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ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Issue 262

UNLOCKING OUR UNIVERSE, STEP BY STEP

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Dibrugarh, Sunday, February 28, 2016

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Pages- 12 INDIA'S HISTORY IS BASED ON MUTUAL RESPECT, CELEBRATION OF DIFFERENCES: PRESIDENT MUKHERJEE Page 6

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari launches Major bureaucratic reshuffling in Arunachal four 4-lane highway projects in state A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 27

He added five more road infrastructure projects will be taken up in the state in the coming three months.

A Staff Reporter Moran, Feb. 27

While speaking on the occasion Gadkari said road connectivity is the biggest problem of the North East. He announced that the Centre has decided to invest Rs 1.5 lakh

ET CAPSULES Golaghat Police Drive Seize 5 CPU Golaghat, Feb 27: Golaghat Police carried out a drive yesterday in the Internet Cafe of Golaghat town and found blue video and images. Apparently they brought many Cafe owners for inquiry and seized 5 CPU. The police official told that on the basis of complaint received regarding the school and college students going astray they carried out the following drive. The intellectual class has appreciated the task undertaken by Golaghat Police and told such instant drive should be carried out every now and then to inculcate a serene atmosphere.

One swept away Tezpur, Feb 27: A girl child 11 years, Debika Boro daughter of Gulap Boro of Purani Ghatwa village under Bihaguri police outpost died today in the afternoon falling in the river near the village. Family sources revealed that the deceased child reading in class VII at Omeo Das High School went to take bath in the river while the incident took place. (Correspondent)

Kidnapped student found dead Dhubri, Feb 26: A student who was abducted 36 days ago from a village under Sukchar police station of South Salmara-Mancachar district found dead yesterday. Aliullah Mollah, a student of pre-primary of Atargaon village was abducted onJanuary 22 by some anti-socia elements and continue to demand ransom from the family in exchange his release. However, family members lodged an FIR in Sukchar police station on Januaray 24 and arrested Afzalr Rahman,19 of the same village from Kokrajhar. When police reached the village to recover the body, people of the village strongly vented air against the police and held them responsible for the death of students. (Corre-

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“Road infrastructure projects will provide a fillip and open employment sector in Assam and the youth will be beneficial,’’ Gadkari said. He further added an estimated 1.5 lakh youth will be able to gain employment through the road projects. In the next five years we are going to generate minimum 10 lakh jobs in the state. Gadkari and Sonowal during the foundation stone laying of four laning of the four packages of NH-37 at Moran. Pic - UB Photos

crore for improvement of road infrastructure in the North East during the next 5 years. Ahead of the state assembly poll in Assam BJP has been busy in laying the foundation stone of various developmental projects and today was no exception as Gadkari hoped from one venue to another in his chopper accompanied by union minister and state BJP President Sarbananda Sonowal. Sonowal, it might be mentioned has already been declared as the chief minister

candidate of the party for the ensuing polls. He also announced the “inprincipal” approval of the ministry for declaring new national highway and preparation of Detailed Project Report for roads and bridges connecting Sivasagar and North Lakhimpur via Desangmukh, Dhakuakhana and connecting Jorhat and North Lakhimpur via Majuli, a request Gadkari said being persisted by Sonowal for quite some time.

APCC chief Anjan Dutta to address party meeting in Tinsukia Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Feb 27

With assembly election inching closer day by day, this Upper Assam town dipped in Congress colour as the Assam Pradesh Congress Chief Anjan Dutta is all set to address a party meet here at Manav Kalyan Puja Bhawan on Sunday. Congress flags, posters and banners were seen all over the town giving a feeling of the festival of democracy. According to sources, APCC president Anjan Dutta will be accompanied by Dr C.P. Joshi, Assam incharge of congress. The stage is all set for the duo to address a party meeting of booth level workers. We are expecting a gathering of around 2000 people, added source and said ex-employee of parliament Paban Singh Ghatowar will also be present along with Tinsukia MLA Rajendra Prasad Singh

Gadkari who was accompanied by the Union Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs Sarbananda Sonowal further said that that the Brahmaputra will be developed as a national waterways in the coming days which will boost connectivity in the region. State PWD minister Ajanta Neog, Dibrugarh MP Rameshwar Teli, Jorhat MP Kamakhya Tasa, Dibrugarh MLA, Prasanta Phukan, Lahowal MLA Prithibi Majhi and senior officials of NHIDCL were present on the occasion.

It is important to mention that MLA RP Singh has managed to keep the base of congress supporter intact in this constituency and seems to be the first choice among Hindi speaking, Bengali-speaking and tea tribe community voters in particular, making him party's first choice for the seat. It is learnt that March 3 has been set as deadline for submission of application by interested candidates after which picture will become somewhat clear.

Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today expressed surprise that Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways & Shipping Nitin Jayram Gadkari went about laying the foundation stone of two bridges connecting Sivasagar and North Lakhimpur via Desangmukh, Dhakhukhana and another connecting Jorhat and North Lakhimpur via Majuli without preparing the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). In a statement here today, Chief Minister Gogoi said that the foundation stone laying of the two bridges by Union Minister Gadkari today in the State without preparing the DPRs has exposed

Pul sets 20th April as targer for completion of Arunachal Civil Secretariat building A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 27

and other party functionaries. Sources within the congress claimed that although this time there are few other who are desperately trying hard to get ticket from Tinsukia assembly seat but existing MLA cum parliamentary secretary Rajendra Prasad Singh, 3 consecutive times winner of Tinsukia assembly seat, is party's favourite.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 27

In a press release issued today, Chief Minister Kalikho Pul sets target for completion of Arunachal Civil Secretariat building as 20th April 2016 while Arunachal Legislative Assembly building gets the deadline for completion before 14th August 2016 next. He issued strict directives to the department of PWD and the construction agencies to work 24x7 to achieve the targeted deadline. He directed the construction agencies to increase the manpower including masons, carpenters and engineers and work three shifts on 8 hourly basis. Directives were also issued to the executing department officers and engineers to monitor the pace of the work round the clock by making a work chart. He also warned to take actions on the spot in the form of suspension if the govern-

ment officers show a lackadaisical attitude towards their work or found absent. He disclosed that he would make personal surprise inspection irrespective of time, day or night and actions would be initiated promptly including to the construction agency. Flanked by Arunachal Legislative Assembly Speaker Wangki Lowang, legislators Pema Khandu, Kumar Waii, Passang D Sona, Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary Finance and PWD Chief Engineer, CM this morning inspected the two most important state-of-the-art infrastructures of the state which has taken 10 long years and have been delayed beyond the stipulated time of its completion. Pointing various lacunas, CM questioned the cause of the delay and the cost escalation factor which has gone triple the original projects cost. Contd. on Page 3

that the BJP-led NDA Government at the Centre is out to hoodwink the people with an eye on the upcoming Assembly election. “I have never seen a Central Government like the present one of going out with foundation stone laying spree without preparing the DPRs. They are out to hoodwink the people with an eye on the elections,” he added. Gogoi questioned how come the project cost for the two massive bridges across the Brahmaputra could be estimated without preparing the DPRs that include feasibility report. Contd. on Page 4

Read More News on Page 4

In a major bureaucratic reshuffling by the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Hage Kojeen, Commissioner GA/ DA, Transport and Divisional Commissioner (West) was

Onit Payang who has been looking after Law & Judicial, Parliamentary Affairs and Registrar (SIC) has been given additional charge of Political. Dr B M Mishra Secretary Finance and Civil Aviation, has been given additional charge of Lot-

Dr Beda replaces Sonam Chombay as Planning Secretary given the additional charge of Health and Family Welfare and Disaster Management. The Disaster Management, Lottery, Industry & Skill Development, Kapa Kholie has been assigned to Secretary Labour and Employment, while Bolung Siram Commissioner Health and Family Welfare has been given charge of Transport. Sonam Chombay Secretary Planning, IPR, Printing and Eco & Statistics has been assigned to Information Technology, Cultural Affairs and Eco and Statistics, while Planning, IPR and Printing have been assigned to Secretary to Governor Dr Joram Beda along

tery. Dani Salu Secretary Finance Commission, Sports & Youth Affairs, SPO and Cultural Affairs, has been given additional charge of Library. Meanwhile, Nyabin Ete DC Anjaw has been transferred to Joint Secretary (Arts and Culture). He will be replaced by Deputy Commissioner Kurung Kumey Mamta Riba, Kemo Lollen Director DoTCL will be replaced K. Darang as Deputy Comissioner Ziro and Darang has been posted to DC Kurung Kumey. Additional Secretary General Administration and District Administration, PWD Sadhana Deori has been given additional charge of Director DoTCL.

Central Eastern Youth Association submits Two minors of memorandum to chief secretary complaining same parents died alleged neglect by govt. officials in Anjaw in road mishap ET Correspondent Hawai, Feb 27

The Central Eastern Youth Association (CEYA) has alleged that the educational system in Anjaw district of Arunachal Prafesh has been jeopardized due to sheer negligence of the Head of the Department of the Deputy Director of Secondary Education (DDSE) who most of the time has been found to be absent from his place of posting except a few unavoidable days. In a memorandum (a copy of which was marked to this newspaper) addressed to the Chief Secretary of the state, the association alleged that half of the year the senior education department official spends his working days out of the district like at Tezu only on the pretext that half of his office is camped at Tezu due to lack of enough infrastructure at Hawai, the headquarter of Anjaw District. “Whereas, I may have the honour to inform that all the major and important branches are shifted and functioning from his office building allotted at Hawai with enough staffs the DDSE often overlooks the complaints sub-

mitted by various quarters on different occasions even it is from the DC, Anjaw’s office” Noam Pul, assistant general secretary, CBSE complained through the petition. He also further added that, several schools are running without the presence of adequate number of teaching staffs. The CEYA also stated that the functioning of the District Medical Officer (DMO) Anjaw, is also same. The association also requested that POL items should always be in standby and in stock with the DMO, since most of the times during emergency situations services of the ambulance could not be availed due to non-availability of fuel. “Since the district does not have better medical facilities most of the times patients needs to be moved out of the district. Therefore, adequate stock of fuel with the office is very much required”, Pul said. The association through the memorandum also requested the chief secretary to monitor the activities of various government offices of the district so that the people of this far flunged and bordering district can avail the benefits of various government schemes.

ET Correspondent Dhubri, Feb 27

Two minors of the same family- Salima Khatun, 4 and Mahammad Abrahim,2 and half-year died on the spot when a speeding truck run over them at GarodubiHaripur under Phulbari police station of Garo Hills district of Meghalaya today. Wife of Surat Zamal went out to wash garment and take bath in near by wetland and after finishing washing, she was getting her son and daughter bathed when a truck bearing number plate ML-08/0877 ran over minors in front of her mother. On seeing the incident, she lost sense and fallen sick. She immediately shifted to Rajabala Civil Hospital while minors were sent for postmortem by police. Driver of the truck absconded leaving behind the truck but police seized the truck and looking for the driver, a police source informed.

New innovative mobile database in the state for election officials launched in Darrang Mayukh Goswami Mangaldai, Feb 27

The ensuing state assembly election is likely to turn out to be high-tech phenomenon not only for the political parties but also for the officials to be engaged in the mega democratic process . This could be evident from the fact today as the District Election Department in Darrang district has launched an innovative idea called Cartographic Digital Database (CarDD) based on the sophisticated android mobile application for prompt and accurate exchange of date base from the ground level upto the highest election conducting authority simply just

screen (both offline and online). This innovative database will help in coordinating the location (latitudinal and longitudinal) of polling stations with real time satellite view on mobile screen with finger touch operation.

click on mobile phone button. The innovative technology reportedly to be introduced first time in the state has been ceremonially launched by Manoj Kumar , Deputy Commissioner, Darrang with click on the laptop in a function at district library auditorium here in presence of more than hundred election sector and zonal officials, master trainers and media persons among others. The cartographic or the drawing map with projection will be the real time satellite view of the terrain features like roads, rivers, water bodies, bridges, and any other natural and structural features on the surface of earth on mobile

Options to input information or data instantly on mobile screen (For example: pictures, address, phone no, contact person name etc.) will be available on this database. Moreover, the accuracy will be of much higher as the database used to locate the polling station in GPS data and not mobile device based GPRS data.

New innovative mobile database in the state for election officials launched in Darrang. Pic - ET Photo

Launching this database de-

veloped by the Election District, Mangaldoi with the help of a GIS Consultant Darrang Deputy Commissioner Manoj Kumar said that continuous process of training on the proper application of technique for the officials will be carried out to increase their efficiency and earn best results out of it. Earlier Election Officer, Mangaldai Rahul Das explained the objectives of the project. Additional Deputy Commissioners Bidyut Bikash Bhagawati, Nara Narayan Nath, and other officials of the district administration also attended the function .

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Union minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari today laid the foundation stone of four 4-lane national highway projects in the state during a function held at the Abhaypuri rural stadium, here in Dibrugarh district. The projects which will incur a total expenditure of Rs 1,230.867 crore are four-laning from Moran bypass to Bogibeel junction near Lepetkata, Dibrugarh (19 km) at a cost of Rs 330.3 crore, four-laning from Demow to end of Moran bypass (26.9 km) at a cost of Rs 385.557, fourlaning from Rangagara to Kaliabor Tiniali (18.3 km) at a cost of Rs 289.990 crore and four-laning from end of Nagaon bypass to Rangagara (18.4 km) at a cost of Rs 225.020 crore.

Assam CM expresses surprise over Gadkari laying foundation stone of bridges without DPR

with Tourism.


DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

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ASTRO FOR YOU Aries A romantic link is about to be presented to you as a surprise, shining and smiling. Ganesha advises you to be prepared in your best dress and to practice some romantic talking. You never know what the evening has in store for you. Only Ganesha does, and he is sporting a knowing smile. Taurus Spontaneity yet sincerity will be the ruling emotions of the day. Keep your eyes and ears open, advises Ganesha, as trouble might be headed your way. Make it a point to read the print well before you sign any legal contract today. Prevention is better than cure, reminds Ganesha. Gemini Today, your enthusiasm for sports and outdoor activities is palpable. According to you, variety is the spice of life. You will keep on jumping from one venture to another. You will establish a good rapport with your bosses and colleagues. It's time to taste success in your immediate and interim objectives. Cancer You will have enthusiasm for swift action. Variety adds spice to life. So you may change job or trade. Ties with superiors will be good. Ganesha says this is the time for challenges. Leo Forget the weather. Today, the only thing shining bright are your chances of spending some quality time with your near and dear ones. Going along these lines, Ganesha wonders how long has it been since you last did the same. So, make the most of this lucky day. Chances are that you shall make new friends, who might turn out to be very supportive in the future. Ganesha wishes you the very best on this eventful day. Virgo Business acumen is natural to you. Your management skills are immaculate. Move with imagination, innovation and motivation to further your enterprise, advises Ganesha. Feel free to express and exercise your sense of judgement, says Ganesha. Libra The whole point of being a Libran is that you always have the tendency to be two separate things put together on a pair of scales that somehow balance. Ganesha feels that today, you'll bring to the scales the stability of being your own master and servant. It's a fine balance to maintain. But only you are capable of doing that, thanks to your extremely high-power status today. Scorpio Retail therapy with your loved ones is a perfect recipe to have a good time! You will be more than willing to buy things of their choice. Haggling will be a trait you have closeted today as you go about being lavish in your expenses, says Ganesha. Sagittarius You may have women swooning over you today; such is your charm and way with them, says Ganesha. But friends are highly valuable to you, and you shall spend much time with them cherishing their company and reliving amazing times spent together. Capricorn It may seem to be an unusual combination, but you will experience pain and pleasure in equal measure today, says Ganesha. The errands you may have to run for at home will leave you exhausted, so conserve some energy for the rest of the day. Your wit can get you whatever you want, but it's important that you use it in the right way and not just to meet your selfish interests. Aquarius God helps those who help themselves. You have experienced this plenty of times as your efforts have been paid off. While your colleagues at work may pass negative comments at your work, your boss will not have any complains with you. For investments purposes, real estate and construction seem to be a wise option, suggests Ganesha. Pisces A day filled with socialising awaits you, says Ganesha. You will likely make contact with near and dear ones you haven't met in a while. New associations and friendships could also occur. It is a pleasant and joyous day, so make the most of it.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz)

Organisations burn effigy of union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in Tinsukia ET Correspondent Tinsukia, Feb 27: Activists of CPI (ML), AICCTU, All Assam Grameen Shramik Santha and All Assam Pragotoshil Nari Santha on Thursday burnt the effigy of Home Minister of India at Thana Chariali, Tinsukia, demanding his resignation and immediate release of JNU President, Kanhaiya Kumar who have been arrested under false charges of Sedition. “BJP led NDA Government at the Centre with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, since came into to

power has started Curtailing on people's right one after another to the farmers, workers, women, students and the teachers of Universities” said Subhas Sen, Secretary of CPI (ML), Tinsukia District. Subhas Sen further added that, Jawaharlal Nehru University is recognized as an institution of Higher Education, a Centre of Research, a laboratory of ideas where one can develop through debate and where one’s voice could merge. “Jawaharlal Nehru Uni-

versity for long has been recognized both inside and outside the country as an institution of Higher Education, a Centre of Research, a laboratory of Creative freedom where ideas could develop through debate and dissent and where voice could merge thus from the otherwise most deprived and oppressed section of India to challenge the age old students of exclusion and domination, including those of the Universities themselves. Thus the new regime wants to suppress the voice of dissent by appointing its men of choice

i.e. closer to RSS ideology” added Sen. Subhas Sen further stated that, “we demand immediate drop of all the false charges of Sedition against JNU President, Kanhaiya Kumar and also the Central Home Minister resignation”. A memorandum was also submitted to the President of India through the Circle Officer, Tinsukia said Subhas Sen, Secretary of CPI (ML) Tinsukia District Committee.

Dibrugarh district Development Authority without pay for last 11 months A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb. 27: All Assam Development Authority Employees’ Joint Council today said the state government is not serious about them. In a press conference here today the Joint Council has said that in Dibrugarh district they were not getting salary for last 11 months. “We have 350 permanent employees in Assam and now we are having a tough time because the state government has become deaf and dumb and not fulfilling our genuine demands,’’ said Bani Kante Baruah, Advisor of Tinsukia Development Authority, All Assam Development Authority Employees’ Joint Council. “We are demanding for the provincialisation of jobs. But the state government has not taken the matter seriously,’’ he added. The government had created 24 development authorities

under the Town and Country Planning Act. He said we are demanding for a 15 crore of funds for the 24 development authority but the government has not sanctioned the funds. Swapan Bhattacharjee, Advisor of the organization and employee of Silchar Development Authority alleged that the Chairman, Development Authority has been appointed by the gov-

ernment without clarifying his / her qualification. “For the state government the development authority is just a ‘bustard child’ because the government has left the development in a pitiable condition,’’ he alleged. Revenue of the development authorities in different districts has dwindled as all the urban area work is be-

ing given to the municipal boards after the government made an amendment in the urban development departments in 2012. “The government is not serious about us and failed miserably to fulfill our genuine demands. After the retirement the employees didn’t get any benefit of pension and till now many of our ex-employees have died,’’ Bhattacharjee added.

Tezpur University being adjudged the best Central University in the country will be a big boost for the education sector in Assam : Gogoi

Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 28-2-16 (SUNRDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Bhajan From Films 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-00 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 9-20 A.M-Seuji Chora (Children Programme) 11-00 A.M-MANN KI BAAT 12-05 P.M-Surar Satsori (Request Programme of Assamese Songs) 1-10 P.M-Gharjeuti -Interview with Dr. Ramesh Kr. Agarwalla on "Chokur Jatan" 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikar Asor (Tea Garden Programme) 7-45 P.M- Juye Pora Son-(Interview with Ranjana Sharma Bordoloi, Part-2 8-00 P.M-Assamese version of MANN KI BAAT Sd-/H.O.P

A view of the procession taken out by the VDP, Chandan Nagar, Jorhat on the occasion of its Foundation Day. Pic - Nekib Ahmed.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 27: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said the news of Tezpur University being adjudged the best Central University in the country this year by the Ministry of Human Resources Development will be a big boost not only to the university but also to the education sector in the State

as a whole. In a statement here today, Chief Minister Gogoi said that he was doubly happy that Tezpur University bagged the prestigious award as he had been instrumental in persuading the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi for two Central Universities one at Tezpur and the other at Silchar. “It is rare to find

two Central Varsities in any State. Thanks to Rajivji that he heeded to my plea for two Central Varsities in Assam.” Extending his heartiest congratulations to Vice Chancellor Mihir Kanti Chaudhuri, the teaching and non-teaching fraternity and the students, past and present, for the honour,

Gogoi hoped that the university would continue with its tryst with academic excellence and scale new heights of glory in the days ahead. The award will be presented to the university by President Pranab Mukherjee on March 14. Last year, the award was conferred on Hyderabad University.

Election rally holds at Rangia ET Correspondent Rangia Feb 27: A rally in connection with ensuing assembly election was held at Chirakhundi under Kamalpur constituency on Saturday. The rally was lead by Pranjeet Chowdhury probable candidate of Kamalpur from Indian National congress. and Secretary APCC The rally was addressed by Debabrata Kalita President kamrup Zila Parishad, Shubra mitra Gogoi and other congress leaders. In their speech the cong leaders informed the public about the various schemes of Tarun Gogoi lead congress govt. They alsogly stron criticized the central govt and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They appealed the public to caste their vote in favor of congress govt.

Maibang People to launch agitation ET Correspondent Haflong Feb 27 : Various organisations of Maibang warned the railway authority if it fails to full fill the demands of the Maibang people in the stipulated time frame they would be compelled to launch rail blockade agitation for which the people of Maibang should ot be held responsioble, informed Ashim Diphusa, President, Save Our Culture and Heritage (SOCH). Sri Diphusa while talking to this correspondent, said that a memorandum was submitted to the General Manager , N F Railway. Maligaon recently wherein the people of Maibang demanded foot over bridge, stopage of all the important trains, a train from New Haflong to Guwahati etc. He also said that the people of Maibang time and again are approaching the Railway authority for the redressal of their grivances but it seems that the railway authority does not feel it necessary to pay any heed to their deamnds though the people of Maibang are very cooperastive to the Railway.

Providing 24x 7 day power supply Booth level workers to the people of state- utopian camp held at hallucination of Husain? Naharkatia ET Correspondent Diphu, Feb 27: Making full mockery of the tall claims of Assam power minister Rokibul Husain of providing 24 X 7 hours or uninterrupted power supply from January 1 major part of Karbi Anglong district including headquarter town Diphu received hardly 9 hours electric supply in average from the beginning of 2016. West Karbi Anglong district or erstwhile Hamren district as usual received smallest amount of power even today. In fact the 100 megawatt producing Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council area has negated by Assam government since last decade from providing minimum measure of power for illumination of its sparingly populated houses not to speak of developing its industrial sector. The whole fiasco of the power

minister’s claim bear out to be a election gimmick as typical of the state’s power position, near about 27 districts never received substantial power supply since January 1.

ment so far in spite of having vast natural capability has remained at the receiving end of the state government’s step motherly attitude so far.

Howraghat subdivision flanked by 98% rural area and administered by Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council which will begin functioning formally from tomorrow is another example of power starved locality of the 100 MW power spare district of the state. In most cases maximum rural locality remains void of electric supply.

Till date Government of Assam has failed to generate any power from several hydro power programs initiated on the financial support of union government by harnessing the resources of the rapids of this district; this has chiefly happened due to created local hurdles, unenthusiastic attitude of state government and ingenuity of local administration.

Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council area where central sponsored schemes for producing micro to large scale hydroelectric have succeeded in exceptional cases due to the lackluster attitude of the state govern-

Considering the existing power scenario of the state probably Mr. Husain should stop from forcing his utopian hallucination of providing 24 X 7 hours uninterrupted power supply to the people of Assam that too before the ensuing election.

ET Correspondent Naharkatia, Feb 27: To win the absolute majority of 84 seats in Assam, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), today organized a booth level workers camp at Nagaon Tinali auditorium in Naharkatia where the 120 Lok Sabha Constituency of Dibrugarh district in which three vice president of state Dr. Hemoprabha Borthakur, Monojram Phukan,

Bodh Bhadra were the chief guest. The main objective of the camp was to boost the booth level workers morale and to strengthen the ground level policies and programmes of BJP at door steps to aware and impress the voters to cast the vote in favour of Bharatiya Janata Party. The party workers from Naharkatia Constituency attended the camp.


DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

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Sensitization and awareness camp on PWDV act 2005 and POCSO act 2012 held at Namsai

Indrajit Tingwa Namsai, Feb 27 : The Department of Women and Child Development under Namsai - Chongkham ICDS Project yesterday conducted a one day sensitization and awareness camp on Protection of Women from Domestic Violence (PWDV) Act 2005 and Prevention of Children from Sexual Offence (POCSO) Act 2012 for district level officers including judicial and police officers at the DC's Conference Hall. Heads of various departments, police officers and representatives from two NGOs of Namsai, Socio Economic Welfare Association (SEWA) and Women Welfare Society (WWS) participated. The resource person for

PWDV Act was Sri R.K.Sharma, D.C. Namsai. In his keynote address on the matter the DC was of the opinion that conflict in ideas leads to conflict in the family and mutual understanding can be a medium to resolve and avoid abuse. He invited NGOs to come forward and register as service providers for victims of domestic violence and child abuse. Sharma also elaborately dealt in length on the definition of domestic violence, duties and functions of Protection Officers,magistrates and service providers. Sri Kirli Padu,SDPO Namsai was the resource person for POCSO Act. He gave a detailed explanation of the subject including legal procedures and provi-

sion of free legal aid under Legal Authorities Act. Dr. C.M.Thomoung spoke on medical aid to victims and survivors of sexual assault, rape and domestic violence. He also gave definition of physical abuse and provision of medical assistance for overcoming trauma for victims. C.P.Namsai, retired superintendent of police also spoke on the occasion dwelling in length on the importance of the acts and shared his ideas and experience for implementation of the same. Dr.Keshav Sharma DVO i/c and Sri Talom Padin DDSE also spoke and gave their inputs. The programme concluded with vote of thanks proposed by Smti.W.Tangha CDPO.

Kalraj Mishra announces Rs. 6 crore ‘Khadi Plaza’ for Nagaland ANI Dimapur, Feb.27 : Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Kalraj Mishra inaugurated the ‘Regional Conclave of MSME’ at Rhododendron Hall, Police Complex Chumukedima on Friday. Addressing the conclave, Mishra announced Rs. 6 crore for setting up ‘Khadi Plaza’ at Agri Expo Site in Dimapur. He expressed hope that Dimapur Conclave 2016 would help the ministry in evaluating the performance of schemes as implemented and that interaction with State governments and associations of NE region and other stakeholders would help government plan and execute various policies and programmes aimed at the sustained development of MSME sector. The participating states at the conclave are Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. Emphasizing on the significance of MSME, Kalraj said, the primary responsibility of promotion and development of MSMEs is of the State governments while the role of the Ministry of MSME and its organizations is to assist the States in their efforts to encourage entrepreneurship, employment and livelihood opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of MSMEs in the changed economic scenario. The implementation of policies and various programmes/ schemes for providing infrastructure and support services to MSMEs’ is undertaken through its attached office, namely MSME Development Institutes underlined Kalraj. “During 2015-16 (till 31st January, 2016) 29174 projects have been ap-

proved, which generated total employment of 2, 11,601. Out of this, 5092 projects have been approved for the 8 States of northeast region (including Sikkim) and these are expected to generate 20639 employments” said Mishra. Nagaland's Chief Minister, T R Zeliang, pointed out that statistics indicated that the MSME sector in the northeast states accounts for only 1.78 percent of the total gross output of the country with less than two percent of the national level fixed investments going into it. There are multiple factors leading to this low level of output and investment in the MSME sector of the region. The lack of basic infrastructure, both physical and financial is the constraining factors which needs to be addressed and the major challenge would be developing and enabling ecosystem for the MSME sector to grow in the region. Parliamentary Secretary for Industries and Commerce Amenba Yaden underlined that the state has under submission a project proposal for construction of Khadi Plaza at a project cost of R.6.18 crore where the office of Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has agreed to fund earlier. However the legislator said that in view of the scheme revision the project could not be funded till date. Stressing on the benefits of MSME Ministry Yaden said that Nagaland was still unfortunate not able to take advantage of the schemes. He, therefore, underscored that the PMEGP scheme of the Ministry if implemented suitably will help solve the problem of unemployment in the state. However he pointed out that issue of delay in the sanction of loans by banks under financing the projects and correspondingly the delay in release

of the margin money to the banks are limiting the successful implementation of the scheme. Pointing out that about Rs.8.50 crores of Margin Money claims are pending release to the banks against sanctions released by the banks in the state Amenba stressed on the need to address the issues and enhance the physical and financial target allocation to the state as the current targets are inadequate and cannot meet the requirement of the state. The regional conclave of MSME’s was attended by Mizoram Minister for Industries PU HJ.Rohluna and representatives from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Tripura states besides a host of legislators and officials of Nagaland state. Later in the evening, the Business Association of Nagas (BAN) also called upon the union minister and submitted a memorandum seeking the government’s intervention to promote the new generation business community. BAN has sought for setting up of a Manufacturing Park; Revival of North East Industrial Policy, Upgradation MSME Office to MSME Directorate in Nagaland, North-East Cell under MSME, Setting up of Food Testing Laboratory in Nagaland. It reminded the union minister that his kind and prompt redressal of their request will be a mile stone in ushering in a “New Economic Era of Nagaland.” Meanwhile, a nationallevel development programme-cum-industrial exhibition was inaugurated on February 25 by Yaden at the super market in Dimapur. The exhibition was organized by a branch of the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises in association with the Alaphra Group.

Governor, First Lady graces Meder Nello Foundation Day A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 27: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa along with the First Lady of the State, Smt Rita Rajkhowa graced the 12th Meder Nello Foundation Day celebration cum 4th General Conference of Meder Nello Council (MNC) at Ziro on 27th February 2016. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor conveyed his good wishes to the members of the Meder Nello and expressed hope that the movement will further evolve in the new age. He emphasised that new generations needs to imbibe the essence of customs and traditions of the tribes and the best place for them to socialise or learn is the Prayer Halls. Prayer Hall or Temple of Donyi Polo faith has different names, i.e. Meder Nello in Apatani Tribe, Kargu Gamgi in Galo Tribe, Gangging in Adi Tribe and Nyider Namlo in Nyishi to name a few. Recalling 15th–16th century Assamese polymath, Srimanta Sankardev, a saint-scholar, poet, playwright, social-religious reformer and a figure per excellence in the cultural and religious history of Assam and his Sattras, which continue to be essential socio-religious institutions, the Governor stressed on the importance of such Prayer Halls, like Meder Nello, Kargu Gamgi, Gangging and Nyider Namlo for sustaining faith movement. He added that it can be a centre of education and art & culture. Moreover, it will be a place for discourses on traditional practices. The Governor paid tributes to Golgi Bote Late Talom Rukbo, founder of the indigenous faith movement in the State and Late Nani Tachang and Late Tage Dibo for their pioneering contribution towards faith movement. He expressed hope that such movement will facilitate the people of the State to live in harmony and strengthen the spirit of ‘Team Arunachal’. The Governor also reiterated on promotion of indigenous language and development of scripts to preserve the cultural heritage. He also suggested for

amendment of some archaic rituals and march forward with time. The Governor said that literally, the word Donyi means the Sun and Polo means the Moon. Scientifically speaking, the Sun is the symbol of strength, nourishment and life giving force. Similarly, the moon also gives light, balance and harmony for the living beings. If these power elements were not there, there will be no life, plants or water. Therefore, it is a very significant religion. He added, all religion must be treated equally as it reinforces the distinctive Indian cultural characteristic which always has been ‘Unity in Diversity’ and ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the whole world is a family. Special Guest and member, Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE), Dr. Joram Begi, former Director, Higher & Technical Education said that all the Tani groups may differ in the rituals and traditions but core values remains the same. He advocated that with time this group also must

change for inclusion of younger generation and also do away with public sacrifices as done by many other religions. Dr. Begi encouraging the indigenous faith movement said that to preserve our identity and ethos, we have to follow

our faith. As one of the most progressive Tribes of the State, he expressed hope that Meder Nello of Apatanis will provide new direction for reinforcing the Apatani Culture and Donyi Polo faith. Chief Patron of Meder Nello Council, Shri Hage Kojeen,

Commissioner GA, DA said that Donyi Polo, which is the oldest faith tradition, is gradually diminishing with the emergence of modernity, due to lack of proper organisational support, State patronage, adequate resources and infrastructure such as organized prayer centre, documentation of rich oral heritage etc. Sharing his experience in Puducherry, where there is full-fledged dedicated official institution funded and promoted by the State Government for constructions and maintenance of religious centres and for religion celebration, Shri Kojeen called for State Assistance in the adopted line. Chairman, Meder Nello Council Shri Bamin Hinda, in his welcome address briefed on the concept of Meder Nello Movement, which started on 27th February 2004. He said that it aims to create awareness amongst the Donyi Polo believers to keep practicing and to preserve, protect, promote and to document traditionally practiced rituals and rites, verse like chanting and preparation of alters. A memorandum was submitted by Shri Bamin Hinda for grant of financial assistance for construction of traditional cultural

hall at Danii-Pillo Ground, Hapoli. Earlier, the Governor inaugurated the two-day celebration by unfurling the prayer flag, which was followed by mass prayer song led by Smt Koj Yakang and lighting of the in-

augural lamp. Shri Mudang Elyu performed the purification rituals and sprinkling of holy water, while ladies tied the holy thread around the wrist of the guests and participants and distributed ‘Yatang’holy rice powder. A minute silence was observed in honour of pioneers of Meder Nello movement, late Nani Tachang and Late Tage Dibo. Ziro MLA, Er. Tage Taki, who was the Guest of Honour, special invitee, Dr. Ligu Tacho, President, Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh and MNC Chief Advisor Shri Lod Kojeen along with representatives of 13 (thirteen) Meder Nellos of Itanagar and Ziro, guests and invitees were present on the occasion. Subey Salang Meder Nello performed ‘Huru Khanung’, while Hong Meder Nello presented famed Apatani dance ‘Daminda’. Traditional cultural performances were presented by Hapoli Youth group, Itanagar Meder Nello, Kalung Meder Nello, Naharlagun Meder Nello and Itanagar Meder Nello. On his arrival at Ziro in the morning, the local MLA Er. Tage Taki, Deputy Commissioner Shri Kangki Darang and SP Shri Tumme Amo along

with Heads of Department received the Governor and the First Lady at the Ziro ALG. Before leaving for Itanagar, the Governor saw the progress of the ALG and was briefed by the construction and district officials, wherein he advised them to expedite the project.

Pul sets 20th April as targer for completion of Arunachal Civil Secretariat building Contd. from Page 1

Putting his query as to how did the project cost escalated from the original 91.86 Cr in 2009 to 198.56 Cr in 2016 in respect of civil secretariat while the department was to freeze the tender below the original sanctioned amount. Similar questions were asked in the matter of Assembly building which saw five different figures starting from 51.81 Cr as original cost of the estimate, 38.92 Cr as sanctioned amount, tender cost was projected as 41 Cr while revised cost estimate was projected at 119.50 and finally modified revised cost was showed at 135.85 Cr. He found irregularities in the actual expenditure and that with the Administrative Approval, Estimate Approval and the Estimate Sanction, a mandatory component for any project. Pul directed the chief secretary to immediately verify the matter and place it before him for appropriate actions. He also hinted for a detail enquiry into various loopholes and sought detail justification for the queries raised. In the side line, CM assured to provide the required fund for completion of the projects as he maintained that due to the fault of few the states and its people should not suffer. Accordingly, he di-

rected the Principal Secretary Finance to release Rs. 20 Cr to Aruachal Civil Secretariat and another 20 cr for Arunachal Legislative Assembly building. He however maintained that the project should ensure financial as well as physical discipline during execution and all other corresponding activities like photography and videography of the projects for transparency. Minutely going through the presentation, CM asserted for checking the unplanned expenditure like these projects which has attracted huge fund that was meant for other developmental projects. It is for this reason that the state witnessed a huge financial mismanagement as the contractual employees did not get their pending salaries for months together while the students were deprived of stipends, he lamented. The funds were shifted to such unplanned expenditure which created the backlog for others. As the state is resource crunch and is totally dependent on central funding for all major projects, such shortcomings of revised estimates which shows cost escalation should be discouraged, he emphatically said. He therefore reiterated for preparing a fool proof DPR of projects in future incorporating all required components like landscaping, soil testing etc. so that the cost escalation

factor does not arise. He further maintained that the tender should be floated only under the estimated sanctioned amount and not beyond that. CM was upset by the substandard civil works undertaken in the civil secretariat as the locks, tower bolt; door handles etc. were already broken while there was no water facility in the washrooms. Directing for immediate rectification of the faults, CM warned that such low standard works would not be tolerated and those found involved in such activities would be strictly dealt with according to the laid down provisions. He further directed the department to ensure sample display of the materials used during construction which should be coupled by price list. Tender should be floated for such materials and there should not be any compromise with the materials. In case of deviation, complete replacement should be made besides stringent actions would be attracted, CM assertively said. The Chief Minister made it amply clear that the civil secretariat and the Arunachal Assembly Building should be equipped with all essential services like power and drinking water facility round the clock. Apart from the regular electricity supply from power grid and sub-stations, there

would be back up DG sets to supply power to the buildings. He also asked the department to make provisions for taping electricity through solar energy. There should be independent power supply to every block and even in every floors of the building, he viewed. On the similar lines, for water supply, Pul suggested for using three means to ensure 24x7 supplies. First being the main supply line, second through boring well for extracting ground water from the compounds of the designated building areas and third by harvesting the rain water. Although there was no provision for rain water harvesting, the engineers assured to make the provisions in the twin buildings. Surprised over non-inclusion of security fencing in the DPR of Civil Secretariat, Pul who personally inspected the entire area felt that the provision of boundary wall should have been incorporated in the DPR. He instructed the department to immediately construct it to ensure security for the employees and officers for which he assured to make funds available. He directed the engineers to take up the planning office as well as the APSC building to bring it under the security purview.

While discussing on landscaping of the Arunachal Assembly Building, CM emphasised to showcase the cultural mosaic of our beautiful state. He advised to display the rich culture and tradition of all the ethnic communities of the state and their attires besides highlighting the tourism, rich flora and fauna, museum and a complete Arunachal Map as beautification stint. Declaring to convene the next Assembly Session of September in the new building, the Chief Minister exhorted the officers and construction agencies to put their heart in completing the projects in the given targeted time. He encouraged them to give Arunachal a projects which would be inscripted in the history of the state and that they could boast to their children of their exemplary engineering. “Where there is a will there is a way. Our Government has a strong will, engineers and workers need to put their will, financial and administrative support will be provided, we are confident that we can achieve the set target” he confidently said before winding up the inspection. He also suggested for naming the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Secretariat as Arunachal Civil Secretariat and Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly as Arunachal Legislative Assembly.


DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

PAGE 4

CM requests for 800 crore from union health minister or improvement of health sector in tea gardens of Assam A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 27: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today requested Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda for a special package of Rs 800 crore for dealing with the health related issues of the tea garden community of the State. In a letter to Nadda, Chief Minister Gogoi said the special package would help to cover extensively all the health related requirements of the tea community. “In the present scheme of things vis-a-vis present funding pattern under NHM, Assam, any intense and focused attempt to cover all the tea gardens’ health institutions along with provision of basic infrastructure and requisite manpower is not possible. A separate additional package is required to strengthen the series of initiatives taken by the State Government to address the multifarious issues that include high levels of maternal mortality and infant mortality rates,” he said. Gogoi pointed out that the special package would pave the way for rapid improvement in physical infrastructure in tea garden hospitals, upgrading essential equipment and recruitment of doctors, nurses and para medics. The Chief Minister urged the Union Health Minister to frame a policy for providing Contributory Provident Fund to the contractual employees of NHM, Assam, entailing a sum of Rs 40 crore per year. “There are nearly 19,055 contractual employees in NHM, Assam. These employees have been able to bring about tangible benefits to

the health sector of the State. And they deserve the mandatory financial support in the form of Contributory Provident Fund,” he said. Besides raising the nominal pay of contractual employees, Gogoi also urged Nadda for enhancement of salary of about 2,000 employees with high academic backgrounds comprising specialist doctors and dental surgeons. “In order to motivate these young vibrant people who are rendering yeoman services to the State in the health sector, it is felt that their salary structure should be enhanced on the lines of the recommendations of the 6th Pay Commission,” he added. Gogoi pleaded for approval of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and sanction of funds for establishment of medical colleges at Nagaon, North Lakhimpur and Dhubri. “In order to address the serious dearth of health professionals, the State Government is very keen to start these medical colleges at the earliest. Timely administrative and financial sanction would go a long way towards starting these new medical colleges,” he said. The Chief Minister requested the Union Health Minister to expedite the much-delayed upgradation work of Guwahati Medical College and Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh. It may be mentioned that the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs had approved upgradation of the two Government medical colleges under the 3rd phase of Prime Minister’s Swasthya Suraksha Yojana at a cost of Rs 150 crore each.

BSF nabs two notorious Trans-Border smugglers

Gadkari lays foundation stone of NH and 3 bridges over Brahmaputra Assam CM expresses surprise over Gadkari laying foundation stone of bridges with DPR

ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; Feb 27: "I want to construct one lakh KM roads in the entire North East. I hope, this aspiration will come into reality through the co-ordination of the people of the area and my will power will help me to achieve the goal"-thus declared today in Lakhimpur Nitin Joyram Gadkari after he had declared a new National Highway in the district. It is note worthy that the Union Minster for Road Transport and Highways declared a new National Highway connection between North Lakhimpur and Shivsagar via D i s h a n g m u k h Dhakuakhona and connecting Jorhat and North Lakhimpur via Majuli and, at Bakulguri under Dhakuakhona Legislative Assembly Constituency, laid the foundation stone of the construction of the National Highway and the three bridges over Brahmaputra and one over Luhit-Khabaloo in Lakhimpur.

The three bridges over the Brahmaputra are DishangmukhTekeliphuta Connecting bridge, KamalabariNimatighat Connecting bridge and GamirighatNumaligarh Connecting bridge. Taking part in a populous meeting in the venue the Union Minister declared to invest an INR of 25000 crore in Assam with regard to upgrade the communication sector of the State. He imparted the gathering of the meeting that the Union Government has initiated special steps to establish Assam as one of the prosperous state in the Nation. He slammed the Congress Party alleg-

ing that the party degraded the Nation as well as Assam despite being the ruling party for a long period of more than sixty years. He prioritised politics for development, eradication of poverty, unemployment. "Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi our Government is thus solemnizing venture to establish India one of the best country of the world"he said. Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister Youth Welfare and Sport cum the MP of Lakhimpur Parliamentary Constituency commented in his lecture that February 27 was an epoch-making day for the constituency as one a long time longing had come to an end through the declaration of the National Highway and the construction of the bridges. He termed this achievement is of the people of the constituency. He thanked Naba Doley, the MLA of Dhakuakhona LAC for his effort to convince the Union Government along with him. He emphasised on constructing more bridges over Brahmaputra and in Barak Valley.

He promised to start soon the expansion work railway track to Majuli through Dhakuakhona. Dr Ranoj Pegu, the CEM of Miching Autonomous Council delivered speech in the program.It is to be noted that MP of Dibrugarh Rameswar Teli, MP of Jorhat Kamakhya Tasa along with several high ranking Officials of the Ministry of Road Transport were present in the program.

Contd. from Page 1 The Chief Minister said that though the Central Ministers, including the Prime Minister have made over 200 trips to Assam in the past 19 months, nothing concrete has emerged so far. “The Central Ministers, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been making a beeline to the State try-

ing to give one the impression that the present dispensation at the Centre has a soft corner towards Assam and the North East Region as a whole. The grim reality is: Nothing concrete has emerged. What the Prime Minister has inaugurated were outcome of the initiatives of the previous Congress-led UPA Government,” he added.

ET Correspondent Rangia, Feb 27: Two notorious cattle smugglers were arrested yesterday by troops of Guwahati Frontier of Border Security Force from the IndoBangladesh border in Dhubri district of Assam.

cattle couriers who were working for Md Saidur, s/o Mullu Sheikh, who was the kingpin of this illegal cattle trade of village Mahamayachar, PO Nilokhiya, PS - South Salmara, Dist Dhubri Assam,.

On intervening night of 26/27 Feb at about 23:30 hrs, two Indian cattle couriers were nabbed by the alert BSF troops of BOP MM Char from the riverine border in Dhubri when they were trying to smuggle out cattle from India to Bangladesh.

Besides, the troops of Guwahati Frontier seized 236 cattle heads, meant to be smuggled out to Bangladesh, in the previous night, from the IndoBangladesh border in Dhubri, Coochbehar and Falakata. The approximate value of the seized cattle heads amounts to Rs 21 Lacs.

The BSF troops also seized 06 cattle heads, meant to be smuggled out, from the area. The approximate value of the seized cattle heads amounts to Rs 57000/. The apprehended smugglers were identified as Taser Ali, 20 years s/o Md Sukur Ali and Amad Ali, 35 years s/o Late Sontesh Ali of same village Mahamayachar, South Salmara police station of Dhubri district. On questioning they revealed that they were

Meanwhile BSF troops of BOP Azampara in Coochbehar also seized 51 cattle heads today in the morning, when these were being smuggled out to Bangladesh. The smugglers escaped taking advantage of bad weather conditions. The approximate cost of the seized cattle amounts to Rs 7 Lacs. The apprehended smugglers and the seized goods have been handed over to concerned agencies for further disposal.

ecuted for his involvement in 2001 Indian Parliament attack, as a martyr. They also organized another meeting at Press Club of India in New Delhi, where too anti-India slogans were raised. Later few students organized a similar meeting at Jadavpur University in West Bengal and raised anti-India slogans. Braving the heat of morning sun on the city streets, the participants chanted slogans like Vande Mataram, Joi Asom, Anti-Nationals Go Back, Down Down Anti-Nationals, Punish JNU Anti-Nationals, Condemn Jadavpur Anti-Nationals, ‘RADICAL’ Get Out,

The Chief Minister said the recent Railway Budget has brought to the fore the Modiled Government’s step-motherly treatment towards Assam. “The Railway Budget has been a great disappointment to the people of the State. I pleaded with the Railway Minister to incorporate several important projects in the Rail Budget but to no avail,” he said.

Nitin Gadkari lays foundation stone of a bridge to connect Majuli ET Correspondent Majuli, Feb 27: Over thousands of Majuli islanders dream came true soon after Nitin Jairam Gadkari the Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways & Shipping pulled the foundation stone plate in presence of Sarbananda Sonowal (Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports cum local MP), Mahendra Singh (BJP-MP, I/ C of Assam), Sanjay Mitra (Secretary of Road, Transport and Highway), Govt. of India and Chairman of NHIDCL, Anant Kumar (Managing Director of NHIDCL) Govt. of India, Kamakhaya Prasad Tasa, Jorhat MP, Rameswar Teli, Dibrugarh MP, but the Assam chief Minister Torun Gogoi and local MLA Rajiv Luchon Pegu could not attend the function. The CM was supposed to preside over the foundation stone laying ceremony but could not attend the function here today. Pointing out the importance of road Gadkari said that he will touch the four left out projects out of 14. He also further added that 10 mega NH project which was inaugurated in May 2015 is under full swing and in five years 1200 to 1500 crore National Highway Projects of Moran, Dhokowakhana and Majuli will be completed. Nitin Gadkari said Prime Min-

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari waves the gathering during foundation stone laying programme of new bridge connecting Jorhat- Majuli in the presence of Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and other leaders and dignitaries in Majuli. Pic - UB Photos ister Narendra Modi in his first year of office approved 7872 kilometer of Highways against 3621 Km road approved by the UPA government in 2013-14. The target for construction in 2015-16 is 10,000 km. Gadkari said he has taken to construct 30 km a day, subsequently higher than the 10 to 12 km a day. “The entire highway construction will be cement concrete road. The project will be done through National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) with estimated cost of rupees

Citizens in Guwahati march against anti-national elements in country A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 27: Over thousand patriotic citizens of the city joined today in a protest march against the anti-national elements emerged from different parts of the country. The participants assembled at Dighalipukhuri point exactly at 11 amand marched towards Chandmari raising national flags and sloganeering against the anti-India forces. The protest march targeted the anti-nationals of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), who showed the audacity to break India into thousand parts till its destruction is completed. Those students also termed Afzal Guru, who was ex-

Gogoi said that if the Prime Minister has been so much interested in ushering in development in Assam and the entire North East region, then why did his Government curtail the Special Category Status, changed the funding pattern from the earlier 90:10 and suspended the North East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy.

China’s Bootlickers Get Out etc. The protest march, organized by Patriotic People’s Front Assam (PPFA) culminated by 12 noon at Ambari locality. Senior journalist Rupam Barua, on behalf of PPFA, thanked all the participants and expressed gratitude. The long march was led by a number of senior citizens including eminent journalist Dhirendra Nath Chakravarty, noted publisher Giripad Devchoudhury, retired bureaucrat Rohini Barua, award winning film maker Manju Bora, ex-army officer Ranjan Dutta, filmcritic Utpal Datta, popular

singer Babita Sarma, academician Jagadindra Raychoudhury, publisher Dhiraj Goswami, Doctor Alekhya Barua, environmentalist Soumyadeep Dutta, entrepreneur Ujjal Saikia, writer Namrata Dutta, photography director Jiban Dowka, councilor Sunita Bhiluwaria, social activists Kailash Sarma, Pankaj Jalan, Kishor Saini, lawyers Chinmoy Choudhury, Chinmoy Sarma Barua,Tapas Mishra, Bankim Sarma, Kumud Konwar with senior journalists Biman Chandra Hazarika, Nava Thakuria, Pramod Kalita, Pradip Pareekh, DN Singh, Bipul Sarma, Azlina Khanam, Sewali Kalita etc.

Army improves connectivity under Operation Sadbhawana

one lakh crore and for all the construction purposes, the local youths will be benefitted and contract will be allotted to locals with mobilizing advanced payment, mechanical advance and at least 1.5 lakh people will get employment in this Rs 1200 crore cement concrete Highway project” said Nitin Gadkari. The Union Minister further said that the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has a very positive thinking right from day one at his office. With the completions of these 14 mega projects the region as well as the state will grow in

the tourism and industrial sector along with solving with the unemployment problem as Assam has got its rich stock of mineral resources like oil, gas, coal. He also stated that the Ministry has declared the new National Highway and preparation of DPR for roads and bridges connecting Sivsagar, North Lakhimpur via Disangmukh, Dhokuakhana connecting Jorhat and North Lakhimpur via Majuli Island will be a sea change after completion of the projects which foundation stone was laid today.

GJCMCC is all set to expose Cultural Heritage of North Eastern States

Aalo Feb 27: The Golden Jubilee Central Mopin Celebration Committee has confirmed the participation of cultural troupes from seven sisters of north eastern states including Sikkim, Rajasthan and Gujrat in the ensuing golden year of Mopin Celebration at Aalo in 2016. This is a maiden effort to showcase the cultural heritage of neighboring states and India to offer a sense of unity in diversity. The cultural delegates will be accommodated in the colossal and well furnished Saint Xavier School owned by Shri Kito Sora, Ex. MLA free of cost and his gesture is appreciated by all. Cultural programme will start from 29th March to 4th April 2016 in which all sitting MLAs and Ex-MLAs of the district will grace the occasion as Chief Guest and Guest of Honour respectively in every night.

The main event of cultural extravaganzas unfold from 3rd to 6th April in which cultural troops from seven North Eastern States including Sikkim, Rajasthan and Punjab are showcasing various cultural programmee. Invitation letters to all dignitaries will be served from 1st week of March. And â•œMiss Mopin Contestâ• is being organized by Miss Tonu Riba, leading Fashion Designer. The film on Abotani and Mopin will also be unveiled on the auspicious occasion. Meanwhile Donyi Polo Dere has been fully renovated by the DPDTC, Gumin Kiin, Pinku Pinte Lekar, Priest House and Kitchen have been fully renovated by the GJCMCC. A Golden Jubilee Pillar sponsored by Er. Gaken Ete, Secretary PHED has been constructed and names of prominent donors to GJCMCC will be engraved in the pillar.

Unfair Treatment to Fair Price Dealers

Spl Correspondent. Tinsukia, Feb 27: On the aegis of operation sadbhavana, the Dirak Charali army camp of Dao Division of Indian army

constructed a concrete culvert at Dirak Charali connecting several villages with the main road. Residents of villages, namely, Dirak Charali, Kapotoli,

Sarumachai shall be benefitted from this culvert. It should be known because there was no bridge to cross

road and the students and patients were the worst sufferer during rainy season. Hence, this was a long demand of the people living in the area.

ET Correspondent Golaghat, Feb 27: The ruling Congress government in Assam is doing unfair treatment to the Fair Price Dealers for which many poor beneficiaries can be deprived of their food rights, alleged Golaghat District Fair Price Dealers Association.

2016 for distribution of rice to the beneficiaries under the National Food Security Scheme. So now the Fair Price Dealers have decided not to collect and distribute rice from March for indefinite period until their pending amount is paid by the government.

In a press release the officials of the Association expressed their disappointment to the state government and stated that the government did not pay the share profit and transportation costs to them from December 2015 to February

The Golaghat District Fair Price Dealers Association in an executive meeting decided to take such protest and co operate with rest Fair Price Dealers in the state. They have given an ultimatum of February 29 to pay their amount.


PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Kalraj Mishra announces Rs. 6 crore 'Khadi Plaza' for Nagaland Dimapur , Feb.27 : Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Kalraj Mishra inaugurated the 'Regional Conclave of MSME' at Rhododendron Hall, Police Complex Chumukedima on Friday.Addressing the conclave, Mishra announced Rs. 6 crore for setting up 'Khadi Plaza' at Agri Expo Site in Dimapur. He expressed hope that Dimapur Conclave 2016 would help the ministry in evaluating the performance of schemes as implemented and that interaction with State governments and associations of NE region and other stakeholders would help government plan and execute various policies and programmes aimed at the sustained development of MSME sector.The participating states at the conclave are Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur,

Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura.Emphasizing on the significance of MSME, Kalraj said, the primary responsibility of promotion and development of MSMEs is of the State governments while the role of the Ministry of MSME and its organizations is to assist the States in their efforts to encourage entrepreneurship, employment and livelihood opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of MSMEs in the changed economic scenario. The implementation of policies and various programmes/ schemes for providing infrastructure and support services to MSMEs' is undertaken through its attached office, namely MSME Development Institutes underlined Kalraj. "During 2015-16 (till 31st January, 2016) 29174 projects have been approved, which

Shutdown disrupts normal life in Manipur

A 48-hour shutdown disrupts normal life in Manipur Imphal, Feb 27:A 48-hour shutdown called on Saturday by an organisation demanding that a new district be carved out of Imphal East affected normal life in the area.No vehicle has been plying along National Highway 37 (linking this city to Assam) and some other roads in the Imphal East area due to the shutdown called by Jiribam Districthood Demand Committee. The shops and commercial centres remain closed. There was thin attendance in government offices and other establishments. The Committee is demanding that Jiribam, currently a sub-division of Imphal East district, be given the status of a fullyfledged district.It has vowed to launch various forms of agitations until the new district is created. Imphal East is one of the nine districts of Manipur which has a territory of 22,327 sq km. Though the state govern-

ment has said it agreed to the demand in principle, it has not yet taken any steps in that direction. There have also been complaints that some tribal areas have been included in the projected territory of the proposed district, which the Committee denies. Several Naga organisations have been saying that the proposed district should not encompass any Naga village which is an impossible task since the Naga and the Kuki villages are located in close proximity in the hill areas of the state. Meanwhile, students' bodies and other groups have condemned an alleged act of arson on Thursday targeting the Jiribam college. Local residents managed to douse the raging fire before much damage. There has also been a growing demand for the upgrade of Jiribam College, the only one in the sub-division, to a government college. (Agencies)

CoPoTR locks Chandel ADC office Chandel, Feb 27: The Committee on Protection of Tribal Rights (CoPoTR) today sealed the office of the Chandel Autonomous District Council after finding all the office staffs absent.According to a press release from the CoPoTR, the Committee had convened a meeting at the ADC Office and put an agenda on the progress and Development of ADC, Chandel so far. However, it stated that it was "compelled" to seal the Office and added that the closure of the office would continue indefinitely until an "amicable solution is brought through".In this regard, the committee appealed to the "higher authority" to take appropriate action against the Office staff for not discharging their duty. Hitting out at the State Gov-

ernment for "step motherly treatment" to Chandel District, the Committee claimed that the office of the ADC Chandel has been functioning at Imphal instead of functioning from the District Head Quarter. Terming it an "insult" to the public of Chandel District, the Committee stated, "The Public have been suffering and have been finding difficult to travel to Imphal just for silly reasons like taking signature of the Officer and inquiry about certain schemes they have to keep travelling to Imphal."Maintaining that it will not tolerate "any disrespect" to the people of Chandel, the Committee demanded "immediate functioning of ADC Office in its District Head Quarter i.e., Monsang Pantha, Chandel District". (Agencies)

generated total employment of 2, 11,601. Out of this, 5092 projects have been approved for the 8 States of northeast region (including Sikkim) and these are expected to generate 20639 employments" said Mishra.Nagaland's Chief Minister, T R Zeliang, pointed out that statistics indicated that the MSME sector in the northeast states accounts for only 1.78 percent of the total gross output of the country with less than two percent of the national level fixed investments going into it.There are multiple factors leading to this low level of output and investment in the MSME sector of the region. The lack of basic infrastructure, both physical and financial is the constraining factors which needs to be addressed and the major challenge would be developing and enabling ecosystem for the MSME sector to grow in

banks under financing the projects and correspondingly the delay in release of the margin money to the banks are limiting the successful implementation of the scheme.

Kalraj Mishra the region. Parliamentary Secretary for Industries and Commerce Amenba Yaden underlined that the state has under submission a project proposal for construction of Khadi Plaza at a project cost of R.6.18 crore where the office of Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has agreed to fund earlier.However the legislator said that in view of the scheme revision the project could not

be funded till date. Stressing on the benefits of MSME Ministry Yaden said that Nagaland was still unfortunate not able to take advantage of the schemes.He, therefore, underscored that the PMEGP scheme of the Ministry if implemented suitably will help solve the problem of unemployment in the state. However he pointed out that issue of delay in the sanction of loans by

Pointing out that about Rs.8.50 crores of Margin Money claims are pending release to the banks against sanctions released by the banks in the state Amenba stressed on the need to address the issues and enhance the physical and financial target allocation to the state as the current targets are inadequate and cannot meet the requirement of the state.The regional conclave of MSME's was attended by Mizoram Minister for Industries PU HJ.Rohluna and representatives from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Tripura states besides a host of legislators and

officials of Nagaland state.Later in the evening, the Business Association of Nagas (BAN) also called upon the union minister and submitted a memorandum seeking the government's intervention to promote the new generation business community.BAN has sought for setting up of a Manufacturing Park; Revival of North East Industrial Policy, Up-gradation MSME Office to MSME Directorate in Nagaland, NorthEastCell under MSME, Setting up of Food Test-

Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Kalraj Mishra inaugurated the 'Regional Conclave of MSME' at Rhododendron Hall, Police Complex Chumukedima .Addressing the conclave, Mishra announced Rs. 6 crore for setting up 'Khadi Plaza' at Agri Expo Site in Dimapur.

Operation Hillstorm 3: Sohan's camp overrun on day two of raids Tura, Feb 27: Police commandos have overrun the main GNLA camp where elusive militant chief Sohan D Shira had been housed but failed to nab him during a second day of raids on the GNLA stronghold in the Durama Hills, 15 km from Williamnagar.The second day of raids led to recovery of another 16 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) bringing the total to 63 IEDs and 11 petrol bombs from the vicinity of three militant camps. The latest seizure was from the camp of the militant chief of GNLA located not far from the

Dorengkigre-PathalgreAdogre area. On Thursday SWAT commandos raided two GNLA camps near Dorengkigre, belonging to 'deputy chief' Toding Marak alias Rupanto and self-styled 'sergeant' Sacheng. They initially recovered 45 IEDs and another two more concealed in another spot bringing the total to 47 explosives and 11 petrol bombs. During Friday's raids the police teams launched an attack on the main camp where Sohan D Shira had his command structure and ran his militant army. The camp was said to be

heavily fortified with reinforced bunkers and sentry posts and was located just about a kilometer from the two other camps which had been busted by security forces, a day earlier. According to police sources, the raiding team had to fire under barrel grenade launchers (UBGL) towards the camp to take out any potential threat from militants who were holed up inside.However, the militants had escaped before the troops set foot in the perimeter of the camp and Sohan is believed to have silently slipped away before security

forces were within firing range of their jungle hideout. By the time the commandos entered the camp the ultras had disappeared with all their weapons and other armaments leaving behind personnel items such as clothes, utensils and food material.According to police, the camp was well established on a hilltop that had been cleared and could house several dozen men. The approach to the

camp was reportedly laid with booby traps and IEDs to shield the inmates from any potential threat of police attack.Police found that the hilltop camp of the GNLA chief was surrounded with dense forests on all sides and was guarded by several smaller camps of the outfit. Two of the camps busted on Thursday were part of the security ring meant to protect and shield Sohan's headquarters, it was reported. (Agencies)

Police recover 16 more IEDs from GNLA camp

India's Manipur State could lose territory to Myanmar Imphal, Feb 27:Manipur is likely to lose a large chunk of its land to neighbouring Myanmar if the socalled security fencing or border fencing resumes without locating the exact old border pillars erected by both countries years ago, according to Indian news services, February 27.

Moreh in Manipur State at India-Myanmar Friendship gate

In a joint survey conducted by the Informa-

tion Centre for Hill Areas, Manipur (ICHAM)

international border areas of Tengnoupal block of Chandel district, it was found that many of the newly erected border pillars were set up deep inside the Indian territory.

from February 22 to 24 with villagers along the

Among the villages in border areas of Tengnoupal block, Nongam Satang village (73 kms away from the State capital along Imphal-Moreh road) is

one of the villages where the old border pillar number 17 was installed by the Indian and Myanmar authorities after a survey conducted from 1967 to 1973.The Myanmar and Indian authorities are said to be cooperating over the issue. The potential changes could see Indian villagers finding themselves on Myanmar territory. (Agencies)

'Make Agartala doctrine part NIA detains ISIS of India's foreign policy' suspect in Bengal New Delhi, Feb 27 : Tiny Tripura's style of handling insurgency and building relations with Bangladesh should be taken into account by India's foreign policy planners while dealing with neighbouring countries, says a senior journalist with considerable experience of reporting on eastern India."The Agartala doctrine is based on the critical role played by Tripura in India's foreign policy," said Subir Bhaumik, editor of "The Agartala Doctrine: A proactive northeast in Indian foreign policy", at the New Delhi launch of the book organised on Thursday by the Society for

Policy Studies (SPS). Bringing together a rich mix of perspectives from academics and practitioners from South Asia, the book, published by Oxford University Press (OUP), provides a window for all those interested in understanding India's foreign policy visa-vis its neighbours.The book calls for a robust national doctrine to guide India's border states, especially those in the northeast, in tackling pressing issues and also helping them boost their economy by accessing opportunities beyond borders. It constructs such a framework by exemplifying Tripura's not-so-well-

known influence on India's foreign policy towards East Pakistan and then Bangladesh for more than half a century through the so-called Agartala doctrine. According to Bhaumik, a veteran journalist and senior fellow with the Kolkatabased Centre for Studies in International Relations and Development (CSIRD), it was Tripura's first chief minister Sachindra Lal Singh who told then prime minister Indira Gandhi to "kick out" Pakistan from East Pakistan."Without the role played by Tripura's chief ministers, Bangladesh would not have been a reality," he said. (Agencies)

National Investigation Agency (NIA) detained a suspected ISIS activist in Burdwan district

Kolkata ,Feb 27:National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday detained a suspected ISIS activist in Burdwan district in West Bengal, an NIA source said. The detained youth is a first year polytechnic student of a private engineering college at

ing Laboratory in Nagaland. It reminded the union minister that his kind and prompt redressal of their request will be a mile stone in ushering in a "New Economic Era of Nagaland."Meanwhile, a national-level development programme-cumindustrial exhibition was inaugurated on February 25 by Yaden at the super market in Dimapur. The exhibition was organized by a branch of the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises in association with the Alaphra Group. (ANI)

Gopalpur under Kanksa PS in the district.He was later brought to Kolkata by the NIA officials, who interrogated him for hours to confirm his alleged connections with the dreaded terrorist outfit, the source without divulging details. (Agencies)

One person killed in crude bomb explosion Kolkata, Feb 27:One person was killed and another injured when crude bombs went off at Shibpur village in Birbhum district on Saturday.A part of the thatched shed where the bombs were being made was also damaged. Birbhum Superintendent of Police Mukesh Kumar said, "A body was recovered, another man was found injured. Probably some very low intensity blast occurred. "Some materials used to make crude bombs were found scattered. But how the man was killed is yet to be investigated. Their identity is to be confirmed," he said. The place where the incident took place falls under Lokpur Police Station limits. (Agencies)

Govt assures Rs 80 crore to bring MCCL 'out of coma' Shillong, Feb 27: Meghalaya government will shell out a whopping amount of Rs 80 crore as financial assistance to the Mawmluh Cherra Cement Limited (MCCL) which is reeling under acute financial crunch.Speaking to media persons here on Friday after meeting MCCL employees, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma admitted that MCCL was bleeding. He said the Industries department has worked out a proposal and accordingly he has directed the Finance department to provide the assistance of Rs 80 crore to MCCL to bail out the government owned company from the financial crunch. Sangma, however, made it clear that the support of Rs 80 crore was being provided with a rider that the proposal of Voluntary Retirement Scheme for the employees would be executed.He said that the fund provided by the government would be utilized in payment of pending salaries, unpaid power dues and various cess besides settling the one time principal and interest of the bank loan which MCCL had taken earlier.The chief minister also seemed unhappy over the fact that MCCL did not take any steps to clear the loan on time which would have saved at least Rs 6 crore of interest. According to the chief minister, the MCCL modernization project started in 2005 and it should have been completed in two years' time but unfortunately it did not happen.He mentioned that during his meeting with MCCL staff, he asked them to show the highest level of commitment to turn things around for the ailing company.Earlier, MCCL employees, while talking to reporters, said that over 400 employees of the plant have not received their salaries since September 2014. They also added that an amount of Rs 1.30 crore is spent each month on the salaries. (Agencies)


NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

PAGE 6

Rajendra Singh India's history is based on mutual respect, takes over as new celebration of differences: President Mukherjee Coast Guard chief

Kochi, Feb. 27: President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said India's history is one of assimilation, mutual respect and celebration of differences, respecting each other's beliefs and values and added that the Muziris Heritage Project reminds of that. "Being the largest conservation project in the country and first green project of Kerala Government, Muziris Heritage project has a lot to boast about, be it in the area of heritage, conservation or tourism. The spice trade and ancient ports in the state have

created many islands of heritage and history within Kerala, but the tourist experiences have always been discrete. This is where Muziris heritage project offers the best of heritage tourism to global travellers," President Mukherjee said at the inauguration of the Muziris Heritage Project at Kodungaloor in Kerala. "There is no doubt this project will open up to Indian and foreign tourists a new destination, bringing economic benefits to the people of the region as well as knowledge and enjoyment for

NSUI to protest in front of Irani's residence

NSUI to protest in front of Irani's residence New Delhi, Feb. 27: The National Students Union of India (NSUI) will today stage a protest outside Union Human Resource Development ( HRD) Minister Smriti Irani's residence for telling lies in Parliament over the death of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula. Yesterday, Vemula's family and friends had attacked Irani, calling her speech in Parliament a set of "absolute lies". "Smriti Irani, this is not a serial, this is real life. Bring out the facts, don't fabricate them," said Rohith's mother Radhika Vemula in Delhi, flanked by her other son and Rohith's friends. On Wednesday, Smriti

Irani had said in her reply to a debate in the Lok Sabha: "This is how politics was played on this child and his dead body. Nobody allowed a doctor near him. The police has reported... Not one attempt was made to revive this child. Not one attempt was made to take him to a doctor. Instead his body was used as a political tool. Hidden. No police was allowed till 6.30 the next morning. Not me, but the Telangana police is saying this." Rohith's brother Raja said: "These were absolute lies. The intent was to divert focus from an issue that has started troubling the BJP." (ANI)

Indian Army to organise mega veteran rally at Pathankot Jammu, Feb. 27: In an effort to reach out to its veterans and Veer Naris and resolve the problems faced by them, a mega veterans rally is being organised by the Rising Star Corps at Pathankot on March 5. The rally is expected to be attended by a large number of veterans and Veer Naris covering from Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Pathankot and Kangra districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. While being aware of the fact that the veterans have an important role to play in nation building and nurturing the future generation, the Army reaffirms its resolve to look after its veterans, Veer Naris and their next of kin. The rally is being organised by the Indian Army in close coordination with the state gov-

ernment and the Rajya Sainik Board. The focus of the rally is to resolve and mitigate the issues with respect to pension anomalies, land and legal cases being faced by the veterans and Veer Naris. A number of stalls from various welfare functionaries and organisations of the army and civil establishments are being set up at the venue of the rally. A medical camp, employment fair and Sainik Bhoj will also be organised during the rally. Approximately, 3500 veterans and Veer Naris are likely to attend the rally. To ensure maximum participation in the rally buses for conveyance to and from the rally site for the veterans and Veer Naris are also being organised by the army. (ANI)

PresidentPranab Mukherjee the visitors," he added. The President said he understands the next phase of the project is the 'Spice Route Initiative' which will explore the

international connections and linkages that the Malabar Coast had with many parts of the world. "This phase is to be implemented with the

support of UNESCO and United Nations World Tourism Organization. The Spice Route Initiative is both important and timely with India seeking to once again emerge as a major centre for international trade and transport as well as a maritime power," he said. The President said as a country intersected by major maritime and caravan routes, India has always been one of the most cosmopolitan societies in the world, comfortable in dealing with diversity and welcoming of new ideas and cultures. He expressed hope

that the Muziris Heritage Project will spread the message of Indian cosmopolitanism far and wide, adding thereby to India's soft power across the world. The President called upon the project authorities and people of the region to uncover and highlight the long-standing civilizational links and cultural affinities that India shares with the rest of the world. He expressed the hope that the Muziris Heritage Project will emerge as an invaluable link between the new world and the rising India. (ANI)

Swaminathan bats for agriculture Bhubaneswar, Feb 27: Agriculture is job-led growth, we have to give importance to agriculture and the youth should take more interest on agriculture sector as well as marine resources, said Professor MS Swaminathan. Addressing the 7th Indian Youth Science Congress organised by KIIT University in association with MS Swaminathan Research Foundation,

Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development and SRM University here on Friday, the eminent scientist said India is the first country to provide legal right to food security. Poverty may have been reduced by fifty percent, but hunger still continues. We have to achieve hungerfree India and provide food security to all, he said. He also noted

that marine resources have enormous potential and one should work for utilizing marine resources as sea water constitutes 97 per cent of our total water resource. Swaminathan said, every child is a scientist.Every child is eager to know everything. There is scientific temper and scientific curiosity among children. Scientific research is not an

individual wisdom. It is inter-disciplinary work and collective wisdom. Sustainability has three wings such as economic sustainability, Social sustainability and environmental sustainability. We should work for this sustainability. The theme of the three day conference is 'Young Scientists and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals'. (Agencies)

Rajendra Singh today assumed charge as the Director General of Indian Coast Guard

New Delhi, Feb. 27: Rajendra Singh today assumed charge as the Director General of Indian Coast Guard, succeeding Vice-Admiral H C S Bisht who has been appointed as the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief of the Indian Navy's Eastern Command. He is the first Coast Guard additional director general and the first nonIndian Navy officer to be appointed as director

general with three-star rank. Till now, the Coast Guard Director General's post was held by commissioned Indian Navy officers with two-star rank. Singh's appointment comes at a time when plans are underway to make the Coast Guard a 200-ship and 100-aircraft force by 2018 to plug operational gaps in coastal security. The Coast Guard currently has 135 ships. (ANI)

BJP's Anurag Thakur leads anti-Congress protest

Irani's statements on Vemula suicide confusing: Shiv Sena Mumbai, Feb. 27: Expressing its disappointment over the handling of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula's suicide, theShiv Sena on Saturday said Union Human Resource and Development (HRD) Minister Smriti Irani's statements were 'confusing'. "The kind of statements that the HRD Minister is giving is confusing. First, you say something, later you withdraw, this should not have happened. The way this issue has been handled, it had several shortcomings and that is why its repercussions are felt in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha," Shive Sena leader Manisha Kayande told . "The way this issue of Rohith Vemula's suicide has been handled, be it the HRD ministry, be it

Irani's statements on Vemula suicide confusing the Hyderabad University there has been lot of Hullaballoo," she added. She further said that the wrong statements without any observation sends wrong signal. When asked was the HRD Minister being deliberately dragged in the controversy, Kayande said Irani has hurried to make statements which could have been avoided.

"The reference of Durga in Parliament was out of context and it could have been avoided," she added. Irani had earlier in Parliament pointed out that according to a report submitted to the Telangana High Court, the police had reached Rohith's hospital at 7:20 pm when they found the body. "The police said that when they reached the

hostel, they found the room open and the dead body was on the table. A hand written suicide note was found. The suicide note that was left behind does not blame anyone," she said. "This is not my submission. This is what the police said. No one allowed a doctor near this child, to revive this child. Instead, his body was used as a political tool. No police was allowed till 6.30 a.m. the following morning. Who tried to help this child?" she asked. However, Chief Medical Officer M. Rajshree, who confirmed Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula's death, has rebuffed HRD Minister Smriti Irani's claims in Parliament, saying she had reached the scene in three-five minutes. (ANI)

Kanhaiya's case should be transferred to non-BJP ruled states: Congress

Congress leader Pramod Tiwari Lucknow, Feb. 27: The Congress on Saturday demanded that the case of Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union president Kanhaiya Kumar, who is booked on charges of sedition, should be transferred to a non-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ruled state of either Uttar Pradesh or Bihar, so that the truth in the case is revealed.

"The role of the Delhi Police in the case of Kanhaiya Kumar is shameful and unfortunate. I demand that Kanhaiya's case be transferred to Uttar Pradesh or Bihar, in a non- BJP ruled state. He will get bail, but the truth should also get revealed," Congress leader Pramod Tiwari told . "False allegations have

been levelled against him that he raised anti-national slogans. Today, everything has been revealed that both the tape and the allegations were false," he added. The investigation into alleged 'anti-national' slogans raised on Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) campus earlier this month has been transferred to the Delhi Police Special Cell. The move to transfer the case to the unit that probes terror cases came on the day three JNU students arrested so far were questioned together. The order includes the names of all the three students - JNU students' union president Kanhaiya Kumar, Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya with their age and addresses.

While Kanhaiya was arrested on February 12 from the JNU campus, Khalid and Bhattacharya were arrested after they surrendered before the police last week. Kanhaiya was sent back to the Tihar jail by a Delhi court on completion of a day's police remand. Kumar was sent back to judicial custody, which will end on March 2, after the police told the court they did not need his further custody. Meanwhile, with the threeday police custody of Jawaharlal Nehru University students Umar Khalid, Anirban Bhattacharya ending today, the Delhi police will produce both of them in a makeshift court room following an order by the Delhi High Court to "maintain confidentiality" during their remand proceedings. (ANI)

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) youth wing chief and MP Anurag Thakur

New Delhi, Feb 27: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) youth wing chief and MP Anurag Thakur on Saturday led a protest against the Congress party for its "anti-national views and position" and for "siding with people like Ishrat Jahan and Afzal Guru". After his speech in Parliament accusing the Congress of "standing with those who call Afzal Guru a martyr", over the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) controversy, Thakur led a crowd of protesters of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), the youth wing of the BJP, outside the Congress office. The protesters shouted slogans against the Congress. Later, some protesters were detained by the police. Speaking to reporters, Thakur said: "We want to know which side the Congress is on. They are siding with people like

Ishrat Jahan, Afzal Guru and others." On Friday, Thakur slammed former Home Minister P Chidambaram for his remarks on Guru's hanging in the 2001 Parliament attack case and said that if the Congress leader had not been convinced of Guru's extent of involvement in the attack then why he did not try to stop his hanging. Chidambaram has been quoted as saying in an interview that he felt the Afzal Guru case was "perhaps not correctly decided". Afzal Guru was hanged on February 9, 2013. "Does Congress not believe that Afzal Guru was a terrorist? They will have to come up with an answer since (Congress vice-president) Rahul Gandhi is always seen with people who call terrorists like Guru a 'martyr'," he said i n Parliament.(Agencies)

PM Modi to address Kisan rally in Belgaum on Saturday Belgaum, Feb. 27 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday will address the Kisan rally in Belgaum to talk about the new crop insurance scheme launched by his government. He will be arriving in Belgaum, as part of his tour to address the needs of farmers and tell them about Prime Minister Fasal Bima Yojana. Elaborate security arrangements are made to coincide with this visit

of Prime Minister to the city. The venue near Shigoan in Angadi Technical Institute College grounds will be secured by around 6000 police personnel and watch will be kept with the help of CCTV cameras. Meanwhile, various organizations working in the field of agriculture and drinking water have organized protests in Belgaum today seeking various relief from the Centre. (ANI)


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NEIGHBOURS

Two pilots killed in second plane crash in three days Kathmandu, Feb 27: Two pilots were killed when a small passenger plane belonging to Air Kasthmandap crash landed in Chilkhaya in Kalikot district on Friday afternoon. All nine passengers survived. They have sustained minor injuries. The plane was en route from Nepalgunj to Jumla.This is the second air accident in three days. On Wednesday, a Jomsom-bound Tara Air Twin Otter turboprop plane crashed into a mountainside in Solighopte of Dana VDC in Myagdi district, killing all 23 on board. The 9NAJB Air Kasthmandap's chartered flight had taken

off from Nepalgunj at 12:16pm. The deceased crew was identified as Captain Dinesh Neupane, who died on the spot, and Co-pilot Santosh Rana, who died an hour later. Initial findings show that the 10seater single-engine aircraft had developed some technical problem and the pilots had tried to land the plane on a field. "It crashed during an emergency landing," said Sanjiv Gautam, director general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. "The technical glitches are yet to be ascertained." The right wheel of the aircraft had hit a hard object (wood logs) on the

US presses Xi on South China Sea nonmilitarisation

Mastermind, 2 others held in Joggeshwar murder

Washington, Feb 27 : The White House has pressed Chinese President Xi Jinping to expand his non-militarization pledge to cover the entire South China Sea, despite Beijing's recent military activity in the a r e a . D a n i e l Kritenbrink, senior director for Asian affairs at the National Security Council, spoke amid rising tensions between the two countries over China's deployment of surface- to-air missiles, radar gear, air strips and fighter jets on an islet there. (Agencies)

Pak Govt amends LG Bill amidst opposition uproar Islamabad, Feb.27 :Pakistan's National Assembly on Friday adopted the Islamabad Capital Territory(ICT) Local Government Amendment Act, 2016, which provides for an increase in the number of deputy mayor seats in the Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation from one to three. Amid opposition's uproar, the bill primarily aimed to give legal cover to the recent local government elections in Islamabad was approved by the lower house of Parliament.The original ICT Local Government Act 2015 only allows for one deputy mayor. The three deputy mayors, all from the PML-N, have already been elected and the passage of this bill will give them legal cover. Further,the legislation will be tabled before the oppositiondominated upper house of the Parliament for a vote before final endorsement from the President of Pakistan. Opposition lawmakers from the Pakistan spoke against the bill, alleging that the government is bulldozing unanimously adopted legislation through unilaterally-introduced amendments. (ANI)

D h a k a , F e b 27:Mohammad Jamil Khan in Dhaka, Sazzadur Rahman Sazzad in Panchagarh Police claim to have arrested three members of banned militant outfit Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh including the mastermind of the killing of a Hindu priest in Panchagarh on February 21.The trio - all suspected members of JMB that eyes establishing Shariah law in the country - were arrested in separate drives conducted in Panchagarh and Nilphamari early yesterday, Humayun Kabir, DIG of Rangpur range police, told reporters at Debiganj police station. He did not disclose their identities. Media, however, managed to identify the three arrestees. They are Abdul

blew up," he added. "Otherwise, it would have been a successful emergency landing."

The wreckage of an Air Kasthamandap plane that crashed in Chilkhaya of Kalikot district during an emergency landing (top) and a policeman rushes an injured passenger to Nepalgunj Medical College in Banke district

ground when it landed at a high speed, Gautam said based on reports from the field. "Due to

Hares, 32, of Kalirdanga village; and Ramzan Ali, 25, of Pronabad village in Debiganj; and Rabiul of Nilphamari, who allegedly collected arms and shared plans with Hares.Police sources claimed that rickshawpuller Hares had masterminded the attack.The wife of Hares, Momiron Khatun, claimed that her husband had been working as a rickshaw-puller in the area for the last seven years. Earlier they used to live in Tangail. She claimed that Hares had never been involved with any militant group. Neighbours Abdus Shahid and Mostafizur Rahman also claimed that they had not heard of Hares' involvement in any criminal activities. Joggeshwar Roy, 50, the principal of Sonto Gaurio

the powerful impact, the aircraft ricocheted, its nose ploughed into the field and the cockpit

Temple in Debiganj, was slaughtered on the verandah of his house by two assailants on February 21 while neighbour Gopal Chandra Roy, 35, received bullet injuries as he tried to save the priest. Three killers took part in the operation while five others kept the crime scene under surveillance, police claimed.Earlier, the law enforcers arrested three suspected JMB men in the case. The latest drive was conducted based on information given by Khalil, Babul and Jahangir, who are now on a 15-day police remand.DIG Humayun Kabir yesterday also said that they had recovered all the weapons used in the killing. A machete, two pistols, three magazines, five rounds of bullets,

According to Gautam, all single-engine aircraft have been grounded for detailed inspection to prevent further accident. The authorities concerned were informed about the crash at 1:30pm, nearly an hour after the aircraft lost its contact with air traffic controller in Nepalgunj. "Had the rescue operation been swift, Co-pilot Rana could have been saved," said Chandra BK, a local at the crash site. "Rana who had lost consciousness due to the

three knives and three crude bombs were recovered from a house in Debiganj.A bicycle used in the murder was also recovered. But the motorcycle, on which the killers had left the scene, is yet to be traced."We have found similarities between the recovered arms and those found after the killing of a Japanese citizen in Rangpur and the attack on a Christian priest in Dinajpur," the official added.The trio confessed that at least eight people were involved in the murder of Joggeshwar. "We have arrested six of them. We are hopeful that the two others will be arrested soon," Humayun said. The tweet claiming responsibility for the murder by Dae'sh men was uploaded from a madrasa

impact died after an hour. He repeatedly called for saving his life." Frantic passengers and locals, with no proper equipment to cut the straps, were left with no option than to leave Neupane in the cockpit. A police squad led by ASI Dan Bahadur Bom had reached the area after an hour and a Shree Airlines helicopter reached after two hours, said DSP Kisan Singh Budal. The bodies of crew and injured passengers were airlifted to Nepalgunj Medical College. It was the third flight of the crew after flying to Simikot twice in the morning. (Agencies)

in Chittagong's Patia area, said Tanvir Hassan Zoha, the focal person of the ICT Ministry's Cyber Security Programme.USbased jihadi activities monitoring website SITE Intelligence Group recognised the tweet as a claim made by Dae'sh."We are trying to trace the exact location of the computer and hope to arrest the culprit," said Zoha, who is giving technological support to the Police Bureau of Investigation.The account had remained inactive since the day of the murder, he added.The law enforcers earlier found that al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent had claimed responsibility for the murder of secularist Oyasiqur Rahman Babu from a madrasa at Hathazari in Chittagong. (Agencies)

Myanmar anti-drug group seeks safety after ambush in poppy fields Yangon, Feb 27: Christian anti-drug vigilantes in Myanmar said Saturday they had halted a mission to raze poppy fields while at least 30 of their members were recovering from injuries sustained during violent clashes with unknown attackers this week.Pat Jasan, a hard-line Christian group known for flogging drug users, said it was assailed by a mob wielding explosives and stones Thursday after it set out to destroy poppy plants against the wishes of local farmers in the hilly and far-flung Kachin state.Myanmar is the world's second largest opium producer after Afghanistan, despite the government's repeated vows to eliminate the drug trade. Production has boomed amid weak law enforce-

ment in the northern wartorn frontier, where ethnic minority rebel groups seeking greater autonomy from the state have been battling the Myanmar army for decades.It's believed that both ethnic militias and the Myanmar military have tapped the lucrative multi-billion dollar trade to finance their long-running wars.Impoverished farmers in the remote regions meanwhile say they have few other viable alternatives to sustain a livelihood. The injured Pat Jasan members are now receiving medical attention at a hospital in the provincial capital Myitkyina, with tensions running high as hundreds of others camp out in a nearby township to wait for orders from above, the

32 year old Bawm Lang , a member of Pat Jasan injured in an ambush by poppy farmers

group's spokesman Lum Hkawng told AFP Saturday.He said the organisation's leadership is in talks with local authorities, who stand accused of failing to protect the activists from the ambush."I cannot say whether we will go on our way or not," Lum Hkawng .The sudden attack Thursday morning

came after several days of a tense stand-off between the Pat Jasan marchers and police, who had blocked the group from entering surrounding poppy fields citing concerns of armed farmers ready to hit back.Local police have not responded to repeated requests to comment.

The injured activists, seen by an AFP photographer laying side-byside and hooked up to IVs in Myitkyina's barebones hospital, are all in a stable condition, according to the group's spokesman."And we arranged a safe place for the rest of the members who were attacked," he added.Determined to root out a scourge of heroin addictions that have eviscerated local communities, Pat Jasan formed its loose network two years ago with the backing of the powerful Kachin Baptist Church.Its members, who don camouflage vests and combat helmets on their missions, have used forceful methods, including beating drug users, in their efforts to break addictions. (Agencies)

9 unidentified bodies of Tara Air crash victims brought to Kathmandu Kathmandu, Feb 27: Authorities have brought the bodies of the remaining nine victims of the Wednesday's airplane crash to Kathmandu on Friday for further proceedings after the kin of some of the passengers of the ill-fated flight were unable to identify the bodies.The identities of Dil Bahadur Gauchan, Devijung Gurung, Fanjok Gurung, Laxmi Hirachan, Lepsang

Lama, Kanchha Pariyar, Raj Kumar Tamang, and two foreigners, Mak Siu Ying of China and Ralfashed Ahamed of Kuwait have not been established. The bodies recovered from Tara Air Twin Otter plane crash site in Solighopte of Dana VDC had been kept at the regional hospital in Pokhara. According to Tara Air media relations

manager Bhim Raj Rai, of the 23 bodies, three were handed over to the kin of the deceased in Jomsom, four, including crew members, were airlifted to Kathmandu on Thursday and seven were handed over to the families from Pokhara. "Doctors have already carried out autopsies on all the dead bodies, and the family members of the remaining victims

will be asked to identify the bodies on Saturday on the basis of clothes, ornaments, dental patterns or any sign in the body," he said. "If the family members failed to identify the bodies, DNA test would be carried out to confirm the identities," he said.The authorities on Friday handed over the body of Raj Kumar Tamang of Itahari to his family members.Tara Air officials also said that

they were preparing to hand over the dead bodies of the two foreigners to their respective families in coordination with their respective embassies in Nepal and India. The kin of Chinese citizen is likely to arrive on Sunday and the Islamic center based in Kathmandu was working to establish a contact with the family of the Kuwati citizen. (Agencies)

Maldivian Coast Guard and Chinese naval ships arrive in Colombo

Sri Lanka Navy, in accordance with naval traditions, welcomed a Maldivian Coast Guard ship Colombo,Feb 27: Sri Lanka Navy, in accordance with naval traditions, welcomed a Maldivian Coast Guard ship and Chinese naval ship that arrived at the Port of Colombo Friday.The Coast Guard Ship 'Huravee' of the Maldives National Defense Forces (MNDF) arrived at the Port of Colombo on 26th February 2016 on a goodwill visit, the Navy said. The Commanding Officer of Huravee, Captain Hassan Shinan paid a courtesy call on the

Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Jayantha De Silva at the Western Naval Command Headquarters in Colombo. They held cordial discussions and exchanged mementos to mark the occasion. The ship is scheduled to leave Sri Lanka on 28th February 2016. Meanwhile, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Naval Ship '865' called at Port of Colombo on Friday (26) on a goodwill visit.The ship is scheduled to leave Sri Lanka on 28th February 2016. M(Agencies)

Sri Lanka oppn attacks govt over failure to curb 'poaching' Colombo, Feb 27:Sri Lankan government has come in for a strong criticism by the opposition, which accused it of failure to stop continuous incidents of alleged poaching by Indian fishermen in its waters. "This shows the levels the government has fallen into. They can't stop the Indians from coming," DineshGunawardena, the leader of the opposition group backing former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, told parliament yesterday. "Our northern fishermen are in distress. Recently there was this religious event in the Kachchathivu, there were a large number of Indian devotees there.

We have come to agreement to allow certain days of fishing for the Indians in the northern seas. So why can't the Indian government stop p o a c h i n g ? " Gunawardena asked. Sri Lankan fishermen accuse their Indian counterparts of poaching in their waters in the northern seas. Lankan authorities say the Indian fishermen also indulge in bottom trawling, and have expressed concern over the alleged practice which they say destroys marine resources. Sri Lanka is contemplating new laws to confiscate equipment of Indians accused of poaching despite their release through the legal process. (Agencies)

Pakistan welcomes U.S., Russia deal on Syria cessation of hostilities Islamabad, Feb, 27 : Pakistan welcomed the agreement reached between Russia and the United States for a nationwide cessation of hostilities to begin inSyria on February 27.The U.S. and Russia agreed this week on a "cessation of hostilities" between the Syrian government and groups fighting it in a deal that keep out the Islamic State group and the alNusra Front."We also appreciate the efforts of the International Syria Support Group (ISSG) and sincerely wish for the success of the agreement," the Pakistan Foreign Ministry

spokesman said in response to a media question regarding the Syrian crisis.He said Pakistan has always maintained a principled position on Syria based on neutrality, impartiality and respect of territorial integrity and sovereignty of Syria. "We, however, remain concerned on the humanitarian crisis and the urgent need to address the refugee crisis," the spokesman said.On Monday the U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reached on the terms of a nationwide cessation of hostilities in Syria. (Agencies)

Pak police detains two drivers of President Mamnoon's convoy in Lahore Lahore, Feb.27: Police here have detained two drivers from Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain's convoy and moved them to an unknown location for interrogation.The president, who is on a one-day visit to the Punjab provincial capital, was on his way back after attending a ceremony at the Pearl Continental Hotelwhen his convoy was stopped at Church Chowk in the city's Cantonment area,

CCPO Lahore Ameen Wains told the Dawn. \ He said two cars part of the motorcade were moving slower than they were supposed to, adding that both drivers had been picked up for questioning.Deputy Inspector General Haider Ashraf tolthat security in the provincial capital was on high alert and special check posts were established due to the president's visit.(ANI)


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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Unlocking our universe, step by step Great expectations Union Budget to be presented The Union Budget to be presented by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament on Monday is likely to provide some relief to the middle class by raising income tax slabs as per sources. The lowest income tax slab is likely to (Photo: pics.mag) be raised from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh, which means income up to Rs 3 lakh is likely to be exempt from Income Tax. There are also indications that even the higher IT slabs may be re-jigged. The Centre is also likely to enhance bank recapitalisation from Rs 25,000 cr to Rs 30,000cr. This comes in the background of news that twentynine state-owned banks have written off a total of Rs 1.14 lakh crore of bad debts between financial years 2013 and 2015. Surprisingly, despite the big salary bill caused by the 7th Pay Commission recommendations, the Centre is optimistic of a fiscal deficit target of 3.5%. This move comes at a time when opinion - from RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan to former Finance Minister P Chidambaram to rating agencies- were strongly in favour of sticking to fiscal deficit targets. The government expects that spectrum auctions in the next financial year will provide it the necessary legroom for such a step. The outgo from the Pay Commission recommendations is also likely to be pruned by Rs 15-25 thousand crore from the present 74,000 crore. The government is also planning to seek feedback from experts on ensuring fiscal discipline. Budgetmaking remains an enigma. Expectations always outstrip reality. In a sense, it is perceived to be a panacea for our economic ailments. Finance Ministers are hard put to prejudge and predict its outcome. Will it work? This is in spite of the 25 years of economic liberalisation, covering trade, expenditure, tax policies, infrastructure to mention a few. Whereas in the recently declared Union Railway Budget 2016-17 focused on capacity creation in the rail sector, with an increased outlay of about Rs. 1.21 lakh crore, and on completion of the ongoing projects rather than announcing new ones. Extending 2015's measure, passenger fares remain the same.

Nepal Plane Crash Another tragedy for Nepal All are feared dead after a Tara Air plane carrying 23 people -- two of them babies -- crashed in a cold winter morning in mountainous northern Nepal midway through what should have been a 19-minute flight. Most of the 19 bodies retrieved as of early that day itself were charred beyond recognition. Search efforts at the crash site some 16,000 feet (4,900 meters) above sea level have been hampered by dense fog. Initially 21 people were on board, with three crew members among them but later it was updated to 23 -- including two foreigners, one Chinese and one Kuwaiti and moreover two infants were also on the plane, even if their names were not on the initial report. The debris of the badly burnt aircraft was recovered trapped between the mountain and a tree four hours after the accident, and the search team led by a contingent of the Nepal army joined by police. The aircraft was supposed to have flown from Pokhara -- one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal -- to Jomsom, the gateway for one of the most popular Himalayan trekking routes. Pokhara is a resort town some 200km (125 miles) west of the capital Kathmandu. The plane was supposed to be in the air for only 19 minutes after it took off around 7:50 a.m. Most of those on board were Nepalis. The bodies are being returned to their families in Pokhara, Kathmandu and Jomsom. Nepal's aviation industry has a poor safety record but it is not yet clear what caused the crash. A preliminary investigation has suggested that low visibility due to a cloud of dust shrouding the area following dry landslides in Mount Annapurna might have caused the crash. Tara Air describes itself as "the newest and biggest airline service provider in the Nepalese mountains," with seven aircraft in its fleet. The airline said its mission is to help develop rural Nepal. The region where the plane crashed is a notoriously windy, cold and, like much of Nepal, mountainous. Earlier in 2012, an Agni Air plane flying the same route from Pokhara to Jomsom crashed, killing 15 people. It is quite surprising that since 1949, the year the first aircraft landed in Nepal, there have been more than 70 crashes involving planes and helicopters, in which more than 700 people have been killed. Most accidents have been attributed to bad weather, inexperienced pilots and inadequate maintenance. In 2013, the European Union banned all Nepalese airlines from flying to its territory for safety reasons.

From time immemorial, scientists have tried to unravel the mystery of the universe-from India's Aryabhata to Albert Einstein In a tribute to Albert derstand gravity. In an a whopping 9.8 m/s2. Einstein's prediction of ingenious experiment, he If Earth's gravity is actgravitational waves in allowed balls to roll along ing on both the objects, 1916, scientists have fi- an inclined plane and then it should be weaknally detected the myste- measured the distance ening in strength with the rious waves a century covered by it for every increase in distance. By later, thereby deepening unit of its duration. comparing the distance of our understanding of the To his surprise he found the Earth from the Moon, universe. that given twice the time, one can dismiss the From time immemorial, a ball would travel four height of the apple tree scientists have tried to times the distance, irre- and consider it to be at unravel the mystery of spective of the slope of one Earth radius from the the universe. About 1,500 the inclination. centre of the Earth. years He won- The Moon is about 60 ago (499 TV Venkateswaran dered what times the radius of the CE) the if the incli- Earth away from the cengreat Indian scientist, nation was the limiting tre of the Earth. While the Aryabhata, explained case, completely vertical, distance is in the ratio of why people and objects and came to the conclu- 1:60, the acceleration is do not skid even when sion of uniform accelera- of the ratio 0.00272: 9.8 the surface of the Earth tion under free fall. (about 1/3,600 or 1/ was spherical in shape This implied that heavy (60)2). and floated in the space and lighter balls, if That is why we can see without any support. dropped from the same that as the distance inIn his notable work height, should accelerate creases to 60 times the Aryabhatiya, he pointed by the same amount strength of the gravity out that all objects cling within a given time dura- reduces to 1/(60)2. Thus, to the surface of our tion, and hence, reach the Newton postulated that planet like petals of the ground at the same time. the force of gravity folspherical kadamba This contradicted our in- lows an inverse square flower. He also specu- tuitive feeling that law. lated an attractive force heavier objects fall faster For a given amount of of the Earth to explain than lighter ones, the impulse force, a bicycle why things cling to its sur- claim made by none other will accelerate much face and not slide down. than Aristotle himself. more, than say, a scooter. After Aryabhata, The credo of Galileo was Thus, acceleration is proBrahmagupta correctly that "In questions of sci- portional to mass. Putting postulated that attraction ence, the authority of a both together Newton is directed towards the thousand is not worth the arrived at the famous unicentre of the Earth on all humble reasoning of a versal law of gravitation points on its surface. single individual." that the "force of graviBhaskaracharya II, who According to a biography tational attraction belived in the 12th century, by Galileo's pupil tween any two objects is also mentioned something Vincenzo Viviani, in 1589 directly dependent upon like gravity attracting ob- Galileo dropped two balls the masses of both objects jects towards the Earth. of different masses from and inversely proportional In 598 CE, some Indian the famous leaning tower to the square of the disastronomers upheld the of Pisa, from where both tance that separates their orthodox Puranic concept the objects kissed the centres". of the flat, circular Earth ground at the same time, Gravity acquired a new and argued against the thus vindicating his meaning with Newton. In spherical theory. theory. 1686, at the age of 44, he If the Earth were spheri- According to legend, wrote Book 1 of cal in shape as pro- Isaac Newton got his in- Philosophie Naturalis pounded by Aryabhata, spiration on the universal Principia Mathematica in they argued that "stones Gravity acquired a new meaning and trees would fall from the Earth". with Newton. In 1686, at the age In 1030, Persian astronoof 44, he wrote Book 1 of mer Abu al-Rayhan alPhilosophie Naturalis Principia Biruni came to India and wrote Ta'rikh al-Hind, Mathematica in which he emphatiwhich he later translated cally declared, "It is now estabit into Latin as Indica. From Al-Biruni we unlished that this force is gravity, derstand that and therefore, we shall call it Brahmagupta (598 CE) gravity from now on." had aptly pointed out that "all heavy things are attracted towards the cen- law of gravitation when which he emphatically tre of the Earth" and as- an apple fell on his head declared, "It is now esserted that "attraction is while he was daydream- tablished that this force is gravity, and therefore, we directed towards the cen- ing under a tree. tre of the Earth", thus After the incident, New- shall call it gravity from enabling "The Earth on all ton was able to establish now on." its sides to be same; all the cause of the motion Thus, gravity was no people on Earth stand up- of orbit of the Moon longer the exclusive right everywhere, and all around the Earth to be property of Earth, but of heavy things fall down to the same that made the all objects having mass. the Earth by a law of na- apple fall on the Earth. Further, it is not something This notion led him to in- confined to the realm of ture". He added that the nature vent the theory of univer- the Earth, but universal, applicable all across the of this attractive force to sal gravitation. draw objects towards the From Johannes Kepler's universe. Although his surface the Earth is like laws, the acceleration of contribution was monuthe nature of water to the Moon was computed mental, he did not fail to flow, fire to burn and wind to be 0.00272 m/s2 acknowledge the contrimade by (metre per second bution to set in motion. Tycho Italian scientist Galileo square) while the compu- Copernicus, Galilei performed pains- tation of apples falling on Brahe, Kepler and Galilei taking experiments to un- the Earth's surface was and modestly said "If I

have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." 1916: gravity is geometry in space-time In the autumn of 1907 while examining a new batch of patents Einstein decided to take rest. He leaned back in his chair, pushed some papers out of his way and swung his feet upon his desk. At that moment observed a construction worker standing on the rooftop of the next building. A crazy thought crossed his mind: what if the worker fell from the roof, during the free fall would he experience gravity? It dawned on him that a person in free fall will be weightless. Einstein himself later recalled "I sat in my chair in the patent office in Bern. Suddenly I had an inspiration: If a person is in a free fall, he will not feel his own weight. I was stunned. This simple thought experiment made a deep impression on me. It led me to a theory of gravitation." According to Einstein, gravitation is acceleration. Gravitational mass is the same as inertial mass and the scientist asserted that "the effects we ascribe to gravity and the effects we ascribe to acceleration are both produced by one and the same structure". This assumption provided a link between gravity and mass as well as gravity and energy. Einstein concluded that mass and energy must affect the gravitational field. Space influences the motion of objects in the form of inertia. However, Einstein observed that there was no converse influence of matter on the space-time fabric. Further, the gravity appeared to be "matterblind" and affected all objects in the same way

irrespective of their mass. From this fact, Einstein derived that gravity does not depend on the properties of matter (as electricity depends on electric charge). Rather, the phenomenon of gravity must spring from some property in the space-time fabric. Einstein called this "die glßckichste Gedanke" (the happiest thought) in his life. Although the ideas formed in his mind, the work of theorising it took eight more years. Finally, in November 1915, Einstein laid out his General Theory of Relativity to the Prussian Academy of Sciences in Berlin. In his final lecture on November 25, Einstein produced the equations that describe the gravitational-inertial field. Described as the "most beautiful equation", left side of the mathematical statement, R?? - ½ Rg?? = 8 ? G T?? describes how objects warp and curve the geometry of space-time. The right side describes how this warped and curved field dictates the way objects move. As physicist John Wheeler famously said thorough this equation, "Matter tells space-time how to curve, and curved space tells matter how to move." In simple terms, we can imagine just as a heavyweight causes a dent on a mattress, massive objects warp the space-time continuum. Coming closer to a heavy mass, smaller objects naturally skid along the space-time curvature, which gives the appearance of "gravitational pull" by massive objects. In Einstein's theory, the presence of mass or energy does not affect the bodies directly, rather if alters the curvature of the space-time first and then the bodies just naturally

Smelling A Rat

QUOTES Simplicity is the glory of expression. Walt Whitman The art of simplicity is a puzzle of complexity. Douglas Horton Elegance is achieved when all that is superfluous has been discarded and the human being discovers simplicity and concentration: the simpler and more sober the posture, the more beautiful it will be. Paulo Coelho There is no greatness where there is no simplicity, goodness and truth. Leo Tolstoy Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Clare Boothe Luce

In 1589, Galileo dropped two balls of different masses from the famous leaning tower of Pisa, from where both the objects kissed the ground at the same time Credit:Jack Versloot/Flickr

Indian Railways (Photo: wikimedia)

Sir, We, the people of Assam have always witnessed the injustice done to the youths of Assam in particulars and those of the rest of North-east in general in respect of appointment in the central government departments. One definitely smells a rat in the process of holding test for recruitment. The Asomia Yuva Manch, brings a serious allegation against the Railways. The 'Manch' alleged that in January 2013, the Railways published advertisement for recruitment in the ancillary staff of the Railway protection Force (RPF) Viz. Safai workers, cook, gardener, barber altogether 780 posts were there. As stated by the Yuva Manch, a total of 20,203 candidates from the North-East applied for the posts. Four groups were outlined and Maligoan Railways came under Group - 2. The Railways entrusted the job of recruitment to a Calcutta firm - Broad

wave Technology Private Limited. Accordingly the said firm conducted the recruitment tests, the Yuva Manch stated that not a single candidate from the North-East could be recruited for reasons best know to the firm. Now, we demand an explanation from the Indian Railways asking them why do they befool the people of this part of the nation by mere lip-service. We appeal through your esteemed daily to the Primeminister Narendra Modi and the Railway minister Suresh Prabhu to look into the matter, why this discrimination is meted out to the people. Sarbananda Sonowal a Union minister of state, the state BJP-Chief too, owes an explanation. Yours etc. Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

move along the curved space-time. Even when revolving around the Sun, the Earth always moves in a straight line. It is just that the space is bent by the presence of a massive sun, resulting in the curving of the straight line and gives an appearance of the Earth moving in an ellipse. Quantum gravity At present, two major physical theories-general relativity and quantum mechanics are supreme in their own realms. General relativity is apt in providing excellent explanations of objects moving at speed comparable to that of light and in understanding the macro cosmos. Quantum mechanics is successful in micro cosmos, especially in the subatomic world. However, general relativity seems to be incompatible with quantum mechanics and breaks down, as of now. Macro and micro, however, meet in certain extreme situations. In the interior of a black hole, where the huge amount of mass is not negligible as well as in the infant stage of the universe, when the ultra-condensed matter was confined in quantum distances, we need quantum treatment of gravity to understand the physical processes. Furthermore, except gravity, the other three forces, electromagnetism, weak force and strong force have been successfully tweaked to work well under the quantum regime. Although many scientists are exploring the possibilities of combining gravity with quantum principles we are clueless which path to take. What is in store for the future is yet unknown. Nevertheless, it is indeed exciting to know that there is a world waiting outside for us to understand it better.

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, Dibrugarh786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com


JOBS & career

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

IOCL, Bongaigaon Refinery Trade/ Technician Apprentice Recruitment Last Date: 15/03/2016. Applications are invited from candidates meeting following qualification and other parameters for engagement as apprentice at Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bongaigaon Refinery in the trade/disciplines mentioned below. 1. Trade Apprentice/ Attendant Operator (Chemical Plant), Discipline-Chemical No of post: 25 2. Trade Apprentice (Fitter), Discipline-Mechanical No of post: 10 3. Trade Apprentice (Boiler), Discipline-Mechanical No of post: 5 4. Technician Apprentice, Discipline-Chemical No of post: 25 5. Technician Apprentice, Discipline-Mechanical No of post: 15 6. Technician Apprentice, Discipline-Electrical No of post:10 7. Technician Apprentice, Discipline-Instrumentation No of post: 5

CRPF Recruitment 2016 - Apply Online for 229 Asst Sub Inspector Posts Directorate General, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt of India has published notification for the recruitment of 229 Assistant Sub Inspector (Steno) vacancies. Eligible candidates may apply online from 01-02-2016 to 01-03-2016. Other information like educational qualification, selection process, application fee & how to apply are given below‌ CRPF Vacancy Details: Total No. of Posts: 229 Name of the Posts: Assistant Sub Inspector (Steno) 1. General: 78 Posts 2. OBC: 75 Posts 3. SC: 46 Posts 4. ST: 30 Posts Age Limit: Candidates age limit should be between 18 to 25 years as on 01-03-2016. Relaxation of age will be applicable up to 05 years for SC/ ST and 03 years for OBC candidates & other relaxation details refer the notificaton. Educational Qualification: Candidates should possess Intermediate (10+2) or equivalent from a Board or University recognised by Central or State Government. Selection Process: Candidates will be selected based on written examination, PST, skill test, medical examination. Application Fee: Candidates should pay Rs. 100/- by online mode through net banking, creadit/ debit card/ SNI Challan. Application fee will be exempted to SC, ST, ex servicemen & women candidates. How to Apply: Eligible candidates may apply online through the website www.crpfindia.com from 01-02-2016 to 01-03-2016. Instructions to Apply Online: 1. Before applying online candidates should have valid e mail id & contract number. 2. Candidates should scan their photograph & signature. 3. Log on the website www.crpfindia.com. 4. Click on New Registration & read all instructions. 5. Click on Yes Button & Fill all the details. 6. Take a print out of online application for future use. Important Dates: Starting Date for Apply Online: 01-02-2016. Last Date for Apply Online: 01-03-2016.

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UCO Bank Law Officer, Engineer Recruitment UCO Bank. Last Date:15/03/2016. UCO Bank, a leading Public Sector Bank, invites applications from Indian citizens for the following posts: 1. Law Officer: 21 Posts 2. Engineer: 04 Posts [ Civil Engineer: 03, Electrical: 01] Educational Qualification: Candidates should possess Degree in Law with minimum 55% marks for Post 1, Degree in Civil Engineering/ Electrical Engineering for Post 2. Age: Candidates age should be between 28-35 years for Post 1, 21-30 years for Post 2 as on 01-04-2015. Age relaxation is applicable by 5 years for SC/ ST, 3 years for OBC & for others as per rules. Selection Process: The selection will be made through the online test conducted by IBPS and interview conducted by Bank. Application Fee: Candidates should pay Rs. 600/- (Rs. 100/- for SC/ ST/ PwD candidates) by online through the bill desk payment gateway. How to Apply: Eligible candidates may apply online through the website www.ucobank.com from 23-02-2016 to 15-03-2016

Assistant Professor Jobs in SPP College, Namti Swahid Peoli Phukan College, Namti. Last Date: 05/03/2016. Applications are invited from eligible candidates having UGC norms with NET/ SLET/SET (as mandatory requirement) Ph.D. (compliance with UGC regulation 2009) M.Phil degree obtained on or before 10.07.2009 (excluding candidates obtained M.Phil/Ph.D. degree from off Campus Centre) for the following sanctioned posts of Assistant Professors in the UGC scale of pay. Name of post: Assistant Professor - English No of post: 1, UR The age of a candidate should not be more than 38 years as on 01.01.2016 and relaxable upto 5 years for SC/ST candidates. The candidate must have a PRC and must know local languages. Application with bio-data and all relevant documents along with a Demand Draft of Rs. 1500/- (nonrefundable) drawn in favour of the Principal Swahid Peoli Phukan College, Namti, payable at SBI, Chapangani Branch should reach the undersigned within 05-03-2016.

ASSAM NAVNIRMAN SAMITY recruits Delivery Controller in Guwahati Jan 2016 Name of the Organisation: ASSAM NAVNIRMAN SAMITY Post:: Delivery Controller Job Category: Marketing Job Job Location: Guwahati Job Description: Eligibility-1.Minimum 10th pass. 2.Candidate must have own two-wheeler. Salary-Negotiable+TA/DA Please contact at 8822356832/8721867783 Please send your Resumes to:: navnirmanassam@yahoo.com

Indian Institute Of Technology Guwahati Guwahati - 781 039 Phone : 0361-2583000, Fax : 0361-2690762 Applications in prescribed forms are invited from the Indian Nationals for the following posts at this Institute : Deputy Librarian - 1 post (UR) Pay : PB3 ; `15600 - 39100, AGP = `8000/Essential Qualification & Experience : (1) Master's Degree in Library Science/Information Science/ documentation with at least 55% of the marks or equivalent. (2) 5 years' experience in a responsible position in an academic library. (3) Evidence of innovative library service and organisation of published work and professional commitment, computerization of library. NB : The point No. 3 above indicates that - the applicant is expected to have a proven record of implementing new ideas in library service and experience of working in IT enabled library of a educational and research organization. Desired Qualification & Experience : a) M. Phil/ Ph.D. degree in Library science / Information Science/ Documentation/ Archives & Manuscript keeping. b) Experience of working in Computerized Library. Age : Below 50 years Assistant Workshop Superintendent - 1 post (UR) Pay : PB 3 ; ` 15600-39100/-; Grade Pay = ` 5400/Essential Qualification & Experience : Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent. 4 years experience in Machine Shop in a responsible capacity covering production, planning, estimating, production control and control of labourers. Desired Qualification & Experience : Teaching experience in relevant field. Person should have knowledge in handling sophisticated equipments such as CNC machine, FMS set up, EDM, CMM, LASER machine, plasma cutting and welding machine etc. knowledge in various manufacturing related software such as CNC programming, MASTERCAM, Solid edge, Pro-E-package etc.; able to guide practical training of students, conversant with maintenance of equipments and machineries, knowledge in planning and development of laboratories, workshop etc., knowledge of purchase, storage and issue of engineering materials, equipment and accessories. Age : Below 40 years

UCO Bank Law Officer, Engineer Recruitment UCO Bank. Last Date:15/03/2016. UCO Bank, a leading Public Sector Bank, invites applications from Indian citizens for the following posts: 1. Law Officer: 21 Posts 2. Engineer: 04 Posts [ Civil Engineer: 03, Electrical: 01] Educational Qualification: Candidates should possess Degree in Law with minimum 55% marks for Post 1, Degree in Civil Engineering/ Electrical Engineering for Post 2. Age: Candidates age should be between 28-35 years for Post 1, 21-30 years for Post 2 as on 01-04-2015. Age relaxation is applicable by 5 years for SC/ ST, 3 years for OBC & for others as per rules. Selection Process: The selection will be made through the online test conducted by IBPS and interview conducted by Bank. Application Fee: Candidates should pay Rs. 600/- (Rs. 100/- for SC/ ST/ PwD candidates) by online through the bill desk payment gateway. How to Apply: Eligible candidates may apply online through the website www.ucobank.com from 23-02-2016 to 15-03-2016

Career in Travel and Tourism Management Travel and tourism industry in India is registering a 25 per cent annual growth rate which has led to the creation of a large number of jobs in this sector. It includes the state tourism department, travel agencies, airlines, hotels, etc. The infusion of new technology and innovative marketing techniques is further expanding the scope for employment in this sector especially the professionals. Tourism comprises a multitude of activities which together form one of the world's fastest growing international sectors. The journal takes an interdisciplinary approach and includes planning and policy aspects of international, national and regional tourism as well as specific management studies. Qualification One needs a graduate or a post graduate qualification to enter this field. Personal Qualification A candidate should have excellent communication skills besides a good academic background.. Students holding a certificate/ diploma in a foreign language or well acquainted with geography get preference for admission.

available in government, private and multinational companies like Cox and Kings, Jet Airways, Kingfisher Airlines, Taj Group of Hotels, Orbit's Corporate Leisure Travels Pvt. Ltd., Make My Trip.com, etc. A fresher can enter this field as a management or an operations trainee. After completion of training they are absorbed in the executive cadre. a. Tourism: Reservation and staff counter, sales and marketing staff, tour planners, tour guides are the positions available in the state tourism department. b. Airlines: It is one of the major employment generators in travel and tourism sector. Hotel management graduates can also seek employment in this industry. c. Tour Operators: Tour operators conduct and manage tours to various destinations within and outside the country. The position of a tour operator is open to those with a diploma in tourist guide course.

d. Travel Agencies: Travel agents help their clients choose and finalise their travel details from planning the itinerary to booking tickOpportunities Tourism industry has un- ets and hotels. This job limited potential in India. requires excellent comA number of jobs are munication skills and ex-

tensive knowledge of tourist destinations. e. Hotels: The domestic hotel industry is growing at a rapid pace along with the tourism sector. Hotels have become a big source of employment and a course in hotel management is your passport to a job with a five star hotel. Career Options A degree in travel and tourism management will equip you to work in such locations as a travel agency, a hotel, an airport, or any other hospitality-focused locale. Degree levels differ depending on the career, but all of these jobs require a certain subset of knowledge, and the ability to multitask and communicate clearly with customers. Career Information for a Travel and Tourism Management Degree Travel and tourism management degree programs teach business concepts specific to the travel industry. These programs are often found in a school's hospitality or business college. Students may take courses in human resources, facilities management, media relations and financial strategies. Many travel and tourism management programs offer or require internships with companies in

the tourism or hospitality industries prior to graduation. Travel Agent Travel agents assist travelers with all aspects of planning a trip, including flights, accommodations and car rentals. These individuals may be knowledgeable about weather, customs and tourist attractions of popular destinations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), resorts and specialty groups may use travel agents to promote services to clients (www.bls.gov). Travel agents need good networking and customer service skills to build and maintain a clientele base. The proliferation of travel-based websites and a poor economy have hurt the career prospects of travel agents. The BLS indicates that employment for travel agents is expected to decline by 12% from 2012-2022. In May 2014, the BLS reported that the median annual salary of a travel agent was $34,800. Lodging Manager Lodging managers may be referred to by other titles and are responsible for operating hotels, motels and resorts. The individual in charge of the overseeing the complete operation is usually called the general man-

ager. The number of managers depends on the size of an establishment. Larger resorts or hotels may have managers for housekeeping, food service and human resources while small motels may only have a single manager. Many lodging managers begin as assistant managers or regular employees before advancing. They train staff members and may be charged with promoting viable candidates to management positions. Lodging managers may track the financial data and market an establishment's amenities to businesses, organizations and travelers. They need to be skilled at solving problems and handling multiple tasks at once. The BLS states that employment for lodging managers was expected to increase just 1% from 2012-2022. This slow growth is due to cutbacks in management positions and current managers taking on more responsibilities. The best opportunities may be with larger establishments that have more departments. According to the May 2014 BLS, the median annual salary of lodging managers was $47,680. Travel Coordinator Travel coordinators organize the travel ar-

Image for representational purpose only (Photo: aptechaviationacademy)

rangements of corporations or large organizations, such as universities and non-profits. Their job duties may include booking flights on commercial or private jets, reserving conference rooms, forwarding information to the appropriate personnel and supervising support staff. Income Travel and tourism is a highly remunerative career option. Annual financial package in this industry depends upon a candidate's capability, skills and qualification. Initial salary can be anywhere between Rs 13,000 to 20,000. Course Career seekers in this industry can avail a variety of courses including regular, part time and

short term course. One can do both a Bachelor's and Master's course in hotel management. Several institutes also offer certificate and diploma courses. Some of the main courses are as follows: (1) Full time Courses: Bachelor of Tourism Administration Bachelor of Tourism Studies Master of Business Administration in Tourism and Hospitality Management (2) Short Term Diploma Courses (One year Course): Airline Ticketing Airline Ground Operations Ground Support and Airport Management Tourism Management Guiding and Escorting Cargo Management

Airport Logistics Management Institutions 1. Jivaji University, Gwalior 2. Devi Ahilya Vishvavidyala, Indore 3. Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, New Delhi 4. Delhi University, New Delhi 5. Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, New Delhi 6. Bundelkhand University, Jhansi 7. Andhra University, Vishakhapattanam 8. Madurai Kamraj University, Tamilnadu 9. Tejpur University, Assam 10. Lucknow University, UP 11. Himachal Pradesh University, Himachal Pradesh 12. Indira Gandhi Open University, Delhi


BUSINESS Rs 1,546 crore interest-free loan to be received Falling price of gas made PAGE 10

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

by Delhi Metor Rail Corp from AAP govt New Delhi, Feb 27: In order to speed up metro projects being executed in the national capital, Delhi government has decided to extend an interest-free loan of Rs 1,546 crore to DMRC, relaxing the existing rules. As per existing norms, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has to pay VAT on purchase of every item during the ongoing projects to the city government, which later reimburses the amount after verifying all purchases. Delhi Transport Minister Gopal Rai said the government will extend the loan of Rs 1,546 in three installments - Rs 646 crore in 2015-16, Rs 450 crore in 2016-17 and Rs 450 crore in 2017-18- to the

200 employees of snapdeal receives 'performance improvement' notice All prepared to face competition Pune, Feb 27: Amid growing competition from rivals like Amazon and Flipkart, e-commerce major Snapdeal has put its 200 employees on a 'performance improvement' notice under which they need to improve within a month or get terminated. "The PIP process is expected to cover about 200 team members. As part of the on-going performance management and development programme, some team members at our contact centre have been offered a performance improvement plan (PIP)," a Snapdeal spokesperson said. Under PIP, employees have been given 30 days to improve performance, and failure to improve will result in termination of services. The spokesperson said while many have opted for PIP, some have decided not to go for it and instead move on voluntarily. "Snapdeal has over one million daily transacting users on its ecosystem and all our efforts are focused on becoming part of the daily life of millions of Indians," the spokesperson said. Following the notification, some employees demonstrated outside a Delhi-based call centre of Snapdeal. According to reports, Snapdeal has started reducing employee count at its contact centre from November last year, bringing it down to about 600, from a peak of 1,800-2,000. According to industry sources, this has been a practice for some time now. "When you have cheaper third-party sourcing available, keeping a huge team for customer-support services does not make sense. Large e-commerce companies are already doing it," they said. There have been no lay-offs, the company added, which has a team of some 8,000 people across the country. The booming online commerce in India has created thousands of jobs across the country. While most of these companies continue to be driven by investor money, concerns around profitability are being raised and many of these firms are now looking at restructuring their business model to run leaner operations. (Agencies)

DMRC. The decision was taken at a Cabinet meet- EASY INTEREST ing chaired by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. "We In order to speed up As per existing norms, used to reimburse the VAT metro projects being ex- Delhi Metro Rail Corpoamount paid by the ecuted in the national ration (DMRC) has to pay DMRC, but the process capital, Delhi govern- VAT on purchase of every would consume more time ment has decided to ex- item during the ongoing and often cause delay to tend an interest-free projects to the city governprojects. For instance, the loan of Rs 1,546 crore to ment, which later reimgovernment had reim- DMRC, relaxing the ex- burses the amount after bursed the VAT amount, isting rules. verifying all purchases. which was to be paid in 2010 to Metro, in 2014. The government will Recently, the AAP governAs per the new rule, we extend the loan of Rs ment accorded in-principle will extend interest-free 1,546 in three install- approval for construction loan in advance which the ments - Rs 646 crore in of Metro Phase-IV. DMRC Metro used to give to the 2015-16, Rs 450 crore in has set 2021 deadline for government in forms of 2016-17 and Rs 450 the phase-IV expansion, VAT," Rai said. A senior crore in 2017-18- to the which would add 75 staofficial said the DMRC DMRC. tions to the network. will now have to pay VAT on every purchase to the city government, and in ment will extend a loan to AAP government acreturn for this, govern- the metro. Recently, the corded in-principle ap-

A total of 31.47 kms of new lines would be underground, while 64.39 km would be elevated. Delhi government has written to DMRC, saying it will go for the revenue sharing model adopted in the previous phases. Among the projects chosen under Phase-IV are Rithala Narela (21.73km), Janakpuri West RK Ashram (28.92km), MukundpurMaujpur (12.54km), Inderlok Indraprastha (12.58km), Tughlakabad Aerocity (20.20 km), and Lajpat Nagar Saket G-Block (7.96 km).

proval for construction of Metro Phase-IV. DMRC

has set 2021 deadline for the phase-IV expansion, which would add 75 stations to the network. A total of 31.47 kms of new lines would be underground, while 64.39 km would be elevated. Delhi government has written to DMRC, saying it will go for the revenue sharing model adopted in the previous phases. Among the projects chosen under Phase-IV are Rithala Narela (21.73km), Janakpuri West RK Ashram (28.92km), MukundpurMaujpur (12.54km), Inderlok Indraprastha (12.58km), Tughlakabad Aerocity (20.20 km), and Lajpat Nagar Saket G-Block (7.96 km). (Agencies)

Target to shift more of its technological responsibilities to India Bengaluru, Feb 27: Target's chief information officer Mike McNamara said the US retailer could shift more of its technological responsibilities to India, especially those related to managing its smaller format stores which are now becoming its focus. Target's Bengaluru centre has more than 2,800 people supporting the company across areas like technology, marketing, human resources, finance, merchandizing, supply chain, property development, data analytics and reporting. The company had said in November that it would hire an additional 500 people in Bengaluru

Image for graphical representation purpose only. (Photo: blisstree)

over the following year. "We will move to a place where we can get the skills. If we get more skills here than in Minneapolis (Target's headquarters), then we will get more of the work here," McNamara said.

McNamara, who joined from Britain's biggest supermarket group Tesco last year, explained that data analysts, data scientists and software engineers have become more important to the retailer as it moves away from its tra-

ditional focus on large suburban stores. Target, which competes with Walmart and Amazon in the US, has just five smaller-format stores in North America now. And as this network grows, the company has to work out how to serve such stores. "Smaller stores require a huge amount of sophistication in supply chain which we did not have in the past. Data analytics, data sciences and creating the mathematical algorithm that runs the supply chain to service a small store is very important. Many of those things will be built here," McNamara said. India, he said, has a very high output of engineers. "With technology

becoming important, I need them," he added. Target's small format stores would range between 10,000 and 60,000 sq ft, significantly less than the 1,20,000-sq-ft large stores. "In big stores, you can sell all your assortments, but in smaller ones, you need to be careful about what you sell. You need to localize assortments according to local temperature and demography. Demand in the business district would vary from a college campus," McNamara said, indicating how that necessitates data analytics and superior supply chain management. (Agencies)

Rs 12k cr to be infused by RBI via open market operations New Delhi, Feb 27: To ease the current liquidity crunch which could also help in lowering yields, the RBI on Thursday announced it will infuse up to Rs 12,000 crore into the market through open market operations (OMOs) on March 3. At times, the central bank uses these OMO purchases to buy back government securities (G-secs) from the market, which infuses liquidity into the system and helps soften yields in the gilt market. From December 7 last year, the RBI has already infused Rs 30,000 crore into the system through OMOs. In addition, the government has also infused liquidity by buying back G-secs and inflation-indexed bonds

worth about Rs 36,500 crore in the last three months. Surprisingly, however, the central bank did not announce the tenures of the G-secs that it will purchase through the OMO on March 3. "The securities identified for the OMO would be announced in due course," the RBI notice said. Bond dealers feel this may be an indication that the government is likely to overshoot its 3.5% fiscal deficit target for 2016-17 when it announces the budget on Monday. In such a situation, under normal circumstances, soon after the announcement of the fiscal deficit numbers the bond market would have faced strong

Raghuram Rajan, Governor of RBI. (Photo: financialexpress)

selling pressure due to expected higher borrowing by the government next fiscal. However, "by not announcing the papers it would buy in the OMO, the RBI is keeping a check on bond market players

Price of Chevrolet Cruze slashed by Rs. 86,000 Mumbai, Feb 27: General Motors India has slashed price of its mid-sized sedan Cruze by up to Rs. 86,000, nearly a month after introducing an updated version of the model in the country. The carmaker has reduced the price of the top-end version of the car by Rs. 86,000 and the entry-level trim by Rs. 73,000 in order to push sales of the model. The company launched the face-lifted Cruze on January 30 priced between Rs. 14.68 lakh and Rs. 17.81 lakh. Now, the company has priced the model between Rs. 13.95 lakh and Rs. 16.95 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi). "We have strategically price positioned the new Chevrolet Cruze 2016 to simplify our go-to-market strategy in this key segment," said a company spokesperson. "We are focused on delivering products that buyers

USING STRATEGY General Motors India has slashed price of its mid-sized sedan Cruze by up to Rs. 86,000. The carmaker has reduced the price of the top-end version of the car by Rs. 86,000 and the entry-level trim by Rs. 73,000 in order to push sales of the model. The company launched the face-lifted Cruze on January 30 priced between Rs. 14.68 lakh and Rs. 17.81 lakh. Now, the company has priced the model between Rs. 13.95 lakh and Rs. 16.95 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).

in India expect and deserve and with this we hope to serve an even wider set of customers, while providing performance, technology and great design underpinned by strong quality and great value," the spokesperson added. The price reduction comes at a time when the company has been struggling to improve its sales even as other automobile manufacturers have been increasing their sales. In the April-January period, General Motors India, which sells various models including Beat, Sail and Tavera in the country, sold 14,477 units, 44.43 per cent down from 26,055 units in the same period of the previous fiscal. The updated Chevrolet Cruze is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine and comes with both a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission, the company said in a statement. (Agencies)

from selling aggressively after the budget", according to a bond market analyst. If bond market players sell and the RBI announces it will buy back some of the most sold papers, the traders would

suffer a loss. And hence, bond dealers would be fearful of selling even if the fiscal deficit numbers disappoint the market. The RBI's decision for an OMO came on the back of a sharp rise in yields for G-secs across the board and also state loan papers. On Tuesday, yields on state loans had shot up to 8.88%, a 15-month high, while on Thursday in the G-sec market, all but one paper with tenures of more than four years went past the psychologically important 8% mark. The only paper, the new 10year paper, closed at 7.86% - a life high for it, since very less floating stock of this bond is available in the market, bond dealers said. (Agencies)

GAIL cuts shopping list for LNG ships

Image for graphical representation purpose only. (Photo:dreamstime)

Dehradun Feb 27: Staterun gas utility GAIL is looking at pruning its n early $7 billion shopping list for 11 LNG ships due to changed market dynamics in the wake of sharp fall in global gas prices, industry sources said. The company may also have to extend the tender for the vessels to address several concerns raised by prospective bidders with a view to ensuring wider participation. The tender is scheduled to close on Monday. The sources said GAIL has indicated to prospective bidders that it may not need all the 11ships in the changed circumstances. With gas prices falling, the economics of ferrying the entire contracted 3.5 million tonne per annum

of gas from the US to the Indian market may not work out. Swapping part of the contracted volumes with other countries or selling in alternative markets could be more attractive. With shipping rates down to $30,000 per day , it may not make economic sense to tie up longterm charters that would be more expensive. Instead, it would suit the company to split its charter portfolio between long-term, midterm and spot charters as supplies from the two US projects are to start in January 2018. The reduction in the number of ships, the sources said, could alter the calculation for bidders who would be working out their price in the assumption of at least nine vessels. (Agencies)

Adverse interest rates makes HDFC's $750 million masala bonds plan to be on hold Kolkata, Feb 27: Housing Development Finance Corp (HDFC), India's biggest mortgage lender, has abandoned plans for an overseas sale of rupee bonds - also known as masala bonds - due to adverse interest rates. The company had got board approval to raise rupeedenominated bonds of as much as $750 million in the overseas market during the current financial year. "There are a couple of issues," said Keki Mistry, vice-chairman of HDFC. "Today, the global market is uncertain and the currency is under pressure. Tax is another issue. Today, a company that is borrowing pays tax, unlike other instruments, where the purchaser or the investor pays the tax. Investors expect the same returns as they get in the rupee market." The company will revisit the plan as the market improves. The Reserve Bank of India had allowed companies to raise rupee-denomi-

nated bonds in September to reduce the risk of borrowing in foreign currencies. Private and public sector companies that had lined up plans to issue masala bonds did not go ahead after the local currency depreciated against the dollar. State-owned NTPC, Indian Railway Finance Corporation and India Infrastructure Finance Company had planned to raise funds through masala bonds and some of them had even organised road shows to tap investors. Another reason for companies not following up on these bonds is the provision of a 5% withholding tax. "There is a disconnect between expectations of issuers and buyers and this difference is making it difficult for companies to raise funds through masala bonds," said an official with a foreign bank. "There is only a 50-80 bps difference in raising from onshore and offshore market." (Agencies)

TECHNOLOGY Intex Aqua Fish With Sailfish OS 2.0 Intex, after showcasing a prototype Aqua Fish smartphone running Jolla Sailfish OS 2.0 in MWC Shanghai, has unveiled the handset at the MWC 2016 trade show that's currently ongoing in Barcelona. The company had announced its partnership with Jolla and its plans to launch a Sailfish smartphone 'within a few months' back at MWC Shanghai in June last year. The dual-SIM supporting Intex Aqua Fish sports a 5inch HD (720x1280 pixels) resolution TFT display and is powered by a 1.3GHz quad-core processor underthe-hood, clubbed with 2GB of DDR3 RAM. The latest Sailfish OS 2.0-based smartphone sports an 8megapixel rear camera with LED flash alongside a 2megapixel front-facing camera. Also housed is 16GB inbuilt storage, which can be expanded via microSD card (up to

Image for graphical representation purpose only. (Photo: masterherald) 32GB). The Intex Aqua Fish supports 4G LTE connectivity along with Wi-Fi 802.11 a/ b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and Micro-USB 2.0. It is

backed by a 2500mAh battery and will be available in Black and Orange colour variants, the report adds. Jolla unveiled its Sailfish OS 2.0 at MWC in

Barcelona last year. The updated OS brings an improved UI and new software integration capabilities for partners. Swiping left or right from the multitasking view in Sailfish OS 2.0 brings up partner spaces, which the company uses to monetise its OS. Intex also became the first company in the world to license Sailfish OS 2.0. To note, the operating system can run Android apps. Intex last week launched its Cloud Crystal 2.5D in India at a price of Rs. 6,899. The smartphone features almost the same set of specifications except the processor, RAM and battery. The device is Powered by a quad-core processor (unspecified) clocked at 1GHz, clubbed with 3GB. The device is backed by a 2200mAh battery, rated to deliver up to 6-8 hours of talk time on 3G network, and up to 120 hours of standby time. (Agencies)


cmyk

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

of excellence

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Asia Cup 2016: India beat Pakistan by five wickets Duliajan outplay New Delhi, Feb 27: India recovered from early jolts to defeat Pakistan by five wickets, registering their second successive win of the Asia Cup 2016 at the Shere Bangla Stadium in Mirpur on Saturday. Chasing a paltry 83, India's top order was shaken by Mohammad Amir's pace and swing as he removed the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane in the very first over. He then removed Suresh Raina in his next before Virat Kohli (49) and Yuvraj Singh (14*) guided them out of trouble as India chased down the target in 15.3 overs. Earlier, on a track which Shahid Afridi predicted to be helpful for the fast bowlers, Pakistan were bowled out for a mere 83 -

Indian cricket team. their third lowest total in T20Is - in their opening match of the Asia Cup 2016 against India. Hardik Pandya produced his best bowling performance in T20Is, returning with figures of 3/8 while Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with 2/11 to take the life out of Pakistan batting.

MS Dhoni's decision to bowl first was fully justified as the opening pair of Mohammad Hafeez and Sharjeel Khan lasted four deliveries with Ashish Nehra removing the former as he went for a non-existent cut to be out caughtbehind for 4. The ball was short of length, had the bounce but the width was

Recovering Federer to skip Indian Wells Masters

Roger Federer ANI Johannesburg, Feb.27 : World number three Roger Federer has revealed that he will miss next month's Indian Wells Masters as he continues to recover from knee surgery. The Swiss maestro had

been expected to be sidelined for a month after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus sustained the day after his semi-final defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open last month, Sport24 reported. "The rehab for my knee

is going really well. I have now had a lot of great practices on the court and in the gym. As it is a long year, I don't want to push it too hard and come back too soon," the 17-time Grand Slam champion posted on his Facebook page. However, Federer confirmed that he will return to action in Monte Carlo at the start of the claycourt season. "After consultation with my team, I have decided to enter the Monte Carlo Masters. Thanks for the support and I will see you back on tour soon." The Monte Carlo Masters will start on April 10.

England seamer Finn ruled out of World T20 PTI London, Feb 28: England seamer Steven Finn has been ruled out of the ICC World T20 in India owing to a calf strain with Liam Plunkett named as his replacement. For Finn, it is the latest blow during an injury-hit period. He was ruled out of the tour of the UAE late December with a stress injury to his left foot and left the tour of South Africa early with a side strain he picked up during the third Test in Johannesburg. “Really disappointed to have picked up another injury on my road to re-

Steven Finn covery,” Finn tweeted. “Gutted doesn’t describe it. Good luck to the guys out there!” In Finn’s absence, Plunkett will form

England’s pace attack in the tournament alongside David Willey, Reece Topley, Chris Jordan and Ben Stokes.

missing. Jasprit Bumrah then bowled a testing second over to debutant Khurram Manzoor for a maiden. Dhoni's ploy of keeping a wide slip worked when Sharjeel went after a wide Bumrah delivery to be caught there by Ajinkya Rahane for 7 in the fourth over. By the end of Powerplay overs, Pakistan had lost three wickets, to be placed at a precarious 32/3. Precarious turned into a full blown crisis when allrounder Pandya's introduction in the sixth over resulted in the biggest blow to Pakistan's hopes. He induced an edge off the bat of Shoaib Malik (4) that was taken by Dhoni, leaving Pakistan at 35/4. Yuvraj Singh then removed Umar Akmal (3) and skipper Shahid Afridi (2) ran him-

self out while going for a second run when an alert Jadeja let loose a lightning throw from the deep catching him well short of the crease. Pakistan were gasping for breath and in the danger of being bowled out for their lowest T20I total. Somehow, they scraped past the 50-run mark in the 11th over but then Jadeja got into the act, trapping Wahab Riaz (4) and then cramping Sarfraz Khan for space, cleaning him up for 25 - the highest of the Pakistan innings. Mohammad Sami and Mohammad Amir stayed long enough to take the score beyond 74 runs Pakistan's lowest T20I total before Pandya returned to shut the doors on the innings, removing both tailenders off successive deliveries.

Jhalukpara boys Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb.27: Duliajan Cricket Academy defeated Jhalukpara Boys’ Club by 43 runs in the first JKM trophy of excellence All Assam prize money cricket tournament organized by Cricket Club of Dibrugarh at DDSA stadium here today. Altogether, 10 teams participated in the tournament. Electing to bat, DCA scored 178 for nine in 35 overs. Samik Das top scored with 41 off 60

balls, slamming three boundaries and one six and B.M. Rao contributed unbeaten 37 runs. Romen Barman scored 33 off 52 balls with three fours while Chirantan

Amit Singh scored 22 off 32 balls laced with two boundaries and Abhilash Gogoi chipped in with 21 off 29 deliveries. Sandeep Sharma contributed 19 runs for his team. For DCA, Sanjay Dutta picked up four wickets for 23 runs in 7 overs. Bijay Rai took two for 23 in 7 overs. Sanjay Dutta was adjudged man of the match. Tomorrow, Phoenix Cricket Club, Sivsagar will take on Marine Cricket Club, Margherita.

First JKM trophy of excellence Das chipped in with 29 off 28 deliveries, hitting three boundaries. For JBC, Abhilash Gogoi bagged four wickets for 15 runs in 4 overs and Abhishek Parrek claimed two for 20 in 4 overs. JBC boys’ were bowled for 135 in 31.2 overs.

Nuturing our Under-19 Virat Kohli's Pakistani fan who boys would be a job well hoisted tricolour gets bail done: Jimmy Adams PTI New Delhi, Feb 27: For someone who used his pads almost as much as his bat, Jimmy Adams likes to look at things in a matter-of act manner. "I don't know what effect it will have on West Indian cricket," he says of the West Indies Under-19 cricket team that won the World Cup. "We are extremely proud of the boys. The manner in which they played their cricket has been good to watch. It was positive. It reflects on the fact that we have the raw material and that should motive us to do whatever we can to develop talent beyond the U-19 cricket." For a team that was on a decline since the mid90s, the victory over India in the final was almost a reversal of the result that changed the face of world cricket. India won in 1983. Now that West Indies have their first World Cup in the 50over format after 1979, hopes of a revival are always high. Adams finds plenty of talent in the U-19 bunch."All the players had their moments, we saw some good bowling, aggressive batting and good fielding. There is good all round ability. If we can nurture one or two of that talent and make them international players, then it would be a job well done." For a man who led many rescue missions with his 'multiple defence mechanism', Adams finds the art of saving Tests almost extinct. Not many Tests last five days, leave alone

a rescue mission in the fourth innings of a Test. "It will be interesting to do a study to find out how much experience batsmen today have of playing on the 4th and 5th day. It is a dying art. There are inherent challenges in doing that. It is one of the reasons why I like to see Test cricket continue as it asks more questions of players." Adams is supportive of Darren Bravo's move to opt out of the World T20 and he is pleasantly surprised too."If his priority is Test cricket then I support him. It is a bit against the grain as people generally tend to choose the shorter format." He equated West Indies' pay dispute to a slapstick drama. "It is a never ending saga. Hopefully that will improve as time goes." Jamaica is now more known as a sprinters' land with Usain Bolt's multiple Olympic Gold-winning exploits. Adams says it is due to the excellent athletics programme that has helped Jamaica emerge as the land of fast men. "We have the raw material but we also have a good schools programme. But most importantly, we have excellent coaches who help nurture talent from a young age." He feels cricket can learn a lot from the athletics programme. "What we need is a coach education programme so we can get the coaching standards lifted as well. We have not paid much attention to it."

Lahore, Feb 27: A Pakistani court has granted bail to a young die-hard fan of ace Indian batsman Virat Kohli after he spent more than a month behind bars over treason charges for hoisting the Indian tricolour atop his home. The additional district and session’s court in Okara admitted bail plea of 22year-old Umar Daraz, a tailor by profession who was arrested on January 25, from his home in Okara district, some 200 kilometres from here, in Punjab province. The Kohli lookalike, who had said he hoisted the tricolour to show his love for the batsman, was accused of acting against Pakistan's sovereignty and could face up to 10 years in prison or fine or both. Advocates Rizwan and Muhammad Yousaf applied for his bail with the court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Asadullah Siraj after district court Judge Anique Anwar rejected Daraz's bail plea on February 18, notwithstanding a police clean chit.

Virat Kohli Yesterday, after examining police and judicial case files and hearing arguments of both sides, the court admitted the plea and ordered him to furnish a surety bond worth Rs 50,000, the Dawn reported. Daraz was arrested on a day when India beat Australia in a T20 match in which Kohli scored 90 runs and was adjudged 'man of the match'. Police raided his home on a complaint that he hoisted the Indian flag on the rooftop of his house and seized the flag along with Kohli's posters and pictures. A case under section 123-A of Pakistan Penal Code and

16 Maintenance of Public Order was registered against him. The section 123-A (acts of damaging the sovereignty of the country) carries maximum punishment of 10 years in jail or fine or both. Daraz said he had no idea that he committed a crime, urging the authorities concerned to pardon him as he should be seen as "an Indian cricketer's fan and not a spy". "I am a big fan of Virat Kohli. I support the Indian team because of Kohli. Hoisting of Indian flag on the rooftop of my house only shows my love for the Indian cricketer," he had said.

Indians sweep series in style Calcutta, Feb 27: The Indian women’s team registered a comprehensive 30 series victory with a resounding nine-wicket win in the third and final T20I, at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, on Friday. With this nine-wicket victory in the final match, the Mithali Raj-led team beat the Lankans in all six matches of this tour having previously won the ODI series with a similar 3-0 margin. The final T20I, an inconsequential tie, was one-way affair

right from the start. Once again, the home team outplayed the visitors in all three departments of the game. The Indian team was hardly tested as the hosts chased down Sri Lanka’s paltry 89/9 without much fuss. Ekta Bisht claimed three wickets for just nine runs as Indian spinners bowled with discipline. India knocked off the target with 37 balls to spare and in doing so, registered their second biggest victory in terms of balls re-

maining. Opener Vellaswamy Vanitha blasted 34 from 25 balls and Smriti Mandhana remained unbeaten on 43 with Veda Krishnamurthy on 13, as India sealed an easy victory.

Brief scores SL Women 89/9 in 20 ovs (Ekta Bisht 3/17). India Women 91/1 in 13.5 ovs (Smriti Mandhana 43 not out). India Women win by 9 wickets

Infantino hailed as Jayawardene refutes `disappointing` criticism from SLC chief right man, right time for FIFA

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The 45-year-old multilingual Swiss-Italian lawyer

was elected as the new FIFA president yesterday, ending Sepp Blatter's controversial, rollercoaster 18 years in charge. "He's not a politician. He's not a superstar. He's just very together, very organised," said Greg Dyke, chairman of England's Football Association.

The 38-year-old argued that his ten-day assignment with England is aimed at helping England batsmen improve

their techniques in subcontinent conditions and not toward providing any specific tactical information about Sri Lanka. "My role with England is to help develop their cricketers, and to help with how they should approach different challenges - like playing spin," Jayawardene was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. "The pools hadn't been decided when I agreed to do it. England didn't hire

tired from the T20 format in April 2014.

His comments came a day after Sumathipala labelled Jayawardene's resumption of the England job as 'sad and disappointing.'

The SLC chief had remarked that Jayawardene's association with England could lead to the information Mahela Jayawardene on Sri Lankan team beme to give information quite disappointed to see ing leaked to the overon the Sri Lankan team. those comments from the seas side, adding that a They have analysts and board, to be fair," added 'cooling off period' of at coaches to do that. I'm Jayawardene, who re- least 24 months was ap-

propriate before players joined opposition sides in a coaching or advisory role.

"By the World T20, I would have been out of the one-day team for 12 months, and out of the T20 team almost two years," Jayawardene said while contesting the SLC chief's allegations. Sri Lanka are scheduled to play against England on March 26 in the group stage contest of the T20 pinnacle event.

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AFP Paris, Feb 27 : New FIFA leader Gianni Infantino was hailed for being "not a politician, not a superstar" but as a reform-minded administrator who can lead the scandal-plagued football body into a brave new world.

ANI Colombo, Feb.27 : Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene, who was hired as England's batting consultant for next month's World T20 in India, has described his country's cricket board President Thilanga Sumathipala's criticism as 'disappointing.'


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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

PAGE 12

Shamin Mannan, the Assamese face in Bollywood Born on 11 June in Dibrugarh Assam, Shamin Mannan quit engineering to pursue career in acting. She accumulated lots of love and appreciation from her fans while working the lead role of Bhoomi Patel in Sanskaar - Dharohar Apno Ki on Colors TV. Shamin was born on 11 June in Dibrugarh Assam. While at college, she did several modelling assignments. After dropping out from the engineering college in Bangalore, she shifted to Mumbai. After shifted to Mumbai, she worked in many TV commercials for famous brands like Dabur Gulabari Rose Water, Sony Ericson, Polycrol

Shamin Mannan, who made all the people of Dibrugarh proud by debuting in the Bollywood film 'Love Shagun'. (Photo: rediff )

Akshay Kumar's to look different in 'Rustom'

Akshay Kumar, who will be seen a complete new avatar in 'Rustom'. (Photo: boxofficetotalcollection) Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who plays a navy officer in 'Rustom', has revealed his look in the film! Akshay Kumar took to social media to share the first glimpse of his dap-

per avatar in the film. Akshay captioned the photo, "Decorated officer. Devoted family man. Defending his honour. His name? RUSTOM. Know his story on 12 Aug #RustomFirstLook."

'Rustom' is touted to be a romantic-thriller set in the late 1950s. The film marks Akshay's third collaboration with Neeraj Pandey. Akshay and Neeraj have earlier worked as actor-director in 'Baby' and 'Special 26', both of which found appreciation. 'Rustom', however, is not being directed by Pandey, and instead marks the directorial debut of Tinu Suresh Desai. Inspired by real life incidents, the project is co-produced by Zee Studios, KriArj Entertainment and Friday Filmworks. Apart from the actor, the movie will feature two young actresses. Pandey will pen the dialogues of the film himself; will cowrite the screenplay along with Vipul Rawal; and also contribute towards the film's edit. 'Rustom' is slated to release on August 12.

Jai Gangaajal makes our Piggy Chops proud interesting tid-bits about her role and how it's not the female counterpart of Dabang. She said, `Well, it's not a female Dabangg role because my shirt doesn't fly off at any point [laughs]. No, but in all seriousness, it's a relevant and important film, especially at a time like this. It talks about equal opportunities and about who has the ability to do a certain job, regardless of gender.`Praising the film on all levels, the actress further explained, `It's also about the vicious cycle of corruption within the system, what we need to cleanse out of that..what happens to the common man when they get stuck between powerhouses.... so it's relevant on many levels. Also it has Priyanka Chopra, is very excited about her to be great music, and it's direlease movie 'Jai Gangajal'.(Photo: bollywoodlife) rected by a filmmaker who is known for making Lead actress, Priyanka the country, the hard- movies on such subjects. Chopra is very excited working actress has been I'm very excited and proud about her much awaited going all out to promote of it.` Fans are eagerly film 'Jai Gangaajal'. In the film. In a recent inter- waiting to catch their spite of being away from view, she revealed some favourite actress in action!

syrup, McDonalds etc. She got her first chance to act in a TV serial Banoo Main Teri Dulhann on Zee Tv. She was also seen in Maat Pitaah Ke Charnon Mein Swarg on Colors Tv and Santaan on Star Plus. She was appreciated for Colors TV's Sanskaar Dharohar Apno Ki as female lead character Bhoomi. Love Shagun is an upcoming romantic comedy movie starring Anuj Sachdeva, Shamin Mannan, Nidhi Subbaiah, Vikram Kochhar, Manit Joura, Taran Bajaj and Simpy Singh. The film is scheduled to be released 26 February 2016. Shamin is playing the character ofShama in this film.'

New Single by Bhargava 'Ghure Ki Karone' Delhi-based singer composer and producer Bhargava [Vocalist of Folk rock Band OJAPALI] is thrilled to announce the preview release of the latest single track available on Soundcloud and Bandcamp. "Ghure Ki Karone" will be a new sound to the Assamese music and production. The drum sound and the way he arranged the track is very different and with a very catchy lyrics into it. This song is all about a small story of a hard-working farmer

Evelyn aiming for Bollywood

Evelyn Sharma, one of the young actress of today's Bollywood. (Photo: starclinch ) The 'Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani' (2013) and 'Main Tera Hero' (2014) actress Evelyn Sharma was in the US to meet casting agents and filmmakers as FebruaryMarch is considered the casting season in Los

Angeles. Several actors from different parts of the world travel to LA for casting calls and auditions for TV shows and films. The half-Indian and half-German is keeping her fingers crossed.

ing for iTunes and apple music. Bhargava is a singer-composer and music producer from New Delhi IN. As he belongs to family having a rich musical background from Satra Nagari Barpeta(Assam).

Lovers of Assamese song are eagerly waiting for the release of the musical al bum, 'Ghure ki karone'. (Photo: magicalassam)

and his dream. The video of this song is also in the process of pre-produc-

tion which is going to release this summer. The pre-order is also happen-

His father was also a folk singer and his grandfather was a revered tabla player. Bhargava moved to New Delhi for his sound engineering and music technology course in 2013 and later he started a folk rock act called OJAPALI with his friend Dhon.

TICKLE YOUR TASTE BUDS Cabbage Rolls Ingredients Oven temp: 180 C-350 F 1/2 kgs cabbage leaves, large, separated out Oil to brush the cabbage rolls 1/4 cup corn, boiled 1 tsp salt, or to taste 1/2 tsp garam masala 1/2 tsp powdered black pepper (pisi kaali mirch) 3/4 cup spinach (palak), boiled and chopped fine 1/4 cup cream 1 slice bread, crusts removed 1/4 tsp oregano or ajwain 4 Tbsp cheese, grated Tomato sauce for garnish Method Remove outer leaves of cabbage and cut off the base stem as close to cabbage as possible. Boil the cabbage for 3-4 minutes, drain and leave to cool. Peel off carefully, 6-8 large leaves of the cabbage. Shred the bread into

A perfect snack for a lazy Sunday evening.(Photo: thecandidadiet) small pieces. Mix together the corn, salt, garam masala, black pepper, palak, cream, bread, oregano and cheese. Take one cabbage leaf. Put some palak mixture towards the broader edge of the leaf. Fold over from top, over the palak, then the sides inwards. Roll this in such a way that it is like a parcel, which seals the mixture inside. Place the rolls on to a greased oven-proof serving dish, brush rolls with oil and bake in a preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Garnish with tomato sauce and serve.

Anamika Barman to Maharashtra govt. departicipate in Roadies X4 clares 'Neerja' tax free

If you are active on Facebook, you may have seen the update that claims that an Assamese Actor is on Roadies X4 this year, but all of them denied to take the name of that participant. But, the news has been confirmed. Anamika will be seen from Lucknow audition of Roadies X4. Anamika Barman started her career with the film

Suma Poroxote in 2014. Soon after this she got into a popular serial titled Beharbari Outpost, but her career took a big upward swing in television with the mega serial Avizaan. Avizaan gave her the stardom and recognition. Her latest release was KhawoiThe danger Zone, an action thriller film which has been appreciated widely. Khawoi is her first film as a lead.

Sonam Kapoor's film 'Neerja' has all it takes to be a super hit. The film has become the talk of the town and there is no stopping in the revenues it has been earning. (Photo: larazonsanluis) Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor starrer "Neerja" has been declared tax-free in Maharashtra. Directed by Ram Madhvani, "Neerja" stars Sonam in the titular role of flight attendant Neerja Bhanot. Anamika Barman is all set to leave her footprints in Mumbai after creating her own space in the Assamese film industry.(Photo: twimg)

The film revolves around the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in Karachi and how Neerja fought for the

lives of her passengers. MP Poonam Mahajan Rao represented Neerja's case for exemption in Entertainment Tax which was approved by the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. "A big thank you to the Government of Maharashtra for recognising what a 23year-old ordinary girl did

in an extraordinary situation. We are truly grateful to the government for this move as it will only help in more people coming and experiencing the life and the feat of India's hero Neerja," producer Vijay Singh of Fox Star Studios said in a statement. The film, which released last Friday, has been received well at the box office.

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

Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

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


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