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ASSENG/2015/64205
Vol. 1
Issue 203
India: Maritime Strategy and 'Brand-Building'
Dibrugarh, Monday, December 28, 2015
A fistful of listicles 2015: 15 iconic judgments
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Price -
5.00
Pages- 12
NHRC must comment on rights of rape victims: Nirbhaya's parents
Coal India harvest up 9 % Page 10
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Contentious Chakma-Hajong issues, High-voltage political drama, a Chopper Crash, Controversy on Airport Project, Protest against China: An Eventful Year for Arunachal Pradesh High-voltage political drama involving Governor Jyoti Prashad Rajkhowa capped an eventful year in Arunachal Pradesh. Resurfacing of contentious Chakma-Hajong issues, controversy on construction of green field airport project, a chopper crash, alleged financial mismanagement and protest against China's move to depict Arunachal Pradesh as part of its territory, were some of the other issues that hogged limelight during 2015. The Congress government in the frontier state faced the heat of rebellion from 21 party MLAs out of total 47 during the year. 21 MLAs including six ministers joined hands with former Finance Minister Kalikho Pul to try and topple
Chief Minister Nabam Tuki. Controversy erupted in the state when Rajkhowa on December 9 advanced the winter session of the assembly to December 16 from January 14, 2016 which evoked strong protest from the Tuki camp and also several mass-based organisations. The governor called the session with directives to Deputy Speaker T Norbu Thongdok to preside over it and take up the impeachment motion notice served by 11 BJP and two Independent MLAs against Speaker Nabam Rebia. Tuki supported by his nine cabinet ministers along with 16 Congress members including Rebia decided not to attend the three-day session terming it as "arbitrary and against the Constitution". Surprisingly, the Speaker on
HIGH VOLTAGE POLITICAL DRAMA IN BRIEF April 2- Kaliko Pul expelled for a period of six years for alleged anti-party activities September 30- Speaker Rebia, accepted the resignation of two Congress MLAs Gabriel D Wangsu and Wanglam Sawin October 7- High court stayed the notification of the assembly accepting their resignation October 7- Recommended to the Governor dropping four senior ministers from the state cabinet. October 28 - Tourism Minister Pema Khandu, tendered his resignation December 9- Rajkhowa on advanced the winter session of the assembly to December 16 from January 14, 2016
December 15- The Speaker disqualified 14 rebel MLAs including Deputy Speaker Thongdok from the House on the clause of anti-defection. December 16- the district administration sealed the assembly premises for three days December 16- the rebel group convened the session in two makeshift venues and impeached Rebia and elected dissident leader Pul as the new leader of the house. December 17- The Gauhati High Court stayed all the proceedings of the assembly and governor's order till February 1 next year. December 22- The 21 rebel Congress MLAs filed a petition in the Gauhati High Court challenging the stayed order. December 22- Fixed January 4 as the next date of hearing
December 15 in an order disqualified 14 rebel MLAs including Thongdok from the House on the clause of antidefection. However, during the first day of the session, the rebel group of Congress MLAs accompanied by BJP and Independent members went to the Assembly but they were prohibited entry as the district administration on directive of the Speaker sealed the assembly premises for three days apprehending serious law and order problem.
by Youth Congress cadres who resorted to road blockade for nearly five hours.
With no option left, the rebel group convened the session in two makeshift venues and impeached Rebia and elected dissident leader Pul as the new leader of the house through a composite floor test brought by BJP and Independent members.
However, expressing displeasure over the working style of Tuki, Tourism Minister Pema Khandu, son of former chief minister late Dorjee Khandu, tendered his resignation from the council of minister on October 28 accusing Tuki of having "miserably failed" in governance.
The rebel group was prohibited to go to the Raj Bhawan
Poachers kill yet another rhino in Kaziranga as toll goes up to14 in 2015 Lax attitude of forest department enables poachers to outsmart forest guards on most ocassions Bijoy Handique Jorhat, Dec 27
UNABATED RHINO POACHING IN KNP
Taking advantage of alleged lax attitude of the forest department, greedy poachers once again struck in Kaziranga National Park by gunning down and a rhino and managing to get away with its horn. Sources in the forest department said that the adult male rhino was killed at around midnight near Kothal Chang camp under Burapahar Range of the National Park (KNP). According to official sources the carcass of the rhino was recovered from near Kothal Chang camp area by forest guards and police who rushed to the spot after hearing gun shots. “However, the poachers managed to get away with the horn which was probably chopped off from the body by a sharp weapon. The poachers also took away some portion of the skin from the dead animal”, the sources said. The security forces which conducted a search operation later on in the area with the help of sniffer dogs managed to recover 8 fired cases of .303 rifles. With today’s kill, the number of rhino poached had gone up to 14 in 2015. “Although, we have enhanced pa-
ET CAPSULES
NE Film Fest in Itanagar
cmyk
Itanagar, Dec 27: DIPR, Itanagar has invited all media persons (print and electronic) to attend the formal launch of North East Film Festival, 2016 by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki which will be held at the Media Information Centre, New Civil Secretariat at 3 pm on Monday. Tuki will also interact with media persons. Parliamentary secretary, IPR Bamang Felix and secretary IPR Sonam Chambey will also attend the programme. (Staff Reporter)
2014 11
Rhinos were poached
Burapahar Range, Ghorakati- 3 Central Range, Kohara- 4 Eastern Range, Agoratoli- 1 Northern Range, Bishwanath Ghat- 3 2013 21
Rhinos were poached
Bokakhat Range, Ghorakati- 9 Eastern Range, Agoratoli- 2 Northern Range, Biswanath Ghat- 2 Western Range, Bagori- 7 2012 9
The poached Rhino at Kaziranga today.
Rhinos were poached
Burapahar Range, Ghorakati- 3 Eastern Range, Agoratoli- 3 Western Range, Bagori- 5
RHINO POPULATION ESTIMATES Year 2009 - 2,201
Year 2013 - 2,544
Year 2015 - 2,401 Data source: Official site of KNP
trolling in the vulnerable areas the poachers manage to get away after killing the rhinos. They are taking advantage of heavy fog due to which visibility has become extremely poor”, a senior official said. However, sources said that the forest department have been
unable to break the strong ‘source network’ of the poachers due to which the poachers have been able to outsmart the forest personnel on many occasions. The sources deployed by the poachers provide information of the presence of rhino in a
certain location after which the poachers conduct a recee and finally the animal is hunted down. Most of the time the poachers also manage to get away with their ‘prized possession’ – the horn – even before the forest or police personnel reach the spot. “Poachers use various techniques to divert the
concentration of the forest guards due to which they fail to reach the spot on time; like as the poachers hunt down the animal in one area, a couple of other poachers resort to blank firing near the forest camp”, a source said. “This is just to keep the forest guards engaged for some time till the actual group manage to complete its work of extracting the horn”, the source said. There are protests by various green groups and other state organizations after every rhino is killed against the failure of the KNP authorities and the forest department. The government, particularly the forest minister is dragged into the scene holding him responsible for the unabated killings. Demands are raised for high level inquiries including CBI inquiry. Many reports are also occasionally flashed across the socalled national media and the international press which tries to establish links between poachers and militants. But, after a while, everyone becomes silent till the booming of the poacher’s gun once again. In between, the poor and speechless rhino continues to get killed. This is the reality of Kaziranga today, globally famous for its one horned rhino.
Providing a breather to Tuki, the Gauhati High Court on December 17 stayed all the proceedings of the assembly and governor's order till February 1 next year. Tuki on October 7 recommended to the Governor dropping four senior ministers from the state cabinet. A few days later another minister was also axed from the cabinet.
The rebellion started imme-
diately after Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Padi Richo expelled Pul from the party on April 2 for a period of six years for alleged anti-party activities. However, the expulsion order was later stayed after Pul won the legal battle. Adding fuel to the coup, Speaker Rebia, a close relative of Tuki, on September 30 accepted the resignation of two Congress MLAs - Gabriel D Wangsu and Wanglam Sawin - who, later alleged that they were forced to resign by Tuki. The duo, however, approached the high court seeking justice. The court stayed the notification of the assembly issued on October 1 accepting their resignation, in its order on October 7. In the later part of the year, resignation of government-appointed parliamentary secretar-
ies and chairmen started opposing leadership of Tuki. The decades-old ChakmaHajong refugee imbroglio resurfaced after the Supreme Court in its September 17 order directed the Centre and the Arunachal Pradesh government to provide permanent settlement of the refugees in the state. The apex court's order sparked widespread protests led by All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU). The state government as well as the AAPSU filed two review petitions in the Supreme Court which were dismissed by the court. The government and the AAPSU also decided to file curative petitions in the apex court. Contd. on Page 3
Get ready for second Saraighat War during 2016 Assembly Poll : Tarun Gogoi ET Correspondent Titabor, Dec 27
Although Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Assam was mired with controversy due to the Satra episode; it seems that the visit had been able to generate the much required enthusiasm among the party leadership and Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, in particular to launch its poll campaign for the 2016 state assembly elections. It might be mentioned that putting to rest the leadership issue, Rahul had declared Gogoi as the CM candidate of the party for the elections. With clearance of his name as the next CM from none other than but the Congress Prince Rahul
Gandhi and the faith shown upon him by the party high command to lead the party since then Gogoi has been witnessed in an aggressive mood attacking even Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a ferocious way. Keeping up the tempo, Gogoi who had set his foot in his home constituency today like a ‘decorated General’ declared a war against his opposition party and also appealed towards his party members to be prepared for the second Saraighat War, which is the 2016 assembly polls. “During Wars, the foot soldiers (sainiks) play the most important role, you (the grassroot level party workers) are our sainiks for the elections
and if you perform valiantly and tactfully, nobody can stop us from victory”, Gogoi said while attending a feast of harvest (Na-Khuwa Utsav) at Kosaikhati Biz Farm of the Thengal Kachari Autonomous Council at Titabor this morning. Gogoi called upon the people of Assam and people from his constituency to get ready for the war which will be popularly known as “Second Saraighator Yudha-2016”. “Modi medicine has expired and it has been adulterated with several Nakali (duplicate) Congress and Nakali AGP members who had recently joined the BJP. Contd. on Page 3
Sabha president stressed on tri-language policy for the survival of Assamese nation Shambhu Boro Ratnapal Shetra/Kawoimari, Dec 27
Marking the establishment day of apex literary body Asom Sahitya Sabha, has stepped into 99 years of its existence, this time celebrating its precentenary year celebration from Saturday here at Ratnapal Shetra, Kawoimari on the NH 15 near the Dhekiajuli martyr’s township. With the rest of one crore Assamese people living across
the globe ten thousand literature lovers today sang the Sabha’s theme song “sira senehi mur bhasah janai” under the flag of the literary body in the morning, following which, Kawoimari area that is better known for it’s ultimate contribution towards the 1942 Quite India Movement from where as many as 12 martyrs had sacrificed their lives during the British rule. Prior to it 99 numbers of Asom Sahitya Sabha flag were unfurled by 99
renowned personalities including litterateurs, supremo of various national organizations of the region, senior leaders of various literary organizations of the region, leaders of the tribal literary body, artists etc. including the Sabha’s President Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bora who later sang the state anthem…O mur apunar desh.
Contd. on Page 4
Dullung-Subansiri Mahotsav begins in Lakhimpur with ‘Save Nature, Save Living being’ motto Ranjit Kakoty Lakhimpur, Dec 27
With a view to protect the Dullung Reserve Forest along with the charming natural environment by the side of the River Subansiri and to secure the lives and lively hood of the people of the place, the DulungSubansiri Mahotsav (Dulung-Subansiri Festi-
val) began today at Boginadi in Lakhimpur District with a three day long program in a befitting manner under the aegis of Dollung Subansiri Conservation Society (DSCC) in association with Mishing Autonomous Council. The agenda of the programme began with a plantation drive administered by DFO Krishna Kanta Patgiri at 8.30 am. Then the flag of the Celebration Committee was un-
furled by Vice President Riten Nandi while the flag of DSCC was hoisted by Acting President Thanuram Borah. It was followed by Photo Show related to Nature which was inaugurated by Professor Sajjad Hussain. At 11am the Traditional Food Fair was inaugurated by Ajit Kumar, the Deputy Director of Lakhimpur Food and Civil Supply Dept. while Jitendra Nath Pegu, the Chief Secretary of MAC
inaugurated the Trade Fair. Then a book named 'Jaiva Baichitrar Bhonral-Dulung Sangrakhyita Bananchal' was released by Dr Buljit Buragohain, the Associate Professor of the GIMT of Guwahati. The book was planned and edited by Save Poba Rain Forest, an environmental NGO on the occasion. Anchoring the event, Royal Pegu, the President of the NGO commented that the book is the first book
ever written on world famous Dullung for ChiyaNahar. A Get together of Poets was also held in the festival premises and it was chaired by artist Gagan Borah. Tomorrow on the 2nd day of the Festival several programs like tracking, traditional Assamese Games, drawing competition, symposium on environmental subject along with many other events will be held as per agenda.
The main entrance of the festival. Pic - Prasanta Modak
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PTI Itanagar, Dec 27
PAGE 2
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
National Food Security Act launched in Darrang ET Correspondent Mangaldai, December 27: The National Food Security Act , 2013 has been launched in Darrang district today through a ceremonial public function organized by district administration in association with the district civil supplies and consumer affairs department here at district library auditorium. Parliamentary Secretary and Dalgaon MLA Ilias Ali ceremonially launched the programme by handing over a packet of rice at a subsidized price of Rs 3/per kilogram to one Bilasi Biswas, wife of Thakur Biswas of village Barjhar under Dalgaon LAC. Addressing the large numbers of beneficiaries present the chief guest Ilias Ali elaborated on the brief history of the Act which was passed in the parliament during the fag end of the UPA government at the centre. He accused the BJP led present central government of making unnecessary delay in
Ceremonial launching rice distribution function in Darrang on Sunday. Pic Mayukh Goswami implementing the Act in the state. Referring to the pending court cases against
final selection of beneficiaries in eight GPs under Dalgaon LAC which forced
Seminar on cancer held at Furkating College
Foundation Day of Asom Sahitya Sabha held at Rangia ET Correspondent Rangia, Dec 27: The 99th foundation Day and Pre centenary year of Asom Sahitya Sabha was observed with a 2 day long programme in Kamrup district from Saturday. 99 persons from different walk of life hoisted the flag of Asom Sahitya Sabha on Sunday morning. Different competition including art, poem and song, seminar and an open session was also organised in connection with the programme. At Rangia Dakhin Panduri Sahitya Sabha and at Baramboy, Baramboy
Sahitya Sabha observed the day long programme along with the entire state. In the open session Raghu Ram Kalita, President Dakhin Pandury Sahitya Sabha, Pabitra Kalita, President Rangia Alochani Sabha, Riju Hazarika Ex - President Kamrup District Sahitya Sabha and Partha Phookan Mahanta, Principal, Rangia Teachers Training College were the guests of the open session. The programme was anchored by Tilak Lahkar, secretary of Dakhin Pandury Sahitya Sabha.
Doomdooma celebrates 91st birthday of Atal Bihari Vajpayee
ET Correspondent Doomdooma, Dec 27: Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee's 91st birthday celebrated with great fervor here in a two days long program organized by Bhartiya Janta Yuva Morcha and Bhartiya Janta Party of Doomdooma unit. The program began with flag hoisting and Smirti Tarpan . On the occasion senior
citizen, founder president of Doomdooma BJP and social worker Chiranjilal Goyal inaugurated the program by cutting the cake . In the function local BJP MLA Dilip Moran, town committee president Duly Arandhara , vice President Kapil Dev Pandey , District President Bhaven Sharma , local BJP leaders and activists were present .
22,348 targeted families to be left out from this process , Ali assured the house of
solving the issue within second week of January, 2016. He hold the opposition party responsible for dragging the matter of beneficiary selection to the floor of the court. The function chaired by Dr Bijoya Choudhury , Additional Deputy Commissioner , Darrang was also addressed by Banashri Nath , Additional Deputy Commissioner, Darrang and Bidyut Bikas Bhagawati , Sub Divisional Officer (Sadar) , Mangaldai while Dimbeswar Das , Superintendent of Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, Darrang earlier explained about mega distribution chain under the Act involving a total of 1034 agents under 23 Gaon Panchayat Samabay Samitis (GPSS), 35 fare price dealers in Mangaldai town and another 55 dealers in Kharupetia town of the district apart from the officials from his department.
ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 27: To create awareness and to prevent the dreaded cancer disease a seminar was held today at Furkating College where an artist of All India Radio Dibrugarh and also a cancer patient Alpana Baruah gave a relevant speech. While speaking in the seminar, Alpana Baruah said that the medical service is not a business it's a service to the humanity. She elaborately mentioned that some doctors treat their patients as the source of capi-
tal and advice the patients to do some unnecessary tests which become harassment to them. She further added if the doctor properly diagnosed the disease and the patient has strong will power they could defeat cancer. Alpana Baruah shared her experience of suffering as a cancer patient. The seminar was organised by Golaghat District Congress Committee in association with Golaghat District Truck Owners Association. Two renowned doctors from Guwahati Dr Gitartha
Raimedhi and Dr Pankaj Deka attended the programme as a distinguished guest. Both of them delivered their speechs on the topic "Cancer doesn't mean death, one can get rid of any disease with strong will power, come Let's together we can make a healthy and creative society". A documentary entitled "Sambhavna" produced by Tech Aid Foundation and R B music production was also unveiled at the seminar.
Asom Sahitya Sabha's pre centenary celebration programme concludes in Morigaon
Obituary : Rina Das
ET Correspondent Morigaon, December 27: The two day Asom Sahitya Sabha's pre centenary celebration programme came to an end on today under the auspices of Morigaon Zila Sahitya Sabha . Today, the programme started with the flag hoisting of Asom Sahitya Sabha by Harendra Bora, President, Morigaon Zila Sahitya Sabha. This was followed by smriti tarpan where floral tributes were paid on the portrait of late Padma Nath Gohain Boruah, founder President of Asom Sahitya Sabha. On the occasion, the construction works of Morigaon Zila Sahitya Sabha Bhavan(2nd phase) was inaugurated by Rama Kanta Deori, Chief Executive Member of Tiwa A u t o n o m o u s Council(TAC). The TAC has sanctioned Rs 20 lakh for the construction of 2nd phase of Morigaon Zila Sahitya Sabha Bhavan. The open meeting was
held on the occasion, which was presided over by Harendra Bora, President, Morigaon Sahitya Sabha. Explaining the purpose of the meeting, Ajit Sarma, Secretary, Morigaon Zila Sahitya Sabha dwelt at length about the activities of Morigaon Sahitya Sabha in the pre centenary year of Asom Sahitya Sabha. Addressing the gathering, Rama Kanta Deori, CEM, TAC, appealed to the workers of Asom Sahitya Sabha to work for the unity and integrity of the greater Assamese Society. Narendra Nath Keot, former Principal, Morigaon College also spoke on the occasion. Earlier, recitation and painting competition among the school students were also held on the occasion. As many as 40 branches of Asom Sahitya Sabha in Morigaon district observed the pre centenary year's first day of Sahitya Sabha in several places of the district.
SMART ACT...
DC Sivasagar Birendta Kumar Mittal during his sudden visit to Anandaram Baruah Park in Sivasagar town. Pic - Firuz Ahmed
ASTRO FOR YOU You may pick up the hammer and chisel today. No, you’re not taking up sculpture; you’re finally giving in to your spouse’s demands to take some home improvement measures. It’s in your interest to be speedy and focused, as you are the guilty party. You are likely to confront a turning point in relationships today. Because you are in need of some compassion and support, you will feel the need to spend time with friends and relatives. Your beloved or better half may bring a change in mood by helping you shed your negative frame of mind. Emotional and material security will hold equal importance today. You want to be in love, but you know that love can’t buy you dough. In academics, you will be able to solve whatever problems you set your mind on. Your spare time will be spent on devising methods of making the best use of your knowledge. Today, you will make crucial choices concerning higher studies. You are feeling lucky today. The problem is that your feelings have nothing to do with the ground reality. So, while you may get busy trying your luck at risky speculative markets, you may incur losses because of your foolishness. It’s better that you do nothing and spend some time with your family, make some changes in your house, or do anything to keep yourself busy. Even if you are feeling lucky, just don’t try your luck. Time is one thing that you have in short change today. There is every possibility that you shall remain extremely busy. The tasks may be small like writing a letter to revive old contacts but it is important that you do them. Chances are that you may also end up giving a few interviews over the phone. Just remember that your ability to make things work and do your best make you the prime candidate for organising and conducting urgent meetings. Family matters will matter today. They hold more weight in your thoughts than everything else. Business will be good today. Spend the evening relaxing and chilling out. On the cards is a visit to a place of worship. Of late, you have been very concerned about the health of one of your close friends. Take this day to lay your fears to rest by spending time with that friend. Work can wait, as today you must prove to yourself, if not to others, that ‘a friend in need is a friend indeed’. Today, the sugar and spice of work and home are delicately balanced to bring out the best in you. You may spend a lot of your time brainstorming at your desk. In the evening, however, mental exercises will be substituted for pleasure and fun with friends and family. Chances of you hitting a roadblock today are high. But remember the saying, ‘When the going gets tough, the tough get going.’ So don’t succumb to pressure, but rise up to the occasion and show who’s the boss.
Rina Das ET Correspondent Mangaldai, dec 27: Rina das (67) , a pious, popular lady as well as an ideal housewife of ward no-10, bhebarghat , mangaldai town died last night in gmch while undergoing treatment for last few days. Her death is being widely mourned and hundreds of people today attended her funeral . Born in tezpur bihaguri rina das became a resident of by virtue of her marriage to baneswar das of bhebarghat. She left behind her husband , two sons including minister for water resources, fisheries etc basanta das , a daughter along with a host of relatives and well wishers.
CULTURAL PROCESSION...
You will have heard of many emotional fools who let sentiments rule their lives. Try not be one of them, and if it’s too difficult a task, at least pretend not to be one of them, for going by your feelings can leave you at a low ebb. In other words, your feelings can come in the way of your success. A solution to this problem is to remain dispassionate and let the opportunist think you are a hard nut to crack. Your mood will swing by the hour today! Naturally, you leave your friends stumped. But unpredictability does not mean that you take unnecessary risk. You must complete all pending projects, and bear in mind that it is only fools who rush in where angels fear to tread. The focus is firmly on career advancement today. Business deals, which have been a long time in the making, will finally come through. Those pursuing a profession can expect pay rises or promotions. Make sure your skills are up to the mark to be able to tackle your new responsibilities satisfactorily.
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
28-12-15 (MONDAY)
Cultural procession being takes out on the occasion of closing day of silver jubilee celebration of Naksari Srimanta Sankardeva Sangha in Mariani. Pic - UB Photos
5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Ramdhenu (Request Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani (Youth Programme) 7-45 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Ei Poth Hoise Bikashor" 8-00 P.M-Drama 8-30 P.M-Talk in Assamese 9-30 P.M-Mandakini Sd-/H.O.P
PAGE 3
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
BJP condoles death of khelo rijiju Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 27: The rank and files of Bharatiya Janata Party Arunachal Pradesh led by its State President, Tai Tagak today condoled the sudden demise of Khelo Rijiju, elder brother of Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State
for Home Affairs at State BJP . “The party in this moment of sorrow prays Almighty God to give enough strength to the bereaved family Members, his father Ex-MLA, Rinchin Kharu and family; MoS
Home, Kiren Rijiju and other members of the bereaved family enough strength and courage to bear the irreparable loss, and also conveyed his prayers for eternal peace of the departed soul in the heavenly abode,’’ a BJP press release stated.
GOOD ROAD VERY SOON!
21 computers stolen from schools in Rangia ET Correspondent Rangia, Dec 27: At least 21 computers provided under the Rajiv Gandhi Literacy Mission were stolen from 3 different schools by miscreants on Friday and Saturday night. According to Nripen Nath, Head master of Pub Rangia High school 9 computers including all accessories have been stolen from his school on Saturday night by thieves who managed to break the lock of the
computer room and got away with the machines. On the other hand, 2 computers of Kachari Mahal Higher Secondary School of Madhukuchi Rangia were also stolen by miscreants last night in the same way. Again on Friday night 10 computers were stolen from Dagaon High school under Kamalpur police station by breaking the lock. All the three institutional Heads had filed FIR in the respective police sta-
tion. Police has started investigation but till now there has been no result. The Head of the institutions criticized the government for not making any security arrangements to protect the valuable computers of the schools. There has been a rapid growth in cases related to theft of computers from schools, but, the police had failed to curb down the menace, a school teacher said.
ISIS can never strengthen a hold in India: Rajnath L u c k n o w, D e c 2 7 (ANI): Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that he is sure ISIS can never strengthen a hold in India because
of its strong cultural and traditional values. He also said that the traditional values are responsible for the upliftment of our c o u n t r y. H e f u r t h e r
stated that as Home Minister, he wants to share that Indian Muslims are the ones who don't let their children get influenced or radicalised by ISIS.
Rajnath received huge christmas cake on xmas day from khongwang
The wait for good road in state capital, Itanagar will soon be over as the Bitumen Tank & paver in State has arrived and have reached at work site. Chief Enginner (highway) Bora Ete has informed that Black Topping in capital complex will beginfrom 30.12.15.
Consumer Day observed with the theme 'Combating Food Adulteration' Pasighat, Dec 27: The Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs, East Siang District observed National Consumer Day recently here at Kendra Vidyalaya School, Pasighat in the form of exhibition cum practical demonstration on various consumer products of day to day used. Assistant Controller LM & CA, KP Tago while briefing on importance of the day said that the Consumer Protection Act which was enacted on 24th December, 1986 is found to be one of the most effective and unique piece of legislation in our country. Under this Act, consumer grievances are redressed within 3 month if no laboratory test is required through special redressal machinery set up
and remain alert in their life, Tago asserted. Inspector legal Metrology Lupha Sikhet as resource person explained on various other consumer interests through demonstration of products like making right choice of product quality, possibilities of manipulation in weighing and measuring instruments, MRP of packaged commodities etc. Consumer Day observed in Pasighat. in district, state and national level, he added. This National Consumer Day provides consumers enough opportunities to highlight the importance of their movement and also to create awareness of their
rights and responsibilities. The theme for this year was "Safe & Healthy - Combating food Adulteration". In accordance with the theme, Legal Metrology team in the programme has given due stress to create awareness on menace of food adultera-
tion. Assistant Controller explained on adulteration of various common food items like milk, spices, pulses, honey etc though practical demonstration with simple tests which can also be done at home. One can easily identify adulterated food
Later, a quiz completion was held on the subject related to consumer protection with the help of Manoj Kumar PGT teacher and 22 winners have been awarded prizes. More than 450 students, teachers and staff including Principal in-charge Rakesh Mehra of Kendra Vidyalaya Schol participated in the programme. (DIPRO)
Contentious Chakma-Hajong issues, High-voltage political drama, a Chopper Crash, Controversy on Airport Project, Protest against China: An Eventful Year for Arunachal Pradesh Contd. from Page 1
Rajnath received huge christmas cake on xmas day from khongwang. NEW DELHI, Dec 27 (NEPS): Union Minister for Home Rajnath Singh has happily received the Christmas Cake given by senior Nagaland BJP leader, T Khongwang Konyak, here. The Nagaland BJP leader, accompanied by T Methna Konyak, Nagaland State BJP Council Member, visited the Union Home Minister at his official residence on the morning of December 25, the Christ-
mas Day, with the huge Christmas Cake and gave it to him in the presence of many well-wishers. T Khongwang Konyak said since they were in the national capital during the Christmas season away from their home in Nagaland, the novel idea of giving the “Christmas Cake” to the Union Minister for Home came up to their mind. “I with few BJP colleagues
ordered the huge Christmas Cake to give to Shri Rajnath Singh, Union Minister for Home on the Christmas Day with the hope that such gesture will spread a positive message throughout the length and breath of the country,” Konyak said. “We are happy that the Union Minister for Home also happily received our Christmas Cake with the hope that such gesture from Nagaland BJP leader on the Christmas Day will send a positive message to all.”
Cold wave conditions in north India continues unabated New Delhi, Dec. 27 (ANI): Cold wave conditions continue unabated in several parts of North India. In Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar and other areas in of the Valley are reeling under cloudy dry cold conditions. The MeT department has predicted slight snowfall in higher reaches of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Zojila and other areas in south and north Kashmir in the next 12 hours. It has also predicted that cold dry wave is likely to continue for the next four-five days with a dip
in temperatures. The Srinagar-Jammu national highway is through for traffic on both sides. After remaining closed for three consecutive days, the 86-km-long Mughal Road, connecting the Valley through Pir Panjal region, was on Sunday thrown open for traffic on both sides of the road. In Himachal Pradesh, despite bright sunshine, many parts of the state continued to shiver. The MeT department has forecast rain and snowfall on middle and high hills
There were also allegations of financial mismanagement to the tune of Rs 581 crore during the year with Opposition BJP organising a public rally here demanding resignation of Tuki for overdrawing the amount forcing the state to plunge into acute financial crisis. The BJP demanded immediate imposition of financial emergency in the state. Pul also alleged financial embezzlement by the state government to the tune of Rs 299.32 crore of central fund against relief and rehabilitation schemes in the past four years. A PIL was filed in the Gauhati High Court (Itanagar Permanent Bench) against the state government by social activists alleging gross misuse of central
Shallow fog occurred in many of parts of the city with visibility around 600 meters at 5.30 a.m. The MeT office has forecast partly cloudy sky for the day with maximum temperature reaching up to 22 degrees Celsius. (ANI)
Tragedy struck the state when a helicopter of staterun Pawan Hans Helicopter Limited, with crew members Captain M S Brar and Captain Rajiv Hoskote and Tirap Deputy Commissioner Kamlesh Kumar Joshi on board crashed at a site 36 km from the district headquarters immediately after taking off from Khonsa on August 4. The debris of the chopper along the three bodies was recovered after seven days of the crash. China's oft-repeated claim over Arunachal's territory again cropped up during the year with a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman statement claiming the state as a part of its territory while there was also a wrong depiction of Arunachal in its map.
The AAPSU strongly protested the statement while the ruling Congress reiterated that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, and the act of China even while the Indian Prime Minister was in that country is an insult not only to Narendra Modi but to the whole nation and in particular to Arunachal Pradesh. The extension of the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act to nine districts of the state during the year by the union Home Ministry also sparked protests in the state which compelled the ministry to withdraw it. The governor, who was sworn-in on June 1, faced public criticism after his controversial letter to prime minister requesting him to scrap the Greenfield Airport project at Hollongi, near here and instead upgrade Lilabari airport in Assam's
North Lakhimpur district. Several organisations including Chief Minister Tuki castigated him for his letter and demanded his call back from the state.
Landslides and flood wrecked havoc in the state during the year with over 300 housed damaged and properties worth several crore were destroyed.
The law and order front was also not conducive in the state during the year. Three Army personnel died while four other seriously injured when suspected NSCN militants fired at the convoy at Tupi village along Khonsa-Longding road in Tirap district on April 2.
The state also witnessed several developmental activities as well during the year. The Arunachal Pradesh Bamboo Resources Development Agency on October 9 signed an agreement with Numaligarh Refinery Limited for supplying bamboo.
Suspected NSCN(K) militants opened fire in an Assam Rifles (AR) camp at remote Lazu in Tirap district on June 7. A minor was allegedly raped for two consecutive days by a government employee at Seppa, in East Kameng district on October 7.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on April 30 announced various road projects for Arunachal Pradesh and laid the foundation stones of five important roads with total length of 542.27 km involving an estimated cost of Rs 3,286.28 crore to boost up accelerated development in the land-locked state.
Get ready for second Saraighat War during 2016 Assembly Poll : Tarun Gogoi
for the next 24 hours. Delhi, however, woke up to a relatively warmer morning as the minimum temperature rose to 7.6 degrees, one notch above the season's normal. The mercury was hovering around 5 degrees Celsius in the past few days.
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So there is no use going with the BJP”, he said. He further flayed Sarbananda Sonowal who was in AGP earlier and came to BJP now and happened to lose his skill development ministry portfolio due to non performance. On the other hand, BJP’s in-charge of Assam Mahendra Singh was heavily criticized by Gogoi for the party’s alleged divide and rule policy among the people
of Assam. “We in Congress only work for the poor and we will prove this with introduction of more and more schemes for to 2.50 crore people of the state in very soon”, he stated. Taking a dig on PM Modi for his foreign trips, Gogoi said “Ask Modi about UK, France, China, Pakistan and others but not about his party’s poll manifesto which is in his back seat now”. It is only due to the breach of trust of the voters by Modi and the BJP due to which the party first lost the polls in
Bihar and now they are losing elections for civic bodies in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, he added. Terming BJP as a party of liars, the Chief Minister also said that all the promises made by the BJP prior to the Lok Sabha had turned out to be hollow and had gone up the air. Gogoi said all common people ranging from petty traders to small farmers are unhappy with what the Prime Minister has done during the past one and a half year of NDA’s rule
at the Centre. He said if he could give us another gas cracker project and more Central Government schemes than we could say that yes the NDA government led by Modi had done and given these in past one and half year. The Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister must keep in mind that the speaking out his mind through Maan Ki Baat to the people of foreign countries rather than listening to the voices of the people who made him the Prime Minister with high hopes
and expectation that Accahe din would come. After addressing the farmers at the Kasaikhati Biz Farm Gogoi along with several other farmers had harvest feast (Na Khuwa) which he welcomed Laxmi to the treasury of the state government for the upcoming next season. Among others who were present along with CM, his OSD Bornali Saikia Bora, Putul Buragohain, Kumud Kachari, Pratap Kachari, Sunadhar Rajkhowa etc during his day long programme in his constituency.
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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
16 tied knot in Church in Golaghat ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 27: With the objective of giving positive message to the society Golaghat Catholic church came out with program of marrying sixteen couples together in a time. On Sunday amidst huge gathering sixteen couple from various regions of Golaghat were married each other as per Christian rituals. Father Dilip Bara performed the rituals and said "Such program is undertaken every year by them in which the cost of marriage ceremony is curtailed as many couple are married together by simple and modest rituals."
A mass marraige ceremony was held at Golaghat Catholic Church during which 16 pairs got married. Pic - Amit Nagori.
Kavita Jain inaugurates Cancer Care Centre
Dead body recovered ET Correspondent Rangia, Dec 27: The dead body of Sunil Rajjak, a 50 year old person of Rangia Dhubi Patty, Ward No. 3 of Rangia town was recovered from near the office of the senior citizen beside Barolia river, here, on Sunday evening. The cause of the death is yet to be ascertained.
NFS act launching ceremony A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 27: The national Food Security Act will be formally launched in Dibrugarh at a ceremonial function organized by the District Administartion at Matak Karam Bhawan, Lahowal on tomorrow. Assam Forest minister for Forest and Environment Etuwa Munda, MLA, s and Deputy Commissioner of Dibrugarh will grace the occasion.
A view of Cancer Care Centre inaugurated by Haryana Social Welfare Minister Kavita Jain.
ET Correspondent Sonepat, Dec 27: Haryana Social Welfare Minister, Kavita Jain today inaugurated a Cancer Care Centre here at the Signus Hindu Charitable hospital. The Centre is the joint venture of the Signus hospital and Apollo hospital in Delhi. Speaking on the occasion, she said that though the government had decided to increase the bed capacity in the government hospital from 100 to 300; but it was necessary to get support from the voluntary organization to provide the best possible treatment in these hospitals.She urged the social and voluntary organizations to come forward to provide best possible health care to the deserving people in the society. The Chief Executive Office of the Signus hospiyal, Dr Dr
Ashish sehgal announced that if the ICU facility was established in the government hospitals, Signus was ready to provide ICU support teams in the government hospitals. Later while addressing a public meeting here in sector-23, minister claimed that equal development in every part of the state was the agenda of the state government and there would be no discrimination with any area on political grounds. She alleged the previous government of congress in the state was involved in neglecting the areas in development on political grounds and as a result of it, the people responded with its ouster from the power. She also claimed that Khattar government had brought transparency in its working to elimi-
nate the chances of corruption and introduced new steps in improve working in the government offices. "Our ultimate aim is to serve the people honestly and dedicatedly," she added. BJP's state vice president, Rajiv Jain said that in order to meet the long standing demand for the management of the solid waste of Sonepat town, the government had acquired 11 acres of land near Murthal village to set up a solid waste management plant and its boundary wall was under construction. EOM Photo- Haryana Social Welfare Minister, Kavita Jain inaugurates a cancer Care Centre by lighting a lamp in Signus charitable hospital at Sonepat on Sunday.
Centenary Celebration of North Lakhimpur Govt HS School concludes ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; Dec 27: The Concluding Ceremony of the year Centenary Celebration of North Lakhimpur Government Higher Secondary School concluded today with different programs held in festive environment. On this auspicious occasion, a cultural procession was organised amidst traditional flavour. A good deal of ethnic cultural groups and old and new students of the school took part in the procession which was inaugurated by eminent Jikir Artist Muhibur Rahman. It, beginning at the school made round of the North Lakhimpur town and concluded again at school. On the other hand, the Open Session and the meeting were held from 12.30pm and it was chaired by Hemendra Kumar Gogoi, the President of the Celebration Committee. Chief Secretary of the Committee, Anupama Deuri Bhorali delivered the welcome address. Former Education Minister Premadhar Borah, meritorious ex-student Iswar Prasanna Hajarika, ex-student cum former MP of Lakhimpur Arun Kumar Sarmah, scientist Dr Uddhav Bhorali, former Principal Padma Sarmah Baruah participated in the meeting as the Guests of
A rally of Centenary Celebration of North Lakhimpur Govt HS School. Pic - Prasanta Modak Honour and all of them delivered lectures on academic topics. 'Shatabdi' the souvenir of the program edited by Harnul Rashid, was released by ex-student cum Educationist Dr Monirul Hussain in the meeting. In the evening earthen lamps were lit by ex-student Deva Kumar Gogoi. On the other hand, an Academic Confer-
ence was held yesterday at 10.30am which was chaired by Dr Puspanath Borah, the former Principal of Dhemaji College and inaugurated by Rekha Phukan, the former Principal of Lakhimpur PGT College. Former Director of Education Priyabrat Lahkar, Vice Cencellor of Guwahati University Mridul Hajarika,
Chief Advisor of ASSU Samujjal Kmar Bhattacharya, Chief Organising Secretary Krishna Das, DEEO Jivan Dutta Principal of Panigaon OPD College participated in the Acdemic Conference. The yearlong Program concluded with a colourful cultural night with the performance of several artist of the state.
Sabha president stressed on tri-language policy for the survival of Assamese nation
DRM, Tinsukia promises better services and facilities at Safrai and Bhojo ET Correspondent Sonari, Dec 27: Aneet Dulat, Divisional Railway Manager, Tinsukia railway division today assured before the public and media persons in Safrai in upper Assam’s Sivasagar district that there will be stoppage for the Ledo – Guwahati Inter City Express within the month of March, 2016 if the public withdraws its proposed agitation of blocking the GM Special train which is scheduled to make a schedule visit to the station on Dec. 29. Accompanied by senior officials, Dulat was on a routine inspection of Safrai and Bhojo station in upper Assam’s Sivasagar district today. It might be mentioned that the public of Safrai have been demanding stoppage of the Intercity Express and other trains at Safrai station since 1991.
Railway officials being felicitated during the visit. He also appealed before the people to raise the ticket revenue by make it a habit to travel with ticket as the ticket revenue has decreased by 16% at Safrai station in comparison to previous year. In another meeting held at Bhojo station with Tai Ahom Srudents Union, Circle Officer, Sonari, and the local
people along with media persons the DRM also assured stoppage of another express train at Bhojo station by July 2016. The Tai Ahom Students Union also demanded one manned or unmanned level crossing at Bhojo as there has been a growth in the number of accidents resulting in casualties day by day. In this con-
nection, the DRM told there may be one RUB (Road Under Bridge) on conditions if state government bears the half cost. He also added that due to lack of interest of Local MP's and MLA's and administration several developmental works are kept pending. The president of Sonari Press Club Mritunjoy Das submitted a memorandum to the DRM urging him to provide better drinking water facilities at Bhojo Railway station. The memorandum also urged for extension of Platform Shed and raising the level of 2 no platform at Bhojo Yard due to which the old aged passenger and especially the handicap passengers are facing a lot of problem. The DRM Tinsukia assured that the problems will be looked into with given due priority.
Cultural procession being takes out on the occasion of closing day of silver jubilee celebration of Naksari Srimanta Sankardeva Sangha in Mariani. Pic - UB Photos Contd. from Page 1
Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bora, unfurled the flag at 9 Am. Later a colorful cultural procession involving different communities was taken out. The procession was inaugurated by State cabinet minister, Rackybul Hussain. The open session of the mega event of the apex literary body was held in the afternoon session. Addressing a mass gathering Sabha’s president said
that Asom Sahitya Sabha would proceed with the concept of tri-language and theoretical premises. “Asom Sahitya Sabha will always give equal priority to all indigenous languages.” “Folk culture and literature is the back-bone for the development of a nation. Therefore, we should take every indigenous community of the region including Boro, Missing, Karbi etc, and Sabha will try it’s best to do the best for the nation,’’ Bora
FASHION... FASHION
said. He stressed on the strengthening of brotherhood among the indigenous communities to reflect the development of the Assamese nation in the real sense through the exchange of language. Dr. Bora also said that Asom Sahuitya Sabha will publish three megazins in Boro, Karbi and Missing in which world literature will be translated. Attending the open session as distinguished guest Minister for, Finance, pub-
DDCA row: Kejriwal should apologise to Jaitley, says BJP New Delhi, Dec. 27 (ANI): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday hit out at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, after a three member report on the alleged DDCA scam did not mention Union Minister Arun Jaitley's name, saying the former should apologise for his actions. "Delhi Government appointed committee has not mentioned Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's name in its report on DDCA probe. It's time Delhi Chief Minister should apologise to Finance Minister, and also go to court and admit to defamation," senior BJP leader M. J. Akbar told the media here.
Models walks on the ramp during North East India Fashion Weekend at Brindaban Garden in Guwahati. Pic - UB Photos.
licity and cultural affairs, Government of Tripura, Bhanulal Saha said that there is no literary body in India as old as Asom Sahitya Sabha which has stepped into 99 years of it’s existence. He said, “Love mother language and enrich your nation.” He added mother tongue is like breast feeding without which any nation could not prosper. Besides other dignitaries, the occasion was graced by noted Arunachali literature, Yeshe Dorjee Thongshi.
"Now lame excuses (by AAP) are being offered that this report was not meant to probe against any specific individual," he added. The report of the three-mem-
ber inquiry set up by the Delhi government to probe the affairs of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) which was held out by chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to have made out a strong case against Arun Jaitley, does not even mention the Finance Minister's name. The 247-page document points to issues relating to the reconstruction of the Kotla stadium like alleged irregularities in the construction of corporate boxes, but does not speak of any financial embezzlement during Jaitley's tenure. Kejriwal and Aam Admi Party leaders said the recent CBI raid at the Delhi secretariat was intended to seize the inquiry report that revealed Jaitley's role in irregularities at the DDCA. (ANI)
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
Gold worth Rs.7 crore seized in Manipur, two arrested
Gold seized in Manipur Imphal, Dec 27:Gold bars smuggled from Myanmar and worth over Rs.7 crore were seized by Assam Rifles in Manipur and two smugglers arrested, an official said on Saturday.Assam Rifles spokesman Akhil Dhawan said a mobile check post of 2 Assam Rifles intercepted a truck near Lilong area in Thoubal district. During a search of the truck, gold bars weighing 28 kg and worth Rs.7.11 crore were
seized. The gold bars were hidden inside the battery cabinet of the truck. The spokesman said the arrested smugglers - Md. Arif, 24, and Sayed, 17 - were handed over to the customs department along with the seized gold. A customs official said the gold was smuggled from Myanmar. "We have started interrogating the arrested people to find out the kingpin behind the gold smuggling," the official said. (Agencies)
Politics delays nod to MDC nominations Shillong, Dec 27: The tussle for supremacy and rivalry in politics has delayed the appointment of nominated MDCs in both KHADC and GHADC.While the name of Conrad Sangma as the nominated member of GHADC is still pending with the state government for clearance for almost two months due to political reasons, the state government has put hurdles for the clearance of the name of retired KHADC Judge J. Reenbohn as nominated member to KHADC.After KHADC on December 14 recommended the name of Reenbohn to the Governor for his nod, the state government has recommended the name of former MDC Irene Lyngdoh to the post.Irene's name got the government's seal of approval due to the ongoing tussle between the Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and the KHADC CEM PN Syiem over the dual-
post issue.Sources said that as far as Conrad Sangma is concerned, once he is a nominated member, he will become the Chief Executive Member of GHADC as per the earlier decision of Garo Hills Progressive Alliance led by NPP. Since NPP is the principal rival to the Congress in Garo Hills, the latter considers the elevation of Conrad as the CEM of GHADC will be a threat to the party in Garo Hills. Hence, the Congress-led MUA-II wanted to delay the process, sources added.Regarding the pending appointment of Reenbohn to KHADC, sources said that the fight is within the Congress since the Chief Minister does not want to see KHADC chief getting upper hand, and hence the government was asked to recommend the name of Irene Lyngdoh to the vacant post.The Governor will have a tough time as far as giving final nod to the nominations. (Agencies)
Festive spirit lingers after Christmas Shillong,Dec 27: Festive spirit lingers in Meghalaya, a day after Christmas was celebrated.On Friday, the Christians all over the state celebrated Christmas with religious fervour.Besides the celebration of midnight masses in the churches on the eve of Christmas across the state, there were special church services on December 25.Garo Hills which witnessed a series of violent incidents due to the spurt in militancy, celebrated Christmas peacefully. Feasts were organized in Churches and homes even as people exchanged the greetings of the season.Churches and homes were illuminated with decorative lights and Christmas stars during the festival both in
Khasi Hills and Garo Hills.The Christmas messages highlighted the need to maintain peace and brotherhood among all sections of people in the state. The faithful, who attended church services in Garo Hills prayed for lasting peace in Garo Hills, the region ravaged by the scourge of militancy.The families who lost their dear and near ones due to violent incidents in the state remembered the departed souls, while the former took part in church services during Christmas. As the state government offices remained closed since December 23, only to be opened on January 4, it will be a long celebration of the festive season for the government staff unlike others. (Agencies)
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REGION BSF firing kills 55-year-old Siliguri, Dec 27:One Kulendu Barman (55) was shot dead in firing by Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and seven others injured including a jawan after a clash broke out between the villagers and border guards along the IndoBangladesh border at 145 Kamat Changrabandha in Cooch Behar late last night. Though the BSF lodged a complaint with the police station and claimed that those people were involved in cattle smuggling, villagers also staged agitation against the BSF's atrocities and
highhandedness in local market place and lodged complaint with the same police station in Mekhliganj. According to a senior police officer, Kulendu Barman was critically injured after he sustained bullet injuries in firing by the border guards and he was later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. At least six villagers were injured after a clash broke out between the BSF jawan and villagers."The BSF claimed that they were involved in cattle smuggling but villagers are denying the charges," said a senior police of-
personnel."After completion of postmortem of Kulendu Barman the police will hand over the body to his relatives. Barman was resident of 133-Panisala village, a far from the place of occurrence 145-Kamat Changrabandha.Police faced problems to mainKulendu Barman was shot dead in firing by Border Security Force
ficer. Solanki Yogesh, the injured BSF personnel belonging to the 35-Battalion, is undergoing treatment in Siliguri."Indian cattle smugglers attacked the BSF jawans after the lat-
ter chased them during smuggling of cattle," a senior BSF officer of 35 Battalion BSF said, adding, "The cattle smugglers attacked the BSF jawans and tried to snatch rifles from
Audience embracing content-driven films in Bengal in 2015 Kolkata, Dec 27:Content-driven films of various genre from whodunit thriller, Partition saga to women's fightback tale were wholesomely backed by the audience while formula-masala movies fizzled out after initial release hype in the Bengali film industry in 2015.Films like director duo Nandita RoyS h i b o p r o s a d Mukhopadhyay's "Belaseshe", the biggest blockbuster of the year and the latest edition of popular fictional sleuth "Byomkesh Bakshi" by veteran Anjan Dutt witnessed 70 per cent occupancy for over a month single in screens and multiplexes.In stark contrast formula films like "Herogiri", "Kathmundu", "Jamai 420", "Besh Korechhi Prem Korechhi", "Romeo and Juliet" having the typical action-romance-foreign location combination failed to register even over 50 per cent occupancy two weeks into running despite glitzy premieres. Showing clear preference for author-
Audience embracing content-driven films in Bengal backed stories, having the 'Bengaliness', a clean narrative and story line, the audience opted for films which were derived from literary works and kept to the basics.While some films were in the thriller zone (like "Har Har Byomkesh" by Arindam Sil, "Byomkesh Bakshi" by Anjan, "Abar Byomkesh" by Anjan or Badshahi Angti by Sandip Ray), others were typical family dramas like "Belaseshe", inspired by a popular Bengali stage production, and the Partitionthemed drama "Rajkahini"
by Srijit Mukherjee. Mounted on a big scale, the visually opulent "Rajkahini" also belonged to the genre of womencentric films talking about the fightback of 13 female sex-workers. While talking about the 60-day spectacular show of "Byomkesh Bakshi", Anjan Dutt had earlier said that Bengali audiences always preferred films with narratives and hence thrillers or family entertainers have the ability to pull people to theatres. "While Satyajit Ray had been banking on
stories by famous novelists like Bibhutibhusan Bandyopadhya, Sunil Gangopadhyay and S a r a d i n d u Bandopadhyay for his films, and Mrinal Sen on Subodh Ghosh and Premendra Mitra, our generation of filmmakers either started writing our own stories or turning to literary works by past masters and the audience are coming back," he had said. Corroborating his views, writer Sirshendu Mukhopadhyay's fiction "Ebar Shabor", a lowbudget film directed by Arindam Sil, on the exploits of an investigatorcop, had over one-monh run at theatres earlier this year, surprising the industry. The enthused director then took up the story of 'Banhi Patanga' for the ambitious "Har Har Byomkesh" casting popular actor Abir Chatterjee in lead role of sleuth yet again and the film has shown 'sold out' or 'fast filling' in boards at different theatres since its release two weeks back. (Agencies)
tain law and order this morning as angry villagers staged a protest in the nearby market place this morning. Traffic along Siliguri-Cooch Behar and MathabhangaChangrabandha routes was disrupted as a result, a police official said. (Agencies)
Kulendu Barman was shot dead in firing by Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and seven others injured including a jawan after a clash broke out between the villagers and border guards along the Indo-Bangladesh border at 145 Kamat Changrabandha in Cooch Behar
Boxing Day celebrated in Meghalaya Shillong, Dec 27:Boxing Day was celebrated in Christian-dominated Meghalaya on Saturday with people unwrapping gift boxes received as part of Christmas festivities .The day is celebrated a day after Christmas and is the feast day of Saint Stephen .It is an important day in the 12-day Christmas celebration. The alms boxes of several churches for
collecting gifts for the less privileged and the poorer classes are also opened on Boxing Day.The state government offices will reopen in Meghalaya from January 4.The general administration department has announced that three working days lost between Christmas and New Year will be compensated in March next year. (Agencies)
JD(U) refutes BJP's jungle raj claims in Bihar
Single refill for over 500 subscribers of Lamshang Gas Official record : All issued refills Imphal, Dec 27: Even though IOC has been making all efforts to clear the existing backlog of two/three months regarding supply of LPG refills by January, all consumers of Lamsang Gas Agency who have made their bookings have been issued refills.Despite the official record, 580 of its consumers have received just a single refill till date.Performance of Lamsang Gas Agency which has around 2847 active consumers is rated excellent and it has been distributing 73.53 refills in a day on the average.During the current financial year, the dis-
tributor has so far issued 10 refills each to four consumers, nine refills each to seven consumers, eight refills each to 12 consumers, seven refills each to 37 consumers, six refills each to 28 consumers, five refills each to 45 consumers, four refills each to 162 consumers, three refills each to 576 consumers, two refills each to 1023 consumers and a single refill each to 580 consumers.The LPG delivery system currently in practice is based on manual booking registers. The manual booking practice is followed because only 90 days booking is accepted in the system
software i.e if a refill booking exceeds 90 days, the booking will be autom a t i c a l l y cancelled.During long spells of bandhs and blockades when the refill backlog cannot be cleared within 90 days, the actual bookings may have been cancelled due to the software and this may cause unnecessary inconveniences to consumers, said a press release issued by the manager, Canchi Indane Service.Informing that IVRS and SMS booking system are going to be implemented very soon in the State, it maintained that they cannot accept online booking for the time
being.Canchi Indane Service would accept and implement online booking/ SMS/IVRS services and make public the hows and whats of the new system."Currently, very few people are aware of the online practices and if we fulfil the select few (online demand) it will deceive many consumers who have made their refill bookings at our end. Thus it is our firm belief that a common system understandable to the illiterate as well as the educated must be enforced else it will benefit the educated and deprive the common people of their LPG refills", said the manager. (Agencies)
Sikkim Govt. to set up 300 MT bio-fertilizer plants Gangtok, Dec. 27: The Sikkim Government will set up a 300 Metric Tonne Bio-Fertilizer Plant in the State to cater to the need of the farmers. Besides, Cold Storage will be constructed in every Gram Panchayat to prevent decay of the Organic produce. Chief Minister Pawan Chamling an-
nounced it at an official meeting in Gangtok last evening. Chamling also announced establishment of Marketing Centre and Auction House for the Organic Produce in the State. He assured that stricter laws will be added to the existing laws with regard to the organic farming.The Sikkim Government has already
MT bio-fertilizer plants
¨ The Sikkim Government will set up a 300 Metric Tonne Bio-Fertilizer Plant in the State to cater to the need of the farmers ¨ Chief Minister Pawan Chamling announced establishment of Marketing Centre and Auction House for the Organic Produce in the State ¨ The Sikkim Government has already banned the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in the State. Those found guilty are liable to both fine and imprisonment ¨ Sikkim is expected to be declared as the country's first fully organic state during Prime Minster Narendra Modi's proposed visit to the state next month
banned the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in the State. Those found guilty are liable to both fine and imprisonment. Two check-posts have been set up at Rangpo and Melli, at Sikkim -West Bengal
border, to check the entry of these. Sikkim is expected to be declared as the country's first fully organic state during Prime Minster Narendra Modi's proposed visit to the state next month. (ANI)
JD(U) refutes BJP's jungle raj claims
Patna, Dec. 27: The Janata Dal (United) today said that there will be good governance under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's leadership and claimed that till the time he is the Chief Minister, there will be hold on crimes. The Party was responding to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleging 'jungle raj' back in Nitish Kumar's Bihar."There was no ' jungle raj' ever and there will be good governance under Nitish ji's leadership. Till he is holding the chair of CM, there will be hold on such crimes. He will never compromise with anything," JD(U) spokesman Sanjay Singh told ANI here.Further adding that the assailants in Darbhanga murder would be arrested soon, Singh said that action will be taken without any compromise."It is a very sad incident. Bihar police formed SIT yesterday and team reached Darbhanga also. Bihar police will
find the culprits and action will be taken without any compromise. Incidents take place and those are being looked at it and the culprit will be soon held even if there are hiding in hell," he added.Bahera Police Station SHO Ramashankar Singh was on Sunday suspended after a project engineer and assistant engineer of a private construction company were yesterday killed in Bihar's Darbhanga district.The Police had yesterday detained six persons in connection with the double murder case.Deputy Superintendent of Police, Darbhanga, Dilnawaz Ahmed confirmed the death of the two. He also said that enquiry in the matter has been set up.Two engineers of a private road construction company were today shot dead by unidentified two motorcycle-borne assailants. (ANI)
The Janata Dal (United) today said that there will be good governance under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's leadership and claimed that till the time he is the Chief Minister, there will be hold on crimes
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
Women security to be Centre's top priority: Rajnath
Rajnath Singh New Delhi, Dec.27: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said that the Government will ensure peaceful, secure and harmonious environment in the
country in the coming year. Singh stressed that security of women will be the top priority of the government. As 2015 draws to a close, he also said, the security scenario has shown marked improvement during the year, especially in Jammu and Kashmir and the north-eastern region.He said there is decline in violent incidents in Jammu and Kashmir and Left Wing Extremism-affected areas.Singh asserted that the government has taken several steps and initiatives to improve the security environment.The Home Minister termed the 2015 as a remarkable year for his ministry. (ANI)
Fire breaks out at KCR's Maha Yagnam in Telangana Medak, Dec. 27 : A major fire broke out at one of the pandals of 'Ayutha Chandi Maha Yagnam' orgainsed by Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao here in Telangana on Sunday afternoon.According to the reports no casualties were reported and four fire tenders were on the spot dousing the fire.People turned up in huge number to witness the Chandi Yagam on its penultimate day in Erravelli village, the organizers on Saturday created additional queue facilities.In addition
to the VIPs, more than 2 lakh people attended the yagnam being conducted by Chief Minister K C Rao.The fiveday yagna is being performed by Rao at his farm house. According to reports, about 2,000 priests from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are taking part in the mega 'yagna'.KCR had invited several prominent leaders from across the country including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. (ANI)
Govt. initiates 14 point agenda on museum reforms New Delhi, Dec. 27 : The Ministry of Culture in an effort to bring qualitative changes in museums in the country to keep pace with the International developments in the field, has initiated 14 point agenda on Museum Reforms in 2009.There are various National level museums, namely National Museum (New Delhi), 3 wings of National Gallery of Modern Art (Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai), Indian Museum (Kolkata), Victoria Memorial Hall (Kolkata), Salarjung Museum (Hyderabad), 23 Science Centre under National
Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas floods leave 18 people dead Washington D.C., Dec.27 : At least 18 people have been killed in to fierce storm sand floods in Mississippi, Tennessee and Arkansas in the United States.With more severe weather expected across the central US, forecasters are warning of airport delays and flooded roads as travellers return home after the Christmas holiday. US National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for 10 states in the country .In Alabama, where Governor Robert Bentley has declared a state of emergency to deal with the heavy flooding, tornadoes uprooted trees and tore off rooftops, with one touching down in Birmingham, the state's most populous city.Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant and Georgia counterpart Nathan Deal have also declared states of emergency in the affected counties.In Mississippi alone, 10 people were confirmed dead and 60 others injured by the state emergency management agency yesterday.According to the fire department in Columbia, six fatalities were confirmed in Tennessee while another person was killed in Arkansas. (ANI)
Council of Science Museum (Kolkata) and Allahabad Museum (Allahabad), which are directly under the administrative control of the Ministry of Culture.Besides, there are forty four site museums under the control of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). These museums have a large collection of artefacts, paintings, sculptures, coins etc."Up-gradation and modernization of these museums are taken up by the Government from time to time. These museums are in good condition," a government statement said. (ANI)
NHRC must comment on rights of rape victims: Nirbhaya's parents New Delhi, Dec. 27 : Dismissing the statement of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) that the age from 18 to 16 years would be against the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Nirbhaya's parents today termed it 'unfortunate', adding that the government and the NHRC must comment on the rights of the victims."It is unfortunate that they have made such a statement. The government and the National Human Rights Commission must comment on the rights of the victims," Nirbhaya's mother told ANI. She fur-
ther said that the statement of the NHRC is not in the benefit of the nation."What about the right of the victim? When injustice is being done to girls, then what happens to the Human Rights? Why don't they go to the victims and save them? It seems only the criminals have human rights and not the victims," she added. Nirbhaya father said, "What about the juvenile who commits crime? What about the right of the victim who is being tortured? They are misleading and fooling the people."Questioning the
Nirbhaya's parents rationale that led Parliament to pass a new Juvenile Justice Bill, that lowers the age of juveniles who can be tried as adults from 18 to 16
years in cases of heinous offences, former National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chairperson Justice K G Balakrishnan said the rights panel had opposed the move."We told the government that reducing the age from 18 to 16 years would be against the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which India ratified in 1992. We also said that at 16 years, the boy is still a child who is in his formative years. If he is sent to jail, after trial in an ordinary criminal court, there is no likelihood of any reformation and he would come out a
"What about the right of the victim? When injustice is being done to girls, then what happens to the Human Rights? Why don't they go to the victims and save them? It seems only the criminals have human rights and not the victims, "Nirbhaya's Mother hardened criminal. So, we said we should be very careful before reducing the age to 16 years," he said.Paving the way for a new juvenile system in which the age of criminal cul-
'Nobel Peace Prize bug has bitten PM Modi': Congress
President Mukherjee to inaugurate 98th annual conference of Indian Economic Association today Hyderabad, Dec. 27 : President Pranab Mukherjee will inaugurate the 98th annual conference of the Indian Economic Association in Hyderabad today.The threeday conference is being organized by Indian Economic Association and the Centre for Economic and Social Studies in Hyderabad.Later in the day, President Mukherjee will take part in the 'Ayutha Maha Chandi Yagam' being performed by Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao at Erravelli village in Medak district. (ANI)
BJP's 'new spokesperson' Leopard locked in Anupam Kher unaware of room after attacking three in UP Kashmir's history: JD (U)
US targets 17 airborne strikes in Iraq and Syria on Christmas
New Delhi, Dec. 27 : Taking a jibe at veteran Bollywood actor Anupam Kher, the Janata Dal (United) on Sunday said the 'new spokesperson' of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is unaware of Kashmir's history. "Bharatiya Janata Party's ( BJP) new spokesperson Anupam Kher may be doesn't know the history of Kashmir. The Constitution had included Article 370 when Kashmir
'Nobel Peace Prize bug has bitten PM Modi'
"Prime Minister Modi has been bitten by Nobel Peace Prize bug, he has realized that there is nothing that he can do in the country, so suddenly he has turned towards Pakistan," Congress leader Manish Tewari
Sharif is an old victim of the bug, our Prime Minister has become new victim of the
bug," he added.Taking a jibe at the Prime Minister's visit to Pakistan, Tewari said he
was included in India...may be Anupam Kher was a child then," JD (U) leader K.C. Tyagi told ANI.Kher said on Saturday that the Kashmir problem will be solved once Article 370 of the Constitution is gone. Speaking at an event in Jammu, Kher said, "The day a Bengali, a Gujarati, a Marathi, a Keralaite or a Punjabi is able to purchase land and start his own venture there, I feel
the Kashmir problem will get solved. When all the people will live together, then who will kill whom but it does not suit anybody''.Article 370 of the Indian constitution is an article that grants special autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The article is drafted in Part XXI of the Constitution, which relates to Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions. (ANI)
Madhesi leader Rajendra Mahato injured
protestors started pelting stones when the police asked them to shift their demonstration elsewhere.As a result, police lathi-charged and in the clash, Mahato got injured.The new constitution splits the plains into several provinces contrary to the Madhesi parties' demand for only two provinces in the Terai.The government had tabled a Constitution Amendment Bill with a view to taking the dissident parties into confidence. (ANI)
should tell people what transpired between him and Nawaz Sharif."He has come from an extended visit of Russia, Afghanistan and air drop into Lahore. The country doesn't know what happened in Bangkok when the NSA level talks took place, this nation doesn't know what happened in the Heart of Asia Conference when the Foreign Minister went there," he added.Tewari also added that it is very dangerous to outsource diplomacy to the corporates."If Corporates become people
Leopard locked in room
Jaunpur (Uttar Pradesh), Dec. 27: A leopard was locked inside a room at Jaunpur district in Uttar Pradesh after it strayed into a village bordering a forest and attacked three.Tension spread after it was spotted hiding inside a bush behind a house.The villagers informed police and forest officials after the leopard entered a house to take shelter."We have seen a half photograph of the animal taken from the back. From that picture it seems to be a leopard. Now, it is locked inside the room and there is no one there. The room is
locked from outside. Once we see it, we can confirm that it is a leopard," said forest official, K. P. Pathak. Local residents gathered around the house and climbed the wall to catch a glimpse of the animal."People were shouting 'Tiger! Tiger!' But we were sure that it can't be a tiger. Where will a tiger come from? After sometime, I went to the spot. It was hiding behind the bushes and from there it pounced on me. Then my son came with a stick and beat it. Then the leopard left me and attacked him," said a victim, Ganesh Kumar. (ANI)
Pak earthquake kills two, injures 85 Peshawar, Dec. 27: Two people were killed while at least 85 others were injured across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Gilgit-Baltistan when an earthquake shook parts of Pakistan on Friday night. The two killed included a soldier from Mohmand tribal region and a woman from Ghizer .Assistant Political Agent in Ghalanai Haseebur Rehman Khalil told Dawn that the injured sepoy had been
pability will now be 16 years, subject to some conditions, the Rajya Sabha earlier this week passed the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Bill, 2015. (ANI)
who are mid-wifing the relationship between both the nations, it is an extremely dangerous precedent. So, Prime Minister Modi should tell what transpired between him and Nawaz Sharif and he should clear the air that is there 'an oligarchy' that is brokering the relation between India and Pakistan," he said. Prime Minister Modi in his bi-monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, said his government will announce the action plan of his ambitious 'Start-up India, Stand up India' on January 16. (ANI)
New Delhi, Dec. 27 : The Congress Party today came down hard on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not disclosing as to what transpired between him and his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in Lahore, saying the former was bitten by 'Nobel Peace Prize bug'."Prime Minister Modi has been bitten by Nobel Peace Prize bug, he has realized that there is nothing that he can do in the country, so suddenly he has turned towards Pakistan," Congress leader Manish Tewari told ANI."Nawaz
Madhesi leader Rajendra Mahato injured in clash with Police in Jogbani Jogbani (Nepal), Dec.27 : Senior Madhesi leaderRajendra Mahato has sustained injuries in a clash with the Nepal Police during protest in Jogbani area near India-Nepal border last evening.Nepal Sadbhavana Party (NSP) president Mahato has sustained injuries in his head and legs. He was rushed to a nearby hospital.On Saturday, Mahato and other Madhesi protesters entered Nepal from India and tried to stage a sit-in on no man's land. According to reports, some of the
PAGE 6
taken to the Mamad Gat Hospital.In Gilgit-Baltistan, an expecting mother was killed and her husband and two children, aged two and four years, were injured when their house collapsed in Phander area of Ghizer district.According to Pakistan Metrological Department, earthquake measuring about 6.9 Ritcher scale originated at 12:14 am at a depth of 197 kilometres along the AfghanistanTajikistan border.An official said the tremors lasted
around 50 seconds. Two minor aftershocks were also recorded on Saturday morning.Local people retrieved the body from the rubble and took the injured to a government hospital. According to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Disaster Management
Pak earthquake kills two, injures 85
Authority's spokesman Latifur Rehman at least 48 people had been injured in Peshawar, eight each in Hangu and Mardan and 27 in Swat district.In Swat, eight women and a child were among the 27 people reported injured in the earthquake. (ANI)
Two people were killed while at least 85 others were injured across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Gilgit-Baltistan when an earthquake shook parts of Pakistan on Friday night
Karachi, Dec 27: The United States conducted 17airborne strikes on militant Islamic State (IS) group in Iraq and Syria on December 25. Five of the strikes were in Syria and 12 in Iraq.The strikes were carried out by fighter aircraft, bombers and remotely controlled aircraft, targeting IS fighters, facilities, vehicles, IS tunnels, explosive manufacturing sites and fighting outposts.The strikes were an intrinsic part of the Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation designed to target the IS. As per the reports, all US aircrafts had a safe retreat. (ANI)
NDA Govt. must speak with actions: JD (U) New Delhi, Dec. 27 : The Janata Dal (United) on Sunday said the NDA Government, which has been given responsibility by the people of the nation, must speak with actions.He was commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 15th edition of 'Mann Ki Baat' which he addressed earlier today."When the government is formed, then one must speak with action. When people vests responsibility, then it should be fulfilled and carried out with actions. They have absolute strength and budget of Rs. 18 lakh crores, so they must speak with actions," Yadav told media. Wishing the nation on Christmas and New Year, Prime Minister Modi today said India is a festival-driven economy.He highlighted the importance of cleanliness in India's tourist destinations. He also talked on a number of issues like electrification in villages, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) implementation, disabled people and so on.The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to launch a campaign for the upcoming Republic Day to espouse the people to think and write something about duties which are enshrined in the Constitution. (ANI)
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
PAGE 7
NEIGHBOURS
China 'expels' French journalist over Uighur article Pakistan army chief Beijing, Dec 27: China has effectively expelled a French journalist over an article she wrote that was critical of Beijing's policy towards Muslim Uighers in Xinjiang. Beijing confirmed it would not renew press credentials for Ursula Gauthier, of the French news magazine L'Obs.It said an article she wrote about the unrest in Xinjiang supported "terrorism and cruel acts" that had killed people. Ms Gauthier called the claims "absurd" and said Beijing was trying to deter foreign reporters in the country.If her press card is not renewed, Ms Gauthier cannot apply for a new visa, and will have
China has been cracking down on what it calls "terrorists with foreign links" in Xinjiang
to leave China by 31 December.She would be the first foreign journalist to be expelled since alJazeera correspondent Melissa Chan in 2012.China blames the long-running unrest in western autonomous Xinjiang region on Islam-
Bangladesh police raid militant hideout, explosives found Dhaka, Dec 27 : Police today said they had detained three suspected members of a banned militant group and found a sniper rifle, ammunition, explosives and military suits in a hideout in southeastern Bangladesh .The raid came days after police busted a militant hideout in the capital Dhaka as security forces stepped up a hunt for Islamist militants behind a spate of recent attacks in the Muslim-majority nation .Police searched an apartment in the port city of Chittagong based on information from the three members of the banned Jamaat-ulMujahideen organization who were caught in an earlier raid, Chittagong city police commissioner Mohammad Abdul Jalil Mondal said."A sniper rifle, ammunition, explosives, detonators, army uniforms and bomb-making materials were found
in the apartment," he told a news conference .The group was believed to be behind a series of recent attacks, including bombings of a Shi'ite shrine and the shooting of three foreigners, two of whom have died .Bangladesh has suffered a wave of Islamist militant violence in recent months, including a series of attacks on mosques, Christian priests and Hindu temples .Islamic State has claimed responsibility for some of the attacks, including a bomb attack at a mosque of the minority Ahmmadiya Muslim community during prayers on Friday. Police have confirmed the person killed was the bomber himself. The government has denied that Islamic State has a presence in the country of 160 million people. It blames Islamist political opponents for instigating the violence. (Agencies)
Chinese mine boss drowns himself after deadly collapse Beijing, Dec 27: The owner of a Chinese gypsum mine that collapsed and left one worker dead and 17 trapped has drowned after jumping into a well in an apparent suicide during rescue efforts. Quoting a morning briefing by the rescue command center, state media said Ma Congbo, president of Yurong Commerce and Trade Ltd. Co., was assisting with rescue efforts on Saturday morning when he jumped into
a mine well and drowned.Since the mine collapse on Friday, rescuers have pulled 11 workers to safety and recovered one body. Another 17 miners are yet to be found.Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral that is widely used in construction.Chinese authorities typically mete out harsh punishments, including jail sentences, to company management and local work safety officials following major work safety. (Agencies)
11 million Beijing residents benefit from south-north water Beijing, Dec. 27 : A total of 870 million cubic meters of water from the south-to-north water diversion project have been delivered to Beijing today, one year after the project went on-stream, municipal authorities announced today.The water has met the needs of more than 11 million people in the capital, according to Sun Guosheng, head of the
project's Beijing office.Beijing water department said compared with the same period last year, consumption of the city's surface water has decreased by 275 million cubic meters from January to November, and several reservoirs in the city have raised storage levels by a total of 120 million cubic meters since the start of the project. (Agencies)
China south-North water
ist separatists, many of whom it says have foreign ties.But Xinjiang's ethnic Uighurs, most of whom are Muslim, say Beijing's repression of their religious and cultural customs is provoking the violence.Ms Gauthier published her article af-
ter the attacks in Paris in November, suggesting China's solidarity with France might have an ulterior motive - to justify its own crackdowns in Xinjiang.The article triggered condemnation from the Chinese government and state media, which demanded an apology and retraction from her. China's foreign ministry confirmed on Saturday it would not renew Ms Gauthier's press card, saying she had failed to make a "serious apology" to the Chinese people and was no longer "suitable" to continue working in the country. "China will never support the freedom to champion terrorism," it said. The foreign
Uighurs and Xinjiang They make up about 45% of the region's population; 40% are Han Chinese
Uighurs are ethnically Turkic Muslims
China re-established control in 1949 after crushing short-lived state of East Turkestan
Since then, there has been large-scale immigration of Han Chinese
ministry complained of what it termed a double standard, whereby tough action in the West was called anti-terrorism but in China was described as the repression of ethnic minorities.Ms Gauthier told the media that the authorities had repeatedly called for her to apologise for supporting terrorism. "I said I
never supported terrorism - how do you want me to apologise for something I have not written?" she said."I am convinced that they are very clearly trying to intimidate foreign press in China because they don't want anyone to say things which are different from the official version of the question." (Agencies)
Three missing in Myanmar jade mine landslide: officials Yangon ,Dec 27:Rescuers in northern Myanmar today said they were confident only a handful of people are missing in a jade mine landslide, refuting local reports that as many as 50 might have been buried .A wall of rocks, mud and debris careered down a hillside on Friday afternoon in Hpakant, Kachin State, the war-torn area that is the epicenter of Myanmar's secretive billion dollar jade industry.More than 100 people were killed in the same area in a landslide last month and locals feared dozens of workers might be buried in the latest accident. But officials involved in the rescue said they had only been notified of a handful of missing people and have yet to recover any bodies."Three men have been reported to us as missing," A duty police officer in Hpakant told media, asking not to be named."We are not sure whether they were buried in the dump because we haven't found any dead
bodies yet.""Relatives of the three people informed us that three people have not yet returned home since the accident happened," the paper quoted Tin Swe Myint, head of the Hpakant Township Administration Office, as saying.He added that the landslide took place after most workers had finished work and unlike last month's tragedy had not engulfed a row of shanty houses.However a second police officer warned it was still too early to say how many have been caught up in the landslide. Myanmar's shadowy and poorly regulated jade trade is enormously dangerous with landslides a frighteningly common hazard.Those killed are mainly itinerant workers who scratch a living picking through the piles of waste left by large-scale industrial mining firms in the hope of stumbling across an overlooked hunk of jade that will deliver them from poverty .Myanmar is the source of virtually all of the world's finest jadeite, a near-
Three missing in Myanmar jade mine landslide translucent green stone that is enormously prized in neighbouring China, where it is known as the "stone of heaven". The Hpakant landscape has been turned into a moonscape of environmental destruction as firms use ever-larger diggers to
claw the precious stone from the ground. But while mining firms many linked to the juntaera military elite - are thought to be raking in huge sums, local people complain they are shut off from the bounty. (Agencies)
Rescuers in northern Myanmar today said they were confident only a handful of people are missing in a jade mine landslide, refuting local reports that as many as 50 might have been buried
UML 'to grill' Oli for slicing ministries Kathmandu, Dec 27: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's decisions to slice and dice ministries "on a whim" to appease coalition partners are likely to become an albatross around his neck, as his own party, the CPNUML, is preparing to grill him during party's meeting.PM Oli while expanding his Cabinet on Thursday, for the fourth time, inducted four ministers and six state ministers and divided ministries, taking the strength of the Cabinet to 40 and number of ministries to 30. Brushing aside criticism from several quarters, Prime Minister Oli again on Friday split two ministries "to adjust the fringe parties" that have extended support to his government.Prime Minister Oli is currently leading the third largest Cabinet and largest number of ministries in history.Even Oli's coalition partners, including the UCPN (Maoist), have criticised his move of split-
ting and doling out ministries. A section of leaders in the UML, mainly those loyal to party's senior leader Madhav Kumar Nepal, believes Prime Minister Oli's recent moves have done no good to the party's image."Whatever the prime minister is doing has not helped to build party's image," said party Spokesperson Yogesh Bhattarai, who is close to Nepal."Instead, it has ruined our hard-earned popularity. We will raise this issue in the party meeting whenever he calls it," Bhattarai added. Prime Minister Oli's decisions also violate constitutional provision that calls for limiting the number of ministries to 25.The Administrative Reform Recommendation Committee in April had also suggested that the government limit the number of ministries to 18. "We have suggested that the government reduce the number of ministries to 18 before formally
adopting the federal set-up and fix 12 ministries in the centre in the federal set-up to make service delivery efficient and avoid duplication of work division," said Kashi Raj Dahal, chairman of Administrative Court, who also headed a committee formed to asses relevance of current ministries.New ministries, according to PM Oli's aides, were created to address the demands of coalition partners.After the CPN (Samyukta), one of the coalition partners with three lawmakers, withdrew support for the government four days ago, Oli, who is backed by 15 parties in Parliament, Oli thought giving ministerial berths to fringe parties was the only way to get fringe parties' support, according to his aides.PM Oli, who has admitted that forming a jumbo Cabinet is a mistake, however, has tried to justify his decisions, saying "special circumstances". But the justification cuts no ice with party leaders."Whatever
the prime minister has done in recent days cannot be considered as good decisions," said another UML leader Rabindra Adhikari, adding, "Increasing the number of ministers and splitting ministries is not a good decision at all. The government should have focused more on other issues, including easing fuel supply."The UCPN (Maoist), a key coalition partner in the government, has even warned of withdrawing its support "if PM Oli continues to take decisions unilaterally". Describing PM Oli's move as "irresponsible" and "wrong", Maoist leader NarayanKaji Shrestha has asked PM Oli to abide by the constitutional provision. [SIC] "If PM thinks that UCPN (M) will support to anything he does, he is quite wrong," Shrestha had tweeted after Oli's decision to create more ministries. He said in the tweet that the Maoist party "cannot remain silent". (Agencies)
Complaint in Dhaka court against Khaleda Zia for remarks on 1971 martyrs Dhaka, Dec 27: Lawyer Mashiur Rahman Malek filed the complaint in Dhaka's Metropolitan Magistrate Ashiqur Rahman's court today.The matter comes up for hearing later in the day. "The complaint has been filed under Section 123 A of the penal code for slandering the State," Malek, who is also the president of the Bangabandhu Foundation.The law treats as an offence against the State anything that is said,
in speech or in writing, against the creation of Bangladesh and its sovereignty. The maximum punishment for the offence is 10 years' of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine.Speaking at a discussion on Dec 21, the BNP chairperson expressed doubts about the government's claims that nearly three million people died during the 1971 Liberation War .She also said the Banga bandhu wanted to be
the prime minister of undivided Pakistan rather than lead the country to independence.Her remarks sparked a furore. The Ekattorer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee, a secular group formed in the early 90's and demanding the trial of war criminals, demanded the BNP chief withdraw her re-
to visit Kabul today
A major agenda would be border management mechanism
Islamabad, Dec 27: Pakistan army chief general Raheel Sharif would visit Kabul today for deliberations on resumption of the Afghan reconciliation process and instituting a border management mechanism. During his visit, he will hold meetings with political and military leadership of Afghanistan, quoted military spokesman Lieutenant General Asim Bajwa as saying on y e s t e r d a y. G e n e r a l Sharif's visit was initially planned for earlier this month - before the Heart of Asia conference in Islamabad - but got delayed because of bilateral tensions.The US had been encouraging General Sharif to visit Afghanistan for easing ties between the two coun-
tries and a possible resumption of the reconciliation dialogue between Afghan government and Taliban.During the visit General Sharif would discuss the reconciliation process including the schedule of the meetings and the militant groups that were expected to join the talks.The other major agenda would be border management mechanism, Bajwa said.Pakistani officials say the arrangement for regulating the border was necessary for controlling unauthorized movement across the borderThe officials accuse Afghan government of delaying the finalization of the new border coordination mechanism due to domestic political impediments. (Agencies)
Pakistan, Bahrain Navy exercise focusing on maritime terrorism concludes Islamabad, Dec 27:Pakistan and Royal Bahrain Navies concluded bilateral exercise "Exercise Shaheen Al Jazeera". Final event of the exercise was witnessed by Commanders of the Special Operation Forces of the Royal Bahrain and the Pakistan Navies. Both Commanders appreciated the professional conduct and skills displayed by the participating teams.They were equally confident that the exercise Shaheen Al Jazeera will prove beneficial in e n h a n c i n g interoperability between the two navies and their Special Operations Forces. The exercise culminated with the display of coordinated Special Forces operations at sea which included boarding procedures through surface and air platforms. Shaheen Al Jazeera series of Special Forces Exercise is being regularly conducted since 1997 between PN SSG (N) and Bahrain Navy Special Forces at Karachi and Manama, Bahrain, on alternate years. Owing to multifaceted maritime threats in the Indian Ocean Region, the Special Forces of the two countries exercised various operations related to Maritime Counter Terrorism and Interdiction Operations employment of Maritime Special Warfare (MSW) Teams.The bilateral naval exercise 'Shaheen Al Jazeera' of Pakistan and
Royal Bahrain aiming at polishing skills to tackle maritime terrorism and all the other menace related to sea have been concluded. "Shaheen Al Jazeera", a series of special forces exercise, have regularly been conducted since 1997 between Special Services GroupNavy (SSGN) and the Bahrain Navy special forces at Karachi and Manama continually during alternate years.The special forces of the two nations have demonstrated various operations adhered to maritime counter terrorism during the exercise as well as interdiction operations of Maritime Special Warfare (MSW) teams effectively. As stated Nadeem Bokhari, spokesperson for the Pakistan Navy Commodore, the exercise culminated with the showoff of collaborated Special Forces operations at sea which comprised of boarding procedures through surface and air platforms. Commanders of the special operation forces of Royal Bahrain and the Pakistan Navy witnessed the summing up part of the exercise. The commanders lauded the ace conduct and knack in related field manifested by the participating teams. Both the commanders boasted that the exercise 'Shaheen Al Jazeera' has provided productive augmentation and interoperability between the two navies and their special operation forces. (Agencies)
marks and apologise.On Dec 24, Supreme Court Bar Association's former general secretary Momtaz Uddin Ahmed Mehedi served a legal notice on Khaleda. The former prime minister has been also been sued in Narhail for her remarks the same day. (Agencies)
A complaint has been filed in court against BNP chief Khaleda Zia, accusing her of 'slandering the State' for doubting in a recent remark the Liberation War death toll figure.
Pakistan, Bahrain Navy focusing on maritime terrorism concludes
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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
India: Maritime Strategy and 'Brand-Building' Transmission Lines Supply of 100 MW to Bangladesh India and Bangladesh have completed the erection of a transmission line to supply an additional 100 MW of electricity to power-starved Bangladesh. However, supplies would be delayed by a week or two as the two countries are yet to ink a power purchase agreement (PPA).According to the erection of a 47-km transmission line from western Tripura to southern Comilla in eastern Bangladesh has been completed. The Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) and the Power Generation Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) have tested the transmission lines on both their sides and found they are okay. The PGCIL and the PGCB, both governmentowned companies, erected the transmission lines in their respective areas for the supply of electricity from the Palatana power plant in southern Tripura. "Earlier the supply of 100 MW to Bangladesh was supposed to be started from December 16 to keep in mind the celebration of Vijay Diwas. But the transmission lines were not ready and the plan could not be materialize. It was on December 16, 1971, that Bangladesh emerged as a sovereign nation after the surrender of 95,000 Pakistani troops at the end of the nine-month-long Liberation War in what was then East Pakistan. Indian and Bangladeshi officials also held a series of meetings in New Delhi and Dhaka to finalise all the nitty-gritties of power supply except the tariff. The last two such meetings were held in New Delhi on October 26-28 and November 26. The power will help Bangladesh to end the energy crisis in the country's eastern part. The 100 MW of power will be in addition to the 500 MW Bangladesh already receives from West Bengal. A like amount is also on the cards from the state, as the two neighbours enter a new phase of bilateral cooperation for regional benefit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also discussed power supply from Tripura with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during his June 6-7 Dhaka visit. And had declared that India would eventually enhance the power supply to Bangladesh to 1,100 MW. The central government-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation has commissioned its biggest 726 MW commercial power project at Palatana, 60 km from Agartala, while the staterun North East Electric Power Corporation is setting up the 101 MW Monarchak project in western Tripura. The gas-based Palatana plant, which supplies power to seven of the eight northeastern states, is a hallmark of the cooperation between India and Bangladesh, which ensured the smooth passage of heavy project equipment and turbines to Palatana through its territory by road and waterways from Haldia port in West Bengal. India had begun supplying 500 MW of power to Bangladesh in 2013 after the government-run Bangladesh Power Development Board and India's NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Ltd (NVVN), a subsidiary of NTPC, signed a deal on Feb 28, 2012, following an agreement signed during Hasina's visit to New Delhi in January 2010.
Call drop Communication problem still prevails in the 21st century One of the major problems that mobile users in India are facing at the present time is that of call drops - the problem especially severe especially in rural areas and places with less mobile towers. Call drop complaints are amongst the highest compared to any other reason. The blemish in India's much-lauded telecom revolution is a curious, widely recurring phenomenon called "call drops." In a country that is the world's second-largest mobile user market after China, fast-paced expansion coupled with inadequate infrastructure and overloaded networks is leading to many callers being cut off midsentence. A call drop, technically speaking, represents the service provider's inability to maintain a call, either incoming or outgoing, once it has been correctly established. In India, call drops are a performance indicator for the country's telecom networks. In many Indian cities or villages, mobile users have to rush from one room to another or drive around neighbourhoods to find better signals (and better voice quality). Adding to all this is getting randomly cut off in the middle of an important conservation is a frequent annoyance. Some angry users are going so far as accusing telecom services providers, who charge for call by the minute, of deliberately engineering call drops to increase revenues. India is adding millions of new mobile users each quarter and the country's active subscriber base of 869 million is fast closing in on a billion. Telecom operators, however, have been unable to adequately ramp up infrastructure and technology to keep pace. Despite the apparent ubiquity of telecom towers atop buildings in Indian cities, poor voice quality, blind spots and abrupt termination of calls have become such a bane in India's telecom industry that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stepped in and asked officials to sort the problem. But no one party is to be blamed, call drops are on account of a multitude of factors involving the government, consumers, telcos and the regulator - like spectrum, network capacity, geographical coverage, capacity utilization, switching between towers and even technical failures. Though largely an urban phenomenon, call drops could be the undoing of several booming sectors, including India's mobile-powered e-commerce industry, where frequent call drops make consumers nervous about payments. Call drops could indicate connectivity jeopardy in India's villages and towns where millions access internet solely through mobile phones. The phenomenon could be a setback for the Prime Minister's much-publicized Digital India program which aims to bringing connectivity - as well as financial inclusion, access to government services etc - to thousands of Indian villages. According to (Telecom Regulatory Authority) TRAI, call drops have been consistently rising in India. Currently, around 14 percent of all calls get dropped which is 7 times higher than what is acceptable. The acceptable rate of call drops should be less than 2 percent. In a consumer satisfaction survey published by TRAI last year, it has been seen that all telecom operators are getting lower satisfaction scores in one circle or the other. For example, India's leading operator has a high consumer satisfaction rating in Kerala circle at 99.1 percent, however, they falter in in Punjab region where their satisfaction rating is only about 88.20 percent. Similarly, Aircel has high satisfaction levels in Assam at 99% percent, but when it comes to Punjab it is only 78%.
The Indian Navy has released a new maritime security strategy document. Abhijit Singh Last week the Indian Navy held a landmark combined commanders' conference on its premier naval platform, the INS Vikramaditya. The senior officers' conclave - the first of its kind to be organized aboard an aircraft carrier - was made memorable by a rousing address delivered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which he outlined New Delhi's many challenges in Asia, paying particular attention to India's strategic stakes in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The discourse may have pleased naval commanders in attendance - not least because the prime minister had a word of praise for the Indian Navy's strategy for the IOR, a presumed reference to the recently released Indian maritime security strategy document. The new publication has been the subject of much discussion in maritime circles recently. In the absence of an online version for public viewing, however, speculation abounds about its many assertions and pronouncements. This review is an attempt at capturing the publication's salient highlights - its guiding principles, the assessment of threats and challenges, recommended operational methodologies, and proposals for strategic outreach and force-projection. Titled "Ensuring Secure Seas," the Indian Maritime Security Strategy (IMSS-2015) is an updated version of a previous publication, "Freedom to Use the Seas" - the Indian Navy's playbook for security operations during the past decade. Released just weeks before the commencement of an international fleet review at Visakhapatnam, the new document is an enunciation of contemporary nautical precepts, and a reflection of the Indian Navy's current maritime operations philosophy. This is the third maritime guidance document since 1998 and the most comprehensive account of India's nautical imperatives, challenges, strengths and opportunities. As in the case of its predecessor documents, the new volume attempts to outline India's naval operational determinants, which it describes as a combination of imperatives and drivers - the former concerning na-
tional economic needs; the latter, a combination of traditional and irregular threats at sea. The IMSS impresses right-away with its immaculate presentation, logical structure, and the rigor with which its framers outline the Indian navy's operational maritime posture in the Indian Ocean. The document systematically tackles myriad themes and contingencies connected with maritime operations. Even though it deals with roughly the same issues as its predecessor publication, the effort put into revising and updating operational concepts and threat-scenarios is apparent, providing an accurate picture of India's maritime environment. The document highlights some key facets of the nautical dynamic in India's maritime neighborhood. One, it acknowledges the hybrid nature of maritime challenges - the blurring of lines between traditional and non-traditional threats. In this, it emphasizes the need for a "seamless and holistic approach," even as it makes a case for greater coordination between different maritime agencies. Two, it validates the use of the Indian Navy as the primary instrument to secure the seas for economic purposes. Highlighting India's unique maritime geography with a central location in the IOR, the authors deem it obligatory for New Delhi to play a strong security role in the region. In this, they underscore the need to protect Indian and regional interests, particularly the security of the vital sea lanes. Equally the document recognizes India's bilateral relationships in its maritime neighborhood - a space where the Navy must operate in the spirit of mutual respect, and with due regard for international law and established nautical norms. In assessing India's maritime compulsions, the IMSS focuses attention on the security of the Indian Ocean sea lines of communication (SLOCs), the preservation of national influence in the maritime neighborhood, and the protection of overseas investment and Indians residing abroad. Consequently, it seems to prioritize security against irregular challenges in the Indian Ocean over other traditional threats. The authors avoid mentioning potential aggressors, instead choosing to evalu-
ate unconventional threats in pointed detail. An interesting chapter on "maritime security operations," charts the conceptual shifts in the Indian Navy's approach to constabulary and benign operations, bringing out contemporary assessments of maritime terrorism, piracy,
dian navy to be the principal 'security provider' in the IOR, the IMSS also lists measures taken to achieve that storied status. This includes balancing prevailing threats, meeting risks and rising challenges through continuous monitoring, and a containment strategy for
modularity and standardization. In articulating India's maritime infrastructural needs, however, the conceptual gaze remains firmly fixed on the navy's operational imperatives. While the document recognizes the needs of the civilian maritime sector - better port capacity,
on the possibility that China may be close to developing a littoral framework of operations in the Indian Ocean and might be familiarizing itself with the operational environment in the region. It is hard, therefore, to escape the feeling that while the Indian Navy is preparing
armed robbery, humanitarian crises, peace support operations and noncombatant evacuation missions. The document's most compelling account is its exposition of India's principle maritime enterprise - the need to "shape a favorable and positive environment." In detailing India's constructive approach to maritime security, this chapter tackles such disparate themes as multilateral maritime engagement, strategic military assistance, local capacity building, technical cooperation and strategic communications. That many of these issues account for a large part of India's current maritime security activity, is a standing testimony to the Indian navy's effectiveness in its primary area of operations. Ensuring Secure Seas is also a more crisply articulated publication. The authors benefit from not having to explain rudimentary concepts as its predecessor document. Instead of repeating the Indian Navy's strategy for peacetime as explained the previous version, the IMSS replaces the relevant section with three concise chapters - one each for deterrence, coastal security and the regional strategic environment. Alongside articulating India's peacetime maritime objective, these chapters also establish common ground between the operational priorities of the navy and the strategic proclivities of the policy establishment particularly the defense bureaucracy. Whilst proclaiming the In-
non-traditional challenges. In laying out India's maritime imperatives in the wider Indian Ocean Region, the authors advocate a regulation of maritime conditions in a manner that doesn't allow for a proliferation of risks, even if individual challenges aren't always addressed comprehensively. As expected, the most comprehensive chapter is on coastal and offshore security. Since the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai there have been a slew of measures taken by the Navy to augment coastal security measures. This includes a plan for greater maritime domain awareness through static and dynamic surveillance, and the setting up of position reporting systems, vessel management schemes and port management systems. The Navy has also been pursuing an "information networking and management project," which involves greater coastal community participation. The section covers the individual projects undertaken in some depth, providing a detailed picture of what has been achieved, and those objectives that still remain unaccomplished. The clearest enunciation of the way ahead, however, comes in the last section on "maritime force and capability development." From conceptual capability-building to human resource development and force-structure planning to power-projection asset creation - the document explores myriad measures to improve the Navy's strategic potential. The authors delve into issues of human resource development, indigenization,
maritime industrial infrastructure and the needs of sustainable development the emphasis remains squarely on realizing the naval operations dividend. Despite its many attributes, however, the IMSS-2015 falls short of being the visionary document that it was widely expected to be. In a world of growing geopolitical entanglements, the Indian Navy requires a forwardleaning strategic blueprint for enhanced maritime reach and deployment in the Asian littorals. Despite seeming to strike the right notes, the new publication sticks rigidly to its operational comfort zone in the Indian Ocean. While it does attempt to expand the Indian Navy's primary and secondary zones of operations, the change is cosmetic and conveys the impression of a force growing in capability and aspiration, but one acutely conscious of the material limits of its power. Consequently, the document does not adequately account for the new and emerging framework of the "Indo-Pacific," mentioning the term only once in the foreword, and that too as an expression of growing global interest in the region. Likewise, China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean Region isn't covered in any objective detail. In recent days, there have been instances of PLAN submarine deployments in the IOR, even as Chinese anti-piracy patrols have, with the addition of sophisticated warships and amphibious platforms, acquired a strategic character. The document does not dwell
for a period of "fragile peace," marked by growing irregular threats, the world might be moving towards an era of strategic mistrust and geopolitical instability. Even as the narrative attempts to realistically capture future challenges, the security establishment's inherent conservatism in espousing maritime activism in the wider-Asian littorals is all too evident. The authors stick to a well-tested format, avoiding a discussion of areas that might be deemed controversial. Their portrayal of India's growing maritime diplomacy as a transformational attribute and a viable counter to aggressive posturing by hostile powers doesn't come off as entirely convincing. Notwithstanding the Navy's utility as a diplomatic tool and an international relations enabler, employing seapower solely for foreign relations enhancement in the distant littorals does seem to be an under-utilization of its strategic potential. While port visits, staff talks, personnel exchanges, and passage exercises are all very useful things to do, these are not a substitute for high-spectrum strategic engagement. In that respect, the document shies away from pushing the boundaries of strategic imagination. To be fair to the authors, they do try and calibrate the maritime posture within the parameters laid down, without straying too much from the traditional line. Their inability, however, to portray greater strategic ambition for the Navy renders this document an exercise in smart profile-building, rather than one of purposeful image-projection.
All Is Not Well Sir, Trouble was brewing after the result of the last assembly election in Bihar. It is reported that few wrong policies followed by the BJP in Bihar election did enough harm to the party. For instance, in the distribution of tickets, many irregularities including money-power, were reported to have occurred. Unlike congress where the High command reigns supreme, the BJP's boat rocks every now and then. Especially, after the Bihar debacle, the frequency of trouble faced by the saffron party started increasing. It appears, inwardly the party is in a mess. Latest happenings centering round the suspension of Kirti Azard, the M.P. of Darbhanga of Bihar following his accusation that when Arun Jaitley was at the helm of Delhi's cricket, Sri Jaitley used to embezzle quite a fabulous amount and taking the cue from Kirti Azad, Aravind Kejriwal, the Chief minister of Delhi acrimoniously criticized Arun Jaitley demanding Jaitley's removal from the Union Ministries. Sri Jaitley lost no time in filing a defamation suit against Mr. Kejriwal. The matter has come to such a pass that the BJP suspended Kirti Azad from the party. The number of disgruntled BJP M.Ps keep increasing, after Shatrughan Sinha, R.K. Singh and certain veteram M.Ps, it is now Kirti Azad. If the Saffron party repeats its mistake committed in Bihar in the election of Assam, the party is
destined to face the music. In upper Assam, the constituencies where number of tea-estates is more, candidates of tea-tribes should be fielded. The BJP is in an ordeal vis-a-vis Assam's assembly election. If the unpleasant happenings in BJP are anything to by, we are certain that 'All is not well'.
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
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d e A fistful of listicles 2015: 15 iconic judgments
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
The judiciary this year has no doubt been seemingly kind to celebrities. Yet, as we wind up 2015 and look back at the pronouncements throughout these 12 months, there is hope, feels Amrita Madhukalya 1. The Supreme Court sent a positive precedent in early 2015 when it struck down section 66A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, making it unconstitutional to arrest someone over a social media post. A bench comprising Justices J Chelameswar and Rohinton F Nariman called the section "openended, undefined and vague" and said that it violated Article 19(1)(a). 2. In July, the SC upheld the rights of an unwed mother to be the sole guardian of her children. Noting that it was futile to give the guardianship rights to a father who was never there, the court ob-
served: "The views of the uninvolved father are not essential to protect the interests of the child." 3. Trying to rein in the quickly-declining air quality in the Capital, the SC in December banned the sale of 'diesel-guzzling' SUVs, noting that these vehicles cause a lot of pollution and banning them will not affect the common man. The SC bench, headed by chief justice TS Thakur, also banned the entry of trucks into the capital thathave been registered before 2005. It also increased the green cess levied on commercial vehicles by 100%, and asked commercial vehicles to move to CNG by March 21. 4. Continuing its efforts to curb pollution, the apex court passed another order in nearby Uttar Pradesh. A bench headed by CJI Thakur asked the UP government this December to ensure an electronic cre-
matorium near the Taj Mahal in Agra by January 1, in order to save the World Heritage site. 5. The SC in a recent judgement upheld the Haryana Panchayati Raj Amendment Act 2015, making it mandatory for candidates contesting Panchayat polls in Haryana to have studied till class X if he or she was from the general category, and till class VIII if the candidate was from the scheduled castes. The Act also makes it mandatory for candidates to not have a criminal record, and have toilets in his or her residence. 6. The SC, again in a judgement in December, demanded that acid attack victims be treated fairly and be included in the disability list of the social justice ministry. The SC bench, comprising Justice MY Eqbal and Justice C Nagappan also called for stricter regulation of the
Spotlight blues Pramita Bose A million-watt smile, an amicable wave, a perfect pout, the right angle, a trend-setting dress and of course, that news-making sound-bite for the camera - all happen on the red carpet before a gala commences. To grab the headlines flashbulbs go crazy. But things can also go wrong. Any minor snag- a slip of the tongue, a wardrobe-malfunction, a bad hair-day, wrong sartorial choices, flats instead of high heels - all come under the scanner instantly and social buzz both online and offline, begins across the town. However, "Often outrageous fashion works to one's advantage," points out fashion choreographer Shakir Shaikh. "For example, Rihanna the singer-songwriter, gets it bang on when she walks down the red carpet. Sure, she's a little bit outrageous but whatever avatar she has assumed so far, it has fetched her a coveted attention, be it the omelette dress or anything bold, revealing and sexy." On the home-front, Sonam Kapoor leads the a la mode brigade. She carries off her stuff elegantly and possesses a keen fashion sense that is widely admired. A lot of credit also goes to her team for enhancing her looks. Dressing for the occasion is definitely a must-count quality on the red carpet. "You just can't be a wideeyed wannabe suddenly hogging the limelight out of the blue. You are expected to inculcate a certain level of restraint in your social behaviour and approach. Moving in the glitterati circles should come with responsibility too," says Shaikh. In case of an after-party demeanour, he comments: "One needs to know it's a commemoration of something in a celebratory mood and not a privately owned affair. A word of caution for the newbies: don't overstep limits of civility and treat every social do as a rave party where one may spiral out of control and get sloshed to suffer the hangover till next morning." Delhi based designer Ridhi Arora says: "The outfits are turning grander by the day in terms of cuts, forms and shapes but minimalistic in terms of embellishments. Ivory, nudes and pastel shades are still in vogue for the women-wear section, while fiery red or cherry, royal blues and evergreen black largely dominate the palette if the ladies opt for a bolder look."
sale of acid. 7. Acting on a plea by an animal welfare society, a SC bench comprising Justices Dipak Misra and Shiva Kirti Singh said that state governments should allow for the killing of "irretrievably ill or mortally wounded" stray dogs in a "humane manner". 8. In October, the Supreme Court lifted the decade-long ban on Maharashtra's dance bars, in turn lifting the ban on any kind of dancing in eateries in the state. It lifted the ban on the grounds that the dance in these bars will not be remotely obscene. 9. Revoking a Madras High Court order asking a rape victim to consider mediation, the SC called it a "spectacular error". The HC order has asked the victim to consider settling with him as she had a child due to the rape. The SC overruled the order saying that there will be no
With the advent of a powerful social media and under constant scrutiny, celebs have to be on watch constantly. Thus image building is an imperative exercise in today's times. In the ongoing intolerance debate, both the perfectionist actor Aamir Khan and matinee idol Shah Rukh Khan with a fine gift of the gab were drawn into the dragnet of criticisms for speaking out their minds. It only takes a fraction of a second for the internet to go viral with trolls, memes and tweets on such issues. " We a r e b e i n g c o n stantly judged on how we present and project ourselves and what we say or do on a daily basis. The masses have become highly sensitive. So it's vital to take an expert's opinion and PR guidance whenever necessary to manage one's image," believes image consultant Prachi Mishra from Pune. She votes for Big B Amitabh Bachchan as the best example of always being impeccably dressed and speaking articulately. "He has millions of followers on the networking sites and he connects beautifully with his fans. The megastar wins hands down as a respectable citizen and a brand ambassador." Mishra finds actress Kangana Ranaut holding her own with confidence too. "She has a great personal style and is remembered for an impressive body of work and wearing the heart on her sleeves." Courtesy: Trans World Features (TWF)
nying her maternity leave to look after the new born baby amounts to denying her fundamental rights as a woman", the Kerala High Court in January 2015 upheld the right of the surrogate mother who was denied leave by her employer, as she had become a mother through surrogacy. 14. In February, the Karnataka HC held that the
specific waiting period for the dissolution of marriage of a Christian woman will be one year instead of the existing two-year period, observing that it violates the tenet of equality before law guaranteed by the Constitution. 15. In January this year, the Delhi HC asked the Delhi Police Commissioner and members of TV
channel crews who hunted down the mother of a girl abused by her own father, and broadcasted the woman's voice despite her not wanting to. Calling out the TV crew for its "morbid curiosity", the court added that the police had broken the law by handing out details to the TV c r e w . Courtesy:dnaindia.in
What You've Probably Not Noticed About The Juvenile Justice Bill Abhimanyu Singh
On male fashion, she says: "For the men ideally, the most sophisticated red carpet outing will be in a traditional tuxedo with modern cuts and fine tailoring. Steel grey, black and navy blue spell out the seasonal chromes for the suit fabric." Sparkling on a runway or the red carpet and be clicked as the next pin-up girl or a poster boy is every debutante's dream. But it's not the attire alone. Jewellery and accessories go a long way to enhance the aura. "Red carpet jewellery prompts the latest fad and inspires hawk-eyed fashionistas. To fill in the women's caskets, innovative ear cuffs, cuffs and multiple finger rings are in great demand. The only mandate is that the pieces should consist of a relatively large diamond, a girl's best friend. Also regularly seen are long neck chains with eclectic pendants. Some even pick up tiaras to adorn their hairdos. The preferred metals are white and rose gold," comments Aakash Barmecha, CEO, Yoube Jewellery Ltd. As for the fashionable man's wardrobe, he observes: "Men's flamboyance is also getting reflected in their accessories. They frequently don sleek rings with unique shanks, featuring square and baguette shaped diamonds bes id es w r is t s tr ap s i n leather or alternative materials with a single motif worn alongside a flashy watch as well as bracelets in white/rose/ yellow gold or a fusion set with diamonds."
compromises in rape cases. 10. A SC bench headed by Justice Vikramjit Sen observed that a woman can claim maintenance from her live-in partner for herself and her child if the relationship breaks down, overriding the defendant's claim that only a legallywedded wife can ask for maintenance. 11. In April, the SC held that artistic freedom cannot be abused to use vulgar words in the context of historical leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Subhash Chandra Bose. 12. Holding that tsunamis are not listed along with volcanoes and earthquakes in Clause 5 of the ITC Port Risks, which lists exceptions under the Marine Hull Insurance Policy covering all risks pertaining to perils of the sea, the SC agreed that this natural disaster was an insurable risk. 13. Observing that, "De-
The new Juvenile Justice Bill has created a furore and it was not unexpected. The issue has been on the boil for three years, since the gruesome rape and murder of Jyoti Singh Pandey on 16 December 2012. Public sentiment has been greatly attached to the case. Somehow, during these three years, a misconception spread that the juvenile rapist was the most brutal of the six who assaulted Jyoti. This made the juvenile's recent release abhorrent to a substantially large section of the population who wanted stricter punishment for him, notwithstanding the fact that there was no provision in the law for doing so. This group seeking harsher penalty on the juvenile was led by Jyoti's mother Asha Devi, which added an emotional charge to the demand. In a special gesture, the Rajya Sabha decided to pass the Juvenile Justice Bill earlier this week as a nod to public sentiment, considering the timing of the new protests against the release of the juvenile. The new Bill does not seem to please anyone in particular and in that lies its worth. Any nuanced piece of legislation which does not play to the gallery - on any side of the ideological divide - is bound to be criticised by those who either hold extreme views or the ones who have made up their minds that the incumbent government can do nothing right. Bill's Liberal Provisions Are Being UnderLooked I was surprised, for example, that even the very erudite Brinda Karat of the CPM seems to believe that juveniles over 16 years of age will be sent directly to Tihar following the new law. "Sending 16-year-olds to jails like Tihar to serve a seven-year sentence is more likely to create hardened criminals. The present maximum term of three years in the JJ Act could have been
enhanced through an amendment that after the three years, there could be a system of a halfway home in which the released juvenile/ adult could stay, being monitored and supervised to assist in his/her mainstreaming with the aim of reform not retribution," she wrote in an opinion piece right after the law was passed by the Upper House as the Winter session of the Parliament drew to a close. The irony is, this is exactly what the Act stipulates. Section 16, clause one of the new Act says that "In case of a heinous offence committed by a child who has completed or is above the age of 16 years, the Board shall conduct a preliminary inquiry with regard to his mental and physical capacity to commit such offence, ability to understand the consequences of the offence and the circumstances in which he committed the offence, and may pass an order in accordance with the provisions of sub-section (3) of section 19: Provided that for such an inquiry, the Board may take the assistance of experienced
of the said child as an adult, then the Board may order transfer of the trial of the case to the Children's Court having jurisdiction to try such offences." Put simply, just because someone is 16 years of age or more, and has committed a heinous offence - murder or rape for example - they will not even be automatically tried as an adult. The new Act puts in a new system in place to first determine if the accused should be tried as an adult. (The Board here stands for the Juvenile Justice Board which will consist of a judicial officer and two social workers, one of whom must be a woman.) Once the Board decides that a child over 16 should be tried as an adult and sends the case to Children's Court, the usual method of conducting a criminal trial, under the Code of Criminal Procedure, will kick in. However, the child, to start with, cannot be sentenced to life imprisonment without possibility of release or death, which is in tune with the international convention on child rights to which India is a signatory and
a social worker or a government official. The Act then goes on to say that "The Children's Court shall ensure that the child who is found to be in conflict with law is sent to a place of safety till he attains the age of twenty-one years and thereafter, the person shall be transferred to a jail: Provided that the reformative services including educational services, skill development, alternative therapy such as counselling, behaviour modification therapy, and psychiatric support shall be provided to the child during the period of his stay in the place of safety." It is to be noted that the new law has provided for exactly what Ms. Karat believes is missing: a half-way home where an attempt can be made to bring them back to society. Nowhere does the law say that the child who is over 16 and has committed a serious offence will be sent directly to Tihar if convicted. In fact, the new Act says that once the child is 21, and their sentence is not yet over, a fresh look will be taken at their situation and if found sufficiently rehabilitated, they shall be released and no
REUTERS/Anindito Mukherjee
psychologists, psychosocial workers and other experts." This is what sub-section (3) of section 19 says: "Where the Board after preliminary inquiry under section 16 comes to the conclusion that there is a need for further trial
which is invoked at the beginning of the new Act. Moreover, even if the Children's Court decides to convict them, the new Act says that the order for the same must contain a rehabilitation plan which should be followed up by
records of their crime and incarceration will be kept. A Necessary Stop-Gap Measure Of course, this does not absolve the state of its duty. I do agree with those who say that the law will end up hurting the poor more as most juveniles
come from such a background. Article 39 of the Indian Constitution, which delineates the Directive Principles for state policy, provides that the state should make sure that children are accorded every opportunity to develop themselves in a wholesome manner and their lives should be free of exploitation and drudgery. It is indeed shameful that after so many years of independence, we have not been able to make that pledge a reality and till that happens, the law will only be a stop-gap measure, a reminder in fact of our failure. But sometimes, stop-gap measures too are needed till the longterm plan reaches fruition. The matter of proper implementation of the new law has also been raised. Naturally, a complex piece of legislation can come undone if it is implemented in a slipshod manner or attempts are made to misuse it. It will be incumbent upon the state to make sure that it does not happen. For example, concerns have been raised that false rape charges can be thrust by parents of the girl in cases of elopement by a minor couple. This means the Board would need to apply its mind with great precision to reach a decision. It must be mentioned here that it is indeed worrisome that the judicial officer would have the final say in case of a dispute among members of the Board. This right should be given to one of the social workers instead who have more familiarity with the situation on the ground. On one another matter, there seems to be some confusion. The Act says the juvenile convict can not be awarded a death sentence or a life term without possibility of release. However, it does not stipulate the maximum number of years that they could be made to serve. Finally, it is welcome that the Act also stipulates punishment for crime against children, including their use by militants. It remains to be seen how the Act is implemented and applied practically.
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
BUSINESS
Coal India harvest up 9 % New Delhi, Dec 27: Government said coal output by stateowned Coal India Limited (CIL) crossed 9 per cent over last year's production adding that there is "still a very long way to go" amid the PSU eyeing one billion tonnes production target. "Coal production by Coal India crosses 9 per cent over last year's record production. Well done. Keep it going. Still a very long way to go," Coal Secretary Anil Swarup said in a tweet. Coal India's production had jumped 8.8 per cent to 321.38
million tonnes (MT) during April-November period of the current fiscal. CIL produced 295.40 MT during the same period last year, a company official said. The government has set one billion tonnes production goal for the company by 2020. CIL accounts for over 80 per cent of the domestic coal production. The government has set a production target of 550 MT for the PSU for the current fiscal. CIL missed the production target for 2014-15 by 3 per cent, recording an output of 494.23 million tonnes. (Agencies)
India raises US govt securities holdings to $116.6 billion
Mumbai, Dec 27: Increasing its exposure, India held US government securities worth $116.6 billion in October amid the world's largest economy seeing stronger signs of recovery. India hiked its holding by a little over $3 billion in October from $113.5 billion recorded in September. In October, neighbouring China remained the largest holder with American government securities worth $1.255 trillion, followed by Japan with holdings valued at $1.149 trillion. Latest data from the US Treasury Department showed that India owned securities worth $116.6 billion in October after trimming its holdings in the previous two months. This is also the second highest level after the holdings touched $117
billion in June. Among the BRIC grouping, India was at the third position after China and Brazil ($255 billion). Russia's holdings of the US government securities steeply declined to $82 billion in October. In the three months ended September, the United States' real gross domestic product rose 2%. "The increase in real GDP in the third quarter primarily reflected positive contributions from personal consumption expenditures, non-residential fixed investment, state and local government spending, residential fixed investment, and exports that were partly offset by a negative contribution from private inventory investment," the US Bureau of Economic Analysis said last week. (Agencies)
GAIL to take 5% risk in association building TAPI pipeline Chennai, Dec 27: Stateowned GAIL India Ltd will take 5% stake in the international consortium building the $8.7 billion Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline. The four nations building the pipeline had in August agreed to coown the project and a joint venture company with participation of each country is to be set up to build and operate the 1,814kilometre line. "Turkmenistan's stateowned TurkmenGaz will be the leader of the consortium and shall take 85% equity. India will be represented by GAIL which will take a 5% interest", a senior government official said. ISGS of Pakistan and Afghan Gas Enterprise (AGE) will also take 5% stake each. The TAPI pipeline will have a capacity to carry 90 million standard cubic metres a day (mmscmd) gas for 30 years and is planned to become operational in 2018. India and Pakistan were originally to get 38 mmscmd each while the remaining 14 mmscmd was to be supplied to Afghanistan. But Kabul is now willing to take only 1.5-4 mmscmd so the share of India and Pakistan will go up to 43-44.25 mmscmd each, he said. TAPI will carry gas from Turkmenistan's Galkynysh field, better known by its previous name South Yolotan Osman, that holds gas re-
serves of 16 trillion cubic feet. From the field, the pipeline will run to Herat and Kandahar province of Afghanistan, before entering Pakistan. In Pakistan, it will reach Multan via Quetta before ending at Fazilka (Punjab) in India. Turkmenistan on December 13 began work on the 214 km section of the pipeline in its territory. The pipeline will travel 773 km in Afghanistan and 827 km in Pakistan before touching Indian border. For the security of the pipeline, the official said an inter-government Joint Security Task Force (JSTF) will be raised which will serve as nucleus of the security programme. Exact role and responsibilities in each host country are being worked out, he said adding a team would also be established to ensure operational continuity and which is capable of rapid repair of critical facilities and equipment in case of sabotage or accident. The four nation consortium was stitched as no reputed international firm was willing to take lead in construction and operation of the pipeline. French giant Total SA had initially shown interest in leading a consortium of national oil companies of the four nations in the TAPI project. It, however, backed off after Turkmenistan refused to accept its condition of a stake in the gas field that will feed the pipeline. (Agencies)
CIL DREAMS HIGH Government said coal output by state-owned Coal India Limited (CIL) crossed 9 per cent over last year's production. Coal India's production had jumped 8.8 per cent to 321.38 million tonnes (MT) during April-November period of the current fiscal.
Source: hindustantimes.com
The government has set one billion tonnes production goal for the company by 2020.
CIL accounts for over 80 per cent of the domestic coal production.
Government halts software patenting norms Mumbai, Dec 27: The Indian Patent Office has put in abeyance new guidelines on examination of computer-related inventions (CRIs) such as software programmes. After the guidelines amending relevant provisions were out in August, several associations strongly opposed the move saying the norms are 'detrimental' to the domestic IT sector. "In view of several representations received regarding interpretation and scope of Section 3(k) of the Patents Act 1970 (as amended), the guidelines for Examination of Computer Related Inventions (CRls)... are kept in abeyance till discussions with stakeholders are com-
pleted and contentious issues are resolved," the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks said in an office order. According to the Section 3(k) of the Indian Patents Act, a mathematical or business method or a computer programme per se or algorithms are not inventions. Experts said the guidelines issued in August could place the Indian software industry at the mercy of multinational corporations. "In India, software has a copyright protection. Computer software should not get patent protection as it will make life of software developers difficult. It will also lead to more and more litigations," National Intellectual Property Organisation
(NIPO) President, T.C.James, said. Mr. James said big companies from countries such as the U.S. are lobbying hard for patent protection for software in India. Welcoming the order, Software Freedom Law Centre (SFLC), a non-profit organisation, said irregular patents to software will put shackles on innovation, thus potentially affecting startups. "Boundaries of these patents are hazy and research has shown that this leads to increased litigations," SFLC Counsel Prasanth Sugathan said in a statement. In India, over 95 per cent of these irregular patents have been granted to foreign entities, he added. (Agencies)
MF investment in fair play at Rs 70,000 crore in 2015 New Delhi, Dec 27: Mutual fund houses continued to be bullish on the equity markets in 2015 and purchased shares worth a staggering over Rs 70,000 crore, primarily on account of strong participation from retail investors. This is on top of Rs 23,843 crore already being infused in the entire 2014. In comparison, Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) made a net investment of just Rs 16,674 crore during the period. However, in the last three years, foreign funds have made an average investment of USD 20 billion (around Rs 1 lakh crore) each in the Indian stock markets. According to the latest Sebi data, domestic mutual fund (MF) managers have invested a net Rs 70,173 crore in the equity markets in 2015. The inflows could be much higher for this year as four trading sessions are still left. "As domestic investors continued to invest in equities
through MFs, 2015 turned out to be a stellar year for the industry with impressive inflow in the segment," UTI Mutual Fund EVP and Fund Manager V Srivatsa said. Equity MFs, including equitylinked saving schemes, have seen a net inflow of nearly Rs 87,000 crore till November this year. The surge in inflows into equity schemes has prompted fund houses to pump money in the share markets. In addition, robust inflows from retail investors in the equity segment have also helped. As per the industry body Amfi, 4-7 lakh retail folios are being added to the industry every month. "Despite equities market not doing well throughout 2015, we have seen the inflows happening in the equity segment and through the retail segment", Quantum AMC Managing Director and Chief Information Officer I V Subramaniam said. He further said, "domestic
mutual funds have been bullish on the stock market ever since the Narendra Modi-led BJP government came to power at the Centre." Till April last year, holdings were facing liquidation due to redemption from investors and the money started pouring in from May 2014 and the momentum continued till this month. They have made intensive buying especially in August and September 2015, when the domestic market crashed due to rout in Chinese equities. During that time, overseas investors pulled out from the Indian stock markets. The sell-off by overseas investors in the Indian equity markets has given an opportunity to mutual fund managers. Mutual funds are investment vehicles that pool funds collected from investors to invest in securities such as stocks, bonds, money market instruments and other assets. (Agencies)
Adani's 600-MW Chhattisgarh plant postponed on public conflict Chattisgarh, Dec 27: The Adani Group's 600MW power plant in Surguja district of Chhattisgarh has hit a roadblock after residents of nearly 10 villages, whose land will have to be surrendered for the thermal plant, decided to oppose the project and brought about a deferment of the public hearing on the same. The public hearing for setting up the power plant, earlier scheduled for December 30, has been postponed, and the district Collector has said no new date has been fixed for the same. The Adani Group is setting up a 4x150 MW plant, Surguja Power, which is a 100% subsidiary of Adani Mining, near the Parsa East and Kete Basan
coal blocks (which have around 10 million tonnes of coal reserves) in Udaypur block of Surguja. The plant would be using the coal-washery rejects for its operations, while the higher quality washed coal would be sent to Rajasthan. The project is slated to come up within the 47.5 ha of land in the premises of Parsa East and Kete Basan blocks. Last week, a delegation of villagers had submitted a letter to Surguja Collector, seeking to cancel a public hearing for the plant, which was to be held on December 30. When asked about the issue, Collector Ritu Sain said the public hearing has been postponed. "The public hearing for the Surguja power plant has been postponed due to
different reasons, and just not because of villagers' demand for cancelling the same," Sain told, adding the next date for public hearing would be decided later. These blocks were allocated to Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam, which has assigned the work of development, mining and operation to Adani Mines. "Cancel the public hearing forever. We don't want any power plant in the region," Parsa village sarpanch Bharam Sai Nareti told. Parsa is among the 10-15 villages, including Hariharpur, Salhi, Basan, Ghatbarra and Fatepur, which are likely to be affected by the project. An Adani Group spokesman did not respond to the development. (Agencies)
PAGE 10
World Bank may evaluate India's GDP predict Kolkata, Dec 27: Kaushik Basu, the Chief Economist of the World Bank, indicated that India's growth forecast may witness 'some changes' in the bank's January review. The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has released data indicating growth in the "vicinity of 7.5 per cent" for 2015-16, which is less than what was projected in the last Economic Survey. In this year's Economic Survey, the Finance Ministry had projected GDP growth of 8.1-8.5 per cent. As of October, the World Bank's forecast for India was retained at 7.5 per cent for the current financial year. Prof. Basu, who also was the Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India till 2012, said the government's failure to get the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Bill passed may have an 'impact' on the GDP growth projection of the World
Bank. "The detailed decision-making (by the government) can have an impact on the growth rate and that a couple of important decisions did not go through could have an impact." Prof. Basu said. He, however, also said that economic slowdown in Brazil, Russia and China may boost India's economy in the coming year. "This is the first time India is leading major global economies in terms of growth forecast. India is
dominating for a couple of reasons. China is growing below 7 per cent, Brazil and Russia are in recession. The general mood is positive for India which is helping the investment climate," he added. A fall in crude oil prices is also 'helping' the economy, he said. Prof. Basu was in the city to attend a two-day seminar on "Growth in West Bengal" at the Kolkata-based Indian Statistical Institute. (Agencies)
No non-veg food service for Air-India passengers Mumbai, Dec 27: Come January 1, government-run Air India will no longer serve nonvegetarian food to its economy class passengers on flights of up to 90 minutes duration. The national carrier has also decided to strike off both tea and coffee from its lunch and dinner menu. As of now, Air India serves sandwiches (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian) and cake on its flights of up to 90 minutes duration, which will be discontinued from January 1, 2016, and replaced with an "all vegetarian" hot meal, an airline 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," the circular issued late last week said. Flights to most of the non-metro routes fall in this category. While Air India has defended the move saying it has upgraded the meals, travel industry experts said the decision was unilateral. "We have, in fact, upgraded and improved the meals. So far, we were serving only sandwiches and cakes, which will now be replaced with hot meals," a senior airline official said. "With 150-odd passengers onboard and just two crew cabin members to serve, at times it becomes difficult to cater
as per the passenger's choice in such short-duration flights," he said. In a statement, Air India said it presently provided cold vegetarian snacks on flights of 61 to 90 minutes flights duration. "Air India will now be serving proper hot vegetarian meals on these 60 to 90 minutes flights. There will be a review after obtaining passengers' feedback. On flights exceeding 90 minutes, the present choice of veg and nonveg meals will continue," it said. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah today questioned the decision of Air India to serve only vegetarian meals on short duration flights. (Agencies)
Shah Rukh Khan to commence Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio's 4G services Mumbai, Dec 27: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan who has been chosen as the brand ambassador of Mukesh Ambani's telecom venture, Reliance Jio will launch it's 4G services. It will be launched before the company's employees at Reliance Corporate Park in Navi Mumbai on the eve of Dhirubhai Ambani's birthday. "I think the digi-
Bollywood Actor Shahrukh Khan. Source: dnaindia.com
tal world, especially with Jio, will change from what I have understood till now since I am the brand ambassador. When the soft launch happens, and we will do more in March-April, it will be revolutionary," the Bollywood actor said in an interview to a news channel. However the commercial launch of its 4G services will be in March-April of 2016. (Agencies)
TECHNOLOGY HTC One A9 Specifications 2G NetworkGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 3G NetworkHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - Americas HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 4G NetworkLTE band 1(2100), 3(1800), 5(850), 7(2600), 8(900), 20(800), 28(700), 38(2600), 40(2300), 41(2500) SIMNano-SIM Dimensions145.8 x 70.8 x 7.3 mm Weight143 g Display Size5.0 inches, 1080 x 1920 pixels TypeAMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors Memory Card SlotmicroSD, up to 2TB Internal16 GB, 2 GB RAM 32 GB, 3 GB RAM Data GPRSYes EDGEYes BluetoothYes Camera
Primary13MP Secondary4 UltraPixel Features OSAndroid OS, v6.0 (Marshmallow) CPUOcta-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 Qualcomm MSM8952 Snapdragon 617 BrowserHTML5 BATTERY Battery Capacity2,150mAh HTC One A9 sports a 5-inch full HD AMOLED display and is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 processor with 64-bit octa-core CPUs. The smartphone has 13MP rear camera with support for 1080p video recording and ultraPixel front-facing camera.
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
Features
Page 11
ENVIRONMENT Diminishing Forest Cover in Northeast 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. This alarming report released by the Environment and Forest Minister Prakash Javadekar comes at a time when nearly 200 nations across the world approved a first-of-its-kind universal agreement to wean Earth off fossil fuels and slow global warming at the recently held Paris Climate Change conference. Dangerous Trend: According to current assess-
ment, 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. Why NE region matters: A recent study published in
the journal - Nature Climate Change - said tropical forests can be the bridge to this transition by causing uptake of atmospheric carbon, provided, astute forest management combined with fossil fuel use reduction are effected in a speedy manner. The study is especially significant because forest management can be much more easily and quickly implemented than development of alternate renewable energy technologies and would account for much of the reduction in atmospheric carbon until reliable and efficient renewable energy technologies are put in place. 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 centers in India. Illegal logging and forest clearing is made easier where tenurial rights to forest are weak and unclear. According to a paper on the 'Forest sector review of North East India,' the watersheds of the region are critical catchment that regulates hydrological flows to some of the world's most densely populated agricultural land and cities, including nearly 250 million people in Bangladesh and eastern India. An intensive scientific study by India's North East
Climate Change Adaptation Programme (NECCAP) in 2012 confirmed that the region is suffering from the impacts of climate change and the impact on people, fields and livestock is devastating and set to get worse. Due to its unique location and topography, the study found the region has distinct precipitation and drainage patterns. From March to May, thunderstorms contribute about 20 % of annual rainfall. From June to September, monsoon rains supply another 70 %. The monsoon season is marked by frequent floods, as melting Himalayan snow and torrential rains feed the Brahmaputra River. Because of climate change, moreover, rainfall is becoming more unpredictable and erratic, it stated. Adaptation Measures: The study also provided adaptation measures depending on specific circumstance and varying significantly
Source: exoticnortheast.in from state to state and district to district: o In Assam, the main focus is on flood protection in the plains. Moreover, climate change necessitates preventing erosion and improving water-resources management in higher altitudes. o Nagaland, Meghalaya and Mizoram are higher elevated, and their emphasis is on improving the prevailing agricultural practice. This is a shifting cul-
tivation system called "jhum", according to which plots are used for a while but then abandoned again so they can recover. Another focus will be on conservation of community forests with high biodiversity. o In Sikkim, the main emphasis will be on the prevention of erosion and the protection and development of springs. Reduced rainfall is making it harder to provide house-
holds with safe drinking water, at least in valleys in the shadow of the monsoon. More than ever, the India State of Forest Report 2015 on the declining forest cover is an earnest reminder on the urgent need for actions that promote the conservation and sustainable use of the region's endangered forest and watersheds. Courtesy: Northeasttoday.in
Animal That May Live Forever Decline in population and breeding Is there a creature that can defeat death? Yes, says new research that confirmed that the tiny hydra - a centimetrelong polyp that inhabits fresh water all over the world - does not show any sign of deteriorating with age and, if kept in ideal conditions, may just live forever. Hydra could live in ideal conditions without showing any sign of senescence - the increase in mortality and decline in fertility with age after maturity, which was thought to be inevitable for all multicellular species, the findings showed. "I do believe that an individual hydra can live forever under the right circumstances," said one of the researchers Daniel Martinez, professor at Pomona College in Claremont, US. "I started my original experiment wanting to prove that hydra could not have escaped ageing. My own data has proven me wrong twice," Martinez noted. He, however, said that the chances of a hydra living forever are low
because they are exposed to the normal dangers of the wild - predation, contamination, diseases. Although scientists have known the hydra's regenerative capabilities, this latest research may possess the
defying expectations for most organisms. The latest study took 2,256 hydra from two closely related species and conducted experiments in two laboratories over an eight-year period, doubling the amount of time from
Source: images.indianexpress.com
strongest evidence yet of its potential immortality. Working with James Vaupel of the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR) in Rostock, Germany, Martinez duplicated earlier findings regarding hydra immortality, but on a much larger scale. That scale, Martinez said, is key to the study's significance, along with the fact that the hydra showed constant fertility over time,
Martinez's previous experiments showing hydra living for four years. For the project, each hydra was kept in its own dish and had to be individually fed three times a week with freshly hatched brine shrimp. The man-made freshwater in which the hydra lived needed to be changed three times a week. "Many, many hours of work went into this ex-
periment," Martinez said. "I am hoping this work helps sparks another scientist to take a deeper look at immortality, perhaps in some other organism that helps bring more light to the mysteries of ageing," he said. Explaining why hydras can carry on living without ageing while humans have to continue their search for the mythical fountain of youth, Martinez said that these tiny organisms are made of stem cells. "Most of the hydra's body is made of stem cells with very few fully differentiated cells. Stem cells have the ability to continually divide, and so a hydra's body is being constantly renewed," Martinez noted. "The differentiated cells of the tentacles and the foot are constantly being pushed off the body and replaced with new cells migrating from the body column," he explained. The findings appeared in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). C o u r t e s y : Northeasttoday.in
success of Antarctic seabird A fifty year study of the charismatic seabird, the southern giant petrel, on the Antarctic island of Signy shows its population has halved and its breeding success has declined in the last 10-20 years. Southern giant petrels are large, colonially-nesting seabirds with wingspans of over 2 m capable of long-distance ocean travel. They feed on prey ranging from crustaceans (including Antarctic krill), squid and fish at sea, to penguin and seal remains on land. Most birds breed for the first time only when they are between six and ten years of age, and they produce at most one chick per year. Scientists have studied the giant petrels breeding at Signy Island -- in the South Orkney Islands (60째S) -- since 1968. Twenty years ago, a structured monitoring program was introduced to keep a closer track of numbers of breeding birds and how many chicks fledged each season. These surveys -the most detailed on this species in the South Orkneys -- have now re-
vealed that breeding success has declined substantially, from 60% in 1996 to 40% in 2015 in selected study colonies. Whole-island counts show that following an increase in breeding numbers from the mid 1980s to the mid 2000s, the population has halved from over 5800 to around 2600 nesting birds since 2005. Lead author from BAS Mike Dunn says: "In the fifty year study we found that although the population fluctuated periodically over this time, in the last 10 years, both numbers and breeding success have declined. Since the South Orkney Islands, of which Signy is part, represent nearly 10% of the global population of this species, continuation of such a decline both at Signy and elsewhere in this island group would be of conservation concern." Considerable variations in breeding pair numbers and breeding success of southern giant petrels have been observed at other islands in the Southern Ocean, and it is clear that this species will defer breeding in years when environmental condi-
tions are poor. BAS seabird ecologist and co-author Dr Richard Phillips says: "The results are surprising because this species seemed to be doing well on Signy. We really don't know what's causing this decline. It could be a reduction in sea ice or other factors affecting food availability and we don't know if it's affecting the species regionally or more widely. "This study illustrates how the conservation situation of a species can change in only a few years. Formerly
cause positive trends at some sites counteracted negative trends elsewhere. However, if breeding numbers and success at Signy do not improve, and populations elsewhere in the Antarctic have continued to decline, then the IUCN status of this species will need to be re-assessed." The research highlights the importance of long-term monitoring programmes even for species thought to be doing well and not just those already known to be in decline. The challenge now is to understand which
Source: media.eurekalert.org considered to be in the climatic or other environIUCN Red List category of mental factors are driving Vulnerable, the southern these big changes for this giant petrel was re- important Antarctic predacategorised as 'Least Con- tor. Courtesy: cern' in the late 2000s be- sciencedaily.com
Crows fashioning special hook tools
Source: mercurynewsdaily.com
Scientists have been given an extraordinary glimpse into how wild New Caledonian crows make and use 'hooked stick tools' to hunt for
insect prey. Dr Jolyon Troscianko, from the University of Exeter, and Dr Christian Rutz, from the University of St Andrews, have
captured first video recordings documenting how these tropical corvids fashion these particularly complex tools in the wild.
The pair developed tiny video 'spy-cameras' which were attached to the crows, to observe their natural foraging behaviour. They discovered two instances of hooked stick tool making on the footage they recorded, with one crow spending a minute making the tool, before using it to probe for food in tree crevices and even in leaf litter on the ground. Dr Troscianko is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Exeter's Biosciences Department based at the Penryn Campus in Cornwall, who worked on the project while at the University of Birmingham. He said: "While fieldworkers had previously obtained brief glimpses of hooked stick
tool manufacture, the only video footage to date came from baited feeding sites, where tool raw materials and probing tasks had been provided to crows by scientists. We were keen to get close-up video of birds making these tools under completely natural conditions." "New Caledonian crows are notoriously difficult to observe, not just because of the challenging terrain of their tropical habitats, but also because they can be quite sensitive to disturbance. By documenting their fascinating behaviour with this new camera technology, we obtained valuable insights into the importance of tools in their daily search for food." To obtain a 'crow's-eye
view' of this elusive behaviour, the two researchers developed video cameras that are attached to the crows' tail feathers. The cameras are about the weight of a British 2pound coin, and a tiny integrated radio beacon let the scientists recover the devices once they had safely detached after a few days. Dr Christian Rutz, Reader in the School of Biology in St Andrews, explains: "These cameras store video footage on a micro-SD card, using technology similar to that found in people's smart phones. This produced video recordings of stunning quality." The team deployed 19 cameras on crows at their chosen dry forest study site, where in hun-
dreds of hours of fieldwork, despite two brief glimpses with binoculars, they had never managed to film crows manufacturing hooked stick tools. The team were excited to record two instances of this behaviour on footage recovered from ten birds in their latest study. Troscianko noted: "The behaviour is easy to miss -- the first time I watched the footage, I didn't see anything particularly interesting. Only when I went through it again frameby-frame, I discovered this fascinating behaviour. Not once, but twice!" "In one scene, a crow drops its tool, and then recovers it from the ground shortly after-
wards, suggesting they value their tools and don't simply discard them after a single use." According to Rutz, this observation agrees with recent aviary experiments conducted by his group: "Crows really hate losing their tools, and will use all sorts of tricks to keep them safe. We even observed them storing tools temporarily in tree holes, the same way a human would put a treasured pen into a pen holder." New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides) are found on the South Pacific island of New Caledonia. They can use their bills to whittle twigs and leaves into bug-grabbing implements; some believe their tool-use is so advanced that it rivals that of some primates. (Agencies)
cmyk
cmyk
"I am happy to add another medal to our kitty. This year has been extremely difficult for me financially and I am proud that despite that I have managed to keep India's flag flying in international winter sports."
DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
PAGE 12
Shiva Keshavan
Premier league: Liverpool beat Leicester, Man United lose again Agencies London: Leicester City were give a Premier League reality check when the unlikely leaders lost 1-0 at Liverpool after Manchester United slumped to a third consecutive league defeat to pile more pressure on manager Louis van Gaal. Third-placed Manchester City closed in on Leicester by crushing lowly Sunderland 4-1 and Tottenham Hotspur consolidated fourth place as Harry Kane scored twice in a 3-0 home victory over Norwich City. Christian Benteke's secondhalf goal sealed the points at Anfield as Leicester suffered their first league defeat since September when they lost to Arsenal. Leicester, who failed to score for the first time this season and suffered only their second loss, have 38 points from 18 matches with Arsenal on 36, Manchester City on 35 and Tottenham 32. All eyes were on Manchester United's under-pressure manager Louis van Gaal in the first game of the hectic holiday period and Stoke comfortably won 2-0 at the
Christian Benteke (2nd left) celebrates with his teammates after scoring against Leicester City. Britannia Stadium to condemn United to another damaging defeat. Goals from Stoke forwards Bojan Krkic and Marko
Tinsukia took a lead of 62 runs Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 27: Tinsukia are in a dominating position after Bongaigaon are reeling at 56/1 in the second innings of the Nuruddin Ahmed Senior inter- district cricket tournament at DDSA stadium here today. Elected to bat, Tinsukia were all out for 152 in 45 overs in the first innings. Sunny Ahmed top scored with 42 off 46 balls laced with seven boundaries and one six. Bimal Goswami scored patient 27 off 52 balls with the help of three fours and one maximum. B.N Rao contributed 20 for his team.
For Bongaigaon , Pranjit Das scalped four wickets in 14 overs. Santanu Dhar took two wickets. In reply, Bongaigaon were bundled out for a paltry 90 in 36.3 overs. Arandim Ghosh scored 27 off 47 balls while Pranjit Sarkar contributed 19 runs. Avinash Gogoi hauled five wickets in 29 overs for Tinsukia. Tinsukia took a lead of 62 runs. In the second innings, Bongaigaon were 56 for one in 18 overs at stamps. Dipankar Banerjee and Samarjit Nath were not out at 31 and 19 runs respectively.
Arnautovic left United down in sixth place after they lost four consecutive matches in a single season for the first time since 1961.
Arsenal's hopes of going top of the Premier League table dealt a heavy blow after suffering a humiliating 4-0 defeat at the hands of a Shane
L o n g - i n s p i r e d Southampton. Defender Cuco Martina put Southampton ahead with a sensational long-range strike in the 19th minute before Long doubled the lead shortly after the halftime. Subsequently, Jose Fonte headed in the third before Long wrapped up the match 4-0 in injury time. Guus Hiddink's second spell as Chelsea's interim manager began with a 2-2 draw at home to Watford. Oscar wasted the chance to secure victory for the champions when he missed a late penalty at Stamford Bridge and Chelsea remained in 15th place. Crystal Palace drew 0-0 with Bournemouth, moving above Manchester United into fifth spot. At the bottom, Aston Villa drew 11 with West Ham United to leave manager Remi Garde still awaiting a first win since taking over from Tim Sherwood. Managerless Swansea City won for the first time since October, beating West Bromwich Albion 1-0 to climb out of the relegation zone above Norwich and Newcastle United.
Under-fire Van Gaal says he could choose to quit Man Utd ANI London: Manchester United embattled manager Louis van Gaal has revealed that he could quit by himself after his side crashed to a fourth straight defeat, following a 2-0 loss to Stoke City in their Premier League clash. The Dutchman said he could choose to relinquish his position before he is pushed, but refused to confirm or deny whether he has received assurances from the United board. In a dramatic turnaround, United have slumped to sixth in the league stand-
Louis van Gaal (right) manager of Manchester United
ings after suffering three consecutive defeats besides being eliminated
Taylor and Compton rally England after Steyn strikes early
Yasir Shah handed Digboi College in semis provisional suspension Sports Reporter over doping breach Dibrugarh, Dec 27: Digboi College deANI Dubai: Pakistan rising leg-spinner Yasir Shah on Sunday was handed a provisional suspension by the International Cricket Council after being charged with an anti-doping rule violation. The sample Yasir provided in an in-competition test, which was conducted on 13 November 2015, was found to contain the presence of chlortalidone, a prohibited substance which appears in Section 5 of the WADA Prohibited List (in the category of Specified Substances). In accordance with the ICC Anti-Doping Code, pending the outcome of the disciplinary process, Yasir has been provisionally suspended. The matter will now be dealt with in accordance with the process set down in the Code, and until such time as the process is resolved, the ICC will make no further comment on this matter.
feated CKB Commerce College, Jorhat by five runs in the Dibrugarh University inter-college cricket tournament at Dibrugarh University stadium here today. Put into bat, Digboi College scored 175 for nine in 35 overs. Pranojit Roy slammed 106 off 103 balls with the help of eighteen boundaries and one six. Dinesh Chetri contributed 21. For CKB Commerce College, Jorhat, Sunny Parashar scalped seven for 37 runs in four overs. Latomoni Bora took two wickets. In reply, CKB Commerce were bundled out for 170 in 34.2 overs. Sunny Parashar top scored for his team with 82 off 62 balls laced with thirteen boundaries and two maximum. Pranojit Roy scalped three wickets while Gobin Dorjee took two for Digboi College. Tomorrow, DR College, Golaghat will take on JB College, Jorhat in the third quarterfinal.
from the Champions League at Wolfsburg earlier this month.
Dale Steyn celebrates taking the wicket of James Taylor.
Agencies Durban: James Taylor and Nick Compton compiled gritty half-centuries to lead England to 179 for four on a rain-disrupted first day of the opening Test against South Africa at Kingsmead in Durban, on Saturday. The pair took advantage of a flat track to pull England out of early trouble with a
125-run partnership after the touring side had slumped to 49 for three soon after lunch. The diminutive Taylor played some aggressive strokes as he answered questions about his ability to play quick bowlers but he was caught behind for 70 off Dale Steyn just before the close. South Africanborn Compton, showing dogged application on
his return to the side, finished unbeaten on 63 with Ben Stokes on five. The home team welcomed their top bowler Steyn after injury and he delivered a fiery burst to take the wickets of England captain Alastair Cook and debutant opener Alex Hales. After winning the toss in overcast conditions, South Africa made the perfect start to the series by claiming the key wicket of Cook in the third over as the left-hander was tempted by a delivery outside off-stump from Steyn and edged to Dean Elgar at second slip. Five balls into the second session, Steyn struck again when Hales chased a ball that was not the right length to drive with wicketkeeper AB de Villiers pouching the catch. Joe Root played some fluent strokes but his quick knock of 24 runs was abruptly halted by the first ball of spinner Dane Piedt's opening over. Root played right back on his stumps and got caught leg before wicket, a decision upheld after a review.
24th Jorhat open tennis
ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 27: Debangana Borkotoky of Jorhat, Rishav Brahma of Jorhat and Tutu Thapa of N.F.Railway got double crown in the 24th Jorhat Open which concluded at Jorhat Tennis Club today. Debangana won the titles in the girls under 14 and 18 years singles and Rishav won the titles of boys under 14 years singles and doubles category. While Tutu Thapa won the men's singles and doubles titles. Boys under 12 years singles title was won by Debanga P. Hazarika of Golaghat while the boys under 18 years singles title was won by Manash P. Kuli of Sivsagar. Jiten Mishra of Jorhat
partnering with Dr. Diganta Konwar of NRL beat the pair of Dilip Somani and Gopal Singhi of Jorhat to win the Men's veteran's doubles title. Today's results - all finals Boys under 12 years - singles Debanga P. Hazarika (GLT) beat Raktim Gogoi (SIV) 6-1,6-0. Wins: Kanak nath dutta saikia trophy Prize distributed by Dr. Birendra kumar saikia Boys under 14 years singles Rishav Brahma (JHT) beat Jishnu Baruah (GHY) 6-3,6-2, Wins: K.dutta & sons trophy Prize distributed by: sri akshay dutta Boys under 18 years singles
Manash P. Kuli (SIV) beat Satyam Goswami (NRL) 6-2,6-1. Wins: Gattani ply trophy Prize distributed by sri ashok malpani Girls under 14 years singles Debangana Borkotoky (Jht) beat Eva Raj Shah (Ghy) 6-1,6-4 Wins: Rabindra nath baruah trophy Prize distributed by srimati ila baruah Girls under 18 years singles Debangana Borkotoky (JHT) beat Breshna Khan (GHY) 7-5, 6-3 Wins: Mahendra nath saikia trophy Prize distributed by sri satya sarathi saikia
Boys under 14 year doubles Rishav Brahma (Jht) Ayandeep Baruah (JHT) & beat &Jishnu Baruah (Ghy) Swagat Baruah (Jht) 6-1,6-1. Wins: Narendra Kumar Jain trophy Prize distributed by Sri Nitish Jain Men's singles: Tutu Thapa (N.F.Railway) beat Sudhanta Mohanty (Ghy) 6-3,6-1 Wins: Bipin chndra borthakur trophy Prize distributed by sri rajkumar borthakur Men's doubles Tutu Thapa (N.F.Railway) Rajesh Baruah (JHT) & beat & Sudhanta Mohanty (Ghy) Sidhant Deka(Ghy) 6-2,6-2 Wins: Ramkishan Gattani trophy Prize distributed by sri ashok malpani Men's veteran's doubles Dr. Diganta Konwar (NRL) Dilip Somani(Jht) & beat & Jiten Mishra (JHT), Gopal Singhi (JHT) 7-5,6-1 Wins: Star Cement Trophy Prize distributed by Sri Dhruba Jyoti Bordoloi Alongwith the trophies and certificates, total prize money of Rs. 74,000/- (Rupees Seventy Four Thousand only) was also distributed to the players.
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