an ordinance. In India, we have under our constitution, a provision for an ordinance, which is lawmaking during recession of Parliament, and that is why our Parliament only sits for 80, 90 or 100 days in a year," he said. "Therefore, it is of the es-
sence that all members of Parliament must, even this limited period of 80 or 90 days, sit and must devote their full time and attention," he added. And if they wish, on the question of principle, to walkout, said Nariman, they are entitled to walkout, but not to disrupt Parliament, not to walk in. "Today, the problem is not the walking out, the problem of political parties is they walk in in the floor of the House and disrupt the proceeding, which is erroneous and should not be done," he added. . When asked about a 'No work no pay' bill moved by him as an MP in 2003-04, Nariman said, "This was a private member bill. When I moved the bill, I remember, there was great applause and great acclamation, but then the bill never saw the light of day, because as a nominated member, after my six-year term, I ceased to be in Parliament from 2005 and the bill lapsed. Therefore, there was no discussion on this private member bill."
District BJP observed 91st birth anniversary of Bajpayee
District BJP unit observed the 91st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister of the country, Atal Bihari Bajpayee
Spl/Correspondent Pasighat, Dec 26: Along with rest of the country, the District BJP unit here has also observed the 91st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister of the country, Atal Bihari Bajpayee at party office opposite sumo stand yesterday. Various se-
nior party workers like Tamat Gamoh, State BJP member, Hondee Taki, ex-state member, Tabit Tayeng, District Majdoor Morcha Gen. Secy.cum GPM Sibut village and others. While recalling the contribution of former Prime Minister, Gamoh said t h a t
Bajpayee jee was one of the best Prime Minister India have ever had who was loved by all irrespective of party politics and its origin. The cake cutting was led by one of senior most Thela Wa l a from the Pasighat market, inf o r m e d Ta k i a n d Tayeng.
ET Bureau Itanagar, Dec 26: Christian Revival Church (CRC) at F’Sector Naharlagun, the mother church of APCRCC (Arunachal Pradesh Christian Revival Church Council) has joined the rest of the world in celebrating the Christmas with all pomp, gaiety and spirituality. The three day long celebrations witnessed literary, games and sports, choreographies and artistic competitions, Message-filled choreographies dances with modern moves and elegance by women, youth and Sunday school departments of the church, besides Christmas eve- prayers, praise and worship, biblical discourses, cake-cutting, merry-making and feasting were the main attractions of the celebrations.
Speaking as main speaker of the celebrations Pastor Hillang Taya in his speeches centered on the theme verse Luke 2:10 and text Mathew 2:1-12, dwelt in length the true essence and significance of Christmas. He encouraged all to become ambassadors of love, peace and hope while explaining the gifts brought by three wise men from the east
KLO observed martyrs day ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Dec 26: The Kamatapur Liberation Organization (KLO), an arms struggle organization observed it's martyrs day at an undisclosed location on Saturday. Jiban Singha Koch, chairman of KLO, on the occasion said that the outfit organization has been fighting for the reconstruction of Kamatapur state which was inherited to Kamatapuri people and state. He said that struggle spirit for Kamatapur state will never ends,it will continue untill last breath. Koch said that India government has no right to kill our people as well as no right to suppressed Kamatapur as outfit organization has been struggling for the cause of Kamatapur state to keep alive aspiration and prospect of the Kamatapuris.He said that his outfit organization will take its struggle spirit through forum of UNLFW untill achieved of Kamatapur state, Koch said.
society.
Christmas celebrated at CRC, Naharlagun namely gold, frankincense and myrhh. He further elaborated on the essence of giving to the needy citing the origin of Saint Nicholas from Holland popularly known as Santa-Claus. Christmas should be a time to bring positive change as it shows the right way, while reminding that Jesus Christ came to show the way, the truth and life towards salvation. Chief Engineer PHED, Govt. of AP Er. Toko Jyoti attending the celebrations as
chief guest on Christmas day advised that churches should make Christmas an occasion of sharing love and giving gifts to the downtrodden by proving themselves as believers of a gracious Lord, the worthiness and be a good and humble witness. He added further, that, the personalities of believers should be identified by others in terms of their good conducts, behaviors and nature.
He also suggested for alternative ideas of celebration by making it more participatory by all sections of the society. Earlier, on 23rd evening Dr. Nabam Tabin, Medical Officer of PakkeKessang while attending as chief guest inaugurated the cultural competitions of women folks. In his short speech, he encouraged the gathering to learn values and ethics of life from the church and spread it to one’s home, colony and
Organizing secretary Tad Akin, assistant organizing secretary Shulin Rigia also spoke. Assistant Pastor of the church Gandhi Dui led the three services of the programme as service chairman. The celebration was also marked by Football and T-20 cricket matches and a badminton (Men’s double) tournament. The football trophy was won by youth department while the elders lifted the cricket trophy and in badminton the pairs of Evan. Vikhedo Seyie-Bijoy Taggu representing F-Sector fellowship and Terge Sora-Dr. David Pertin of RGU fellowship was the winner and runners-up respectively. The celebrations were witnessed among others by former legislator Balo Raja, APCRCC president Tarh Kama, APCRCCD director Dr. David Pertin, PPDCRCC secretary Evan. Tami Tachang, PPDCRYA president Gibbs Taba, govt. officers, public leaders, and scores of young and old believers, which culminated over a mass feast.
Jeraigaon gives ULFA leader, Anup Chetia a hero’s welcome Contd. from Page 1
“I have become nostalgic and very much happy to see all my elders and brothers.” Later talking to reporters Chetia said that his struggle will continue for the people of Assam but in a democratic manner. “It will not be an armed
struggle but a democratic one. I expect the same love and support from the people of Assam like before,” Chetia said. The Ulfa leader also sought apology for the Dhemaji bomb blast on August 15, 2004 in which 13 people, including 10 school children were killed during an Independence Day function.
Earlier, the Ulfa leader was felicitated by various individuals and organizations on his homeward journey from his in-law’s place at Demow in Sivasagar district. He had a brief stopover at the designated camp of the Ulfa at Tiloi area of Moran, where he was welcomed by the Ulfa cadres. From Tiloi around 100 members
of the Muttuck Yuva Chatra Sanmilan on motorcycles escorted the Ulfa leader. On reaching Dibrugarh, Chetia was felicitated at the Jeoti Morol Sangha playground at Chiring Chapori by the public. Thereafter he was felicitated at the Lakshminath Bezbaruah Sahitya Sabha Bhavan at Chowkidinghee by several organizations.
Assam CM Tarun Gogoi accuses PM Modi for trying to destabilize Arunachal Contd. from Page 1
“Sainiks are the main force during war, if they fight well then we will win, so I appreciate our sainiks for the commend-
able jobs they have done during the past three elections for which we could reach the hearts of the people and I hope that they continue their efforts to wash off other forces trying to pollute and mis-
lead the people of Assam.” The Assam Chief Minister is to attend two poll related meetings at his own constituency Titabor on Sunday. Others present during the poll campaign were Rana
Goswami, MLA, Jorhat and All India Congress Committee secretary; Rupjyoti Kurmi, MLA, Mariani; District secretary Gulap Duara and district president cum ex-MP Dip Gogoi.
Nagaon district food security act launched at Raha ET Correspondent Nagaon, Dec 26: Panchayat and Rural development minster of the state Rakibul Hussain launched the Food Security Act (FSA) in Nagaon district on Saturday. Accordingly, every person belonging to priority households will be entitled to receive 5 kg of food grains per person per month at subsidised prices not exceeding Rs. 3.00 per kg for rice. National Food Security Act (NFSA) is an Act to provide food and nutritional security in human life cycle approach by ensuring access to adequate quantity of quality food at affordable prices for people to live with dignity. Under NFSA, 2013, a total of 2 crores 11 lakh 69 thousands has been identified as priority households in the State of Assam and 22 lakhs 65 thousands 136 household in Nagaon district will be benefitted by the scheme . At the launch of the scheme, held at Raha Block Development office premises , the minister and other dignitaries handed over the rice to 11 beneficiaries.
Panchayat and Rural development minster of the state Rakibul Hussain launched the Food Security Act (FSA) in Nagaon district Speaking at the launch, Rakibul Hussain called for better work culture within the district to ensure better implementation of projects. “If government employees work in the right spirit, then the implementation of the programme will be in right earnest and benefit the people,” said the minister while launching the districtwide National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA) and National Food Security Mission
at Raha organised by Nagaon district food and civil supply department.
ciety and the people, who are entitled to benefit as mandated in the programme”.
The minister also stated that the delay in the launch of the Act in the state was due to many factors. “We wanted to reach out to the most needy based on the socio-economic census. After due diligence, the process was completed to benefit the people. We have incorporated every section of the so-
The program according to the minister is inclusive and is set to benefit those that really need help. “The programme will address the hunger of the people. It was a challenging task but we did it. Now the onus lies on the rightful implementation of the programme,” he said.
The launching programme was attended by Manalisa Goswami, DC, Nagaon, Pranab Sharma, DRDA Project director, Nagaon, Anarul Islam, DDS, food and civil supply, Nagaon, Bankim Funglow, area manager, FCI, Nagaon, Pallavi Kachary, circle officer, Raha,and Atafur Rahman, BDO, Raha Block besides a large number of local people and beneficieries.
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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
R.K Jitani Hindi Vidyalaya golden jubilee celebration starts
JFA expresses grief at media employees’ demise ET correspondent Guwahati, Dec 26: Journalists’ Forum Assam (JFA) has expressed its grief at the demise of two media employees on Saturday morning in an accident that took place on National highway 37 in Dergaon locality. The victims have been identified as Pankaj Medhi and Pranab Kalita, who carried the copies of The Telegraph, a prominent English daily newspaper of eastern India, to eastern Assam from Guwahati. The JFA, in
Snapshots from the Golden Jublee rally of R.K Jitani Hindi Vidyalaya in Naharkatia today. Pic - Dipankar Kakoty. Bikul Gogoi Naharkatia, Dec 26: One of the premier institutions of Naharkatia, R KJitani Hindi Vidyalaya started its three day Golden Jubilee celebra-
tions (i.e 26th, 27th and 28th Dec’2015). R K Jitani Hindi Vidyalaya was established in the year 1965 by Ramchandra Kanhiya Lal Jitani with an aim to pro-
Kejriwal exempted VIPs from odd-even formula to avoid confrontation: BJP New Delhi, Dec. 26 (ANI): Responding to Congress president Sonia Gandhi's son in-law Robert Vadra's statement that VIPs should not be exempted from 'oddeven formula' of the Delhi Government, Bharatiya Janata Party ( BJP) leader Vijay Goel on Saturday said the Arvind Kejriwal Government was doing it to avoid confrontations with higher-ups. "There was no need to exempt VIPs, as they had not sought it. In order to avoid confrontation, the Arvind Kejriwal Government is giving exemption to VIPs so that the matter
doesn't go to higherups," he said. Lambasting the government for "not being fully prepared", even as it's going to implement the oddeven formula," Goel said, "When Chief Minister Kejriwal himself says they are experimenting for 15 days, how seriously people will take it." "Rich and middle class people can afford to buy two vehicles, but where will the poor go? Only 30 percent Delhi is covered by the Metro Rail service, how other people will travel," he sought to know from the Delhi Government. (ANI)
vide quality education. The theme of the Golden Jubilee celebration is ‘Culture of India and Assam’. The celebrations started with a colourful cultural procession which
took off from the school premises travelled around Naharkatia town. The cultural rally showcased the cultures of various communities through dance troupes. The
Swahid Bhedi was inaugurated by AASU district president, Modhu Gogoi. The salient features of the year long Golden Jubilee programme include exhibition by Parmod
Modi) did yesterday was commendable. Perhaps it has been never been observed, this type of diplomacy , around the world," Rajnath said, while addressing a public meeting here. Rajnath also said that after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee it is Prime Minister Modi " Ye s t e r d a y, o u r who has raised digPrime Minister made nity of India infront a s u r p r i s e v i s i t t o of the world. Lahore while he was on his way to Delhi "In independent Inf r o m K a b u l . We dia, after Atal Bihari were all surprised, Vajpayeeji, if there a s i t w a s n o t a is someone who has planned visit. But made the country w h a t e v e r h e ( P M proud and raised the dignity of the nation
in front of the world it is Narendra Modi," he said. In a surprise move which was termed as 'birthday diplomacy', Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Lahore on his way back from Kabul yesterday afternoon. The public announcement of his visit was made by a tweet the PM put out towards the end of his stay in Kabul. People on the social media hailed the Prime Minister's move as a significant development in the relationship between the two South Asian neighbours,
even though the Opposition criticised it saying that the cost of his meals would be paid by the country in terms of national security. Prime Minister Modi landed at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport on Christmas d a y, where he was received by his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif. PM Modi's 150minute visit to Pakistan was first by an Indian Prime Minister in 11 years.
Modi's Pak visit symptomatic of 'climate change': BJP New Delhi, Dec. 26 (ANI): Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Lahore to meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday said it was an effective example of "climate change". Jayanta Kumar Borgohain, Resident Chief Executive of Oil India Limited formally inaugurated the 15th Biennial State Conference of All Assam Moina Parijat at Duliajan Bihutoli.
Purna Kanta Hazarika, founder Principal of Duliajan College and Dr. Nilakhi Chaliha Gogoi formally inaugurated the Souvenir and Kids Story Books respectively, in the conference. Pic - Rafique Uddin Ahmed
"Even the personal equation between the two Prime Ministers is symptomatic of the diplomatic thaw, which is taken place," said M.J. Akbar BJP, the national spokesperson of the BJP and a Rajya Sabha MP from Jharkhand. Stating that the BJP extends congratulations to the Pakistan Prime Minister for his vision and his leadership in the pursuit of peace, he added: "We all know that the search for peace doesn't mean that we already found it, but the process - particularly in
a region which has many complex issues and complex problems, where the pursuit of peace always a "fragile commodity" - requires the kind of courage shown at Lahore."
National Consumer Day observes-LM&CA
Jitani on paper craft. The primary and immediate objective of the body is to work towards the wellbeing of its alma mater and to engage in social activities.
Was surprised over PM Modi's visit to Lahore:Rajnath L u c k n o w, D e c . 2 6 (ANI): Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that he was taken by surprise to hear that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had decided to meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in Lahore on his way back to Delhi from Kabul.
a statement issued by its president Rupam Barua and secretary Nava Thakuria, also appealed to the Kolkata based management of The Telegraph to compensate the families of victims adequately, as they died on duty hours. Moreover, the forum has urged Assam government to create a corpus fund to compensate all victims of circumstances belonging to the media in addition to the respective managements.
And, if all goes well, the Prime Minister will undertake the visit to SAARC Summit next year," said Akbar, adding that the extraordinary public response to this development and to the Lahore visit tell the Heaping praises over same story. Prime Minister Modi, Akbar said, "He is, in On his way back to New fact, a master of the Delhi from Moscow on transformative moment, Friday, Prime ministers we have seen it in the Modi and Sharif met at manner in which his in- the latter's residence vitation to the SAARC Raiwind Palace, the anleaders in 2014." cestral home of the Sharifs, in Lahore, "The subsequent events, where he also discussed in fact, indicated the dif- Indo-Pak relations with ficulties, but it is a re- him. markable fact, and perhaps unprecedented, The relations between that this peace process India and Pakistan have has been revived, and witnessed some positive the manner in which the developments in recent Prime Minister has re- past. The two countries vived it is quite extraor- recently decided to dinary," he said. launch a comprehensive dialogue after Prime "This gives us all hopes Ministers Modi and that there will be one Sharif met in Paris. happy consequence. (ANI)
ET Bureau Itanagar, Dec 26: The Department Office Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs (LM&CA) observes the National Consumer Day at Multi Sports Club, Bomdila in a huge participation of traders, shopkeepers and public. Chairman of the occasion, Sang Khandu, EAC cautioning the traders and shoppers present said 'if you are aware, you are safe', he urged them to be sure about the services and goods that they provide to their valued customers, while taking delivery of any good they must be aware of the quality of the goods so that it would not be hazardous to the customers which may consequently harm their reputation and goodwill. Adultery and any other form of malpractices should be avoided which may invite any legal action against such traders and shopkeepers, he added. Meanwhile, Khandu urged the traders and shopkeepers to cooperate the concern department whenever they come across any confusion to serve their customers better. Speaking on the occa-
sion, Tasso Gurro, Assistant Controller LM&CA briefed about the various responsibilities of the consumers and traders as well, unveiling before the gathering he exposed number of possible ways that how are customers being cheated. Although citing examples, he said the public to be more cautious while having any transaction in the market where there are chances of being duped by shopkeepers at any moment. Bazaar Secretary, Lobsang Jamba stressing the responsibilities of the traders exhorted them to achieve the commitment for the service of the customers and remain loyal towards their duties, assuring the public he said if anyone found guilty action would be legally taken. Resource persons Prem Chetry, teacher Shanti Deva Vidayalya and Rajesh JTO, BSNL dealt upon technicalities, dos and donts, rights and duties of both consumers and traders were elucidated. Public representative Niri Chongronju and N P Singh, Managing Director, Bomdila LAMPS also spoke on the occasion.
Fire breaks out at Kolkata's Dum Dum Park
Kolkata, Dec.26 (ANI): A major fire broke out at Kolkata's Dum Dum Park on Saturday evening. The inferno affected the people living in the slum area.
No casualty have been reported yet. According to reports, ten fire tenders reached the spot immediately to douse the flame. Further details are awaited.
Protests after student's death Kolkata ,Dec 26: Locals today blocked the road at Changrabandha Chowrangi in Cooochbehar district near the Bangladesh border to protest the death of a student after BSF jawans allegedly opened fire.Traffic along Siliguri-Cooch Behar and MathabhangaChangrabandha routes was disrupted as a result, a police official said.He said police patrolling was continuing in the area and senior officials were keeping a tab on the situation.A college student was killed on Friday night after BSF jawans patrolling the International Border in the Changrabandha area of the district allegedly opened fire.The deceased Tapan Burman, a second year stu-
dent of Changrabandha College and a resident of Kamath-Changrabandha area had gone to attend nature's call along the barbed wire fencing of the International Border, when patrolling BSF jawans, suspecting him of trying to cut the fencing, allegedly opened fire, the police officer said."As angry residents poured out and protested and clashed with the BSF jawans, the jawans allegedly fired again seriously injuring two villagers, who were rushed to Jalpaiguri Sadar Hospital. Four others also received bullet wounds and admitted to Changrabandha Hospital," the officer said.BSF officials in the area refused to comment on the incident. (Agencies)
Rims fights staff crunch as nurses apply for leave Ranchi, Dec 26: After Chhath, the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) is again facing staff shortage with half of its nurses on a week's holiday.The matron's office in the medical college hospital on Thursday evening received 255 leave applications for the period between December 26 and January 1. The hospital management remained hapless as it sanctioned all the leaves in the absence of stringent guidelines for its permanent nursing workforce."The nurses simply left after submitting their applications. We have no guidelines to check mass leave and could not stop it," Rims matron A Vijaya Lakshmi said on Friday evening. The hospital has 415 staff nurses in all following mass recruitments earlier this year.The mass leave will mean the state's
Jharkhand CM Raghubar Das calls on Governor Ranchi, Dec 26: Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das today apprised Governor Droupadi Murmu of the government's development and welfare works during the last one year.Making a courtesy visit on the Governor, Das also informed her about the praise the state received at national and international levels for its works, a Raj Bhavan release said here.The BJP-led NDA government is completing one year in office on December 28. PTI PVR DKB. (Agencies)
When Lalu's son Tej Pratap Yadav went for a horse ride on the streets of Patna - Watch Patna,Dec 26: Tej Pratap Yadav, Bihar's health minister and son of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, recently came up with a 'novel' idea to do his bit to curb pollution and avoid traffic jams.Tej Pratap decided to ride a horse on the streets of Patna."There is so much pollution and traffic jams because of so many vehicle it's better to ride a horse," . His security personnel too rode horses which were hired from the Bihar Military Police (BMP). (Agencies)
NGT violations continue in Meghalaya Shillong, Dec 26: Violations of NGT order on coal mining continue to be reported from different parts of the State.On December 22, police arrested two persons - Dres Dkhar and Aibor Langshiang - while they were extracting coal from a coal quarry owned by one Phoida Maruh at
biggest tertiary health centre, which has 1200 beds, will operate on a skeletal strength of 160 nurses for six days. With New Year's eve witnessing a number of road mishaps and hit-andrun incidents, cases of negligence are likely to rise owing to number crunch.The hospital had been in a similar situation in November this year after close to 270 staff nurses went for mass leave during Chhath. The hospital brought in reinforcements from private nursing colleges to manage operations. This time, the hospital will make the nurses on duty work overtime and bring in trainee nurses from two private nursing institutions. When contacted, Rims director Dr B L Sherwal said, "We have not granted any leaves to these nurses. Those who will go on leaves will face stringent action". (Agencies)
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REGION
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
Christians and Hindus celebrate Christmas in Meghalaya Shillong, Dec 26: Christians in Meghalaya celebrated Christmas with fervour and spirit, exchanging greetings and gifts with friends and relatives.Hindus also joined in the celebrations in this Christian-dominated northeastern state to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.Bishops and pastors led services and delivered sermons in various cathedrals and churches of different Christian denominations in the capital city, Shillong. Archbishop of Shillong Archdiocese, Reverend Dominic Jala, presided over the midnight Christmas mass at the Nazareth hospital here and later at the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians.In his sermon, Jala appealed to the people to uphold the ideals of universal love and brotherhood.All churches, missionary schools and institutions were decorated with colourful buntings and lights.Hindus also celebrated Christmas in their own way. The Central Puja Committee, the apex body of Hindu religious organisations, organised an
Christians in Meghalaya celebrated Christmas with fervour and spirit, exchanging greetings and gifts with friends and relatives.Hindus also joined in the celebrations in this Christian-dominated northeastern state to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Christmas celebration in Mizoram event to celebrate Christmas."Like the previous years, we also celebrated Christmas with our Christian brethren," Central Puja Committee leader, J.L. Das said. Ramakrishna Mission in Shillong celebrated Christmas in 'Hindu style' by chanting Vedic shlokas and offering pujas to Jesus C h r i s t . S w a m i
Madhurananda Maharaj, who came from Argentina, was the chief speaker on the occasion; he talked about the historic aspect of Sri Ramakrishna's spiritual practices and vision of Lord Jesus. He said this stands as a testimony to the living presence of the Lord unlike imagined or mythological incarnations.Earlier there were Christmas carols led
by Swami Divyalokananda following by a vivid description of the Birth of Jesus by Swami Vedasarananda - both inmates of Shillong Ramakrishna Mission. The offering and vesper service to Lord Jesus was made by other monks and Brahmacharins of Shillong Ramakrishna Mission at its Laitumkhrah premises.
Two Engineers Shot Dead By Unidentified Assailants In Bihar Patna, Dec 26: Two engineers of a private road construction company were shot dead today by unidentified assailants on DarbhangaKusheshwarsthan state highway in Darbhanga district. Two motorcycle-borne assailants shot at two project engineers - Brajesh Kumar and Mukesh Kumar
near Shivram Chowk while they were supervising road construction by M/S BSCCNC, road construction company, Deputy Superintendent of Police Dilnawaz Khan said.Both were taken to Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) where they were declared as
"brought dead", he said.Non-payment of levy was said to be the motive behind the murder of two engineers, Khan said. A probe is on.The construction company had sought protection five days ago after receiving a ransom demand by unidentified persons and police deployment had been at
Former Minister Lyngdoh passed away at his residence at Mawkhar on Thursday night after a prolonged illness ters .Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, Speaker AT Mondal, former Chief Minister DD. Lapang, Home Minister and local MLA Roshan Warjri have condoled the death of Friday.Born on January 25, 1929, to late Borsing Gympad and late Nora Sidian Lyngdoh, he was the eldest of 6 brothers and 2 sisters. He passed his Matriculation from Government High School, Jowai and graduated from Scottish Church College, Kolkata.After his father's death, he came back to Shillong and took up teaching in Government
High School where he later became the Sub Inspector of schoolsIn 1960, he passed the Assam Civil Service and was the First Project Officer of Sohra.Later, he became the BDO of Sohra and held the posts of BDO Mairang and Mylliem. Lyngdoh was promoted as Sub Divisional Planning Officer and Assistant to the Deputy Commissioner and posted at Shillong under the then United Khasi and Jaintia Hills.In 1971, he was posted as Commandant of Balat Sector during the Bangladesh Liberation War and was engaged in
the relief and rehabilitation of the affected populace.In 1972, he was the first officer to start the Border Area Development Branch under the Deputy Commissioner of Khasi Hills and in 1973 and he was appointed as Assistant Director of Community Development Department. Later, he was promoted as its Director.Then, he assumed the office of Chief Executive Officer of the Shillong Municipal Board.After he retired from Government service in 1986 to pursue politics he was elected as MLA in a bye election in 1990 from Mawkhar Assembly constituency.During the year, he became the first Chairman of Shillong Urban Development Authority, and later he was appointed as Minister. Again he was elected in 2003 and 2008 Assembly
Christmas.Extending his greetings, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said: "Christmas is the time to remember the ceaseless love and the blessings we received from the gracious Lord, the Lord Saviour Jesus Christ. As we once again celebrate His birthday, may the spirit of love and compassion fill our hearts with everlasting joy and peace."Meghalaya Governor V. Shanmunganathan said Christmas is an occasion for us to promote the values that Lord Jesus Christ professed and practised for the benefit of humanity. (Agencies)
Student killed in BSF firing along Indo-Bangla border
the construction site in view of threat, but despite that its two engineers were fatally attacked by the unidentified gunmen, he said.Raids were being carried out to nab the culprits, the DSP said. Superintendent of Police A K Satyarthi was camping on the spot. (Agencies)
Former Minister F Lyngdoh passes away Shillong, Dec 26: Former Minister Lyngdoh passed away at his residence at Mawkhar on Thursday night after a prolonged illness. His funeral will be held on Monday.Funeral service will start at 12 noon at his residence and then at the Mawkhar Presbyterian Church at 1pm.Lyngdoh, 87, is survived by three daughters, 4 sons, 19 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.The family members said that Lyngdoh was not keeping well for the last few days. Lyngdoh was active in Meghalaya politics till he decided not to contest from Mawkhar constituency in 2013.He had also held the post of President of Meghalaya Pradesh C o n g r e s s C o m m i t t e e . E a r l i e r, Lyngdoh had held various portfolios in the cabinet under many Chief Minis-
Ramakrishna Mission's starting has a link to Christmas Eve as it was on the same night in 1886 that Swami Vivekananda led the disciples of Sri Ramakrishna and inspired them with a narration of the life of Jesus Christ to take monastic vows. Exchange of greetings and gifts, visits to relatives, games and sports among children and community feasts marked the celebrations across the state, where over 80 percent of the population is Christian. Leaders of various political parties also greeted the people on the occasion of
polls and was appointed as Minister in charge of the Departments of Urban Affairs, Forest and others. He was also a senior Member of the AICC, political Advisor to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Mukul Sangma.In 2008,he was appointed as the President of the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee.Apart from politics, he was an active member of the YMCA, Council member of Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Director, Downtown Hospitals and he also was the former headman of Mawkhar.He also functioned as Advisor of the Dorbar Shnong Mawkhar, Chief Patron of Mawkhar Sports Club and was its President for more than 40 yearsLyngdoh was also a Church elder since 1983 for 32 years. (Agencies)
A college student was killed tonight after BSF jawans patrolling the India-Bangladesh international border Cooch Behar, Dec 26: A college student was killed on Fr after Border Security Force (BSF) jawans patrolling the India-Bangladesh international border in the Changrabandha area of the district, allegedly opened fire. Tapan Burman, a second year student of Changrabandha College and a resident of KamathChangrabandha area had gone to attend to nature's call along the barbed wire fencing of the international border, when patrolling BSF jawans, "suspecting" him of trying to cut the fencing, allegedly opened fire, a senior police officer of Mekhliganj police station said."As soon as the news of the shooting and Tapan's death reached the village, angry residents poured out in protest and clashed with the BSF jawans. "At this point, the jawans again opened fire, seriously injuring two villagers, who were rushed to Jalpaiguri
A college student was killed on Fr after Border Security Force (BSF) jawans patrolling the IndiaBangladesh international border in the Changrabandha area of the district Sadar Hospital. Five others who were also injured in the clash, have been admitted to Changrabandha hospital," the officer said.The villagers alleged of regular BSF highhandedness and also accused the jawans of damaging their houses and property, the officer said adding, a police team has already reached the spot and investigations were on.BSF officials in the area refused to comment on the incident. (Agencies)
Let Bimal Make Me GJM President, I Will Start Gorkhaland Agitation From Tomorrow." Dr. Harka Darjeeling,Dec 26: 2016 elections fever are here in full flow it seems, with GJM President Bimal Gurung and Kalimpong MLA Dr. Harka Bahadur Chettri exchanging political rhetoric through press conferences.Political scenario in Darjeeling has today become the 'Theater of Absurd," with political gimmicks, flamboyant rhetoric, decisiveness, and borderline narcissism taking the front seat, over the politics of unity, development and s o l i d a r i t y. H o w e v e r, amongst the din of everyday rhetoric comes this gem from Dr. Harka, who
yesterday stated from Kolkata, "What Bimal Gurung does or doesn't do, does not bother Bimal said through press that he would welcome if I started politics for Gorkhaland it means he is accepting the fact that he cannot achieve it [Gorkhaland] himself let him surrender and say so in person let him handover everything to me after that I will show how to move the movement in the right direction he can come and join as one of my cadres."Dr. Harka added, "Let Bimal say that I wasn't competent, I couldn't get it done, Harka Bahadur can
make it happen. Let him announce that from today onward Harka Bahadur is the GJM chief from the very next day, I will restart the campaign for Gorkhaland. I will also start work to make additional districts and start the talks with Central government."He added, "I have done a lot for my constituency, in comparison even the whole of GTA could not achieve what I have achieved for my region GTA is responsible for developing the hills and I am responsible for developing my constituency, and where as I have done so, entire GTA has failed." (Agencies)
Madhab Dev Girls High School golden jubilee celebration in Mirza. Pic - UB Photos
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
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Xmas wildfire claims more than 100 homes in Aus Melbourne, Dec 26:A bushfire which flared on Christmas Day has destroyed more than 100 homes in southern Australia, officials said Saturday, as they warned the losses could have been worse.The blaze hit two towns southwest of Melbourne, Wye River and Separation Creek, where many of the 116 houses lost were believed to be holiday homes.As about 500 firefighters worked to battle the blaze, aerial shots showed buildings razed to the ground in the tree-filled coastal area along the Great Ocean Road tourist drive."It's kind of confirmed for us just how hot, just how volatile, just how intense this fire was, burning right to the
water's edge," Victoria state Premier Daniel Andrews told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.Andrews welcomed the fact that no lives were lost in the state which endured horrific bushfires in 2009, in which 173 people perished."We can rebuild houses, of course. Things can be much worse than that," Andrews told a press conference earlier Saturday.The fire near the coastal town of Lorne was started by a lightning strike on December 19 but flared up Friday due to hot weather and winds pushing embers over fire control lines.Victoria's Emergency Management commissioner Craig Lapsley praised the community for heeding the
Unwanted issue being created over vegan meals: Air India CMD New Delhi, Dec. 26 : Reacting to reports that Air India is now shifting to vegan-only meals on short flights, its chairman Ashwani Lohani said he failed to understand what the issue was as the flight service is only replacing coldvegetable snacks with hot vegetable meals."Nonveg was not being given earlier, only veg snacks were being given. We have replaced that with hot vegetarian meals, which I think is a major improvement, for which our catering team deserves appreciation. Non-veg meals are being served in more than 90 minutes flights. I really failed to understand what is the issue...it is not clear," Lohani told ANI.He further said the replacement was done due to the re-
quest of the people."If you are going in the morning, you will get hot vegetarian breakfast, if you are going in the afternoon, you will get hot vegetarian lunch. This is only for flights which are less than 90 minutes. We did this on the demand of the public," he added.Earlier, the national carrier decided to serve only vegetarian hot meals on its domestic flights in economy class with a flying time of 60 to 90 minutes from January 1.A circular said, "It has been decided to provide all Indian vegetarian hot meals in economy class on all domestic sector flights between 61 and 90 minutes duration from January 1, 2016."Tea and coffee too will be off lunch- and dinner-time flights. (ANI)
Congress warns PM Modi to be 'cautious' on dealing with Pak Bengaluru, Dec. 26: The Congress Party today said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's sudden visit to Pakistan must yield good results and tangible steps towards peace on the border."Though our Foreign Minister stated that it is a courtesy statesman-like visit, it is not important where you reach, whom you talk to what result you are going to get out of that visit is very important. We can't achieve by sudden landing. That is a part of cultural exchanges," Congress Leader in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge told media. Kharge further said that Prime Minister
Modi must take cautious steps while going for discussions."In the interest of the country, we should get result and some tangible steps towards peace on the border," he added.Prime Minister Modi made a surprise visit to Pakistan on Friday to meet his counterpart Nawaz Sharif, both reaffirming to resume highlevel peace talks.The relations between India and Pakistan have witnessed some positive developments in recent past. The two countries recently decided to launch a comprehensive dialogue after Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif met in Paris. (ANI)
The Congress Party today said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's sudden visit to Pakistan must yield good results and tangible steps towards peace on the border.
Naxals Held In Chhattisgarh Raipur,Dec 26: Four Naxals have been arrested from Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, police said today. The cadres were nabbed from Bhansi Police Station area yesterday based on a specific inputs about their movement in the region, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Kamlochan Kashayp said.Those arrested were identified as Sai alias Sahi (30), Kama Telami (27), Laxman (30) and Rajesh (35), all lower rung members, he added.A police team swung into
action after receiving information that the cadres after coming to know that they were under the police scanner, were trying to move out of Bhansi area.They were later rounded up near Bhansi village, the SP said. The outlaws were involved in torching an OHE engine of railway on October 25 this year, dismantling a government school building in the month of August besides several other Maoists incidents, the SP said.The arrested are being interrogated, he added. (Agencies)
Bush fires are a common feature of the Australian &nbsp
evacuation warning just before lunchtime on Christmas Day to avoid the possibility of fatalities."They walked away from the fire that had every potential to be a killer," he said at a joint press conference with Andrews.Nick Bailey, a resident of Separation Creek, told the ABC his family evacuated to
nearby Apollo Bay and spent Christmas Day on the beach.Seven people have died across Australia this year in bushfiresIn a statement, Lapsley confirmed 18 dwellings at Separation Creek and 98 at Wye River were lost and noted that rain and cooler conditions had reduced fire activity.But he warned there were "still
many hotspots within the fire area so the change in conditions and the rain that fell this morning does not mean the threat posed by this fire is over".Thirteen aircraft are being used to fight the fire, which is not particularly large at 2,200 hectares, and has the potential to flare up again in the coming week, he added."The fact we have had rain today across the state will not dramatically change anything," he said, saying very hot weather was predicted for New Year's Eve and New Year's
Day.Holidaymakers who traditionally flock to the Victoria surf coast at this time of year have been asked to avoid the fire area.Bush fires are a common feature of the Australian summer, with up to 15 homes destroyed by blaze near Melbourne on Monday.But "Black Saturday" was the worst firestorm in recent years, devastating southern Victoria in 2009, razing thousands of homes and killing 173 people.Seven people have died so far this year from bushfires across the country. (Agencies)
A bushfire which flared on Christmas Day has destroyed more than 100 homes in southern Australia
Pak visit: Sushma hails PM Modi as 'statesman', Congress retracts New Delhi, Dec. 26: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'statesman' for his decision to visit Pakistan to meet his counterpart Nawaz Sharif on his birthday."That's like a statesman. Padosi se aise hi rishte hone chahiyen (This is how it should be with neighbours)," External Affairs Minister Swaraj said in a tweet.The Congress Party however, rejected Swaraj's claim, saying it was "prearranged"."We are very clear that the Prime Minister is there to promote only private business interests and not India's national interest which should be supreme. Diplomacy is serious, it
must have gravitas and predictability," Congress leader Anand Sharma told media here."It cannot be frivolous, otherwise it will implode on Shri Narendra Modi's face," he added.The Congress leader further rejected Swaraj's claim that the visit was spontaneous."The External Affairs Minister's claims, very foolishly so, that it's statesman-like. We completely reject her claim. We have definitive information that this was pre-arranged," he said.Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit to Pakistan on Friday to meet his counterpart Nawaz Sharif, both reaffirming to resume high-level peace talks.It was the
Sushma hails PM Modi as 'statesman', Congress retracts first time an Indian Prime today, where I will drop Minister visited Pakistan by on my way back to in more than 10 Delhi," Prime Minister years.Prime Minister Modi said in a Modi had earlier made tweet.Indian Air Force the surprise announce- jumbo jet land in the late ment to visit Sharif on afternoon at Lahore's Twitter as he wound up Allama Iqbal Internahis visit to Afghanistan tional Airport where with an address to the Prime Minister Sharif A f g h a n flanked by his cabinet parliament."Looking for- ministers, received ward to meeting PM Prime Minister Modi. Nawaz Sharif in Lahore (ANI)
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh Will Reunite, Says BJP's Ram Madhav
Ram Madhav New Delhi, Dec 26: India, Pakistan and Bangladesh will reunite one day to create "Akhand Bharat" or an 'Undivided India', BJP's National General Secretary Ram Madhav has said.In an interview to international news net-
work Al Jazeera, the former spokesperson and national executive member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), said that this can happen "without war, through popular consent"."The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
still believes that one day these parts, which have for historical reasons separated only 60 years ago, will again, through popular goodwill, come together and Akhand Bharat will be created," Mr Madhav said. Mr Madhav further added that he holds on to that view as a member of the RSS - the ideological mentor of the BJP."That does not mean we wage war on any country, or that we annex any country. Without war, through popular consent, it can happen," he clarified.Also responding to a statement made earlier this year, in which he said India was "a Hindu country", Mr
Madhav explained, "It's a land where a particular way of life, a particular culture or civilisation, is practised.""We call it Hindu - do you have any objection? India has one culture. We are one culture, one people, one nation," he said.The Congress criticised the remarks calling them "just propaganda". "The RSS or the BJP have been misleading people of the country just to divert the attention from their abject failure. They are engaging in propaganda like an event management company," Congress spokesperson Ajoy Kumar said. (Agencies)
World's Most Obese Man Dies after Weight-Loss Surgery Mexico,Dec 26: A man believed to be the world's most obese died yesterday in Mexico, barely two months after undergoing a weight-loss surgery.Andres Moreno, 38, died of a heart attack and peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining) in Ciudad Obregon, in Sonora state, his family said.Moreno, who at one time tipped the scales at 450 kilos, had bariatric surgery on October 28, in Guadalajara, Jalisco state, in hopes of shedding the excess weight and leading a normal life.The surgery involved removing three-fourths of his stom-
ach and reshaping what was left into a tube to "prevent him from eating too much", the Medical Daily reported in October.While the operation was considered a success, the ex-policeman complained of feeling ill on Christmas Eve, "and his family called on fire-fighters to help stabilise him".Early on Christmas Day, he was having difficulty in breathing and family members decided to have him taken to the hospital in an ambulance, but he died on the way.The "Most Obese Man in the World" had shed 100 kilos to be able to undergo the
World's Most Obese Man surgical procedure in October. On November 19, Moreno had emergency surgery at the local State General Hospital (HGE) in Ciudad Obregon, due to severe peritonitis.He then
returned to Guadalajara to convalesce under the supervision of the same medical team as before, and had returned home a few days ago, Notimex said.(Agencies)
Delhi Govt. suspends three transport officials
Delhi Government Suspends 3 Transport Officials over Alleged Corruption New Delhi, Dec. 26 : Delhi Transport Minister Gopal Rai on Saturday said that three senior officials of the Transport Department have been suspended for alleged irregularities in distribution of Letters of Intent for n e w a u t o rickshaws."With immediate effect following a high-level meeting chaired by Chief MinisterArvind Kejriwal, S. Roy Biswas, Deputy Commissioner, Manish Puri, Inspector, and Anil Yadav, UDC were placed under suspension," Rai told the media here."On December 23, I received some com-
plaints about irregularities in issuance of Letter of Intents (LOIs) to auto drivers at Burari Authority of Transport Department, following which I held a meeting with Joint Commissioner (Transport) and other senior officers in the next day, and issued directions to enquire into the matter," he added.Rai further said that the matter has been referred to Vigilance Department of Government of NCTD for further enquiry."The matter will be referred to the CBI for investigation if so warranted on the basis of report of Vigilance Department," he said. (ANI)
Fishermen pay tribute to Tsunami victims Chennai, Dec. 26: Fishermen in Chennai today paid homage to the victims of Tsunami on its 11th anniversary .Fishermen, survivors, family members of the victims and people gathered in the Royapuram area of the city to pay their tribute. People took out a silent procession and also lit candles in the memory of thevictims.Sand art
was created and prayer was also observed by the people to pay homage.Tsunami, which had hit on December 26, 2004, devastated Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu in which more than 6,680 people died.Fishermen in many coastal districts of Tamil Nadu will not be venturing out into the sea today to pay homage. (Agencies)
Fishermen in Chennai today paid homage to the victims of Tsunami on its 11th anniversary
Fishermen in Chennai on Saturday paid homage to the victims of Tsunami on its 11th anniversary.
Congress Offers Financial Aid to Girl Hit By Johan Fernandes' Car Panaji, Dec 26: The Congress in Goa has extended financial help to the 17-year-old girl who was allegedly hit by a car driven by pop singer Remo Fernandes' son.Goa Pradesh Congress Committee General Secretary Sunil Kawathankar along with the party's legal cell member Sunil Shetye met the girl last evening at the Goa Medical College and Hospital, where she is being treated for her severely fractured leg. The girl has also undergone a plastic surgery."We have assured the girl of immediate financial assistance from Congress," Mr Kawathankar said in a statement released here today.""I know that our help won't heal her wounds but it is a small gesture of compassion and love and would at least bring a small moment of joy in her life on
this auspicious occasion (Christmas)," he said."It was really sad to see and learn her plight, and a strong message needs to be sent to all those 'arrogant' people for whom a poor person's life has no value," Mr Kawathankar said.The girl was hit by speeding car driven by Remo's son Johan on December 3 when she was on her way to attend feast St Francis Xavier.Johan has been booked for rash and negligent driving by Mapusa police while Remo has been accused of verbally abusing the girl in GMC. Agassaim police under whose jurisdiction GMC falls have already registered a complaint against Remo.The singer is currently abroad and a look out notice has been issued against him by the police. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
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NEIGHBOURS
Nepal and China agree to sign long-term fuel deal 'Many missing' in Kathmandu, Dec 26: Nepal and China have agreed to sign a longterm petroleum agreement to import fuel from China.A consensus to this effect was reached during a meeting between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Kamal Thapa and his Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday. DPM and Foreign Minister Thapa is on a weeklong visit (Dec 2429) to China.According to a member of the Nepali delegation, a twomember team from the Ministry of Commerce and Supplies and Nepali Oli Corporation has also reached Beijing to explore immediate possibilities of importing fuel. "By
overcoming the harsh geographical and environmental conditions, for the first time, we have agreed to supply fuel to Nepal that it urgently needs. Foreign Minister Thapa and I have reached broad consensus to this effect," said Yang in a joint press meet in Beijing. In response, Thapa said, "I am happy to note that the government of China has instructed the concerned petroleum export authority to be in touch with the Nepali side and discuss issues related to longterm fuel trade between the two countries."A press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) stated that China has expressed
Pak opposition parties welcome Modi's visit to Pakistan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is greeted by his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif Islamabad, Dec 26: Pakistan's major political parties today welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's surprise visit to Lahore, saying it was a "new beginning of relations" and will help improve ties between the two countries.Modi stayed for over two hours in Lahore on his way back home from Afghanistan yesterday during which he held talks with his counterpart Nawaz Sharif at his R a i w i n d house.Opposition leader in the parliament Syed Khurshid Shah said his Pakistan People's Party (PPP) supports Modi's visit.Pakistan Tehreek-iInsaf party chief Imran Khan also welcomed Modi's trip and said it will help improve ties between the two countries.Welcoming Modi's visit, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that it would be helpful for peace and stability in the region. He said such contacts should continue for resolving all
the issues, including the longstanding Kashmir dispute. Asif said Pakistan wanted good ties with its neighbours. Awami National Party leader Zahid Khan said Modi's visit was a "new beginning of relations between Pakistan and India".Renowned human rights activist Asma Jehangir said the Indian Prime Minister should play his role in stopping alleged human rights violation in Kashmir as well as reducing visa restrictions between the two countries. Defence expert Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Shahid Latif said the meeting between the two leaders was a positive move and it would pave the way for resolving core issues between the two nuclear powers. Despite broad welcome, there were isolated voices opposing Modi's trip. Sirajul Haq, chief of right wing Jamaat-iIslami, said it was unfortunate that Modi was welcomed in Pakistan. (Agencies)
Opposition leader in the parliament Syed Khurshid Shah said his Pakistan People's Party (PPP) supports Modi's visit.
Case registered over 'suicide bomb attack' on Rajshahi mosque Dhaka ,Dec 26:Police have filed a case in the incident of the Friday's suicide bomb attack on the Ahmadiya mosque in Mochmoil area in Baghmara upazila of the district .The lawsuit was launched against two unidentified persons early Saturday, Baghmara police station Officer-inCharge Matiar Rahman told the Dhaka Tribune."Police are trying to find out the culprits involved with the incident," said the police official.A person was killed in a suicide bomb attack at an Ahmadiyya mosque
during Jumma prayers at Chakpara village under Bagmara upazila in Rajshahi. Baghmara police station OC Motiar Rahman told the Dhaka Tribune over phone that the attack was made around 1:30pm Friday at Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at mosque.He said: "Noticing the injury marks on the deceased's body, we are assuming that it is a suicide bomb attack."At least 10 others were injured in the incident. They were admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. (Agencies)
its willingness to seriously examine Nepal's proposals for the import of petroleum products from China and has advised the respective companies of the two countries to jointly examine the matters relating to price, transportation and other logistics. Earlier in the day, Finance Secretary Lok Darshan Regmi and Zhang Xiangchen, Vice Minister of Commerce of China, signed the Agreement on Economic and T e c h n i c a l Cooperation.Under the agreement, China would make available 900 million RMB (approx Rs 14.75 billion) as grant assistance for the implementation of the projects of repair and mainte-
Myanmar landslide
Chinese takeaway China will make available additional fuel to northern areas of Nepal bordering Tibet Autonomous Region China to help upgrade and operationalise the existing border points and develop other border points to promote connectivity between the two countries nance of Araniko Highway and other projects of interconnection and interworking. This assistance was announced by the Chinese President during his meeting with
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Kamal Thapa shakes hands with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing
China lifts travel advisories to its citizens travelling to Nepal with immediate effect. Nepal decides to waive visa fee for Chinese visitors
The Chinese side to take up agreed projects for post-disaster reconstruction as per its pledged assistance
his Nepalese counterpart in March 2015 in Boao, Hainan.Thanking the Government of China for extending generous support to Nepal's socioeconomic development over
the years, DPM Thapa also appreciated the spontaneous and prompt support received from China in the aftermath of the April 25 earthquake of Nepal. (Agencies)
89 people injured as 6.9 magnitude earthquake hits Pakistan Islamabad, Dec 26: At least 89 people were injured in Pakistan today when a powerful earthquake measuring 6.9magnitude on Richter Scale jolted several parts of the country including areas bordering Afghanistan. The centre of the quake with 196-km depth was Afghanistan and it was also felt in parts of Tajikistan and India, said Ghulam Rasool, Meteorological Department Director General.However, no loss of life transpired from the earthquake, said an official of the Police E m e r g e n c y ControlRoom. The US Geological Survey put the intensity of the quake at 6.3 and the epicenter 41 kilometres west-southwest of Ashkasham area of Afghanistan, in the Hindu Kush Mountains, and at a depth of 203km.As many as 59 people were injured in Peshawar, the provincial
capital of KhyberPakthunkhwa, whereas other minor injuries reported include 17 from Swat, 12 from dir Lower district and one from Buner district, an official of Provincial Disaster Management Authority said. The injured were shifted to Lady Reading Hospital, Khyber Teaching Hospital and Hayatabad medical complex.The majority of the injuries were caused due to panicky situation as the frightened people rushed out of their homes
in haste and sustained minor injuries. Due to landslide caused by the quake,the main Karakuram Highwaywas closed in Upper Kohistan district which has now been cleared forthe traffic movement."Rest all
districts are ok, no major emergency reported," a rescue official said.The quake was felt across Pakistan including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Faislabad, Sargodha, Sheikhupura, Multan, Sialkot, Gujrat, Jehlum, Muree, Malakand, Charsada, Mansahra, Swat, Hangu, and Swabi, Chitral and South Waziristan.It is second powerful quake in the region after a 7.5 magnitude tremor on October 26 struck Pakistan and northeastern Afghanistan, killing over 200 people in Pakistan.Also, last month an earthquake of 5.9 was reported in most parts of Pakistan. (Agencies)
At least 89 people were injured in Pakistan today when a powerful earthquake measuring 6.9-magnitude on Richter scale jolted several parts of the country including areas bordering Afghanistan
sures airborne particles up to 2.5 micrometers, touched 500 around midday Friday, Xinhua said. These particles are considered particularly dangerous, because they can enter the lungs and make their way into the bloodstream .Anything above 100 is considered unsafe for sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, or people with respiratory problems. Anything above 150 is "unhealthy," above 200 is "very unhealthy," and above 300 is "hazardous."Effects of going out in that kind of smog include "serious aggravation of heart or lung disease and premature mortality in persons with cardiopulmonary disease and the elderly;
Dawood Ibrahim turns 60: Grand birthday celebration at secret residence in Pakistan Islamabad, Dec 26: Mafia king Dawood Ibrahim turns 60-yearold today. A grand celebration is planned at his secret residence in Karachi. Some members of Pakistani establishment are also expected to show up at the birthday party. According to sources in Islamabad, the underworld don is likely to announce his semi-retirement and hand over the reins of D-company to his younger brother Anees IbrahimClose relatives of Dawood, based in
Dubai have flown to Karachi to attend to birthday bash. Apart from family members, key operative of Dawood's business network from Kenya and Nairobi have also arrived in Pakistan to greet the fugitive don on his birth anniversaryDawood Ibrahim is featured in the list of global terrorists issued by the United States of America. However, despite it being a publicly known fact, successive Pakistani governments have
Close relatives of Dawood, based in Dubai have flown to Karachi to attend to birthday bash. Apart from family members, key operative of Dawood's business network from Kenya and Nairobi have also arrived in Pakistan
the AFP news agency that "just three or four people are missing at the moment" and no bodies were found at the site.In November's disaster, many of those killed were people who made their living scavenging on or near the waste dumps left by large-scale industrial mining firms.In a report in October, advocacy group Global Witness said the value of jade produced in 2014 alone was $31bn (ÂŁ21n) - the equivalent of nearly half of Myanmar's (Burma's) GDP - yet hardly any of the money was reaching ordinary people or state coffers.Local people in mining areas accuse the industry of a series of abuses, including poor on-site health and safety and frequent land confiscations. (Agencies)
Sri Lanka to bring a law to introduce a National Minimum Wage for private sector Colombo, Dec 26: Sri Lanka will bring a law to introduce a National Minimum Wage for private sector and the government has received the cabinet's nod.The Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on Wednesday approved a proposal put forward by the Acting Minister of Labor and Trade Union Relations Ravindra Samaraweera to obtain the approval
for the Bill prepared by the Legal Draftsman regarding the introduction of a national minimum wage for private s e c t o r employees.Earlier this month the Cabinet of Ministers granted approval to the government to draft legislations to introduce a minimum salary of Rs. 10,000 for the private sector employees. (Agencies)
Jaffna fishermen demand compensation package
Colombo, Dec 26:Fishermen from Jaffna have demanded that the Sri Lankan government frame a comprehensive scheme to safeguard their interests when they experience huge losses caused by poachers.The need for such a scheme has been felt in the light of a recent incident near Neduntheevu or Deft Island in the Jaffna district wherein 27 out of A Chinese man walking on a street wears a 30 nets belonging to a mask amid heavy smog in Beijing, Karainagar-based fishserious risk of respira- els, and about two-thirds erman were said to tory effects in general of China's overall energy have been damaged by population."The polluted comes from coal burning, trawlers run by unair in China's major cit- according to the Energy known persons.On the ies is a visible reminder Information Administra- same day, the Sri of the country's reliance tion. China is the world's Lankan authorities had on fossil fuels for its rapid largest user of coal, and apprehended four fisheconomic expansion over some evidence suggests ermen, hailing from Inthe last few the country may be burn- dia, along with a trawler, decades.Coal is the high- ing even more of it than for allegedly poaching in est carbon emitter among previously thought. Sri Lankan waters.The commonly used fossil fu- (Agencies) fisherman concerned, Loganathan, claims that even his three other nets are of no use as they too have suffered irreparable damages. In monblatantly refused the Meanwhile, New Delhi etary terms, his loss presence of Dawood on has issued several dos- comes to about SLR 2.5 Pakistani soil. "The In- s i e r s t o I s l a m a b a d dian government is it- through diplomatic self confused where channels apprising the Dawood is. Sometimes, authorities across the they say Dubai, and border of the presence then they say Karachi," of the fugitive gangsaid Pakistan envoy to s t e r o n t h e i r s o i l . India, Abdul Basit. (Agencies)
Pollution cancels more than 220 Beijing flights Beijing, Dec 26: More than 220 flights at Beijing's Capital International Airport were canceled Friday as pollution caused poor visibility. Beijing's pollution alert level was upgraded to yellow on Friday from Thursday's blue, Xinhua reported Friday, noting that the four color-coded levels, in order from most severe to least, are red, orange, yellow and blue. Beijing has issued two red alerts in December it's only two ever. A red alert dramatically limits car use, advises schools to close, shuts down outdoor construction sites and closes certain industrial plants.The air quality index readings, or the PM2.5 level, which mea-
Yangon, Dec 26: Dozens of people are reportedly missing and feared dead after a landslide hit a jade mining region in Myanmar's northern Kachin state.Officials say a search for survivors and bodies is continuing after Friday's accident in the area around Hpakant. Last month, more than 100 people were killed in the same area after a massive landslide.Jade mining produces piles of waste rock. Itinerant workers climb the heaps to search for the gem stone.The Bangkok Post quoted Hpakant official Tint Swe Myint as saying five bodies had already been found."According to witnesses, about 50 people are still missing," he said.But Myo Htet Aung, another local official, told
lakh. "I do not know how I will be able to mobilise this much money and get back to regular fishing," says Mr. Loganathan. Replying in the negative to a query whether the government has got any scheme to compensate fishermen who are affected by acts of poachers, M.C. L. Fernando, Director General of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, says fishermen can join i n s u r a n c e s c h e m e s . B u t , M r. Rajachandran, secretary of Jaffna District Fisheries Cooperative Federation, says fishing nets are left out of the ambit of insurance schemes, which cover b o a t s w h i l e M r. Kannah points out says there are genuine difficulties in providing the cover to nets. "This is why the government should come out with a scheme that takes care of all our losses," he added. (Agencies)
Fishermen from Jaffna have demanded that the Sri Lankan government frame a comprehensive scheme to safeguard their interests
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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
Narendra Modi: The Limits of a Political Rock Star Deforestation increasing rapidly NE forest cover decreases to a vast number With the world growing at a pace hard to match, the increasing need for space is turning out to be an area of concern. With desperate need for land for agricultural, industrial and most importantly urban needs to contain cities and their growing population, a direct action that we have come to recognize as "Deforestation" occurs. Over the last century the forest cover around the globe has been greatly compromised, leaving the green cover down to an all time low of about 30 per cent. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), an estimated 18 million acres (7.3 million hectares) of forest are lost each year. As the role of tropical forests, or what's left of it, becomes more crucial in the reduction of atmospheric carbon, a fresh report from the India State of Forest Report 2015 on the decrease of 628 sq km forest cover in the North East region of India is more than a cause for worry. According to the report there has been a net decline of 628 sq km in the forest cover since 2013 in the North East. The loss is more than the total area of Mumbai city. According to current assessment, the total forest cover in the North East is 171,964 sq km, which is 65.59 per cent of its total geographical area, in comparison to the national forest cover of 21.34 per cent. Very dense, moderately dense and open forest cover constitutes 14.81 per cent, 43.85 per cent and 41.34 per cent, respectively, the report said. The main reason for this decrease is attributed to the biotic pressure and shifting cultivation in the region. Among the NE States, Mizoram has recorded the highest decrease in forest of 307 sq km, followed by Nagaland (- 78 sq km), Arunachal Pradesh (-73 sq km), Tripura (55 sq km), while Sikkim recorded a forest cover loss of 1 sq km. On the other hand, nationwide, the forest cover has increased by 3,775 sq km as compared to 2013 assessment, the report said. The forest of North East region is known around the world for their rich biodiversity and dramatic scenery. It has been identified as one of the 18 biodiversity hot spots of the world. The region is broadly classified as six major forest types: Tropical moist deciduous forest, tropical semi evergreen, tropical wet evergreen, subtropical, temperature and Alpine. Largely closed to the outside world for the last fifty years, in recent decades, deforestation and watershed deterioration has progressed rapidly due to land clearing by migrants and local people and high timber demand from Bangladesh and urban centres in India. The best solution to deforestation is to curb the felling of trees, by employing a series of rules and laws to govern it. Deforestation in the current scenario may have reduced however it would be too early to assume. The money-churner that forest resources can be, is tempting enough for deforestation to continue.
Signs 16 Deals Russia to Support India's UNSC Membership Bid Russia regards India as a deserving and strong candidate that can bring an independent and responsible approach within the UN Security Council and reaffirms its strong support to India's candidature for a permanent seat in a reformed UNSC. India and Russia signed 16 agreements, including manufacturing of Kamov 226 helicopters and Russian-designed nuclear reactors in India, even as Moscow affirmed its strong support for India's UN Security Council membership bid. While the Inter-Governmental Agreement on manufacture of Kamov 226 helicopter in India is the first project for a major defence platform under the Make in India mission. It is rightly with our most important defence partner. And these would boost defence manufacturing in India and India's defence readiness with next generation equipment as the cooperation between the two countries in nuclear energy was increasing. The agreement will also increase Indian manufacturing content in these reactors. It too supports the mission of Make in India. Among the other agreements signed were those related to railways, solar energy, heavy engineering and hydrocarbons. And that with one of the world's largest reserves of hydrocarbons, Russia can be a critical source of energy security for India. The prime minister also said that he and the Russian president were "moving creatively in expanding our economic relations". "Following our last summit, India has created a special notified zone to facilitate direct trade between the world's largest uncut diamond exporter, Russia, and India, which processes 90 percent of the world's uncut diamonds". Moreover the Green Corridor project has taken off. Russia and India welcomed the progress achieved in the area of security, including the maintenance of the ceasefire regime in south-eastern Ukraine, as well as the signing of the agreement on the withdrawal of military equipment and artillery of the less than 100 mm calibre from the line of contact. The International North South Transit Corridor through Iran and this will significantly reduce transportation time and cost. Thirdly, both sides were moving forward on the India-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement. And called for unity among nations to fight the global scourge of terror. As the people are one in our belief that the world must unite and take concerted action on combating terrorism, without distinction and discrimination between terrorist groups and target countries. Also earlier, India was only seen as a market but now it is seen as a manufacturing hub for the world as today all agencies describe India as the fastest growing economy in the world with most promise.
After a soaring 2014, this was the year the Indian prime minister and the BJP fell to earth. Sudha Ramachandran If 2014 was the year that saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity soar to an all-time high, events in 2015 underscored rising voter disillusionment. While Modi is still India's most popular political leader, his government's disappointing performance over the past year has impacted the electoral fortunes of his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Eighteen months after the BJP's spectacular victory, Modi and the BJP no longer appear invincible. The "great expectations" that were triggered when Modi became prime minister in May last year have not been fulfilled and the achche din (good days) he promised Indian voters have yet to come. Indeed, as 2015 draws to an end, the excitement and optimism that greeted Modi's government last year has ebbed considerably. Modi swept to power on the plank of good governance and a strong economy. He promised a raft of measures to push economic growth, encourage investment, and create jobs. To make India a manufacturing hub, he called on foreign companies to "Make in India." However, Modi's achievements on the economic front are more in the realm of intent than concrete action. Nitin Pai, policy analyst and co-founder of the Takshashila Institution, an independent public policy think tank based in Bangalore, observes that "Modi's primary economic achievement has been psychological. He has taken the initiative to signal to the world that his government is committed economic growth. This has created a favorable sentiment that creates the opening for further economic reform." Concrete achievements "remain elusive as the big bang reforms to kickstart growth are yet to come," observed one Mumbai-based industrialist, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Two important reform bills - one to streamline India's federal and state sales tax and the other to facilitate land acquisition - hang in limbo. The government has blamed
opposition obstructionism in parliament for blocking the legislation. But it has only itself to blame. Not only did it subject the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government (20042014) to similar obstructionism, it has also arrogantly attempted at pushing legislation down the opposition's throat. Even Modi's muchtrumpeted "Make in India" initiative has evoked skepticism among economists, including Raghuram Rajan, governor of the Reserve Bank of India. In the words of the industrialist, Make in India is "just hype." Growth in the manufacturing sector during Modi's first year in office was sluggish. Job creation, which was to follow on from an invigorated manufacturing sector, has thus stalled. Preoccupied with travelling abroad to woo investment, Modi has given less attention to domestic issues such as the crisis in India's agriculture. Rural distress has intensified and farmers' suicides, which are one indication of the depth of this anguish, have soared over the past year. The BJP swept to power in the May 2014 general election. Its victory was historic. With 282 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha, India's lower house of parliament, it won a majority on its own - the first party to do so in 30 years. Despite its stand-alone majority, the BJP formed a coalition government with its pre-poll allies of the National Democratic Alliance. The BJP's winning streak continued through the rest of 2014, as the party won a string of elections to state assemblies in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana. Then came a stunning blow. In February, the BJP was flattened by a relative greenhorn, the Aam Aadmi Party, in elections to the Delhi assembly. In fact, the BJP won just three of 70 seats. BJP supporters dismissed the Delhi debacle as an aberration. But they were in for another shock. In November, the party was routed in the Bihar assembly
election. Close on the heels of that crushing defeat was a setback in elections to local bodies in Gujarat. Here the BJP lost control over rural bodies and the iron-grip it once enjoyed over municipalities weakened. This setback was all the more painful for the party as Gujarat has been its impregnable fortress, with the party having won every election in the state since 2000. Importantly, this is Modi's home state. As prime minister, Modi began well. He reached out to India's neighbors and the priority he accorded the neighborhood was widely applauded. On the domestic front, his government swiftly set up a Special Investigative Team to unearth and bring back black money stashed abroad. Amidst much fanfare, Modi announced a string of initiatives including a "Clean India Mission," under which toilets would be constructed in rural India, a plan to clean the filthy River Ganges, and another to provide a bank account for every household to end "financial untouchability." Assessments of Modi's first 100 days in office were generally positive; many welcomed his strong and decisive leadership. Economist Rajiv Kumar exulted over India finally having "a 'real' prime minister with his hand firmly on the steering wheel." Modi's "leading from the front and laying down the behavioral norms, targets and programs, has shored up sagging morale and ostensibly brought new purpose to the government machinery," he said. 'Worrying Signs' But even in those early months, there were "worrying signs" of Modi "already treading the thin line between decisiveness and authoritarianism" and his government's "hostility to diversity, especially religious diversity." Such "signs" have since become alarming features of Modi's rule. Modi's decisive image stems from the fact that he makes decisions quickly and that is because he makes them on his own, a retired bureaucrat based in Delhi said, adding that Modi is the undisputed boss of the government and the BJP.
Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi delivering a speech. Source: www.hdwallpaper4u.com
All decisions related to policy and programs are made by him. Rarely are his ministers consulted or even kept in the loop. Meetings with ministers and BJP parliamentarians are monologues with Modi doing all the talking. Nobody disagrees with him. Or rather they don't dare air their differences with him. Even more troubling is Modi's intolerance of criticism from civil society. This has resulted in his government cracking down systematically on non-government organizations that are critical of his economic policies or have campaigned against his shabby human rights record as Gujarat's Chief Minister. Their licenses have been cancelled and dozens of activists have been threatened with arrest. Not surprisingly, Modi's style of functioning, and intolerance of dissent and criticism are drawing criticism that he is authoritarian. Critics like historian Ramachandra Guha have described the Modi government as "anti-intellectual," having "absolute contempt for scholars, literature and the arts. It is not contribution to the field but proximity to the Sangh Parivar, a family of Hindu rightwing organizations of which the BJP is a part, that determines appointments to key posts. Yellapragada Sudershan Rao was appointed head of the prestigious Indian Council for Historical Research, although he is not a respected historian and Gajendra Chauhan, an actor in soft porn films, was named chairman of
the Film and Television Institute of India. While Chauhan is a BJP member, Rao is a member of its ideological fount, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Most alarming is the Modi government's failure or rather reluctance to address mounting communal violence being unleashed by members of the Parivar. Churches have been attacked and violence against Muslims has increased. A Muslim man was accused of eating beef and lynched. Parivar activists have targetedMuslims, accusing them of 'love jihad' i.e. conspiring to seduce Hindu girls into marriage with Muslim boys in order to convert them to Islam. Hate Speech Those inciting communal hatred are not fringe elements but governors, union ministers, chief ministers, parliamentarians - all belonging to the BJP or subscribing to its Hindutva ideology. Their hateful speeches are made in the chambers of the Lok Sabha, in front of television cameras, and at public rallies. Yet they have gone unchecked. Modi has refrained from restraining or even reprimanding his ministers or Parivar members orchestrating the communal attacks. This reluctance to rein them in has drawn the ire of India's secular-liberals, intellectuals, artistes, religious minorities, and others. It has undermined his government's image abroad and could impact investor confidence in India. This could severely undermine Modi's grand plans for the economy.
Although Modi's ratings in opinion polls remain high, his party's electoral debacles signal that the Indian voter cannot be taken for granted. The "rock-star" receptions that the Parivar organized for Modi during his visits abroad may have impressed his die-hard fans at home and his cheerleaders among the Indian diaspora, but for millions of voters, mere pledges aren't enough. That was the message of the BJP's recent electoral debacles. But is it reading the writing on the wall? It doesn't seem to be, if its response to the Bihar defeat is any indication. At a meeting to assess the party's performance in the state, the BJP's top decision making body was more anxious to shield Modi than to understand the cause for its defeat. It simply refused to recognize that the "Modi magic," which played a major role in propelling the BJP-led NDA to power in 2014, isn't working anymore. In the 18 months since he became prime minister, Modi has been preoccupied with building his image in India and abroad and in electioneering. Political commentator Shekhar Gupta says that he needs to get out of campaign mode and get down to "calmer, oldfashioned governance." But will Modi listen? Dr. Sudha Ramachandran is an independent journalist/researcher based in Bangalore, India. She writes on South Asian political and security issues and can be contacted at sudha.ramachandran@live.in
Brazen way of Preserving A Burial Site Sir, A personality, rarest of the rare, who began his career from a 'Zero' point, became one of the most multifaceted towering personality of the entire country by virtue of his extra-ordinary brilliance. He was the epitome, embodiment of politeness, poignant, discreet notion, creator of vision for an opulent future India. A person, who had been picked up by astute politicians to adorn the highest post of the nation, the President of India. His enormous contribution to the building up of India's defence with the innovative sophisticated weapons will make him immortal. All through his life, he served the nation candidly. This philanthropist did everything for the nation, his sincerity, devotion and dedication to his works was such that he could not arrive at the spot on the date of his marriage and remained a bachelor for life. This greatman, after he ceased to be the President spent his time among the children and the youths of his country and giving them wise counsels to live a dutiful and successful life. Despite his debilitating health, he went to Shillong to address a gathering in the Indian Institute of Management, could not finish his prolific lectures as he fell down on the dais and died. This great Defence Scientist, Rocket Engineer and 'Missileman' of India had been conferred 'Bharat Ratna' in 1997. This greatman is no other person than Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, our beloved erstwhile President. But we fail miserably in our duty to hold this
greatman, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in esteem after his death. His burial site in Karaikudi (Tamil Nadu) is so shabbily maintained that the site is now transformed into shelter of stray-dogs. We ungrateful Indians demonstrate in a brazen way our inability to preserve the burial site of a great son of India. Prime-minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister Joylalita owe an explanation to the people for the sordid state of affairs of the burial site of our beloved and most popular ex President. 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
JOBS &
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
Various Jobs in NEIAH, Shillong [112 posts] North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Homoeopathy (NEIAH), Shillong. Last Date: 04/01/2016. North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Homoeopathy (NEIAH), Shillong, Meghalaya, an autonomous institute under the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India invites applications from Indian Citizen for the following posts to be filledup by Direct Recruitment / Deputation / Short Term Contract basis: 1. Deputy Director Administration : 01 post 2. Finance Manager : 01 post 3. Accounts Officer : 02 posts 4. Assistant Administrative Officer : 01 post 5. Junior Engineer (Civil) : 01 post 6. Junior Engineer (Electrical) : 01 post 7. Accountant : 01 post 8. Junior Accountant : 01 post 9. Cashier : 01 post 10. Private Secretary : 01 post 11. Upper Division Clerk : 03 posts 12. Principal Ayurveda college : 01 post 13. Professor (Ayurveda) : 10 posts 14. Associate professor (Ayurveda) : 10 posts 15. Lecturer (Ayurveda) : 10 posts
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CAREER
Manager, Engineer, Officer Jobs in BCPL, Dibrugarh [PWD Only] Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL). Last Date: 26/12/2015. Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL) is looking for experienced professionals for the following posts in special recruitment drive for PWD candidates : 1. Senior Manager (HR) : 01 post 2. Manager (Chemical) : 02 posts 3. Manager (Electrical) : 01 post 4. Manager (Finance & Accounts) : 01 post 5. Manager (Mechanical) : 01 post 6. Deputy Manager (Chemical) : 02 posts 7. Deputy Manager (HR) : 01 post 8. Senior Engineer (Chemical) : 02 posts 9. Senior Engineer (Mechanical) : 01 post 10. Senior Officer (Finance & Accounts) : 01 post How to Apply : Apply Online at BCPL website from 01/12/2015 to 26/12/2015 only.
Faculty Jobs in NIT Meghalaya National Institute of Technology (NIT) Meghalaya.
Applications are invited for the posts of Asstt. Professor at Darrang College, Tezpur (Assam) Applications are invited from Indian citizen for filling up following Sanctioned vacant posts ofAssistant Professor in the revised pay band + AGP Rs. 15,600 - 39,100 + AGP 6000 with other allowances as per rule as admissible time to time. Eligibility: Candidates must have UGC norms with NET / SLET / SET Degree as mandatory required qualification. Candidates who obtained M.Phil degree on or before 10-7-2009 may also apply for the post excluding the candidates obtained M.Phil / Ph.D. Degree from off campus centre. However, the candidates who are or have been awarded a Ph.D. Degree in accordance with the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D. degree) regulatory 2009, shall be exempted from the requirement of the minimum eligibility conditions of NET / SLET/ SET for requirement and appointment of Assistant Professor. The Candidates must have a Permanent Residential Certificate (PRC) and must know local language. Applications failing to fulfill the requirements will be rejected. The age of the candidate should not be more than 38 years as on 01-01-2015 and relaxable up to 5 years for SC / ST candidates. Candidates who are in service must apply through proper channel. Applications with full bio- data (P.C. of marks, postal address, telephone no. etc) and attested copies of relevant testimonials along with the PRC and a non refundable Bank draft of Rs. 1000/- (Rs. 500/- for SC / ST candidates) drawn in favour of Principal, Darrang College, payable at SBI, Tezpur should reach the undersigned within 13 days from the date of publication of this advertisement. No TA / DA is admissible.
Sd/- Principal, Darrang College, Tezpur Ph. No.:- 03712-220014.
Last Date: 31/12/2015.
National Institute of Technology (NIT) Meghalaya invites applications in Prescribed Format from Indian Nationals for appointment on permanent/ contract / deputation basis, possessing consistently good academic record and requisite qualifications and experience, with commitment to work, passion for teaching & research and an inclination towards institutional development, for positions of Assistant Professors and Associate Professor in various disciplines. Name of post: Assistant Professor / Associate Professor No of posts: 10 posts (UR3, OBC3, SC3, PWD1) on regular/ contract basis in various disciplines Essential Qualification: Ph. D. with 1st Class at UG & PG levels with consistently good academic record Pay Scale : for Assistant Professor Rs. 1560039100 AGP Rs. 6000 / 7000 / 8000 and Rs. 3740067000 AGP Rs. 9500 for Associate Professor posts How to Apply : Apply Online at NIT Meghalaya website on or before 24/12/ 2015 only and hard copy of the system generated application should reach to the Registrar, NIT Meghalaya, Bijni Complex, Laitumkhrah, Shillong793003 on or before 31/12/2015.
Indian Army SSC Officer (Technical Entry) Recruitment Indian Army Last Date: 08/01/2016. Applications are invited from married/ unmarried male and unmarried female Engineering Graduates and also from Widows of Defence Personnel for grant of Short Service Commission in the Indian Army in all Arms/ Services. Course commencing in October 2016 at Officers Training Academy (OTA),Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Category of posts: 47th SSC (Technical) for Men : 100 posts in various Engineering streams, Age : 2027 years 18th SSC (Technical) Women : 10 posts in various Engineering streams, Age : 2027 years Widows of Defence Personnel : 01 post, Age : 19-29/20-31 years Remuneration: Pay Scale : PB3 Rs.1560039100 Grade Pay Rs.5400 and MPS Rs.6000/ How to Apply: Apply Online at Army recruitment website http://joinindianarmy.nic.in from 09/12/2015 to 08/01/2016 only.
Librarian post vacant at Pragjyotish College, Santipur, Guwahati - 9 (Assam) Applications are invited for the post of a Librarian from eligible candidates having UGC norms with NET/SET degree as mandatory required qualification in the revised Pay Band+AGP Rs. 15600-39100 + AGP 6000 with other allowances as per rule as admissible time to time. Candidates who have obtained M.Phil degree on or before 10.07.2009 may also apply for the post excluding the candidate obtained M.Phil/Ph.D degree off campus centre. However, candidates who are or have been awarded a Ph.D degree in accordance with the University Grants Commission (minimum standards and procedure for award of Ph.D degree) Regulation, 2009 shall be exempted from the requirement of NET/SLET/SET. Applications are to be accompanied by attested copies of all relevant testimonials from HSLC Examination onwards inclusive of all documentary evidences relating to ones proficiency in ICT bases Library Management System, working experiences and training etc. The age of a candidate should not be more than 38 years as on 01.01.2015 and relax able upto 5 years for SC/ST candidates. The candidates must have a Permanent Residential Certificate (PRC) and must know local languages. Application must be accompanied by Demand Draft of Rs. 1000/- (nonrefundable) in favour of the Principal, Pragjyotish College, Guwahati payable at SBI, West Guwahati Branch and should reach the college within 13 days from the date of publication of this advertisement. No TA/DA will be admissible to the candidates. 1. Librarian 1 (one) post : Unreserved. Sd/- Principal i/c (Mrs. Pallabi Sarmah) Pragjyotish College Santipur, Guwahati - 9
Life Skills for Exciting Career There are ten core life skills which are as follows: World Health ¨ Self Awareness Organisation defines ¨ Effective Communica'Life Skills are abilities tion for adaptive and positive ¨ Interpersonal Relabehaviour that enables tionship individuals to deal effec- ¨ Empathy tively with the demands ¨ Creative Thinking and challenges of every- ¨ Critical Thinking day life.' There is no ¨ Decision Making doubt that this empowers ¨ Problem Solving adolescents to make in- ¨ Coping with Stress formed decision in their ¨ Coping with Emotions life. Many times our stu- These life skills are based dents are confused when on social, thinking and it comes to selection of social skills. Core life careers or courses. Con- skills together can help fusing starts after passing an individual to become senior secondary and empowered and confialso after completing dent. When it comes to graduation. Some of the career perspectives self students prefer to join awareness helps one to professional courses, know his or her strength medical, technical line and weaknesses. Knowafter senior secondary. ing strengths and weakOne of the combined nesses are important skills which might help when we choose our castudents to choose career reers. When an indimay be through life vidual is aware of the skills. Life skills help one positive points then that to be confident which is helps in building self eslacking amongst the teem and self confidence. young people of north If we can identify our eastern region. Life weaknesses then with skills have been intro- planning and our action duced in schools under and hard work we can Central Board of Second- turn them into strengths. ary Education. There is ( to be Contd…) high need of introducing Exam Updates: life skills for the students CTET: The Ministry of of secondary and senior Human Resource Develsecondary managed by opment, Govt. of India Assam Government. In has entrusted the responmy interaction I used to sibility of conducting the ask about life skills and Central Teacher Eligibilmany students are not ity Test (CTET) to the aware of the same which Central Board of Secondare really important to ary Education Delhi. build confidence and The Central Board of which would also help in Secondary Education, selecting courses or mak- Delhi will be conducting the 9th Edition of Central ing decisions.
Ranjan K Baruah
Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) on 21-02-2016 (Sunday) for a candidate to be eligible for appointment as a teacher for class I to VIII. Last date for applying is 28th December. JEE Main: Admission criteria to Undergraduate Engineering Programs at NITs, IIITs, Other Centrally Funded Technical Institutions, Institutions funded by participating State Governments, and other Institutions shall include the performance in the class 12/equivalent qualifying Examination and in the Joint Entrance Examination, JEE (Main). The Paper-1 (B. E./B. Tech.) of JEE (Main) will also be an eligibility test for the JEE (Advanced), which the candidate has to take if he/she is aspiring for admission to the undergraduate programmes offered by the IITs. The States of Gujarat, Nagaland, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Odisha have joined JEE (Main) system. Therefore, the candidates seeking admission to the institutions in these states, which were earlier admitting based on their State Level Examination, are also advised to fill in the JEE (Main) - 2016 application form online. The last date for applying is 31st December. Vocational courses at TISS: TISS Guwahati campus has announced admissions for Bachelor's degree and
diploma courses related to Early Child Protection, Child Protection and one year diploma course in Geriatric Care. Classes would start from January next year. (For career planning and further details interested may call at 98640 55558 or send email to bkranjan@gmail.com) Effective communication is one of the best factors for becoming successful and choosing careers. Effective communication is the ability to express verbally or nonverbally. Critical and creative thinking helps one to look into any issue in a broad way. Creativity is one of the requisite for successful career and as it is part of life skills it can be used by students in their life to become successful. Problem solving skills are needed as we might be in problem and confusing when we are selecting our careers. Decision making helps us in taking right and appropriate decision. Coping with stress and emotions are important as young age is filling with emotion and there might be stress too. Problem in family leads to stress in one's life and it is important to learn how to cope up with stress with our own capacity through life skills. Empathy is the ability to be sensitive to another person's situation, to understand his/her concerns, worries, fears and needs and how they feel. Interpersonal relation-
ship is the ability to establish positive relationship which helps us to relate in positive ways with the people we interact with. It helps in making friendly relationship, which can be of great importance to our social well being. There might be peer pressure apart from academic pressure from seniors and most importantly parents. Many times we see that students commit suicide or attempt to commit suicide as they fear to get less mark. Life skills must be introduced, so that one can evaluate him or herself and take right decision on right time. It is also helpful against depression cause for not getting good marks or for any other reasons there might be depression amongst adolescents and other young people. International organisations like World Health Organisation, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) or United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) are also stressing on the importance of life skills. Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD) is taking lead in India in promoting life skill education in different parts. Life skills are important for achieving success in life and it also helps in the society by promoting positive spirit in direct or indirect ways.
Life skills might work wonder against youth unrest as understanding life skills means young people shall take right decision and proper decision which will surely reduce violence and other unnecessary activities where some young people might get involved. A good career does not mean just getting a mere job or earning money and making resources. It is a continuous process where we keep on learning and move on. Innovation and creativity shall bring new hopes and aspirants are motivated and confident to bring positive change in the society. Introduction of life skills amongst young people will help one to build a vibrant career and it shall also help in building a vibrant civil society. Exam/Entrance/ Scholarships Update: AIPMT: In compliance with the directives of
the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India, the Central Board of Secondary Education, Delhi would be conducting the All India Pre-Medical/PreDental Entrance Test, for the academic session 2016-17. This entrance test is being conducted for the 15% merit positions in the Medical/Dental Colleges of India as specified in the directives of the Supreme Court and will be governed by the rules and regulations specified for the same by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India from time to time. Entrance would be held on 1st May 2016 and last date for applying is 12th January (without late fee). Indian Army: Applications are invited from married/unmarried male and unmarried female candidates and also from wards of Battle Causalities of
Army Personnel for grant of Short Service Commission in the Indian Army under NCC Special Entry Scheme 40th Course to be commenced from October 2016. For further details interested may visit the official website of Indian Army. Indian Navy: Opportunity to become a permanent commissioned officer under 10 + 2 Cadet Entry Scheme in Indian Navy. Last date for applying is 2nd January. Scholarships for Girls: Tata Housing provides Tata Housing Scholarship for Meritorious Girl Students to complete their higher studies in Civil Engineering, Architecture and Construction Project Management.
(For career planning and further details interested may call at 98640 55558 or send email to bkranjan@gmail.com)
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
BUSINESS
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Centre understated subsidy bill by Rs 44,941 crore in FY15: CAG Pune, Dec 26: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has faulted the government's calculation on subsidy expenditure and claimed in its comments on the Union accounts for 2014-15 that the NDA government's subsidy bill in its first year was understated by Rs 44,941 crore. This understated figure, if accounted for, would push the overall subsidy bill by at least 0.36% of GDP which would result in actual revenue deficit going up from the stated 2.92% of GDP to 3.28% and fiscal deficit going up from 4.11% to 4.47%. It also debunks claims made by the government on its commitment to fiscal consolidation and is in breach of what has been indicated in the medium-term fiscal policy statement for financial year 2014-15. In its
report tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, the federal auditor said the subsidy figure for 2014-15 was understated as it did not account for a payment of Rs 27,759 crore (Rs 23,699 crore to FCI and Rs 4,060 crore to fertilizer and petroleum sector undertakings) during the financial year. While calculating the subsidy, the CAG has excluded the expenditure during the last quarter of the year assuming that the government received the bills late. Had these claims of three quarters been paid during the financial year, the total expenditure on subsidies would have been Rs 286,058 crore, or 2.28% of GDP as against 2.06% claimed by the government, the auditor said. The CAG further said, "If outstanding subsidy claims are con-
sidered in totality, including the past unpaid claims but excluding the fourth quarter claims amounting to Rs 44,941 crore submitted during 2014-15, then total subsidy expenditure would have been Rs 303,240 crore in 2014-15, which works out to 2.42% of GDP." Revenue deficit, which is less desirable since it leads to increase in borrowings without corresponding capital asset formation, has declined every year from Rs 394,918 crore in 2011-12 to Rs 357,303 crore in 2013-14 but increased to Rs 366,228 crore the next year. As a percentage of GDP, revenue deficit has declined from 4.47% in 2011-12 to 2.92% in 2014-15. But if the understated subsidy, as pointed out by the auditor, is added,
DEVALUING FUNDS The CAG has faulted the government's calculation on subsidy expenditure and claimed in its comments on the Union accounts for 2014-15 that the NDA government's subsidy bill in its first year was understated by Rs 44,941 crore. This understated figure, if accounted for, would push the overall subsidy bill by at least 0.36% of GDP which would result in actual revenue deficit going up from the stated 2.92% of GDP to 3.28% and fiscal deficit going up from 4.11% to 4.47%. the actual revenue deficit would stand at 3.28% of GDP, more than the
In its report tabled in Parliament, the federal auditor said the subsidy figure for 2014-15 was understated as it did not account for a payment of Rs 27,759 crore (Rs 23,699 crore to FCI and Rs 4,060 crore to fertilizer and petroleum sector undertakings) during the financial year.
Revenue deficit, which is less desirable since it leads to increase in borrowings without corresponding capital asset formation, has declined every year from Rs 394,918 crore in 2011-12 to Rs 357,303 crore in 2013-14 but increased to Rs 366,228 crore the next year.
As a percentage of GDP, revenue deficit has declined from 4.47% in 2011-12 to 2.92% in 2014-15.
But if the understated subsidy, as pointed out by the auditor, is added, the actual revenue deficit would stand at 3.28% of GDP, more than the level of 201314 which was 3.15%.
Similarly, the calculation of fiscal deficit for 2014-15 would go up from the stated 4.11% to 4.47%.
level of 2013-14 which was 3.15%. Similarly, the calculation of fiscal defi-
cit for 2014-15 would go up from the stated 4.11% to 4.47%. (Agencies)
Jet Airways slashes Price crash: MEP on onions airfares by 10% scrapped to wipe tears of farmers New Delhi, Dec 26: As part of its Christmas and New Year offer to air travellers, Jet Airways has cut base fares by 10 percent across cabin class for travel on international destinations. The offer is available only to those customers who make bookings through the airline's website and is applicable for a limited period, Jet Airways said in a statement Thursday. Guests can enjoy an attractive 10 percent savings on base fares for across Jet Airways' international network for first, premiere (business) and
economy class, the airline said. This special offer is applicable for travel on board Jet Airwaysoperated international flights from India to destinations across SAARC, ASEAN, Europe, and Canada regions as well as on flights originating from Paris, Canada, Brussels, ASEAN and SAARC regions, and on the airline's newest destination, Amsterdam, it said. The airline has recently announced shifting of its European gateway to Dutch capital from Brussels from March next year. (Agencies)
Dabur's chairman buys bungalow in Delhi's Lutyens zone for Rs 160 crore New Delhi, Dec 26: Though slackening property prices have constantly created a lull in the realty market, plush zones seem to be least affected. As per a report in leading Emglish daily, Dabur's chairman emeritus VC Burman has bought a bungalow in Delhi's Lutyens zone for Rs 160 crore. The bungalow, located in Golf Links area is spread over 1,310 square yard and has a total built-up
space of about 9,000 square feet. Reports further said that the bungalow was sold at Rs 12.2 lakh per sq. yard. The who's who of the business world who own homes in the Lutyens Bungalow Zone include LN Mittal, Naveen Jindal, KP Singh, Sunil Mittal, Ruia brothers, Malvinder and Shivinder Singh, Analjit Singh, Atul Punj, Rajiv Rattan, Kabul Chawla and Harish Ahuja. (Agencies)
LUXUROUS HOME n Dabur's chairman emeritus VC Burman has bought a bungalow in Delhi's Lutyens zone for Rs 160 crore. n The bungalow, located in Golf Links area is spread over 1,310 square yard and has a total built-up space of about 9,000 square feet.
n Reports further said that the bungalow was sold at Rs 12.2 lakh per sq. yard.
Thomas Cook India raises Menon as CMD
MD Madhavan Menon, Chairman and MD Thomas Cook India. Source: bsmedia.businessstandard.com
Mumbai, Dec 26: Travel services provider Thomas Cook In-
dia has redesignated its MD Madhavan Menon as chairman and mana g i n g d i r e c t o r. T h e board also announced the appointment of Sunil B Mathur and Nilesh S Vikamsey as additional non-executive independent directors. Thomas Cook (India) is promoted by Prem Wa t s a - l e d Fairfax Financial Holdings through its wholly o w n e d s u b s i d i a r y, Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) and its controlled affiliates. (Agencies)
New Delhi, Dec 26: The government recently scraped the minimum export price (MEP) on onions, a move that is expected to encourage out-bound shipments of the commodity. "All varieties of onions... can be exported without any MEP," Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said in a notification. MEP is the rate below which no trader is allowed to export. The rise in MEP restricts exports and improves domestic supply. In August, the government had hiked onion MEP to USD 700 per tonnes, from USD 425, as prices at both wholesale and retail levels skyrocketed on lower output due to unseasonal rains. Also earlier this month, the government had slashed the minimum export price (MEP) on onions to USD 400 per
Commerce and Industry Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman. Source: www.thehindubusinessline.com tonnes from USD 700 to encourage outbound shipments of the commodity. The Maharashtra government had recently asked the Centre to scrap the minimum export price for onions to help boost overseas shipments after wholesale prices of the bulb went down to the
Rs 10 per kg level. According to the National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation (NHRDF) data, wholesale prices are ruling at Rs 10-14 per kg at Asia's biggest wholesale market for onion at Lasalgaon in Maharashtra, much lower than its peak of Rs 57 per kg
in August. Later in an official statement, the Commerce Ministry said the government reviewed the Minimum Export Price (MEP) of onion Wednesday. "Keeping in view of sharp decline in wholesale prices of onion in producing mandies of Maharashtra and major consuming mandies and huge arrivals of onion, the government decided to reduce the MEP to 'Zero' from USD 400 per tonnes," it said. In a tweet, Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said: "Notification issued by the DGFT removing the minimum export price for onion exports will help farmers realise better price". In another tweet, Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said, "Welcome Ministry of Commerce & Industry decision on removing MEP for onions. This would help onion growers in this hour of need." (Agencies)
Maruti benefits extended to parent firm by Gujrat govt. Ahmedabad, Dec 26: A few days after Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL) received minority shareholders' approval for handing over the Gujarat plant to the parent company, Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), the Gujarat government reworked the 'state support agreement' (SSA) in favour of the SMC. All benefits offered to MSIL have now been extended to Suzuki Motor Gujarat Private Limited (SMGPL) which is implementing the project at Hansalpur. The Gujarat cabinet had given in-principle approval to the company's proposal for allowing SMGPL to set up the Hansalpur plant on the same terms and conditions as fixed in the agreement
under 'Mega Project' policy. However, unlike other benefits, MSIL will not be able to transfer Hansalpur land to SMGPL. Industries commissioner Mamta Verma said the state cabinet had approved the company's proposal to change its name as a part of the company's internal arrangement. "As there is no change in the investment plan, the incentives offered o the company remain the same," said Verma. The new company has been offered 100% exemption on VAT up to a maximum of 15 years - this is equivalent to its total investment in the state. Moreover, infrastructure development cost will be covered under various other government
schemes. The state government has given 670 acre land at around Rs 643 per sq m. In June 2012, the MSIL had sig ned SSA with Gujarat government for purchase of land near Hansalpur to set up an all new manufacturing facility. Chief financial officer, MSIL, Ajay Seth, said all benefits given to MSIL under the SSA have been transferred to SMGPL and Gujarat Government has approved it. "No land has been transferred. Land will be leased to SMGPL," said Sheth. MSIL has also privately acquired land in Vithalapur for further expansion. Once the Hansalpur plant's capacity is exhausted, the company will develop the Vithalapur
7% rise in Biocon share on drug launch Bengaluru, Dec 26: Biopharmaceutical company Biocon said it has launched a generic version of Gilead Sciences' Hepatitis C drug, Harvoni, in India. Shares of India's largest biotechnology company zoomed 6.5% after the announcement to touch a 52-week high of Rs 513, before closing 5% higher at Rs 508 on the BSE. The medication, CIMIVIR-L, is a fixed dose combination of Ledipasvir 90mg and Sofosbuvir 400mg, and an improved version of Gilead's drug Sovaldi. A once-a-day oral therapy will be offered to patients in India at a fraction of the global cost, Biocon said, without specifying the pricing. Mid-sized pharmaceutical company Natco Pharma, which has received a licence from Gilead to sell a generic version of the drug
Biocon marketing president, Ravi Limaye.Source: companies.naukri.com
in India, sells a bottle of 28 tablets at about Rs 20,000. Gilead's Sovaldi is a far more effective and better-tolerated treatment than older injection products, but the cost is huge. A 12-week therapy costs $94,500 in the US, which makes it unaffordable to many. Around 25% of the 18 million Hepatitis C virus patients in the country are indicated for Hepatitis C genotype 1. About 150 mil-
lion people in the world live with chronic Hepatitis C infection, most of them in low and middle-income countries."The introduction of CIMIVIR-L will strengthen Biocon's current portfolio of virology products. It furthers our commitment to offer affordable therapy for unmet patient needs in debilitating and life-threatening conditions," Biocon marketing president Ravi Limaye said in a statement. The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) recently approved the sale of Sofosbuvir-Ledipasvir combination, which is being manufactured in India under a licence from Gilead, Biocon said. Recently, Cipla also announced that it is launching Hepcvir-L, once-a-day fixeddose oral combination therapy (LedipasvirSofosbuvir) that has been approved for chronic hepatitis C patients. (Agencies)
Reliance Infra to sell cement unit for $394 million
site. The state government has also given mega industrial project status to the Hansalpur plant. SMC plans to spend around Rs 8,500 crore over the next few years to set up three plants at Hansalpur with a total annual capacity of 7,50,000 vehicles. The first plant - it is being set up with an investment of about Rs 3,000 crore and will have an annual capacity of 2,50,000 units will commence production by mid-2017. The vehicles manufactured at these facilities will be supplied exclusively to MSIL. The company expects to export 10% to 15% of its production from Gujarat plant. (Agencies)
Mumbai, Dec 26: Reliance Infrastructure Ltd is in advanced talks to sell its cement business for 26 billion rupees ($394 million) and a deal could be announced as soon as this week, said a source with direct knowledge of the matter. Under the terms of the deal, the buyer would also take over the cement unit`s outstanding debt of 24 billion rupees, giving the business an enterprise value of 50 billion rupees, the source told Reuters, declining to be identified ahead of a public announcement. A spokesman for the Reliance Group, a diversified conglomerate whose business interests range from
telecoms to finance and infrastructure building, declined to comment. Reliance Infrastructure`s cement unit has three plants with total installed capacity of 5.8 million tonne per annum (MTPA). Another 5 MTPA cement manufacturing plant is being developed in western Maharashtra state, according to its website. A consortium, which includes some private equity firms, is likely to emerge as the successful bidder for the unit, said the source, adding seven bidders had been shortlisted earlier and that the sale proceeds would be used to pare the group`s debt. (Agencies)
Chinese e-rick manufacturers invited to Make in India A step towards development Mumbai, Dec 26: Chinese players should not look at India only to export items, rather they should start manufacturing here by forming joint ventures with Indian players, road transport minister Nitin Gadkari said. Inaugurating an electric vehicle (e-rickshaw) exhibition in Delhi where dozens of Chinese players were present, the minister said China has done a lot of good research in the field of electric batteries, erickshaw, e-carts and buses. "We welcome you to India, make joint venture with our Indian companies and start manufacturing here. Don't just look at us for your export. We want make in India and made India products. These must be of good quality and maintenance free," the minister said. Over 22 Chinese companies are participating in the expo and showcasing their e-vehicles. While about 100 Indian companies are participating and showcasing their erickshaws, almost all of them have used imported Chinese items to assemble these vehicles. Gadkari also asked the domestic
Road Transport Minister of India, Nitin Gadkari.Source: images.indianexpress.com
players to ensure that they don't compromise with the quality and safety standard to make "little more" profit. He said in case companies fail in this regard, it would be difficult to support them. Since the government has allowed registration of e-rickshaws and e-carts under the motor vehicle law, a number of domestic and international players have entered the market and they foresee quick growth. These vehicles have become popular for last mile connectivity in towns and cities. "What we need is some relaxation in excise and VAT duties and road tax. In Uttar Pradesh, the road tax is Rs 27,000 and it pinches a poor rickshaw driver," one of the private players said. (Agencies)
TECHNOLOGY Apple iPod Touch 16GB 6th Generation 16 GB (Gold, 4 Display) Price: Rs. 18,500/General Features Supported Formats: AAC (8 to 320 Kbps), Protected AAC (from iTunes Store), HE-AAC, MP3 (8 to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR, Audible (formats 2, 3, 4, Audible Enhanced Audio, AAX, and AAX+), Apple Lossless, AIFF, and WAV Recharge Time: 4 hrs (Full Charge), 2 hrs (80 % Charge) Playback Time: 40 Hrs Battery Type: Lithuim-ion Dimensions Weight: 88g Other Features Sales Package: iPod touch, iPod touch loop, Apple EarPods, Lightning to USB Cable, Quick Start Guide Warranty: 1 Year Apple Global Warranty Additional Features: 8MP iSight camera, A8 chip with 64-bit architecture
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"In my opinion, the behaviour of FC Goa after the final whistle was unreasonable, undisciplined, bullish and frightening to say the lest. It was surely unsporting behaviour of highest order FC Goa should have accepted the defeat with dignity and shown respect for laws of the game."
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
Match Commissioner AK Mamukoya
PAGE 11
Henry shines as Kiwis hammer Khawaja, Burns combine to Sri Lanka by seven wickets put Australia in command
Pietersen says Proteas have far more at stake in England series
Kevin Pieterson ANI Johannesburg: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has said that South Africa have 'a lot at stake' in the four-match Test series against his country's side. Referring to South Africa's recent 30 series defeat against India, the maverick batsman opined that the pressure would mount more on the Hashim Amla-led side if they lose the series against England. Pietersen admitted that he had initially feared his side would lose easily but it was now too close to take a call as they mirror each other. The South African-born batsman also observed that both sides will rely on their two premium batsmen, Amla and AB de Villiers for South Africa while Joe Root and Alastair Cook for England.
Martin Guptill of New Zealand bats during the first ODI against Sri Lanka.
Hiddink sets treble target for beleaguered Chelsea ANI London: Chelsea interim manager Guus Hiddink believes that the defending champions can still make the top four Premier League finish and win the Champions League and the FA Cup despite their disastrous start to the season. Hiddink, who took over as the caretaker boss in his second spell after the sacking of Jose Mourinho last week, said that their target was to secure the fourth position, and called on his embattled team to show their real potential to achieve these targets, the Mirror reported. Chelsea are currently 15th in the league standings and are 11 points
Chelsea's interim Manager Guus Hiddink during a practice session. off fourth place in the Premier League. The Stamford Bridge club will also face runaway French league lead-
Inter-club open badminton tournament gets underway ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 27: Jorhat Inter-Club Open Badminton Tournament started today at the Kushal Konwar indoor stadium. All together 15 teams are participating in the team events, under15 singles(boys), under15 singles (girls), men doubles and veteran doubles. Prominent sports organizer-cum-
sports journalist and educationist Dr. Tapan Dutta inaugurated the tournament as the chief guest, K Srinivas Rao, the regional manager of Central Bank of India attended as the guest of honour. During the inaugural session, three veteran sports persons were felicitated namely Rajen Baruah, Nekibuddin Ahmed and Bimal Phukan.
Golaghat win by 162 runs ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 26: In a two-day match of the under-16 match of the RG Baruah inter-district cricket tournament held at Golaghat stadium, Golaghat defeated Karbi Anglong by 162 runs. Golaghat were bundled out for 143 runs in the
run partnership for the seventh wicket. Sri Lanka were eventually bundled out for 188 in 47 overs with Henry, who was adjudged as the Man of the Match, being the pick of the New Zealand bowlers with four crucial scalps. In reply, Martin Guptill (79) and captain Brendon McCullum (55) started on a blistering note as the opening 108run stand quashed any chances of a comeback by the tourists. New Zealand chased down the paltry score easily thereafter within 21 overs despite losing the openers and Tom Latham (18). With the win, New Zealand have taken a 1-0 lead in the five-match series and will next play against each other at the same venue on Monday.
first innings. In reply, Karbi Anglong managed a meagre 96 runs. In the second innings, Golaghat did better as they managed 177 runs. Santanu Kaushik Dutta topscored with 55 runs while Shankerjyoti Bhuyan chipped in with 38 runs. For Karbi Anglong,
Cheng long Rongpi bagged six wickets. Set a target of 218 runs to win the match, Karbi Anglong were bundled out more a paltry score of 66 runs thereby allowing the home team to win by 162 runs. The next match of the tournament will be played between Jorhat and Nazira.
ers Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, and have got League One Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup.
Azhar Mahmood backs disgraced Amir's inclusion in training camp ANI Karachi: Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has given his support to disgraced bowler Mohammad Amir, whose inclusion in the training camp saw divided opinions emerging from the national team. Supporting the PCB's decision, Mahmood said that it was time for everyone to move forward and give the young left-hander another chance. Mahmood also said that the PCB needs to stand firm even though their resolve would be tested. He added that the country's cricket board needs to remind some players that the cricket team is not run by and does not belong to individuals.
ANI Melbourne: Usman Khawaja and Joe Burns produced contrasting centuries as Australia made an imposing 345 for three at stumps on the opening day of the second Test against West Indies in front of a festive Melbourne Cricket Ground crowd on Saturday. Put in to bat first, Australia continued to pile on the misery for the wayward West Indies pace attack as
Usman Khawaja (right) celebrates his century with team mate Joe Burns.
PCB chief confirms Azhar, Hafeez will end camp boycott ANI Karachi: Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shahryar Khan on Saturday confirmed that both Azhar Ali and Mohammad Hafeez will return to the training camp after the duo refused to train with disgraced paceman Mohammad Amir, who served a prison sentence and lengthy ban for his role in the 2010 spot fixing scandal. Confirming the news, Shahryar, who met both players ahead of their arrival at the training camp, said that the issue pertaining to Amir
Mohammad Hafeez
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Indian Football from being taken hostage by few FC Goa people. He mentioned that the three Japanese referees were threatened with physical assault by FC Goa staff and players from the substitute bench. "Immediately after the final whistle, many substitute players and officials led by Rajesh Malgi, Equipment Manager of FC Goa, rushed to the referee, surrounded him and scared him with physical gestures," he wrote in his two-page report. "See-
ing this, which was unexpected and without any reason, myself and fourth official rushed to the rescue of the referee from Japan. Referees group (from Japan) were still abused in filthy language and were threatened with physical assault," he added. FC Goa coowner Dattaraj Salgaocar claimed that Chennaiyin FC marquee player Elano Blumer had elbowed him and caught his neck, but the Match commissioner hit the Goan team for ganging up
Chennaiyin FC captain, Elano Blumer. He also condemned the behaviour of Salgaocar and AIFF vicepresident, Shrinivas Dempo. "While Chennaiyin FC was celebrating their victory close to centre circle, ther was another incident in front of FC Goa technical area. I have seen one player of Chennaiyin FC Elano Blumer was surrounded by many players and officials of FC Goa who were pushing him. He somehow came
had been resolved, but added he agrees with some reservations held by both players. The PCB chairman further said that he had urged senior players and captain to take the recalled paceman forward, stating that they hold a greater responsibility to ensure Amir feels at ease. Earlier, the 23year-old left hander was included in the 26member national fitness camp in Lahore for the upcoming limitedovers series against New Zealand, which could pave the way for his return to the na-
tional squad. Amir displayed impressive form in domestic matches as well as in the Bangladesh Premier League after ending his five-year ban for spotfixing three months ago. Considered as one of the most promising talents, Amir had taken 51 wickets in 14 Tests and 25 in 15 one-day internationals before he was handed a fiveyear ban for bowling deliberate no-balls by pre-arrangement during the fourth test against England at Lord's in 2010.
Djokovic, Federer set eyes on $100 million on-court prize money ANI Melbourne: Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer are set to take their on-court rivalry to newer heights, with the tennis stalwarts gearing up to become the first man in the history of sport to break through the 100 million dollars oncourt earnings barrier in 2016. While Djokovic has earned 94 million
Roger Federer along with Novak Djokovic.
dollars in prize money, his rival and six-year senior Federer has pocketed 97.3 million dollars in his glorious career spanning 17 years. Federer, the 17-time Grand Slam champion, would become the first man to reach the landmark figure if he wins the Australian Open, which has 3.85 millon dollars on offer.
Vijay Hazare: Axar's six guides Gujarat into final; Delhi down HP Agencies Alur/Bangalore: Left-arm spinner Axar Patel on Saturday wreaked havoc recording a career-best List A figures as Gujarat beat Tamil Nadu by 31 runs to set up a title clash with Gautam Gambhir-led Delhi in the final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy One-Day tournament. Batting first, Gujarat scored a decent 248 for eight with usefu lcontributions from middle-order batsmen Chirag Gandhi (71) and Manprit Juneja (74). Tamil Nadu captain, Ravichandran
Ashwin was the most successful bowler as he claimed three for 51 in 10 overs at the KSCA ground in Alur. In reply, Tamil Nadu were all out for 217 in 47.3 overs with Axar running through the batting order. India discard Abhinav Mukund carried his bat through the innings with an unbeaten knock of 104 but found little support from the other end. Mukund and fellow discard Dinesh Karthik (41) had added 84 runs in only 16.1 overs before Gujarat skipper Parthiv Patel introduced
FC Goa players 'ganged up Elano, threatened referees' after ISL final loss Agencies New Delhi: The All India Football Federation's Disciplinary Committee, which meets next week, will decide what action to be taken against FC Goa's 'unreasonable, undisciplined and bullish' behaviour after their loss to Chennaiyin FC in the final of the Indian Football League (ISL) tournament. Match Commissioner AK Mamukoya in his report has asked the AIFF to take necessary action against FC Goa to save
Khawaja (144) and Burns (128) engineered a robust 258-run stand for the second wicket after the dismissal of opener David Warner (23). Captain Steve Smith and Adam Voges will resume the innings tomorrow on their unbeaten scores of 32 and 10 respectively. Australia are leading 1-0 in the three-match series after winning the opener emphatically in Hobart.
out of the melee and ran to join his team," he said. "It was chaotic scene all around. Top officials of FC Goa like S Dempo and Dattaraj Salgaocar who I know for long associated with football should have calmed down the situation instead became part of the undesirable atmosphere," he mentioned. Mamukoya claimed that FC Goa officials once again threatened the referees on their way to the locker room. Mamukoya, however, praised the behaviour of
Chennaiyin FC, who won the final, for their demeanour while stating that players would think twice before choosing to ply their trade in India, thanks to FC Goa's bullish conduct by opting to file an FIR to get a player arrested. The match Commissioner also wrote that referees from other countries wouldn't want to officiate in India in future and that FC Goa's unsporting behaviour has jeopardised the image of Indian football.
Axar as the sixth bowler into the attack. From 84 for no loss, Tamil Nadu slumped to 99 for four as the left-arm spinner struck four times in his first three overs. Tamil Nadu never really recovered from those setbacks even though Mukund fought valiantly till the end. In the other semi-final, Delhi cruised into the final of the Vijay Hazare OneDay tournament as they rode on Unmukt Chand's unbeaten 80 to register a six-wicket victory over
Himachal Pradesh in Bangalore. After Delhi captain, Gautam Gambhir elected to field, his bowlers restricted Himachal to 200 for nine in 50 overs at the M Chinnaswamy stadium. Bipul Sharma topscored for Himachal with an aggressive 45-ball 51, which was studded with four boundaries and three sixes. Chasing the modest total of 201, Delhi were helped by Chand's 86-ball knock, which was decorated with seven boundaries and two sixes.
Liverpool's Klopp a fan of Leicester's near-perfect style Agencies London: Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp is full of admiration for Leicester City's style of football which has propelled the Midlands club to the top of the Premier League. Leicester lead Arsenal by two points at Christmas after a breathtaking opening half of the season which has seen
them top the scoring charts with 37 goals in 17 games. "They play nearly perfect counter attacking football, very quick," Klopp, who replaced Brendan Rodgers at Anfield in October said. "I have big respect for (Leicester manager) Claudio (Ranieri) and the whole squad of Leicester," he added.
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ANI Christchurch: Fast bowler Matt Henry wreaked havoc on the Sri Lankan batsmen as New Zealand raced to an easy seven-wicket win over the tourists in the first one-day internationals in Christchurch on Saturday. Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka failed to build a commanding score as New Zealand seized the advantage with Adam Milne and Henry early in the absence of pace spearheads Tim Southee and Trent Boult. Sri Lanka were reeling at 27 for five within ten overs before Milinda Siriwardana (66) found an able ally in Nuwan Kulasekara (58) as the duo pushed the score past 150 by constructing a 98-
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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27
PAGE 12 Sanjib Sabhapandit directs new Assamese movie 'Dikchow Bonot Palash' National Award-winning director Sanjib Sabhapandit has an uncompromising knack of dealing with themes of intense human appeal and profound social relevance in his films. He pressed himself into projects that presented the issues of our times with creativity and passion. Sabhapandit came to prominence with his maiden venture 'Juye Pora Xun' in 2004 and 'Jatinga Ityadi' in 2006. Both the films were highly extolled by critics and connoisseurs alike for their socially relevant themes. His third movie 'Janfai Junak' was an intensely crafted work with superb technical finesse. All the three movies were selected to the prestigious Indian Panorama. 'Juye Pora Xun' was adjudged the best film on environment conservation/preservation. His last film, the
introspective and much subdued 'Jiya Jurir Shubakh', was released to much anticipation on a High Definition (HD) projection at a mobile cinema theater, but didn't quite made the kind of impact many expected. However the film's subject opened a lot of people's eyes. The film fetched him the award for best direction at the 6th State Film Awards. "One of his attributes has been that he always knew his mind even after letting it wander into realms of creativity that were subtle", said Victor Banerjee, his leading artiste in 'Jiya Jurir Shubakh'. "I loved working with a man whose spirit and personality charmed every performer and technician around him", he added. Produced under the banner of Canvascope, 'Dikchow Bonot Palash' is produced by Assam State Film (Finance and Devel-
New Assamese Romantic Movie 'Ojanite'
A new Assamese romantic movie titled 'Ojanite' has completed its shooting around some of the beautiful locations of Assam. The movie has been directed by Dimbeswar Gogoi and produced by Diganta Rajkhowa, Anima Das, Jogen Gogoi and Rajen Bordoloi under the banner of Seuji Production. The film's story-screenplay and dialogues have been penned by the director himself. The movie's story revolves around a boy who comes back home after completing his studies abroad. Though the boy belongs to a rich family, his character is that of a strong willed and self determined young man who wants to make a name for himself of his own accord. And before he makes this journey, he travels to Malopathar, Jorhat which is a metaphorical journey of its own and he finds love in the arms of a girl in the village.
And thus, the problem of the 'rich and poor' divide come into play and causes the turbulence in their relationship. Overcoming the hurdles of their relationship and how their love has a happy ending is the main theme of the movie 'Ojanite'. Assamese film lovers and the younger audiences will definitely relate to the movie. The key role in the film has been essayed by Prabir Rajkhowa, Debojit Lahon, Reena Bora, Pabitra Bora, Susmita Kalindi, Pooja, Anima Das, Rajen Bordoloi among others. People will see Prabir Rajkhowa in a completely different light as this will be the first time he plays a serious romantic character. His role his completely moved away from his highly appreciated character in 'Saya'. The cinematography is done by Umesh Ghosh,make-up is by Pankaj Bora. The movie is expected to hit the theatres in the coming year.
opment) Corporation Ltd, Utpal Das and Rajkamal Bhuyan. Sanjib Sabhapandit's 'Jatinga Ityadi' was produced by Rajkamal Bhuyan. On the other hand, 'Janfai Junak' and 'Jiya Jurir Shubakh' were produced by Utpal Das. The film to be shot in locations like Palashbari, Rani, Mukkochang among other places, is being
cinematographed by Parashar Barua. Before the movie went on floor, the production did spent a good amount of time in research works for credibly representing a different yet vibrant culture in order to lend an amount of authenticity. Apart from a cast of seasoned artistes from Assam, the movie uses a number of Nagamese artistes as well.
Chicago Award bagged by children's film from Assam Writer and filmmaker Kenny Basumatary's short film 'Myna and Asterix', based on the Produced by EduMedia and part of its School Cinema Project, the film is an initiative aimed at propagating the art of making films and infusing moral values among children across several schools in India. International Children's Film Festival 2015. The film won an award in the live action short film category at the festival held recently. The film traces the life of schoolgirl Myna, whose desire for an Xbox 360, a gaming console, sets her in pursuit of cash. Basumatary, who authored a book 'Chocolate Guitar
Momos' a few years ago, shot to fame two years ago with his cult Assamese film 'Local Kung Fu'. 'Myna and Asterix' is an English language film shot in a
village in the state's Udalguri district. "It's about a girl named Myna who desperately needs an Xbox. She sets out in search of money. In her journey, she realizes that
money doesn't come easily. The film basically teaches schoolchildren about the value of money and the difference between needs and wants," said Basumatary. The film's cast comprises young Assamese actors. While it was shot in five days, post-production work took over five months. "We are involved in making films that project social and moral values. This is an initiative involving many schools in the country. It is good that this film has got recognition. It will be shown at different festivals. It will compete at other venues as well," said Neha Jain of EduMedia.
'Bajirao Mastani' beaten by 'Dilwale' even at Pakistani Detractors of Kangana proven wrong Lot has been said about why Kangana is not doing Sultan. After two super successful films Queen and Tanu Weds Manu Returns...all eyes are on the queen B on what's going to be her next and what are the projects that are coming to her. While the haters have been spreading the word that she doesn't want to work with a Khan, the real story is something else. Apart from the fact that she didn't have dates for Sultan as they were clashing with Rangoon which she had committed for before the Yash Raj film came to her. Another important reason is that she did not want to repeat what she has done in the past and what has
not repeat what she has already done in the past. She is very focused on experimenting with new characters and looks irrespective of the fate. This is how she wants to grow as an actor and provide new entertainment value to her audience like a true entertainer. That's also the reason why she explored the bash and carefree yet vulnerable character of Payal in Katti Batti. While the film didn't do great at the box office, her character was loved and appreciated. For similar reasons, Kangana has also declined Queen 2. The character of Rani is something that has been explored so she didn't want to repeat it again. The reason she did Tanu Weds
become almost cult. Her character, Datto in Tanu Weds Manu Returns was appreciated by one and all and became famous almost overnight. Apparently, the female character in sultan is again a haryanvi. When Kangana got to know about it, she was clear that she'll
Manu Returns was because she had a new character to explore, Datto...which she did to perfection. Well, we are happy to have someone who's so clear in their thought process and believes in doing exactly what they are here for....to entertain with something new every time.
Superstar Shah Rukh Khan-led 'Dilwale' has been doing exceedingly better than Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus 'Bajirao Mastani' at the Pakistani box office since the last Friday clash, according to the initial figures given by distributors and exhibitors. Actoncomedy 'Dilwale' earned in excess of Rs 65 million during its opening weekend. The collections for the first three days were Rs 21.3 million, Rs 24 million and Rs 23 million respectively, said an official of EverReady pictures, which also distributed the film. According to early figures, Bhansali's period romance has earned just one-fourth of what the Rohit Shetty film has managed in the Pakistan market. The Ranveer SinghDeepika Padukone starrer has, reportedly raked in Rs 21 million so far. It, however, would be wrong to say
the competition is one-sided because now people are lining up to see "Bajirao Mastani" as well, exhibitor and distributor Nadeem Mandviwalla said. While the advance bookings of 'Dilwale' outshone 'Bajirao Mastani', the latter's ticket sales are picking up because of positive feedback, reviews on social media and
positive word of mouth talk, Madviwalla said. He added the real test for "Bajirao Mastani" would come later this week when they are two successive holidays before the weekend. Distribution Club executive director Abid Rasheed said 'Dilwale' was released on 85 plus screens in comparison to 70 screens for
"Bajirao...". He said the success of 'Dilwale' was also because its team spent a lot of time in Dubai promoting the film for the Pakistan market. "Dilwale" has not only performed well in multiplexes but also in single screen cinemas in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi and other cities, Rasheed added.
TICKLE YOUR TASTE BUDS Sunday Chicken Roast Ingredients One full corn fed chicken, that's around 1.5 kg. Olive oil- 2 to 3 TBSP Fresh rosemary Fresh thyme Pinch of a mix of dried herbs Whole garlic pods - 6 to 7 One lemon thinly sliced Freshly made chicken stock 8 to 10 baby potatoes (small ones) 2 stalks of celery 2 onions 1 carrots A brush of butter on top (optional) Sea salt Fresh black pepper Method Take the chicken with skin on, and remove the unmentionables. Take the garlic pods with the skin on, and smash them with a knife. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon and the garlic.You can truss the chicken, many prefer to sew the chicken up. Take a mortar and pestle, pour the olive oil in it, and add the rosemary and thyme leaves. Crush them into the oil.
Lightly massage the chicken with the flavoured olive oil. Sprinkle a bit of the mixed dried herbs too. And some minced garlic. Then add sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Now pour some chicken stock into the roasting pan (Get recipe: Fresh Chicken Stock) Add roughly chopped celery, carrots and mini potatoes. Then put the chicken in, it should fit snugly in the pan. For kids, brush a swipe of butter on top. Put the pan the oven for 90 minutes at 190 degrees. Turn the chicken over once or twice in the middle. Let the chicken rest for ten minutes before you carve it. Spoon the gravy on top.
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