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ASSENG/2015/64205
Vol. 1
Issue 208
Price -
Dibrugarh, Saturday, January 2, 2016
5.00
Pages- 12
What you see in the Media isn't always how things really are
ABS will be obligatory for twowheelers
Kejriwal carpools with ministers on Day One of 'Odd-Even' scheme
Page 9
Page 10
Page 6
Religious intolerance affects the development process of the state and we cannot allow it : Gogoi
MEA says all North Eastern States will have passport offices by January
Annus Mirabilis Page 8
A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 1
In its bid to counter religious intolerance which often hinders the state's development, Assam government would set up common prayer bhawans open to people of all faiths, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi announced here on Friday. "Religious intolerance affects the development process of the state and we cannot allow it. In a bid to promote religious harmony, we will set up common prayer bhawans where people from all faiths can meet and offer their prayers," he announced during an interaction with reporters here. Gogoi, said it is very necessary to set up such prayer centres in the prevailing situation "as religious intolerance has come to the fore and threatens to destroy both social and economic fabric of the country". The prayer houses or
ET CAPSULES 1 dead in Road Mishap Golaghat, Jan 1: A person died in an accident at Kamargaon in Golaghat last night. According to sources Ghana Kanta Bora of Tamulipathar under Kamargaon Police Station of Golaghat was hit by a speedy Traveler bearing no AS 01 FC 8962 on NH 37. Sources said that Ghana Kanta Bora was seriously injured in the accident and was taken to VKNRL Hospital but he was declared brought dead by the doctor. (Correspondent)
3 die in Dibrugarh Dibrugarh, Jan 1: Two people drowned today on Buridihing River near Saraighat Bridge. Both of them were a cook of a picnic party. They areShyamal Das and Sanjib Das of Maa Kamakhya hotel at Paltan Bazar. Both of them were sent to Assam Medical College and Hospital in a serious condition, but was declared brought dead by doctors. In a seperate incident Sourav Chetia, a youth died at Jokai after being reportedly hit by a speeding bike. (Staff Reporter)
School completes 70 years Dergaon, Jan 1: Bangal Gaon LP School celebrated its 70 years foundation day at Dergaon. The celebration was started from 31st Dec 2015. The celebration will end on Jan 2, 2016. Many students from different age group were present at the function. (Correspondent)
bhawans will have symbols of an Assamese Naamghar, Hindu and Jain temples, mosque, gurudwara and Buddhist vihara and will play a major role in bringing people together, Gogoi said. The first such bhawan will be set up in Guwahati and gradually in all the district headquarters of the state. During the interaction, Gogoi also announced that rice will be made available at Rs two per kg instead of present rate of Rs three per kg under National Food Security Act. The state government would bear the additional cost of Re one per kg. He also announced three new schemes for tea garden workers. This would include Chief Minister's Bagan Ghar Scheme in which every tea worker's family will be provided land and financial assistance for construction of dwelling houses. Contd. on Page 4
SOME OF THE NEW YEAR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS MADE BY GOGOI Rice will be made available at Rs 2/- per kg instead of present rate of Rs 3/- under NFSA. State Govt will bear the cost of Rs 1/- per kg Chief Minister's Bagan Ghar Scheme whereby every tea garden worker family will be provided land and financial assistance for construction of dwelling houses. Wage of Tea workers under ATC gardens is considered for enhancement to Rs 177 per day from 1st February 2016. New pension scheme for the Anganwadi workers & Helpers, ASHA workers , Home Guards and Gaonburas Milk will be provided in the Anganwadi centers and Schools at least once a week
Free medicines to BPL patients in addition to existing 176 free medicines
ANI Agartala, Jan 1
Old age pension be extended to include all BPL citizen above 60 year of age Uniform to School going BPL students up to class X All colleges will be covered by Wi-fi internet connectivity Nutritional support to pregnant woman through Mamoni be increased to Rs 2000/- from existing Rs 1000/75,000 new posts including 18000 in Panchayat and Rural Development All colleges will be covered by Wi-fi internet connectivity Development Council for Person with Disabilities will be created
Assam CM Tarun Gogoi. New Civil Subdivisions in B i h p u r i y a - N a r a y a n p u r, Naharkatiya, Ramkrishna Nagar, Howraghat, Diyungbra, Dakhin Kamrup, Mukalmua, Kalgachia, Moran, Patharkandi, Katigorah, Merapani, Tihu, Sarukhetri and Sorbhog.
10% reservation for 5 years over-age candidates in Govt jobs. 1 lakh farmers, 70 years of age and above, will be given Rs 500/- each per month as pension and also health insurance coverage.
Arunachal Pradesh shelters Tibetan refugees Arunachal Pradesh, Tibetan refugees, Changlang district, Choephelling Tibetan refugee camp ucts at the showroom. We also export carpets,” said Basang, Weaver
ANI Itanagar, Jan 1
Arunachal Pradesh’s Choephelling Tibetan refugee settlement camp has given shelter to a large number of refugees form Tibet in Changlang district where the Tibetan refugees are engaged in weaving and handicraft work for their survival.
“This is our outlet to sell the products. We also sell our products online and have an agency in Delhi and Bangalore. They buy our products,” said Tenzin, In-charge, Choephelling Tibetan Handicraft Centre.
Located few miles from Miao Town in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh is Choephelling Tibetan Refugee Settlement Camp, the one of the oldest settlements for Tibetan refugees. Here, the refugees are engaged in producing hand-made carpets which is being sold in local market and also outside the state like Delhi and Bangalore. “I am weaving carpet. It takes 15-16 days to complete one piece. We sell the prod-
Many tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh also visits the refugee camp to buy handmade products. “Product is very nice. I had come here even before and it’s very good,” said Julie, Customer The Tibetan refugee camp is inhabited by 500 families with 2800 members. This is one of the 45 Tibetan settlements in India. A beautiful Buddhist monastery in middle of camp is one of the major attractions for the tourists.
Tibetan refugee weaver in her loom.
Tourists gets glimpse of indigenous culture in Manipur ANI Imphal, Jan 1
In a bid to woo tourists, a three-day long festival was recently held at Andro village located 20 miles from Manipur's Imphal city in the foothills of Nongmaiching hill. Scenic beauty, pleasant climate and warm hospitality attract tourists toAndro village. Known for its traditional pottery skills, the small village is now bustling with tourists.
Recently, a three-day long festival of food, music, art and culture was organized at the Panam Ningthou garden in Andro. The event was organized with an aim to promote tourism in the state. "It's been two years that we have launched this new garden. We want other people to know about this beautiful garden. This festival will help to promote the garden," said Muthem Sudesh, General Secretary, Panam Ningthou Garden, Andro.
The major attraction of the festival was the indigenous food prepared by the locals. Fish, pork and rice beer was served to the tourists and other local visitors.
another visitor Amy. The audience was later treated to a wide range of musical performances by popular bands like Imphal Talkies, the Koi, the Dirty Strikes and Pebet.
"Such festival should be encouraged like it is a place of relaxation so; we have good food here, rich culture, music and talent of upcoming singer so it's an awesome festival," said Marina, a visitor.
Imphal Talkies, a folk and alternative rock band, had the crowd grooving to their songs. The band sang a number of their original numbers as well as some popular English.
"Music is very beautiful. I like it and my brother also like it. Food is really tasty," added
Madboy Mink from Mumbai, Akummika from Nagaland and Leaftone from
Delhi also performed at the event. "It is very secluded, very peaceful out here. It's very different from our daily life in New Delhi. I really like the place; people are really nice and simple," said Bhavia, Vocalist, Leaftone from Delhi. Organizing such festival not only provides a platform to upcoming musicians but also promotes tourism in the state. Manipur has many such scenic locations that can be developed into tourist hotspots.
All eight northeastern states -Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura will have passport offices, the Ministry of External Affairs has said. “The government’s plan is to have a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) in each northeastern state. All states now have a passport office and as of now, only two states Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh do not have passport offices. But by January next year, both will have passport offices. So, with Tripura, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh done all eight states of the north east shall have PSK,” said Mukesh Kumar Pardeshi, Joint Secretary of Ministry of External Affairs and Chief Passport Officer. He was speaking to reporters after the inauguration of the PSK at Agartala by Tripura Minister for Finance and Information Bhanulal Saha. According to Pardeshi, the modern computerised passport office is part of the Government of India’s ambitious Digital India programme to provide fast service to people at their
doorsteps. “First, the travel time will be reduced; people can go to the capital city of their state and submit their applications. The PSK is a modern office and it is all computerised, and we are following the principles of egovernance. It is a part of the promise of Digital India. So, the time taken for submission will be reduced and at the same time security has been enhanced. We are taking photographs here and also taking bio-metric. We are all connected with the police department. So in real-time, the form electronically goes to the police,” said Pardeshi. Later a formal programme of inauguration of the PSK, Agartala was organised and the foundation stone was laid by Bhanulal Saha. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Saha said that the opening of the regional passport office at Agartala would go a long way in resolving the problem of obtaining passports in the state. He also demanded that the Centre make arrangements for issuing of all types of passports, including official and tatkal passports and their printing from the PSK.
New project coming up in Lakhimpur ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Jan 1
Heralding a new horizon in the field of Handloom and Textile in Lakimpur District an aspiring cluster project with a view to make self dependant to the weavers is going to be set up in the district very soon. More than 300 weavers will be benefitted through this project. The foundation stone of this project was laid by Lakhimpur DC Debeswar Malakar in the Barchariya village of Azad area in the district. Investing an
INR of two crore implemented by Tai Ahom Development Council. In the meantime the construction of the project is proceeding in a full swing. The things which are produced in this industry will be marketed internationally. "In the first phase 75 per cent unemployed tribes and then 25 per cent of others will get preference in case of getting training of weaving in the project" said Puspadhar Saikia, one of the Chief organizers of the Project.
Student murdered in Margherita, 1 arrested, 2 absconding ET Correspondent Margherita, Jan 1
On the night of 31st December a sensational murder took place at No. 1 Makum Pather, Margherita. Deepjyoti Gogoi, a student who was to appear in forth coming HSLC Examination was brutally murdered by three youth Maina Bokotial, Bhai Rajkhowa and Boga Mech of Margherita. The deceased Deepjyoti Gogoi was immediately taken to Margherita Civil Hospital where he was declared dead. A case has been registered at Margherita Police station (Case Number 1/16) under sec-
Deepjyoti Gogoi tion 302, 34 IPC. Maina Bokotial was arrested while the other two accused Bhai Rajkhowa and Boga Mech are absconding till the filling of this report.
People throng the picnic spots to celebrate the New Year
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Tezpur popularly known as city of beauty and as one of the major attraction for the picnic spots in and around it today wore a festive look today as a large number of people especially families thronged to different picnic spots to celebrate the new year on the first day of the year 2016.
It is to be stated here that there is a good number of picnic spots in and around Tezpur town including ganesh ghat, bhumuraguri bridge area, maithyan area, rudra path, bank of the river gabharu, suti pahar near Thelamara, Nameri, etc. For the last few years it has been witnessed that people from far-flung areas come this spots for enjoying picnic during the New Year seasons. Meanwhile, the first day of the 2016 was
also no exception as a large number of people were seen thronging to these naturally beautiful places. However, though the major attraction places within the Tezpur town including Agnigarh Park, Cole Park (Chitralekha Uddyan), Owguri Hill, Mai Than, Bishnu Rabha Samadhisthol etc. maintained by the Tezpur environment society have all the necessary modern facilities
for the visitors with a panoramic view of a lush green playground for the children for the people coming to celebrate the new here from across the state said that if these places could be developed something more, then it would be more attraction for the people. Visitors urged the authority concern to take necessary measure to sustain these attraction thereby reflecting the dignity of the beautiful ever known as culture capital.
People enjoying boar ride on New Year’s Day at Nimatighat in Jorhat. Pic - UB Photos.
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Shambhu Boro Tezpur, January 1
PAGE 2
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
Vocational training in Tangla College soon
Vocational training in Tangla College. Shajid Khan Tangla, Jan 1: Gram Tarang Employment & Training Services, the social entrepreneurship arm of the Centurion University of Technology and Management of
Odisha is going to impart diploma courses in sectors like IT, Tourism & Hospitility and Retail in Tangla College from next academic session.This was observed by a three member
team of Gram Tarang who visited Tangla college recently . The team comprised of Pinku Deka,Amaresh Sinha and was headed by Satindra Nath Bhattacharya.Talking to this
correspondent Bhattacharya said that Gram Tarang, Gram tarang is a social entrepreneurial initiative in skill training working in largely underdeveloped region and committed towards providing young people with employable skills. Their basic aim is making rural India Job ready. The expected impact from Gram Tarang is to drive self-sufficiency and inclusive economic participation in local communities by ensuring sustainable employment with an additional focus on empowering women and marginalised classes, enduring development of local solutions through micro entrepreneurship.Gram Tarang have been training and giving job placement to people living in the villages and semi urban area across the country since 2009.
PICNIC TIME
People throng the Talatal Ghar, a historical monument in Sivasagar during New Year’s Day. Pic - Firuz Ahmed
Two motorcycles Golaghat celebrates New Year stolen on the same day in Tinsukia Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Jan 1: Two motorcycles has been reportedly stolen from Tinsukia town on Thursday late evening. According to police sources, one hero honda motorcycle was stolen from near civil hospital while the other motorcycle has been stolen from nauphukri.
Superintendent of Tinsukia police Mugdha Jyoti Mahanto said that the prime suspect as been identified. Investigation is on, he added. More details are awaited as the filing of FIR is in process. The year 2015 has witnessed a steep rise in theft activities in Tinsukia town.
One dead in road accident in Tinsukia Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Jan 1: One person died in a road accident on Wednesday late night after a speeding truck hit his bicycle from behind at Hijuguri in Tinsukia town. The impact of the accident was such that the deceased upper half part of the body was spilled all over due to which identification could
not be done. According to sources, the speeding truck with Arunachal Pradesh registration fled the scene of accident but was intercepted by police 1 km ahead in front of ASTC bus stand. The driver of truck was arrested while the truck wad seized.
ET Correspondent Golaghat, Jan 1: Golaghatians celebrated the last day of 2015 without chaos and peace-
f u l l y. The people looked in festive mood and seen celebrating 31st. Today people were busy celebrating New
Year day by the side of Dhansiri River and Halmira in huge numbers. They looked in the festive mood.
Pranab Barua award for Rabiram Brahma ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Jan 1: Eminent artist and prime architect of Udalguri art village Rabiram Brahma has been announced the
winner of Pranab Barua Art Award 2015. The selection committee has declared the name of Brahma, who is a pass out from Baroda MS
University, on Thursday. The award will be conferred on the artist on the birthday (22 February) of late acclaimed painter Pranab Barua in the city.
UGPO cadre held ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, Jan 1: Security forces apprehended a cadre of United Gorkha Peoples’ Organisation from Chetri Basti under Serfanguri PS today in Kokrajhar district. Based on a specific in-
formation, a joint team of security forces belonging to Army,CRPF and Police launched an operation in the general area of Sefanguri and managed to arrest a UGPO cadre from Chetri Basti,who is also likman of NDFB(S).
The cadre was identified as Dipak Kumar Newar Pradhan,of Chetri basti. The arrested was involved in money extortion, providing administrative support to NDFB(S) cadres. A pistol , ammunition was recovered from him.
Asom Gana Parishad wishe occasion of New Year A Staff Reporter Reporter, Jan 1 : The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) has wished the people of Assam on the occasion of New Year and expressed the hope that 2016 will usher in peace and prosperity in the State. Meanwhile, the APCC in its New Year greetings to the people of Assam said that it hopes peace and unity will prevail in 2016 and Assam will make rapid strides in all fronts. The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, Assam Pradesh, the Bharatiya Janata Party, Guwahati City District Committee have expressed that the
New Year will bring all people together to build a prosperous Assam. State BJP president Sarbananda Sonowal has declared that the BJP will work to build a powerful Assam on the foundation of values and ethics. Sonowal said that the party will ensure that the State makes progress socially, culturally and economically and will fulfil every aspiration of the common people. Sonowal also appealed to the youth to come forward and participate in the process of nation building. The
Sadou
Asam
ASTRO FOR YOU Confidence and independence create the perfect beginnings for a successful gathering of neighbors, with munchies and good wishes for the new year. Something special that you recorded along with a few pictures that others brought to show off brings lots of laughter and fun times to the scene. Snacks and chatter reign all afternoon and then all depart for home. You may have a hard time being clearheaded but you keep moving through your day. Patience seems to be with you today-learning what or why people do the things they do gives you an understanding about your own humanness. You love people and enjoy having plenty of people around you. You may find yourself spending a bit of time this morning in transferring files or updating your calendar for this new year. You may decide to post a couple of notes to yourself so you can feel more organized and prepared for the week ahead. A friend may come to you with personal problems this afternoon. You are able to get to the bottom of the story and help him or her discover a truth. You are most persuasive and convincing with others and today there are opportunities toward good communication. With everyone together today, you might find the lightweight person to send up to the attic in order to check some sound or a place from which a water leak may be occurring. One family member may have offered to help with a winter garden and you are elated. Healing comes from destroying the roots of a disturbance. You may be advising or counseling someone this afternoon but this will end with positive results. You may enjoy getting away from routine chores later so that you can visit with a friend. It may take several people, working together, to understand the workings of some new technical equipment today. A friend could be giving you expert advice-ask. Everything points to your taking the initiative. Lots of positive things are happening at this time. This morning you get a good start on some writing project. Poetry, short stories, whatever the case, you seem to have enough material to pull from in order to put some fun books together. Some of your favorite times are when you can hang out with friends and enjoy the day. You may have prepared for a feast or others have arranged a feast. Whatever the case, a gathering on this special day is a special treat. A study of future possibilities for your professional status may find you studying the many opportunities to improve, adapt, grow and achieve. Plans you may have made some time ago may be in the completion stages. Communicating feelings accurately and staying factual will help in solving some rather trivial issues this evening.
Inmates of BBCI cutting cake during New Year’s Day celebration at BBCI in Guwahati. Pic - UB Photos
Karmachari Parishad (SAKP) has prayed for peace and progress and said that the people of Assam must resolve to create a work culture in the New Year and create
an ambience of tolerance. The All Assam Minorities Students Union too has extended its greetings to the people of Assam.
Meanwhile, the Liberal Democratic Party has wished the people of Assam a very happy New Year and prayed to God for love and grace.
LETS PLAY CRICKET
You may have had some vision or feeling about some old thing around the house and decide to check out its worth. It may not be the worth that is important but the owner. You will have fun doing a bit of research and some of your searching could be over the internet.
PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights
2-1-16 (SATURDAY)
Members of media in Tinsukia pose for a photograph after winning a friendly match against National Chamber of Commerce.
6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 6-50 A.M-Lokageet 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto 8-35 A.M-Surar Satsori 9-05 A.M-Antara 11-30 A.M-Live Phone In Programme of KKHSOU 12-15P.M-Teachers' Broadcast 12-30P.M-Hindi Film Songs 2-00 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Jaga Grahak Jaagaa" 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-30 P.M-Mishing Geet 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani 7-45 P.M-Daakpakhili 8-00 P.M-Ekalabya (Sponsored Prog. of K.K.H.S.O.U) 8-30 P.M-Geetor Shorai 9-16 P.M-Barerahaniya
Sd-/H.O.P
PAGE 3
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
Release of Anup Chetia New year message from Nabam Tuki, will give impetus to Chief Minister, Arunachal Pradesh peace process in Assam Guwahati, Jan. 1 (ANI): The release of top United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) founding general Secretary Anup Chetia from jail is a sign that peace could return to Assam soon. Chetia's joining the pro-talk faction of the ULFA has only strengthened the peace initiative that the government of India had begun with the ULFA three-years ago. On November 24, ULFA general secretary Golap Baruah alias Anup Chetia was released from Guwahati central jail after 18 years of incarceration in Bangladesh and prisons in India. The court had granted him bail in the last of the four cases registered against him. Soon after the release, Chetia apologised for the 2004 Independence Day blast in Dhemaji, Assam. Thirteen people, including 10 school children, died in the incident. Chetia has pledged to never to take up arms and said he will join the ongoing peace process. "I render my sincere apology to the people of the state (Assam) who has lost their relatives and near and dear ones in our armed struggle. I thank the central and the state government for bringing me back from
Bangladesh and also express my gratitude towards the Awami League (BNP) government of Bangladesh. I assure the people of the state that we shall not repeat the mistake of 1992 where we backtracked from peace talks in the corridors of Delhi. Now situation is different. I would like to work for peace and would like to play my role in the ongoing tripartite peace dialogue between the centre, state and ULFA," said Chetia. Chetia was detained in Bangladesh in 1997 for illegally entering the country using a forged passport, and was found in possession of arms and foreign currencies. On November 11, 2015, Bangladesh handed over top ULFA leader Anup Chetia to India's Central Bureau of Investigation and he was brought to Guwahati on a transit remand. The release is seen as breakthrough in the ongoing talks between ULFA, the Centre and state government. "It is a major development where one of the important leaders has come to Guwahati and said that insurgency and terrorism will not solve any problem, he has come to join peace talks. Peace talks will get more momentum except Paresh Baruah who is leading other faction who is somewhere in China or Burma border but I believe
Anup Chetia's inclusion in peace talks will help peace talks and people of Assam will get good news from Chetia and the ULFA," said Naba Thakuria, Senior Journalist and Column Writer. However, Paresh Baruah, who is the head of military wing of ULFA, is continued to oppose to any peace talks. Experts believe the exclusion of the Baruah faction hinders the peace process. "Unless Paresh Baruah joins the peace talks there will be a little doubt which may create problem. Therefore, it should be the duty of Anup Chetia to please Paresh Baruah as they are cousins. So,Anup Chetia should take initiative to talk to Baruah and Baruah should himself understand that it is not 1970's or 90's but 2016, therefore, he should come back and join the peace talks and support the people of Assam," Thakuria added. In the last few decades, Assam has witnessed violence perpetrated by ULFA. In January 2007, the outfit struck in Assam killing approximately 62 Hindispeaking migrant workers, mostly from Bihar. However, hopes are high that peace will prevail in the state and there will be rapid development and prosperity.
Tripura gets broad gauge rail service Agartala, Jan. 1 (ANI): Recently, a new broad-gauge (BG) rail was launched at Dharmanagar in Tripura. Improving connectivity in the landlocked northeast region is one of the top most priorities of the government. A lot of focus is being given to enhance railway connectivity in the region. Tripura is reaping the peace dividends with rapid economic development and improving connectivity. A 69-year long dream of the people of the landlocked state came true when the first broad gauge engine reached at Dharmanagar station. Thousands of people gathered to welcome the first broad gauge train engine with joy and happiness.
first week of January. On September 20, the state bid adieu to meter gauge rail engine to pave the way for undertaking BG conversion work. “It is the first time that broad gauge engine has arrived here today at around 2.30 PM and I along with other arrived here at around 10 AM and since then many people of Dharmanagar has arrived here to express they joy and feeling. They welcomed the train along with the driver and we hope that very shortly passenger train will start service from Tripura,” said S K Paul, a local After running the BG railhead, the Northeast Frontier Railway is scheduled to bring ballast train to Agartala passing through all stations by
“Our dream has come true and the project has crossed its first step. The first BG engine rolling has completed on date up to Dharma agar from Badarpur and it will continue up to Agartala on this phase. Later on it will go up to Agartala and the rolling will be completed,” said S. DAS, Station Manager of Dharmanagar rail station Better connectivity will give a boost to the overall economic and social development in the Northeastern states. It will also enhance trade relationships and people to people contact within the country and with neighboring and ASEAN countries. (ANI)
Each New Year, we have before us a brand new book containing 365 blank pages. Let us fill them with all the forgotten things from last year - the words we forgot to say, the love we forgot to show, the commitment we forgot to implement and the charity we forgot to offer. Let’s dig within, and discover what we would like to happen in our lives this year. This will help us do our part. It is an affirmation that we are interested in fully living life in the year to come devoid of any negative vibes. Goals give us direction. They put a powerful force into play on a universal, conscious, and subconscious level. Goals give our life direction.
My goal – this year – is all set: To rededicate my heart and soul for the welfare of each district, each community, each religion, each family and each individual of my state. The seeds of development and new initiatives for welfare and well being of all classes of people have been put in place. My goal is to see these being implemented in the truest sense. This year will be another step forward in creating new opportunities for all to lead a happy and prosperous life. My commitment to provide a people friendly government to the citizens will continue with renewed vigour. As 2016 dawns, it is the time to reiterate our devotion and dedication to the welfare and development of our State. People of this state, no matter their faith, religion and tribe, are the ultimate power of the Government. We have to continuously move on towards prosperity. This is possible only when there is peace, unity and communal harmony. Let’s burry our differences, let’s forgive each other for our faults and drawbacks and let’s surge ahead as one unit – Team Arunachal. Let’s put back all the troubled times and work to ensure a bright future ahead. Let’s break the shackles of individual interests and contribute to the greater cause of our beloved Arunachal. Together we will do it! Wishing you all a very happy and prosperous 2016!
Experts discuss ways to transform Manipur economically Imphal, Jan. 1 (ANI): In a two-day seminar based on the theme “Economic Transformation in North East India Predicaments, Potentials and Policies”, experts gathered in Imphal recently to discuss ways to boost the economy of Manipur by implementing various central and statesponsored schemes. Economic transformation is the key to the development of the northeast region as it battles a high rate of unemployment, dwindling agricultural output and an unimpressive manufacturing sector. The event was organised by the Department of Economics, Manipur University, under the sponsorship of Indian Council for Social Science Research, New Delhi.
states. “Various aspects of the economy were discussed and on various academic platforms in the Northeast, but somehow, we seem to have let the north eastern region’s economy at the macro level. We also addressed the issues of agricultural stagnation, industrial growth, undirected growth of the service sector as a whole for the north east. That is why we have taken the issue of transforming the north eastern region’s economy in the regional context,” said Professor Priyoranjan Singh, the convener of the seminar Poor infrastructure combined with limited market access has hindered the development prospects of the landlocked north eastern
In recent times, several policies have been initiated to bring the economy of the Northeast region at par with the national economy. The government wants to create employment avenues for the youth. “Unemployment is a general problem. It is everywhere but in Manipur the official statistics shows that over 7 lakhs people are registered as unemployed,” said Dr. Hemanta Meitei, Associate Professor, Manipur University Recently, various skill development schemes, including National Digital Literacy Mission, Electronic System Design and Manu-
facturing and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yogana were launched in Imphal with an aim to provide training to local youth and generate employment avenues for them. This will bring the educated but unemployed youth to the mainstream and contribute largely to economic transformation in the region. The youth of the region wish to get employment, industrialists want more business and farmers are aspiring to enhance farm output. Northeastern states in India are lagging behind others because of decades’ long insurgency and violence. Gradually, things are changing and a new wave of economic prosperity is gaining momentum. (ANI)
Biometric enrollment of citizens A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Jan 1: Biometric enrollment of citizens under second phase of National Population Register (NPR) was carried out in Kurung Kumey District. A camp was set up at district headquarters Koloriang for the convenience of the public and enrollment of residents who have missed the first phase of NPR. Places covered during the 2nd round of BME included Phassang, Nyobia, Parsi Parlo, Sarli and Polosang circles. The second phase of BME in the district has registered 10 percent increase in enrollment.
NEROCA FC lifts CBE Memorial Football Tournament Imphal, Jan. 1 (ANI): Football is the most popular game among the youth in northeast. The 59th edition of Sir Churachand Singh KCSI CBE Memorial Football Tournament, popularly known as CC meet, was recently held in Manipur. Over 15,000 spectators cheered for their favourite teams. 21 teams participated in tournament held at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in Imphal. NEROCA football club (FC) and Southern Sporting Union (SSU) competed
GOOD SAMARITAN
against each other in the finals. The tournament was held under the aegis of All Manipur Football Association (AMFA). "We witnessed the closing function, the final match of the 59th edition of Sir Churachand Singh KCSI CBE Memorial Football Tournament. In this tournament, we witnessed a good game," said Ranjit Roy, General Secretary, All Manipur Football Association. The fourth time winner of the championship, NEROCA FC, got a cash prize of Rs. five lakh along with the trophy while the runner-ups Southern Sporting Union received Rs. two lakh and a trophy. "The match is good. Teams
are very strong here but in Manipur NEROCA is the best. We tried our best. Our coach, manager, everything came out best and we showed it our best," said Offor Emeka Christian, a player of
NEROCA FC. Football is not just a craze in northeast but it's a way of life. "Now, so many upcoming players have come out so
it's very good. In Manipur, football game has developed a lot. So, now we can play in the Ileague and will try our best to win the I-league," added another player Royaltha. (ANI)
Incumbency would be a factor in the upcoming Assam assembly polls but it cannot stop the Congress : Gogoi A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jan 1 : Incumbency would be a factor in the upcoming Assam assembly polls but it cannot stop the Congress from returning to power for the fourth consecutive term, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said today.
The 14 Assam Rifles donated computers to the students in Changlang in Arunachal Pradesh. ET Photo
"There is always pressure during elections. Besides, we will be facing the pressure of incumbency. Congress has to fight. But if it can win three consecutive elections, then why not a fourth time?" Gogoi told reporters during an
interaction here. He said that the pressure is not only but the BJP is also under considerable pressure as it faced recent defeats in several states like in Bihar, Delhi and Uttarkhand and even in panchayat polls as in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Gogoi said during election there is always a possibility of communal, divisive and even extremist forces raising their heads and these ultimately affect the course of development. "We have to fight
against these forces but the common man cannot be taken for granted or underestimated. The common man will take decision taking all factors into consideration and we have full confidence in him," he added. Asked how he gauged the pulse of the common man on the forthcoming assembly polls, Gogoi, who has helmed the state for the past three terms, said, "It was healthy. Neither very high nor very low and if my diagnosis is correct, the common man is with us and we
will return to power." He said 2015 was much better for Assam than 2014 as far as containing law and order and development was concerned. "There was remarkable improvement in law and order situation with less clashes, ethnic or insurgency related violence last year compared to the one previous to it," he said. The state also witnessed all-round development despite its "bandh and holiday culture" which leads to less working period, Gogoi added.
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DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
talents would avail the required exposure to show their talents. Noted Assamese cine actress Krishna Das Nath stated that 2015 was a year of achievement as she was awarded with the Kolaguru award. The artist who had attachment with the cultural icons like Kolaguru Bishnu Prashad Rabha, Natasurya Phani Sarma and Jyoti Prashad Agarwala further expected that if people come forward with a positive attitude then everything will be good in the days to come as expected by those cultural icons.
Hopes sustains life It is time for a new year again. After 365 days of many ups and downs in our society, once again a time has come to forget all the pasts and start the year with enthusiasm and with full of positive thoughts. So, given below are a few notes by some eminent personalities of our state. Alongwith the rest of the state as well as the nation the people from every walk of the society in Tezpur as well as the Sonitpur District witnessed many ups and down in the society during the year 2015 the common people here ultimately winded up with an optimistic view that the new year 2016 will be the year of hope and aspiration and will definitely bring a change for the common people. While interacting with this reporter at the advent of the 2016 the common people, noted litterateurs, academicians, artists, social workers, Satriya artist, sport
personalities, politicians etc. expressed their views that as the merit and demerits are like the two sides of a same coin, the good things amidst many unwanted incidents witnessed in the bygone year 2015, has to be kept in mind. Expressing grave concern over the sever social degradation witnessed during the year 2015 noted artist Anil Bhattacharya said that 2015 was not a hopeful and redeeming year. "A nation or a society's identity is reflected through its culture and heritages the responsibility of which is to be carried out by the folk artists, but during the 2015 it was not seen among the artists. Despite many potentialities it was seen remaining almost stereotype." He said that adding of the tune of soil is to be re-directed and the Folk artists have to take a responsibility to boost up the folk culture thereby reflecting the dignity of the
Assamese culture and nation. He also said that till date it has witnessed that some anti-cultured people have collapsed the cultural field and these elements are to be disseminated through creating a better cultural environment. Echoing the same, noted radio artist Durgamoyee Bora, said that new comers in the field of music and art and culture will have to carry out a responsibility. "Besides building our career we will have to take a responsibility of creating good audience through our creation or activity." She said, apart from the political scenario of 2015 everything was almost good as amidst many unwanted incidents a number of positive works were also witnessed and expected that the 2016 will bring a ray of hope among the people. She also urged the media to play a positive role in taking forward the society.
Dr. Satish Bhattacharya, Punyabrata Deva Goswami, a prominent writer and se- Satradhikar, Nikamul Satra nior citizen of the district alleged that during the year shared his feeling on how 2015 apart from political was the by-gone year 2015 chaos and intolerance and said that though in the among the politicians nothfield of literature and cul- ing positive was witnessed. ture certain remarkable However, he expects that achievement were wit- the 2016 will bring a time nessed but the political en- wherein the common vironment was quite exas- people will have an environment perating to live a which has Shambhu Boro peaceful created a life. He negative trend among the people. urged the politicians to give However, he expects that priority in public's welfare the New Year 2016 would in the place of personal inbring a change which obvi- terest. ously will be for the betterWriter Mrinali Chetia ment of our society. "The general election in the state said that during 2015 she will held very shortly, a new has witnessed many ups and government will come; down which in the real whoever come to the power, sense could not deliver any that is not a question for me, positive sign to the people. I do expect it will be sincere Meanwhile she expected in dealing with the issues that in the year 2016 people like unabated infiltration from all concerned particuproblem in the region, kill- larly the politicians and the government will give prioring of rhino etc." ity in solving the burning On the otherhand, issues like flood and ero-
NGO Navarupantar Celebrates its foundation day ET Correspondent Doomdooma , Dec 1 : Navarupantar, a Doomdooma based NGO on Friday celebrated its foundation day here at Doomdooma. It was founded on 26th of December 2006. A public meeting was organized at Moran Kolakristi Vikash Kendra at Rupai Siding to mark the occasion. Khitish Chandra Kakoti , the Block Development Officer ( BDO ) of Saikhowa Development Block inaugurated the meeting by lightning the earthen lamp . Journalist Abhijit Khataniar , Retired pro-
Girl rape allege Sonepat, Jan 1: Ankit (29) of Bhainswal Kalan village has alleged raped a girl of his village at Rohtak on the intervening night of December 29 and 30. On her complaint, a case of rape has been registered against him in sadar police station, Gohana and Ankit's aunt has been booked for allegedly conspiring in the case. In her complaint to the police, girl alleged that Ankit's aunt took her to Gohana on December 29 and left her with Ankit who took her to Rohtak and raped her during the night despite her opposition. She further stated that she managed to escape on December 30 and after coming back to the village, reported the matter to her family members.
fessor of Doomdooma College Ramesh Goswami , along with BDO Kakoti addressed the meeting . In the meeting the works of the NGO was highlighted. While delivering the welcome address, Secretary of the NGO Dr Anjan Saikia said that since its inception Navarupantar has been working for the upliftment of the society especially for the youths of rural areas. He added in the year 2009-10, Nehru Yuva Kendra, Tinsukia awarded the NGO as the best youth organization at Tinsukia district.
Addressing the meeting , the managing director of the NGO ,Mukunda Borah , said that Navarunpantar has imparted training to 950 youths on cutting and tailoring beautician , toy making ,dress designing and jewellery making under various schemes and majority of these youths could able to become self- dependent. Moreover, Navarupantar has been running a computer institute at RupaiSiding and around 200 students of rural areas have already been benefited through this institute. The NGO has established 35 self-help group (SHG) in the rural areas
Foundation day celebrates in Golaghat ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 1: Golaghat Jatiya Vidyalay is going to celebrate its Foundation day on January 5, 2016. One of the leading institutions of Town Golaghat Jatiya
Vidyalay will mark the day with one day program in which PWD minister Ajanta Neog is going to inaugurate the ‘Touran’. The Headmistress Taru Gogoi has requested the people to attend the program.
Merapani gets Subdivision nod ET Correspondent Golaghat, Jan 1: The first day of the year 2016 has brought good news for the people of Merapani area in Golaghat. Chief Minister of Assam Tarun Gogoi today declared 14 new subdivisions. Among the newly declared subdivisions Golaghat District’s Merapani is remarkable. Merapani is located at Assam Nagaland Border in
Golaghat and has been on headlines more often for border dispute. Gogoi declared Merapani as a subdivision which is welcomed by the people of the region and several organizations like AASU, AJYCP, opposition parties like AGP and BJP. Golaghat District Journalist Association also welcomed the decision and urged to implement the decision. (Correspondent)
500 books donates by Dr. Baldev Raj Sharma
Donated books displayed in the library hall of Bright Scholar senior secondary school at Sonepat on Thursday. Pic -BSMalik
Sonepat, Jan 1: Dr. Baldev Raj Sharma, a renowned educationist
and retired Professor of Delhi University has donated 500 books as
New Year gift for the students of local Bright Scholar Senior Secondary School. The purpose of these books is to inculcate the reading habits in the students and know about the Indian cultural heritage, Indian history, freedom fighters and super heroes of India and above of all the ancient Indian wisdom. In his message, Dr Sharma stated "Books are the best friends books and have been distributed to spread the message of utilizing their time through reading good books."
and Deepjyoti Navarupantar Atmasahayak Got of Rupai-Siding Shantipur received the best SHG award of Tinsukia district in the Independence Day this year. A few youths who have established themselves after taking training from this NGO were felicitated in the meeting along with the instructors who imparted them training. Over 200 people from Kakopathar , Tongona kordoiguri , Talap etc. attended the meeting. The meeting was anchored by Mukunda Borah.
ET Correspondent Tezpur, Jan 1: The 1st ASHA Convention, of Sonitpur was held recently at Joymoti Pothar field here. The convention chaired by the Deputy Commissioner cum Chairperson, DHS, Sonitpur, Laya Madduri was graced by M G V K Bhanu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Assam and attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Health) NA Laskar, Dr. Juri Bhattacharyya, Joint Director of Health Services, Sonitpur, Shailaja Padmapati, Social Activist and Ex Principal, Tezpur College along with all the Sub Divisional Medical &
Contd. from Page 1
The District administration in association with Dibrugarh Municipal Board, HDFC Bank and Marwari Yuva Manch or-
Tea Associations, which have filed a case against state government's wage enhancement notification, will be urged to agree to the revised rate in their respective gardens in the interest of tea workers.
It is to be noted that the public of Naharktai, various students and non-students union has been fighting for this demand
Health Officers. Approximately 1700 ASHAs among the 1806 ASHAs were also present with the ASHA Supervisors of the 8 Block PHCs. Dr. Juri Bhattacharyya, Joint Director of Health Services, Sonitpur, Tezpur conveyed her gratitude to all the 1700 ASHAs and 161 ASHA Supervisors present in the convention for their support and services towards the department and for excellent public service related to health and welfare of the society. Attending the event as Chief Guest, Additional Chief Secretary, M G V K Bhanu gave away the award to the Best 8 ASHAs with trophies and certificates from each
blocks under the specific criteria mentioned such as 100% Institutional Delivery, Zero Home Delivery, Full Immunization and maximum family planning services, towards which they had excelled in rendering their services while additional CS encouraged the gathering with a supportive and motivating speech. He also wanted to know from the ASHAs about their field experiences, problems and issues (if any) and grievances and requested them to share with the house on the occasion. Additional Deputy Commissioner (Health) NA Laskar pointed out that ASHA Supervisors are receiving fixed TA &
ganized an awareness drive amongst people to avoid plastic bags in New market area today.
Year wish and the appealed them to use jute/ paper bags instead of Plastic bags.
They distributed free jute bags to the people who were carrying Plastic carry bags near the vegetables market.
"Since the ban has already been imposed on the sale and use of Plastic carry bags, we will take strict action if it still continues" said M.S.Manivannan, DC, Dibrugarh.
The organizers first greeted people with New
Abducted businessman rescued by army-police, 2 arrested ET Correspondent Rangia, Jan 1: In a brilliantly executed joint operation with Assam police, the army last night rescued a businessman Hajarat Ali who was kidnapped by some miscreants on Dec 29 from Tulsibari Bazar under Rangia police station in Kamrup district. Based on a specific intelligence,
Naharkatia declared new Sub division ET Correspondent Naharkatia,Dec 1: A long pending demand of Naharkatia public came true today when Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi announced 15 new subdivision in Assam as a New year gift, where Naharkatia name was also included, which bought a festive like environment in and around the town.
over what he has gained during the year 2015 said that it was a year of achievement for him for the sports field and he expects that in the days to come the sports
Awareness drive to avoid plastic A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 1: Dibrugarh district Administration initiated a unique drive today to curb use of Plastic carry bags in the town.
Wage enhancement of Tea workers in Assam Tea Corporation gardens was also being considered to Rs 177 per day from February 1, 2016, the Chief minister said.
sion, infiltration problem etc. Noted sport personality, Director of sports, Tezpur University Pankaj Bora expressing his satisfaction
1st ASHA Convention of Sonitpur held
Religious intolerance affects the development process of the state and we cannot allow it : Gogoi The other two schemes are Chief Minister's Bagan Jal scheme for providing drinking water for workers of tea gardens and Bagan Bus Scheme to provide public bus service facilities for them.
Mrinali Chetia
Veteran politician, senior AGP Leader, Brindaban Goswami said that during the 2015 the possible changes in the country particularly in the state of Assam that was expected by the common people could not be delivered by the BJP government. "The region has been paralysed with a number of problems and which were expected by the people that it would be addressed by the BJP government, but unfortunately it has been neglected which has frustrated the common people."
which came true today and the public of Naharkatia are happy with the gift they have got from Assam Chief Minister. It is worth mentioning that the original Dibrugarh district had been divided into three districts — Lakhimpur, Tinsukia and Dibrugarh. But Lakhimpur and Tinsukia districts have already got subdivisions ,whereas the original Dibrugarh district has been deprived of even a single subdivision but now Dibrugarh too has got sub-division.
a search operation was launched at Latibari under Bagsa district on Dec 31 night and subsequently the youth was rescued from a hideout. Two miscreants were also apprehended along with arms & ammunition. The apprehended individuals were identified as Amit Kumar of Bihar and Riyon Das of
Latibari. 2 sophisticated 9 mm pistols and one .303 rifle with ammunitions were also recovered from their possession. Rangia police is interrogating Hajarat Ali at Rangia police station. On the other hand, the miscreants were being interrogating at Tamulpur army camp police sources informed.
DA in addition to their incentive. Dr Durlov Saikia, District Surveillance Officer, IDSP, Sonitpur thanked all the ASHA workers and told that ASHA workers are an integral part of health sector as they provide 24X7 services. He also acknowledged ASHAs for eradicating Polio from the country with tremendous efforts. Dr Saikia also briefly explained the incentive manual or the handbooks for ASHAs which has already been distributed to all the 8 blocks PHCs that contains all the scheme wise incentive in local language. He ensured the clearance of incentives to the ASHAs within the time frame.
Evening OPD in kanaklata civil hospital inaugurated ET Correspondent Tezpur, January 1 : An evening OPD was inaugurated at Kanaklata civil hospital here at heart of the town today the deputy commissioner Sonitpur, Laya Madduri at a brief inaugural function. Besides other dignitaries, the inaugural function was attended by ADC NA Laskar and Dr Juri Bhattacharyya, joint director, District Health society, Sonitpur. Speaking on the occasion, DSO Dr. Durlov Saikia said that the evening OPD services will be functional from today as per the notification and guideline issued by health and family welfare department, Government of Assam and it will be available during all seven days of the week and timing of OPD services shall be 5:00 - 8:00 Pm during April to September and from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. During October to March.
CULTURAL MARCH
Girls in traditional attire take up in a procession taken out today as a part of Maharajat Jayanti of Tarajan Gayangaon Bornamghar. Pic - Nekib Ahmed
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REGION
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
Manipur bills: Tribals intensify protest Imphal, Jan 1: As the fate of the three controversial bills passed by the Manipur assembly continues to hang in balance, the tribal population has intensified its agitation demanding an unconditional withdrawal of the bills that have been sent to the president for his assent. This is likely to lead to a confrontation with the non-tribal Meitei groups who want the bills to be implemented as soon as possible. The tribals have said that the three bills were against their interests, though officials have denied this. Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh had earlier said there were no clauses in the bills which were anti-tribal or "will victimise them once these become Acts". The bills, to which the protestors have taken objection, are Protection of Manipur Peoples Bill, 2015; Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms Bill, 2015; and Manipur
BJP's 1-year tenure marked by poaching MLAs: Marandi Ranchi, Jan 1: Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Babulal Marandi on Wednesday alleged that the BJP-led NDA regime's one year in office was marked by "poaching MLAs from our Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik-JVM)". "The BJP/Ajsu party got 42 MLAs in the assembly elections, a year back. Then they took away six of our MLAs, violating the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution," Marandi told a press conference here. "This was their wrong beginning," Marandi, president of the JVM alleged. Countering Chief Minister Raghubar Das' December 28 'report card' on the state government's one year performance, Marandi stated that the rule was filled with "deteriorating law and order situation, laxity in the distribution of ration cards and corruption at a colliery project." (Agencies)
Man Held for Twin Rape Attempts in Meghalaya Shillong, Jan. 1: A woman and her daughter resisted the rape attempt by a miscreant from Warmawsaw village in Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya recently leading to his arrest. The accused identified as Welcome Nongbak (35), who hails from Warmawsaw village, tried to rape the 37-year-old woman in the quarter of St Thomas School, Warmawsaw, Patharkhmah, when she was cooking for a teacher and his friends on December 27. The relatives said that victim sustained injury on the face while fighting the rapist. The woman could not immediately go home as she was afraid that the accused would be hiding somewhere nearby. The accused later entered the house of the victim at around 5.30 pm and tried to molest the victim's 13-year-old daughter who was sleeping. However, she woke up and resisted his attempt. The accused was later arrested. In a statement issued to the media on Tuesday, CSWO president Agnes Kharshiing, who is following up the case, while condemning the incident urged the authorities to deliver speedy justice to rape victims. According to Kharshiing, due to the delay in the trial of rape cases, the perpetrators feel that they can get away with such heinous crimes against women and children, as can be figured out from the growing rate of such crimes. Kharshiing said that the state government should provide transportation to victims from their home to the Court and back, when they are asked to give their statements in Court so that they do not have to spend money from their pockets, as there are times the victims are made to come many times when Judges are on other duties.(Agencies)
Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh Shops and Establishments Bill, 2015. Deputy CM Gaikhangam Gangmei had said that people were "skim-reading the bills and misleading the public" and added that no tribal organisation had pointed out the specific clauses which were being described as anti-tribal. H Mangchinkhup, chief convenor of the Joint Action Committee (JAC), said: "We cannot accept the as-
surance of the Manipur government that the bills would not hurt tribal interests. Such an assurance should come from the Indian government representative." The JAC was formed to spearhead the movement against what they called were anti-tribal Bills. The bills have divided the tribals and the Meitei population in the state. The Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System
(JCILPS), a group demanding the enforcement of the three bills, had earlier set December 15 as the deadline for the Manipur government to implement the bills. Ratan Khomdram of the JCILPS said a memorandum had been submitted to the chief minister setting January 3, 2016, as the new deadline. "After that, we shall go ahead (with our plan) in consultation with the people," The agitation on Tuesday took an ugly turn in the Churachandpur district of the state after thousands of tribal women came out on the streets to block vehicular movement, preventing the chief minister and other cabinet ministers from attending the inauguration of two power stations. The move was dubbed by the tribals as an effort to appease the tribal population. "It appears that as a ploy, the government suddenly remembered it had power houses ready to be commis-
sioned -- something which had not been done in the last four years," Mangchinkhup said The agitation, during which all the roads to Churachandpur were blocked, resulted in the chief minister having to use a helicopter to reach the location. However, the crowd did not show much enthusiasm for the inauguration. On returning to Imphal, the CM held a meeting with the 16-member team of the JAC. But the parties could not reach any conclusion. The JAC had submitted a three-point charter of demands to the government demanding a special session of the assembly to
withdraw the bills. The hilly parts of the state have been simmering with violence since August 30 when the bills were passed by the state assembly. Nine tribal people have died in the violence in Churachandpur district since then. In addition to the three bills, the problem in Manipur has continued for over six months, and it initially started as a protest against the Manipur Regulation of Visitors, Tenants and Migrant Workers Bill, 2015. The bill was later withdrawn follwing the death of a ninth-standard student during a protest. (Agencies)
"We cannot accept the assurance of the Manipur government that the bills would not hurt tribal interests. Such an assurance should come from the Indian government representative."
Hope floats for peace after guns fall silent in GH Shillong, Jan 1: After the mindless extortions, kidnappings and killings which the Garo Hills region witnessed throughout the year, the guns of security forces and the militants have fallen silent for more than a week thanks to the festive atmosphere. A state government official admitted that there was an extortion spree and difficult times in the run upto the festivals in Garo Hills. Good times started just before Christmas. Other parts of the state also witnessed peace as there were no violent incidents reported for the last ten days. When
contacted, Home Minister Roshan Warjri admitted that the state is going through a peaceful phase. She also thanked the people and the faith based organizations, civil society members and individuals for their efforts in restoring peace in the state. She said that police with the support of the public have worked together to maintain peace in Garo Hills and hoped that the same trend would continue. "We pray for peace harmony in the days to come and let the same continue throughout the year", Warjri said. The Home Minister assured that the govern-
ment will continue to work for the welfare of the people. West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi pointed out the contrast between Khasi Hills and Garo Hills as the former is currently abuzz with a lot of activities compared to the past. According to Bakshi, during the days when HNLC was active, Khasi Hills resembled Garo Hills as there was law and order problems resulting in fear coupled with less flow of tourists to Shillong. "Look at the situation now in Khasi Hills and other towns. While in the past people were scared to come
to Shillong, the present peaceful scenario with no insurgency has attracted large number of tourists even during winter", Bakshi said. Besides, after Nepal earthquake, there was boom in the flow of tourists to Shillong considering the peaceful situation. The trend for the last few years is that there is huge rush for New Year shows in Shillong too, he added. However, Bakshi said that signs of change are visible at the fag end of year in Garo Hills. The problem zones are momentary just like in Mizoram which witnessed peace compared to the trouble torn days in the
past. "As everyone longs for permanent peace, We hope that it is definitely going to be a good sign and the signing of peace pact with UALA and surrenders of many cadres will also motivate other groups to join the mainstream in the days to come", he said. A senior police official admitted that in November and December, 2015, there were a series of surrender of militants and signing of peace pact with a militant outfit besides arrests of members of splinter groups in Garo Hills and he hoped that if the same momentum continues, peace will be restored. (Agencies)
CM recounts Sikkim's success in New Year message Sikkim, Jan 1: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and Smt. Tika Maya Chamling have extended heartiest New Year greetings to the people of Sikkim. The Chief Minister in his message has said, "As we bid adieu to the year gone by, let us welcome the New Year with hope, optimism, clarity of mind, and great vigour and enthusiasm to achieve our goals. Let us pray that the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling coming year brings peace, happiness and development for the Sikkimese to make a the most of the opporState. I would also like collaborative and coor- tunities at hand, and to call upon my fellow dinated effort to make contribute in their own
capacities for the welfare of the State and the nation". The Chief Minister said Sikkim is a leading State in several key areas of governance. The awards and accolades bagged by Sikkim at various important forums at the national level is testimony to the standards that we have risen to. He also thanked and congratulated his cabinet colleagues, MLAs, panchayats, members of Urban Local Bodies, officers and staff of the State government, media, and above all the people of Sikkim, for
their valuable contributions towards the State. Delving on the Prime Minister's ensuing Sikkim visit when Sikkim will be declared a total Organic State, Chamling added that this unique distinction will bring with it immense demand of agricultural produce. He appealed to the people of Sikkim to take advantage of this opportunity and reap the benefits and urged everyone to imbibe a sense of pride and ownership towards the State and contribute responsibly to take Sikkim to newer heights. (Agencies)
Saradha scam: Mitra denied bail, judicial custody extended
Madan Mitra Kolkata, Jan 1: Rejecting his bail plea, a city court on Thursday extended the judicial remand of Trinamool Congress lawmaker and Saradha scam accused Madan Mitra till January 14. Mitra was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation on December 12, 2014, for his alleged complicity in the multi-crore-rupee scam. He stepped down as the state transport minister in November. Pressing for bail, Mitra's counsel contended that the CBI's assertion of him being an influential person did not stand as he was no more a minister. The counsel also pleaded for his bail on health grounds.The
CBI has been repeatedly opposing Mitra's bail plea contending he was an influential person and granting him bail would adversely affect the investigation. The court of Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Sougata Roy Chowdhury extended his judicial custody by 14 days. Arrested and indicted by the CBI on charges of cheating, conspiracy and criminal breach of trust, Mitra was granted bail by a lower court on October 31. However, the relief was subsequently cancelled by the Calcutta High Court on November 19 and he has been in judicial custody since then. (Agencies)
LPG bulk tankers to ply via Bangladesh Agartala, Jan 1: Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) will carry LPG bulk tankers through Bangladesh for its proposed new bottling plant in Tripura, a minister said on Wednesday. "For easier transportation of LPG bulk tankers from outside the state for the proposed LPG bottling plant, the IOC would ferry bulk tankers using Bangladeshi ports and roads," Tripura Food and Civil Supplies Minister Bhanulal Saha told reporters here. nThe stateowned Food Corporation of India (FCI) has earlier ferried 35,000 tonnes of rice from Andhra Pradesh and Kolkata to Tripura via Bangladesh. Several ships carried rice to Ashuganj river port in Bangladesh. From Ashuganj port, Bangladeshi trucks ferried the rice to FCI warehouses in Nandannagar in Agartala. Transportation via Bangladesh is much easier as road connectivity is a major issue for the mountainous northeastern states which share boundaries with Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Bhutan and China. There is only a narrow
land corridor to the northeastern region through Assam and West Bengal but this route passes through hilly terrain with steep gradients and multiple hairpin bends, making plying of vehicles, especially loaded trucks, very difficult. Agartala via Guwahati is 1,650 km from Kolkata by road and 2,637 km from New Delhi, while the distance between Agartala and Kolkata via Bangladesh is just about 620 km. Earlier in 2012, Bangladesh had allowed state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation to ferry heavy machinery, turbines and over-dimensional cargoes through Ashuganj port for the 726-MW Palatana mega power project in southern Tripura. The minister said: "The IOC would set up a LPG bottling plants in Bodhjungnagar industrial estate (25 km from Agartala) in western Tripura to meet the growing crisis of cooking gas in Tripura." He said the proposed bottling plant would produce 18,000 LPG cylinders per day. (Agencies)
UNC: Withdraw Manipur Commandos from Indo-Naga Cease Fire Area Imphal, Jan. 1: The United Naga Council (UNC) has sought the immediate intervention of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the "indiscriminate firing" against civilians by Manipur State Police Commandos on December 27. In a memorandum submitted to the Home Minister on December 30, the UNC requested for "communal State forces" of Manipur that are "deployed at IndoNaga Cease Fire areas be withdrawn immediately for the good." Calling for an 'independent inquiry' to be established to "find the truth" of the December 27
incident, the Council urged the Government to "deliver justice to the innocent victims immediately." The UNC informed Rajnath Singh that in the evening of December 26, at around 7 pm, a Christmas gathering in K. Somrei Naga village in Senapati and Ukhrul districts, under Nongpok Sekmai Police station of Thoubal District, was disrupted by some Manipur Police Commando personnel. The UNC alleged that the personnel had "abused, molested, assaulted and maligned the modesty of innocent girls" before the public of the village. The
Council then stated that on the evening of December 27, one person was "brutally beaten up causing serious injury" by police personnel posted at Anupam Bridge Concrete Infrastructure (ABCI) Pvt. Ltd. Company Camp at the said village. "The local folks angered by their repeated harassment approached the Police Commando Post protesting and demanding justice into the incidents," the memorandum stated. However, the ensuing exchange of verbal clash resulted in public injuries "when the commandos opened fire indiscrimi-
nately injuring 4 (four) persons including a widow and a school teacher and 2 (two) students were wounded while another 4 (four) persons were brutally assaulted and detained," accused the UNC in the memorandum. Furnishing names and details of all those who were injured in the incident, the UNC affirmed that if its requests for justice to the Home Ministry are not met, agitation by the people of the area "may resume" in which the UNC may be "obliged to extend solidarity to the victims and demand for maintenance of
Human Rights for every citizen of the country with special case to this area." It was also informed that after the incident, the civilians were further "harassed, driven out and in the event, the panicky local folks suffered immense humiliation and remorse." "The public have failed to find justice against the unruly behavior of the Police Commando Personals who disrupted the whole Christmas Celebrations," the memorandum noted. UNC reminded the Union Home Minister of the experience of the Naga people living in Manipur State at Mao Gate
in May 2010 (killing two and injuring several others), or at Ukhrul town in August 2014 (killing two and injuring several others) and the killing of 9 tribal people in Churachandpur in AugustSeptember 2015 and now the K. Somrei incident on December 27-all involved the Manipur Police Commandos. "The State communal forces have constantly shown apathy and ill-will against the Peaceful Civilians of the Hill Areas particularly the 4 Naga Districts of Chandel, Senapati, Ukhrul and Tamenglong where Indo-Naga Cease Fire has been in place. The
one and half decade old peace talk should not be hijacked by evil elements and International festival should be left alone," the UNC asserted in the memorandum. While reiterating their demand for human rights to be maintained, the UNC stated that "State sponsored elements and sabotaging forces should not be allowed to go on unchecked while the people are prayerfully and hopefully aspiring for the final stage of the Frame Work Agreement which would bring permanent peace in the region."(Agencies)
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
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Kejriwal carpools with ministers on Day One of 'Odd-Even' scheme New Delhi, Jan.1: The roll out of 'Odd-Even' scheme on Friday saw Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal joining cabinet ministers Gopal Rai and Satyendra Jain in a car pool to reach the Delhi Secretariat. "I am truly overwhelmed by the response we have received so far. Delhiites have made an impossible task possible," Kejriwal told media before leaving for the Delhi Secretariat. "By and large, the people of Delhi have welcomed this
Five killed after bus rams into tanker in Jodhpur Jodhpur, Jan.1: At least five people were killed and fifteen others were injured after a bus rammed into a tanker in Rajasthan's Jodhpur District early on friday. The accident took place around 8: 30a.m. this morning. The injured were immediately taken to the nearby hospital. (ANI)
Neighbour of San Bernardino shooters indicted on terrorism charge London, Jan.1: A former neighbour of the San Bernardino shooters has been indicted by a grand jury with conspiring to give material support to the couple. Enrique Marquez had been accused of supplying assault rifles to the couple. The indictment issued accuses Marquez with conspiring with San Bernardino gunman Syed Rizwan Farook in 2011 and 2012 to support a terrorist attack that was never carried out, as well as making false statements to federal authorities about the purchase of two assault rifles used in the deadly shooting. The indictment succeeds a criminal complaint filed earlier this month. Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, carried out the ISIS-inspired carnage at a gathering at the Inland Regional Center on December 2, killing 14 people. (ANI)
now. I had earlier also said that this can only be implemented if people follow it with their hearts and it becomes a movement," he added. Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra was also seen using a bike to reach his office. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who has an odd-numbered car, also asserted Chief Minister that he would strictly Arvind Kejriwal abide by the 'Odd-Even' (Odd-Even formula) and formula and would be this is being very success- using his bicycle to go to fully implemented till office on even dates. "I
have an odd-numbered car and I would be using that on odd dates. While on even days, I would be using my bicycle to go to office. From there, if I would have to go somewhere, then I would pool in with my colleagues," he said. For 15 days from Friday, private vehicles will be allowed only on alternate days in a big step to clean up one of the world's most polluted capitals. Only odd-numbered cars are allowed on the roads on Friday.
Those found violating the rule will be fined Rs. 2,000. Initially, the scheme will be on trial basis for 15 days. VIPs, women drivers, CNGcertified vehicles, twowheelers and those carrying the differently-
"I am truly overwhelmed by the response we have received so far. Delhiites have made an impossible task possible,"- Says Kejriwal
ary 5. Various provisions of the memorandum of agreement of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration ( G TA ) , w h i c h w e r e inked in 2010, will be discussed during the
meeting. Morcha Secretary Roshan Giri informed about the news and said that top morcha leaders will leave for Delhi by Monday. Giri said they have received a letter from the Cen-
tre-State relations department about the Ministry of Home Affairs having decided to hold a meeting on January 5. He asserted that they will be raising several issues referred in GTA
agreement in the meeting. The Morcha said it wants the Centre and the state to explore the possibility of providing tax waiver, incentives and subsidies to the GTA area. (ANI)
BJP questions Delhi Govt. for ignoring LG in annual diary New Delhi, Dec. 31: Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Legislative Assembly Vijender Gupta on Thursday accused the Delhi Government of deliberately omitting the name of Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung from the annual diary with an "intention to disrespect the constitutional post". "The elimination of the Lieutenant Governor' name and office from the
Vijender Gupta official diary of the Delhi Government is disrespect to the constitutional post.
This is for the first time that such documents of the Delhi Government having no mention of the LG office," Gupta told reporters here. "We feel the diary is incomplete without the mention of the LG office. We equally believe that this was done with "bad intentions, with an aim to deliberately disrespect the Lt. Governor of Delhi," he added. Gupta further dis-
played the Delhi Government's diary of 2012 where the name of the LG is listed at the top. He asked, "We want to ask the assembly speaker and the Delhi Government that what their intentions are, and why they are insulting a constitutional arrangement?" Referring to the rule book of the state government, Gupta pointed out that the position of the LG has a
Delhi Police urges people to cooperate in implementing Odd-Even scheme New Delhi, Jan.1: Delhi Police Commissioner Bhim Sain Bassi on Friday appealed to the people of Delhi to cooperate for the successful implementation of the odd-even formula for the next 15 days. "Our focus primarily today is on educating people about the scheme. Action will be taken against
people violating the scheme. I would like to appeal to the people of Delhi to cooperate with us for the next 15 days and help us in successfully implementing the oddeven formula," Bassi told here. The odd-even scheme for cars to curb vehicular pollution in the national capital came into
effect this morning. For 15 days from friday, private vehicles will be allowed only on alternate days in a big step to clean up the world's most polluted capital. Those found violating the rule will be fined Rs. 2,000. Initially, the scheme will be on trial basis for 15 days. The VIPs, women drivers,
CNG-certified vehicles, two-wheelers and those carrying the differentlyabled are among the 25 categories which are exempted from the scheme. However, the exemption will not apply to Delhi Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues as they have decided to abide by the rule. (ANI)
Land-losers protest against IOCL Paradip, Jan 1: Members of displaced families and landlosers under the banner of Bhumihara Krushak Ekta Manch demonstrated at Kujang and vowed to stage a protest when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the Paradip Refinery Project of IOCL, if the company fails to provide employment to them before the formal inauguration of the project. Trade union leaders delivered fiery speeches lambasting both the IOCL and the district administration for neglecting the displaced persons. About 3330 acres of private land was acquired for the project in the year 1998. Earlier, project authority and state government had assured the affected people of reasonable compensation and proper rehabilitation. But none of that was done and the project is ready for inauguration by the PM next month, said the leaders. Addressing the gathering, trade union leader Abhay Sahu denounced the IOCL for its indifferent attitude towards displaced persons and land losers. Holding IOCL responsible for the misery of the locals, Sahu said, "Those who have been displaced have neither been offered any employment nor rehabilitated so far. We have united to protest the visit of the PM for inauguration of the refinery next month. If our demands are not met before the inauguration we will intensify our agitation in a big way." IOCL has to implement the Rehabilitation and Re-
abled are among the 25 categories that have been exempted from the scheme. However, the exemption will not apply to Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues as they have decided to abide by the rule. (ANI)
Centre invites Gorkha Janmukti Morcha for tripartite talks New Delhi, Jan.1: The Centre has decided to convene a tripartite meeting with the West Bengal Government and the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha here on Janu-
settlement policy 2006 of the Odisha government despite the fact that it started work in the year 2000, said the speakers. They noted that the Rehabilitation and Peripheral Advisory Committee (RPDAC) meeting on the project had decided to rehabilitate land losers and provide compensation to them as per the 2006 policy. Trade union leader Navin Kumar Das said the RPDAC meeting in September 2010 had also favored employment of land-losers but this has been ignored by the firm. We will paralyze IOCL machinery and work if our demands are not fulfilled. The company should provide jobs and build a rehabilitation colony for the 143 displaced families with health and sanitation facilities etc, he said. IOCL acquired 3,300 hectares of private land for its oil refinery and had paid Rs 49 crore as compensation to the affected families in 17 villages under Kujang tehsil in Jagatsinghpur district. India demands UNSC to consult more with troop-contributing nations Admitting that its consultation process with countries contributing troops to peacekeeping operations was flawed, the UN Security Council has called for regular and broader consultations, a demand India has consistently pushed throughout last year. These developments cap the tenure of Asoke Kumar Mukerji, who is retiring as India's Permanent Representative. He
had waged a constant battle to get the Council to properly consult with troop-contributing countries as it issues and monitors peacekeeping mandates. The Council recognised that the consultation process involving it, the troop contributors and the UN Secretariat "do not meet their expectations and have yet to reach their full potential," US Permanent Representative Samantha Power, the Council President for December, said in a statement released Thursday. "The Security Council stresses the importance of substantive, representative and meaningful exchanges and underscores the importance of full participation by the three stakeholders so that meetings are useful and productive," Power said. In June in one of several speeches at UN debates, on peacekeeping, Mukerji had crticised the Council saying it was "enforcing the will of a small privileged minority within the Council to look at peacekeepers as instruments to wage war." He cited its disregard of the UN Charter requirement for nations contributing troops "to participate in the decisions" of the Council on their deployment. "India, for example, has not been so consulted," he said. "This despite the fact that India is the single largest contributor of troops to UN peacekeeping operations, having contributed more than 170,000 troops in 43 of the 69 peacekeeping operations mandated so far by the Council." India cur-
rently has 7,798 personnel serving the peacekeeping operations. In her statement released Thursday, Power called for extending the scope of the interactions between the Council, the Secretariat and the troopcontributors. "These consultations must extend beyond the issue of mandates of operations, and to areas such as safety and security of peacekeepers, strategic force generation, gender, conduct and discipline, including allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse, implementation of protection of civilian mandates, capability, performance, equipment and national caveat," she said. The US role in shepherding the commitment through the Council in the waning days of 2015 during Power's presidency adds to its weight. With the US military capability overextended, President Barack Obama has in a break from the past shown interest in rejuvenating UN peacekeeping operations. He had convened an international summit on the subject in September. The Council also recognised the troop-contributing countries' on-theground expertise. Power said, "The experience and expertise of troop- and police-contributing countries in theatres of operation can greatly assist the planning of operations." India has stressed the importance of continuing consultations to make use of the reservoir of experiences peacekeepers
have. During a recent interview with , Mukerji gave an example of the situation in South Sudan where Indian peacekeepers are deployed. Rights to graze cattle sparked conflicts between groups and these escalated, he said. While the Indian troops on the ground, who had been trained professionally to observe the conflict environment, were aware of it, the information had no avenue to reach the Council or the higher UN echelons, thus missing an opportunity to prevent the situation from escalating, he added. Power said the Council also asked the Secretariat to consult with troop-and policecontributing countries when planning any change in military tasks, mission-specific rules of engagement, concept of operations or command and control structure or early peacebuilding that would impact personnel, equipment, training and logistics. This meets another of the peacekeeping issue that India has raised about the Council changing mandates midway through a mission or introducing new elements that could affect the security of peacekeepers. The Council added a socalled intervention brigade in the Democratic Republic of Congo where Indian peacekeepers are deployed. India fears that its troops could become vulnerable to attacks stemming from the aggressive tactics mandated for the intervention brigades. (Agencies)
BJP welcomes Odd-Even formula, says important step towards reducing pollution
special status under the Article 239 AA. "The LG in one way is the head (mukhiya) of the Delhi Government, and removing his name and address is very unwelcoming, and we condemn it," he said. "They should withdraw the diary immediately, and should release an amended diary. The government should apologise for this irresponsible act," he added. (ANI)
Naqvi criticised the Delhi Government for making the Odd-Even scheme a political issue New Delhi, Jan.1: Welcoming the Odd-Even scheme, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday said it is a great initiative and an important step to curb pollution in the national capital. "This is a great initiative and important step to curb pollution in the national capital. People have cooperated in successful implementation of the scheme," Minister of State of Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told here. At the same time, Naqvi criticised the Delhi Government for making the Odd-Even scheme a political issue. "If the initiative is even than the intention should not be odd. I think somehow the Delhi Government is trying to score political brownie points with this scheme," he said. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said he is overwhelmed by the response
he has received so far in the implementation of Odd-Even scheme. The odd-even scheme for cars to curb vehicular pollution in the national capital came into effect this morning. For 15 days from today, private vehicles will be allowed only on alternate days in a big step to clean up the world's most polluted capital. Only oddnumbered cars are allowed on the roads on friday. Those found violating the rule will be fined Rs. 2,000. Initially, the scheme will be on trial basis for 15 days. The VIPs, women drivers, CNG-certified vehicles, two-wheelers and those carrying the differentlyabled are among the 25 categories which are exempted from the scheme. However, the exemption will not apply to Delhi Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues as they have decided to abide by the rule. (ANI)
PM Modi is an expert in one-way communication: Congress New Delhi, Jan. 1: Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA Government at the Centre, the Congress on Thursday said that Prime Minster Modi is an expert in one-way communication and a specialist in blaming others for his own failures. "Prime Minister is an expert in one-way communication, he's a specialist in blaming others for his own failures and fault lines that he himself creates. Modi ji only speaks, he has no faith in hearing or understanding others. Time honored tradition of dialogue and discussion have been given complete go by on all important issue by the Prime Minister," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told the media here. Surjewala further scoffed at Prime Minister Modi by saying that dismissiveness and disregard for people's issues has become hallmark of the government. "Prime Minister should introspect what is the reason on account of which Parliament is not functioning. The Prime Minister has given complete go by to constitutional norms, to parliamentary values and to democratic ideas," he added. (ANI)
Caption: Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala Warm New Year's eve disappoints revellers in Delhi New Delhi, Jan 1: New Year's eve was a disappointment for revellers in the capital, as the city saw the maximum temperature climb five notches above the season's average at 25.1 degree Celsius, unusually warm during Delhi chilly winter. According to the Met department, the coming week is likely to stay the same. Unlike the earlier chilly winters, revellers were seen sporting just one sweater and even without it in many parts of the city. "Today, it was comparatively warm and there was actually no need for woollens. However, I am wearing one just to avoid health problems," said Sikha Rai, a call centre professional, who was seen sporting only a thin sweater. A 40-year-old man, who works with a media firm. "Not just today but we have been witnessing warm days for the last two-three days. It is really weird to have such days in December, when usually the temperature dips below 10 degrees Celsius." However, Met officials told ."It is not happen-
ing for the first time. In fact last year, Delhi witnessed 30 degrees Celsius on December 1. Following that, the entire week city had witnessed maximum temperatures of over 20 degrees Celsius." According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), January 1 is likely to be similar as Thursday, but the sky is likely to be partly cloudy. The temperature of the day is likely to hover around 24 degrees and 7 degrees Celsius. "Friday will start with shallow fog. The sky is likely to remain partly cloudy," said an IMD official. Fog in the national capital on Thursday morning led to the rescheduling of two trains. A total of 10 trains were running late due to fog in other northern parts of the country. No trains were cancelled. The minimum temperature of the day was recorded 8.2 degree Celsius, a notch above the season's average. Wednesday's maximum temperature was recorded five notches above the season's average at 25.1 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature settled at 8.5 degrees Celsius, one notch above the season's average. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
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NEIGHBOURS
President sees more gains in 2016 for Sri Lanka Colombo, Jan 1:President Maithripala Sirisena says the year 2016 will be a year where Sri Lanka continues relentlessly on the path to build a prosperous future for the country.In his New Year message, the President said "We celebrate the dawn of this New Year with many hopes and aspirations in our hearts. President Maithripala Sirisena With the important turning point of our nation witnessed in January in the threshold of a de- sustainable developlast year, today we are cisive era of speedy and ment of our country that
Schoolchildren celebrate 'Textbook Festival Day' Dhaka, Jan 1:The pupils of primary schools across the country has been observing the "Textbook Festival Day 2016" marking the distribution of new textbooks among them as well as the schools and madrasas. Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid inaugurated the festival in the capital's Government Laboratory School on Friday morning through distributing new sets of textbooks among students, reports UNB.On Thursday, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina formally inaugurated the distribution of free textbooks among students through giving books to some students of different schools and madrasas at a simple ceremony at her official residence Ganobhaban. This year the government distributes nearly 333,762,760 textbooks among 444,167,28 students of pre-primary to secondary level for 2016 academic session across the country.In 2010, the government began distributing free textbooks among students of secondary schools. Free distribution of books among the primary school students began in 1981. (Agencies)
China arrests 11 for deadly landslide, death toll now 12 Beijing, Jan 1: Chinese authorities have formally arrested 11 people for their role in a deadly landslide last month in the southern boomtown of Shenzhen and charged them with negligently causing a serious accident.The government has blamed breaches of construction safety rules for the disaster on Dec. 20, when a dump overflowed and engulfed 33 buildings. It has started an investigation. At least 12 people have been confirmed dead while 62 are missing.The 11 people arrested include a legal representative and a deputy general manager of Shenzhen Yixianglong Investment Development, which ran the dump, and officials who were supposed to be supervising it, the report added, citing the Shenzhen prosecutor.They have been charged with the crime of negligently causing a serious accident, and the prosecutor has urged the police to track down other suspects as soon as possible.It did not elaborate. Calls to Shenzhen Yixianglong seeking comment went unanswered. The disaster is the latest deadly accident to raise questions about China's industrial safety standards and lack of oversight over years of rapid economic growth. (Agencies)
would be of importance not only to us but also to the future generations.As I emphasized in my New Year best wishes to you last year, we have seen the restoration of democratic freedoms, ending of corruption and violence, establishment of reconciliation, regaining of international goodwill. We have achieved them as a result of the determination and conviction displayed by you in last January last
year.I upheld the trust and confidence you placed on me and fulfilled the promise of making 2015 A Victorious Year.The coming year, 2016 too will also be a year without rest for you and us. We have to continue relentlessly on the path to build a prosperous future for our twenty two million people.With readiness to shun power rather than grab power, with good intentions and non-hateful thoughts we have
empowered the people and changed the traditional rivalries in Sri Lankan politics. All these are to be continued in next year's agenda too. We can reap the harvest of our victory only by forgoing unity and cooperation through trust to march forward.Hence, our common determination in the New Year should be to safeguard the harmony through the strength of unity and cooperation". (Agencies)
Probe into bloggers Avijit, Ananta at final stage Dhaka, Jan 1: Police said they have solved the mystery behind the killings of four bloggers in the last one year with the completion of investigation into one case and significant progress has been made in three other cases."Five bloggers were killed this year and we have successfully unearthed mystery of the killings of four bloggers Washiqur Rahman Babu, Avijit Roy, Ananta Bijoy and Niladri," joint commissioner and spokesperson of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Monirul Islam told BSS adding: "Probe into the killing of blogger and publisher Faisal Arefin Dipon is going on." "Charge sheet in blogger Md Oyasiqur Rahman Babu killing case had already been submitted to the court accusing five persons while investigation into Avijit and Ananta are now at the final stage," he also said."We will submit charge sheet in Bangladeshi-born US citizen Avijit Roy murder case after getting report from the Federal Bureau of In-
Probe in to blogger murder goes nowhere vestigation (FBI) as it has assisted Bangladesh police in probing the murder," he added."Investigation into the murder of Ananta Bijoy who was brutally hacked to death in Sylhet is also at the final stage," he informed and said: "We have arrested six criminals in killing of blogger Niladri, eight in Avijit murder and five in Ananta murder case while three in Babu murder case.""The banned mili-
Pakistan army chief confirms death sentences for 9 militants Islamabad, Jan 1: Pakistan's military says the country's army chief, Gen. Raheel Sharif, has confirmed nine death sentences awarded by military courts over a series of attacks that killed dozens of security officials and civilians in recent years.In a statement today, the military described the nine condemned men as "hardcore terrorists." It
says the men include an al-Qaida activist and member of the Pakistani Taliban.Pakistan has executed nearly 330 people in less than a year, since lifting a 2008 mor atorium on the death penalty. The lifting of the moratorium was meant to be part of a crackdown on Islamic militants, but most of those executed have been convicted of criminal offenses. (Agencies)
tant outfit Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT) is behind the killings of the bloggers," he said, adding that Shibir personnel is also involved in killing of blogger Niladri. Bloggers Avijit Roy, Md Oyasiqur Rahman Babu, Niloy were hacked to death in the capital city, Dhaka, on February 26, March 30 and August 7, respectively, and Ananta Bijoy Das was killed May 12 in Sylhet.The
Bangladesh government in May last banned the radical Islamist organisation ABT for its suspected involvement in killings of the three bloggers Avijit, Ananta and Babu. The militant outfit ABT has started its operation by unleashing attacks on blogger Asif Mohiuddin at Uttara on January 14 in 2013 and they later hacked to death blogger Ahmed Rajib Haider in Mirpur on February 15, 2013.Verdict
in blogger Rajib murder was delivered on Thursday by a Dhaka court giving death sentences to two ABT men while charge sheet in blogger Asif Mohiuddin murder case have already been submitted.Ansarullah Bangla Team chief Mufti Jasim Uddin Rahmani and seven others were charge sheeted in blogger Rajib murder case.Of the seven of the accused, including Rahmani, Nafis Imtiaz, Nayeem Sikder Irad, Ehsan Reza Rumman, Faisal Bin Nayeem alias Deep, Maksudul Hassan Anik, and Sadman Yasir Mahmud, are now in jail. The eighth accused Redwanul Azad Rana - is absconding.Forty ABT operatives including its chief Mufti Jasim Uddin Rahmani, have so far been arrested since attack on the bloggers started in 2013.The detectives suspected that the ABT men might have involved in killings of blogger Ashraful Islam, and a student of BUET Raihanul Haque Dwip. (Agencies)
Community behind Lankan family to be deported from US
As a deportation date nears for a San Antonio family with roots in Sri Lanka, friends in their local community Colombo, Jan 1:As a deportation date nears for a San Antonio family with roots in Sri Lanka, friends in their local community came together to try to get the attention of their local congressman.Their message is a simple and clear one they hope Congressman Joaquin Castro will hear."So we are trying to call on congressman Castro and other folks in the community to really step up and to see the support that the family has and to take action to make sure that they can stay here," said Mohammad Abdollahi of RACIES Texas.The family has collected over 5,500 signatures on their petition to try to get their father released from a detention center. Friends in their community can give testimony to their character."I know they are a good family and they're not trying to hurt anybody and I really want their family to be able to be together," Christina Espinosa said."I just think the compassionate and the gospel thing to do is to
let them stay," a friend said. "They are good people."Kevin Randenyia and his family are thankful for all of the support."It makes me feel good that I've got people watching my back and are willing to go out on a limb to help me through our time of trouble," Randenyia said.We contacted ICE on why the father, Saman, was detained for deportation back on December 1st.They released this statement reading in part:Mr. Randeniya was issued a final order of removal by a federal immigration judge on Nov. 2, 2006. Since then he's appealed his case to both the Board of Immigration Appeals and the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, which have both dismissed his case. His most recent stay of removal application was submitted in October 2015 which was denied.But the family says that despite a denial, they will still try to stay in the country and city they know as home."We're just hoping we can get through this." (Agencies)
Pak singer Adnan Sami is an Indian citizen now From Friday, Bollywood singer Adnan Sami would be able to sing and perform as an Indian citizen, after facing years of protests and opposition for being a Pakistani performing in India.Union home ministry has finally cleared his Indian citizenship which would be effective from January 1.Sami had renounced in his Pakistani citizenship, a move not appreciated in the neighbouring country
and with his Indian citizenship in limbo, the singer became a stateless person. But Sami said later he had found a home in India.He also faced attacks from fellow Bollywood singers and fringe Hindutva elements for being a Pakistani as well.Lahore-born Sami had first arrived in India on March 13, 2001 on a visitor's visa with the validity of one year which was issued by the Indian
High Commission in Islamabad. Songs like 'Kabhi toh nazar milao' and' lift kara de' made Sami household name in India.His visa was extended from time to time. His Pakistani passport issued on May 27, 2010 expired on May 26, 2015 and his passport was not renewed by the Pakistan government which led him to approach the Indian government with the request to legalise his stay
in India on humanitarian grounds. Earlier this year, the ministry had allowed Sami to stay in India for indefinite period and he was exempted from deportation proceedings.The ministry also sought legal opinion from the Attorney General as there was matrimonial civil case pending against Sami. After the favourbale opinion from the AG, the ministry cleared his citizenship.
His citizenship has been cleared by way of naturalisation because of distinguished services to cause of art.Recently, when he had sang Bhar do Jholi meri ya Muhammad, for the film Bajrangi Bhaijan, little did he know that his wishes would be fulfilled so quickly. According to home ministry sources Sami also visited Union home ministry many times to push his case. (Agencies)
Indonesia arrests three with suspected links to Islamic State Jakarta, Jan 1: Indonesian police arrested three men with suspected links to Islamic State as part of an operation in the province of Central Sulawesi to capture the country's most-wanted man, state media reported. The arrests came as the U.S. embassy in Jakarta issued an "emergency message" for U.S. citizens warning of potential security threats at tourist beaches on the island of Lombok surrounding the New Year's celebrations.Counterterrorism officials believe there are at least
1,000 sympathizers of the radical jihadist group across Indonesia. More than a dozen men suspected of planning bomb attacks over the holiday period were arrested in a series of raids recently, and the hunt is on for their ringleaders."This morning my team just reported that they had captured three more people," the Antara news agency quoted Central Sulawesi police chief Idham Azis as saying.He gave no details of the arrests or the identities of the men, but said they are thought to be linked to militant leader
Indonesia arrests three with suspected links to Islamic State
Santoso, who has eluded capture for years and is holed up in jungles near Poso town in Central Sulawesi.A National Police spokesman did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for
comment on the Antara report. Azis said a hunt for Santoso and about 30 of his followers would conclude on Jan. 9. He said seven suspected militants as well as two policemen and an army
officer had been killed in the operation.U.S. authorities on Wednesday noted arrests made by authorities in Turkey, Belgium and Indonesia in connection with suspected plots by Islamic State operatives or sympathizers to launch attacks over the holiday, and said they were monitoring investigations. Analysts say that Santoso, the first Indonesian to publicly pledge loyalty to Islamic State, may be an inspiration for would-be jihadis and militants returning from fighting with the group in Syria.However, some
believe there is a bigger threat closer to the capital, Jakarta, on the populous island of Java, where most of the recent arrests were made, and say militants could increasingly target Westerners.The U.S. embassy message did
not spell out the security threat on Lombok, whose beaches are popular with Western holidaymakers, but it did mention specifically Senggigi Beach, the main tourist strip on the west of the island. (Agencies)
Indonesian police arrested three men with suspected links to Islamic State as part of an operation in the province of Central Sulawesi to capture the country's most-wanted man
PAGE 8
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
W I D E P R O SP ECT I V
Annus Mirabilis
Drink and drive Its high time to be aware Todays youth is so much inclined towards assumption of alcohol and other addictive products that it seems that the future of our Nation is in danger. With India reporting as many as 1.34 lakh fatalities in road accidents every year, a vast 70 per cent of them being due to drunken driving, questions are now being raised on whether the mushrooming growth of liquor vends along the highways is responsible for costing precious lives in an untimely manner. The Community Against Drunken Driving (CADD) said nearly 70 per cent of all fatalities are due to drunken driving, with the figure running between 44 per cent to 67 per cent in smaller cities. Despite prosecution of drunken driving having increased by about seven times in Delhi and 16 times in Mumbai since 2001, there has been no corresponding decrease in accidents and fatalities. About 56 accidents and nearly 14 deaths occur on our roads per hour; it is significant to note that the number of persons killed per lakh of population has risen to about 11 and simultaneously India also records the highest per capita consumption of alcohol in South East Asia. It is significant to note that the State of Kerala which has about 4.3 per cent of registered vehicles reports a high 7.3 per cent of accidents, it also has the highest per capita consumption of alcohol. Each day, nearly 3,500 people die on the roads worldwide. Tens of thousands more are injured. Families are broken apart. The future of young people is dashed. Road accidents have become the leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 29. While the number of victims is on the rise in India, it is decreasing in many other leading nations, including China, the only country with more inhabitants than India. In India an accident occurs on the streets nearly every minute, and someone dies nearly every four minutes. According to government figures, 125,660 people were killed in various accidents in the year 2009. Noting that deaths and injuries due to road mishaps are a national problem that must be addressed immediately, he said the damage caused by them is enormous in terms of lives and injuries as also the national cost involved in treating over 5 lakh people who get injured every year. It is actually ridiculous that for any decent outing in a bar or a pub you have to shell out at least Rs 10,000 but the fine for drunk driving is only Rs 2,000. Why cannot we have a specific law applicable everywhere in India with fines as high as 10 times the current fine, provision to arrest drunk drivers, especially those who cause grievous injury or death, making it a non-bailable criminal offence? A global study has found out that alcohol consumption in India has risen by 55% over a period of 20 years. More worryingly, the young are getting initiated to alcohol much earlier, while more women are indulging in hazardous and binge drinking. In an alarming revelation, the Global Status report on alcohol and health 2014, released by the World Health Organization (WHO) states that the amount of alcohol consumption has raised in India between the periods of 2008 to 2012.
Timber Smuggling Highest rate of deforestation The North-East Himalayan region presents a diverse system of habitats ranging from tropical rain forests to alpine meadows. These varied eco-systems distributed along different latitudinal as well as altitudinal limits contain endangered fascinating flora and fauna derived from varied biomasses of Earth. The forest areas of NorthEast Indian States like Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and West-Bengal, are some of the most important reserve deep forest and rain-forest areas in this sub-Himalayan territory for developing a comprehensive network of bio-diversity conservation. It includes a number of verified natural habitats and is rich in communities in species, in varieties and in endemics. Ironically, very little has been done to protect these areas in the past. The largest number of bio-diversity hotspots in the Asia, as well as the country is also found here. Also a large number of valuable wildlife resources are yet to be enumerated strictly in accordance with facts and figures. It is a fact that the North-Eastern States Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and West-Bengal have always been cut-off from the rest of the Indian peninsular region. Today, when all of humanity is raising a hue and cry for preserving the environment and maintaining ecological balance(which has been lost for so long primarily due to thoughtless activities of men), some foreign and national noxious agencies joined hands to destroy the already half shattered North-East India to make mega bucks. The non-stop looping of forests caused extensive damage to the dense rain-forests of NorthEast India, which resulted in the heavy and unbridled plunder of forest resources. It is also rampant in the plains belt areas of Garo hills, including Phulbari and Tikrikilla. In the South Garo Hills, the Baghmara reserve forest is one of the most densely forested areas, where smugglers take advantage of the monsoon to fell the trees and push them down the Simsang river as it flows into Bangladesh. The reserve forest is home to a wide variety of fauna, including elephants, marbled cat, hoolock gibbon, leopard, Malayan giant squirrel and clouded leopard, among others. There has been tremendous demand of timber in the neighbouring country and many Bangladeshis are involved in smuggling timber from the Balpakram National Park in the South Garo Hills. Also various wildlife activists are of the view that smuggling of timber continues despite border fencing as timber smugglers mostly use the riverine route. India is one of the leading timber export countries, bringing in nearly $10 billion a year. But it also has the world's highest rate of deforestation, according to a study. Much of the tree loss is illegal and taking place in what are supposed to be protected areas, resulting in significant habitat loss for native wildlife. Illegal logging for fancy furniture production is also a problem in India and China, whereas in China laws have been established in attempt to preserve the world's vital forests. This includes the Myanmar's Forest Law, which protects teak trees and other species. But illegal logging of teak trees remains a problem; the wood culled illegally and exported to eastern China where it is made into redwood chairs,tables or chests.
Indra Kr. Bhujel Every passing year become history full of events and incidents, some becomes worth mentioning, and some remain as an evil reminder that brings shame to the coming generation. History doesn't happen, it is made and created, and it affects the life of a nation like nothing else. One of the leading historians of the 18th century Arnold J .Toynbee in his book A STUDY OF HISTORY said that history is nothing but the records of rise and the fall of nations, culture and civilization, and all depends on two factors namely Challenge and response, every nation or civilization has to face it, who can overcome the challenges and response timely and appropriately survive and who could not vanishes. 2015 has been a eventful years for the Indian. It is time when the events that occurred should be examined and interpreted, so that the challenges that it posed could be faced properly and aptly in the coming year. After Narendra Modi's sworn in as PM, the visit of US President Mr. Barak Obama was a very significant event, significant in the sense that it symbolizes India's importance in the world's politics. If we keep the seasonal politics aside, all will agree that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a dignified position to India in the international level. Modi's iconic oratory and mass appeal has given a faith to the world that at last India got a world class leader. The lost art of oratory in Indian politics has been no doubt returned back by him. The rise of Arvind Kejriwal from a bureaucrat NGO to a politician is historical and noticeable event. There is nothing
amazing of the rise; the amazement was the metamorphosis that is seen in him and his party as soon as the gain the power. Rise from the Gandhian movement by Anna Hazare, kejriwal shows how everything can be turn into political profit. He is a perfect example of the saying that Power corrupt, and absolute power corrupt absolutely. The taste of power made him so intoxicated that his second term will show no foolishness of immaturity of the past. The Aam Admi Party has become VVIP party with VIP parking, VIP passage and VVIP hike in salary. The party whose foundation was based on corruption free society has a society of corrupted leaders and workers. The rise and metamorphosis of Kejriwal and AAP should be eye openers to the general public of India. It should always remind us that politicians are the demon who comes to us in disguise of angel. The success of the mission NEW HORIZON has a very positive affect not only amongst the scientist fraternity, but to the commoner also. The first ever space craft to explore the lonely dwarf planet has open a new vista of space expedition. Success in space mission by one nation should be taken as a challenge by the other nation to expand its exploration farther. The achievement in space mission will show the scientific advancement of a nation, it is a challenge that should be accepted by one and all nations, including India. The incident of Dadri and the series of event that follows aftermath is no less a significant event in the history of 2015. This incident clearly proved that still India and the Indian lives at the same time frame of 1947 where one can easily provoke to kill other in the name of religion. The killing of Mohammad Akhlaq for his allegedly keeping and consuming beef by some miscreants (mind it, when Muslim conduct terrorist attack, they are terrorist
and miscreant, but when the same is done by a Hindu, it is Hindu extremist !) uproar the so called seculars so much so that BJP has to pay a heavy price for it in the election of Bihar. None the less, Bihar election also showed us that alliance in politics can be possible among dead enemies too. It also gives us reasons why some
states are still backward in education and economy. The voters of Bihar shows that they can be sway by caste factor. For the first time the nation got proof that there is really political patronizing prevails in literary circle. The wanton Academy award returning parade as a protest against the so called intolerance prevailing in the country to protest the killing of Akhlaq, to show their resentment against the hindrance to the right of an individual consumption habit was nothing but a fabricated movement as was alleged by Arun Jethley. The Dadri event warns us that still we are prone to communal riots. We are not developed enough to avoid this sort of barbaric incident. It also made us suspicious about our writers too. It makes us to doubt that we are reading
literatures that are sponsored and not genuine or creative. Assam is no lagging behind in case of events. The shifting of party by Himanta Bishwa Sharma was a significant political step that will leave far reaching affect on the political scenario in the coming days. He was a popular figure of Assam's politics, and has a good
mass appeal among the youth. But his over ambitiousness may be a problem in his further progress. BJP has Sarbananda Sonwal in Assam, who is equally popular and has a stronger hold in the tribal belt. While Hemanta can boast of the voters in the Urban, Sarbananda will have high hand for his is strong hold of Tribal belt. Definitely BJP's decision to have him as their Chief Ministerial candidate is well adjusted and just. The only fear is - the power -lust can cause internal disputes. If the personal ego doesn't matter, BJP with leaders like Hemanta, S a r w a n a n d a , Bhattacharya and Rijuji from North - East can change the North - East totally. Chief Minister Mr. Tarun Gogoi will be always remembered as the most sycophant leader of Congress from Assam.
His works of last 15 years, no doubt some of them were productive and changed the life of people become meaningless and will bring no laurel to him, as his last term was served so corruptly and insincerely. Assamese people are regard much for their intellectual temperament, but Tarun Gogoi has totally changed this perception. His weightless words and
comments make his equivalent to a simple shop keeper who will have a readymade reply for each complain from his customer. No other individual has brought shame and insult to Assam as was brought by honourable Tarun Gogoi in this last few years. Actually sycophancy and corruption become the character of the people of Assam. The society is witnessing a drastic modification in its character. The Sahitya Sabha disputes, the happening in the Satras, the NRC working, the TET. With all the controversies there is no change of system of election or selection of the president of the Sabha , a person who is fit from no side, who is holding a profitable post in one department and again made the head of other department. Any Government department, even the Assam
Secretariat is not exempted from the corruption, and the funny side is, those who rise by sheer mean of corruption are more respected in society then those who could not rise for their honesty and sincerity. The cultural degradation is clearly visible. Be it the Bihu festival or the concerts of singers like Zubeen and Papon. While Bihu become an item number, the songs and stage capturing performance of the stage singers become the acts of clown. We can't expect a total decency from singers like Zubeen, but what serve him in announcing in the stage "Now I will drink", or using the most obnoxious words publically? Artist like Zubeen Gargh represent the states. He is our own; we may ignore what he says or do in the stage, but not the world. He is not a least careful of his potential. We have a vacant space left by Bhupen Hazarika, Khogen Mahanta. No doubt there is no comparision of the gone by singer of the past and that with today's, but still we must accept that both Zubeen and Papon are icons, and has already registered themselves in the national level. May be as a concern public and fan, our rejection to their obscenity and acceptation and applaud to sincere work can make them aware of their responsibility to the society and their culture. Bihu and Zubeen is mentioned here because this year, the Zubeen fan club has been established and that it was by some time pass boys and girls with no serious intention become clear. The observation of Bihu and the rules set for it also indicates that the society is sectioned into two groups, and old order will be implemented forcefully. All these events are symptoms that indicate we are to confront some unwanted challenges, and as said by Toynbee, our existence depends how we are prepared to face it. A warm wishes to all the readers for the coming New Year.
Assault on North-East Youths went to the specified place to attend the 'Party'. Obviously, all the youths consumed liquor, without liquor a 'Party' cannot be effective. The inevitable incident took place. Most of the young girls wear 'Provocative' dress and roam about making 'Party' and they fall easy prey to some salacious men. It is further reported that the three African youths along with two young girls who acted as their accomplices have been nabbed by the police. Despite repeated caution it appears the North-East girls pay little heed and roam about carelessly and have to pay heavy price. Yours etc Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh Brazen way of Preserving A Burial Site
Sir, Among the lakh of youths of the North-East who stay in the nation's capital only a minuscule fall victims in the atrocities meted out to them. While some of the youths (male or female) are victimized for no fault of their own, some others have to face the unsavory music for their own misdoings. The recent happenings in New-Delhi, involving two girls being physically assaulted by three African youths is a case in point. From the news telecast through the electronic news channels, it transpires that the two girls voluntarily
Sir, A personality, rarest of the rare, who began his career from a 'Zero' point, became one of the most multifaceted towering personality of the entire country by virtue of his extraordinary brilliance. He was the epitome, embodiment of politeness, poignant, discreet notion, creator of vision for an opulent future India. A person, who had been picked up by astute politicians to adorn the highest post of the nation, the President of India. His enormous contribution to the building up of India's defence with the innovative sophisticated weapons will make him immortal. All through his life, he served the nation candidly. This philanthropist did everything for the nation, his sincerity, devotion and dedication to his works was such that he could not arrive at the spot on the date of his marriage and remained a bachelor for life. This greatman, after he ceased to be the President spent his time among the children and the youths of his country and giving them wise counsels to live a dutiful and successful life. Despite his debilitating health, he went to Shillong to address a gathering in the Indian
Institute of Management, could not finish his prolific lectures as he fell down on the dais and died. This great Defence Scientist, Rocket Engineer and 'Missileman' of India had been conferred 'Bharat Ratna' in 1997. This greatman is no other person than Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, our beloved erstwhile President. But we fail miserably in our duty to hold this greatman, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in esteem after his death. His burial site in Karaikudi (Tamil Nadu) is so shabbily maintained that the site is now transformed into shelter of stray-dogs. We ungrateful Indians demonstrate in a brazen way our inability to preserve the burial site of a great son of India. Prime-minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister Joylalita owe an explanation to the people for the sordid state of affairs of the burial site of our beloved and most popular ex President.
Yours etc. Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh
Best Letter The best letter of the month in the Letter to the Editor section will be awarded an amount of Rs 200. So please keep writing. Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh-786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com
Op
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d e What you see in the Media isn't
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
always how things really are Sakshi Jain Mid-way through my course in Journalism this month, I was wondering about the 'one lesson' which intrigued my thought process in this journey so far. Indeed, as I was digging down my memory of the multiple books and lessons, the lesson of 'subjectivity' kept swirling on my mind. It was neither a proposed topic in my curriculum nor was it a part of an exclusive lecture so far. Yet, it seems the ultimate lesson of all the other lessons learnt in the course. Subjectivity, in general, is a philosophical concept that in the broadest sense of its term means interpretation of
to distinguish between the good and the bad, negative and the positive, subjective and the objective. The purpose is to express how the milieu of media, its representation of the world and the ethics pertaining to it provide us a lens of subjective interpretation. In the name of subjectivity, I do not intend to justify the actual malpractices or the careless mistakes in the communication process of media and others but to express the general trend of the rifeness of subjectivity. The Lesson Of Subjectivity The very existence of media is not objectively defined in our Constitution. The distinct provi-
truth or reality governed by individual's influence. Often in contrast to objectivity, it has a slightly negative connotation. However, the purpose here is not
sion of 'Freedom of Press' doesn't find a mention in our Constitution even though it was the most sought-after fundamental right, evident in the history of
India's freedom struggle. The Freedom of Speech and Expression guaranteed by Article 19(1)(A) is however seen as a provision encompassing 'Freedom of Press'. However, the freedom isn't absolute; it is subject to the reasonable restrictions mentioned in Article 19(2) of our Constitution. These restrictions are imposed in protection of 'public order', 'decency', and 'morality' or in relation to 'contempt of court', 'defamation' or 'incitement to an offence' that consequently limit the scope of freedom of speech and expression. A simple analysis of these provisions acquaints us with subjectivity in and around media and the larger world. The definition of a 'decent' or a 'moral' act is subjective to an individual's interpretation. The question then is, who decides the line of distinction between moral and immoral, decent and indecent? Is there a universal acceptance of such categorization? If not, then what meaning do these terms hold and to what extent are these restrictions reasonable? Media is known to be the fourth estate of democracy by the virtue of its role in maintain-
ing the cycle of dialogue between the people and its government. However, in addition, there is also a continuous cycle of subjectivity established in the society. The media presents the story which is naturally tainted by the subjective interpretation of the presenter, the audience's grasp of the story is bound to be subjective, and the characters involved in the story will interpret it based on their own experiences. One story is subjected to numerous interpretations implying that there will also be dissension or disapproval with the perspective of the media. In those circumstances, the interpretation of the constitutional provisions like those in Article 19(2) seems to challenge media's representation. The government or the authority, also the characters of the story in most instances act as the arbitrator in serious issues of contention and clash of opinions. For instance, a person feels that media's representation was an act of defamation and depends on the judicial body for the final decision of justice. It is important here to understand that the authority has no rule book
Indians Speak So Many Beautiful Languages. But Do We Accept All Equally? Deepika Srivastava We Indians, have the privilege of being exposed to numerous languages, probably the most in the world. One look at our rupee notes and we make our point. With denominations worded in 18 languages (and nearly as many scripts), our currency is the easiest and perhaps, the quickest testimony of our linguistic diversity to the world. The Constitution of India recognises 23 languages today, but in fact there are 35 Indian languages that are each spoken by more than a million people - and these are proper languages with their own scripts, and grammatical structures that serve as envoys of varied cultural practises, and are not just dialects (and if we're to count dialects, there are more than 22,000). Having said that, Hindi is considered as one of the main languages and also enjoys special con-
Exclusion based on linguistic identity is widespread and takes different forms and contexts. First, it manifests in the exclusion of even the officially recognized languages, when the speakers of these languages migrate to another linguistic region . The mobilizations by Shiv Sena in Mumbai and the Kannada Chaluvaligars in Bangalore against Tamils with their 'sons of the soil' arguments are well known. In such contexts exclusion is based on the imagined or actual threat posed by cultural outsiders in the fields of education and employment. Second, exclusion is practiced through stigmatization of those who speak the dialects of developed languages. The classic case in India is the exclusion of the numerous and numerically substantial, dialects of Hindi such as Bhojpuri, Awadhi, Chhattisgarhi,
stitutional status. It is also the language of Bollywood- a multi-billion dollar industry with which the world identifies India. But the problem therein:
Maithili and Rajasthani. Not only are these languages excluded from the Eighth schedule, all of them are not even used for imparting education till the age of 14
as mandated in the Indian Constitution. Apart from this exclusion the state indulges in, speakers of Sanskritized Hindi look down upon the speakers of these dialects. Though nowadays, with English being considered as the language of the elite, most urban Indians tend to speak in it when they meet, be it in or outside India. Moreover, it is also recognized as an official language by the constitution. Not tolerant of what I speak: Management of language is key to any migrant's survival. Being a Lucknowi and having lived in Gurgaon, Ahmedabad and Bangalore, I understand the 'why' of this very well. When a person migrates, his most sincere prayer is about finding at least one person of the same tongue while the 'real' problems sleep peacefully in the back seat. They will of course eventually have to be managed. At 7, moving to Ahmedabad from Gurgaon transformed me from an extrovert to a book-loving introvert. No prizes to guess the devil - language. My inability to communicate in the 'other' language proved disastrous for my personality. Somehow, I, and more importantly, my family learnt to live with this change. Again, at 21, during my brief sojourn in Bangalore, I faced similar problems. Bangalore being the IT centre is a dy-
namic hub of the Indian diaspora. Amidst it all, I would often hear my friends complain about how people formed their own lingual groups. What they didn't realize is that common language works like a glue. It blatantly opposes the notion that similar things repel each other. I too received many sugar-coated, melodramatic and tearful sympathies from people back home when they found out that I was the only one speaking Hindi in an office which boasted of people speaking Tamil, Telugu, Kannada. I was titled a 'bechari (poor thing)' by many. I didn't get this exaggeration. I was in my own country; on the same land that gave me birth, not in some far away land. Food for thought: Every morning, every school kid pledges to treat all Indians, regardless of all differences, as his brother or sister. Then why can't an X-speaking Indian group welcome a Z-speaking Indian in their group; why is the Zspeaker left out? No doubt, culture is important and language is an integral component of culture; after all, without culture we all would be totalitarian beasts. But is culture above humanity? By adjusting slightly, can't we, at least, make an attempt to accommodate the linguistically different? In today's time, when reports on intolerance are ruling the roast, shouldn't we give a thought to linguistic intolerance too?
for objective decision making based on every instance, the decision taken by the judicial authority is coloured by its own subjective interpretation, often in the name of 'public interest' which is again a contextual term. Thus, continues the cycle of subjectivity between the audience, media and government (who act as the audience too). It is ironical how the professional ethics of objectivity in media is often overpowered by the subjective nuances. Media claims to justify its freedom of expression in the 'public interest'. But, the quandary regarding the definition of public interest poses a reason for battle between objectivity and subjectivity. It is difficult to ascertain what really is in the interest of public, whether everything that the media deems fit for its audience, is really so. The question of where should a borderline be drawn and whether there should be one is debatable. Hence, there lies the subjectivity in deciding the kind of information that we as part of the public sphere need. The professional ethics of objectivity seems to be too utopian an idea to be actually practiced. It is easier to
pen down these points of professional ethics but when it comes to actual practices, the web of subjectivity is too dense to escape. There has always been a tussle between the laws that restrict the freedom of media and practices of media. It is common to see media practitioners being charged with 'sedition', 'defamation' and 'contempt of court' etc by the authorities or person aggrieved. However, the imposition of such charges is subjective to the interpretation of authority and/or the person aggrieved. On the other hand, the media practitioners justify their actions in the name of freedom of speech and expression and the very nature of the profession. Is Subjectivity A Pervasive Maze? When all these nuances
are narrowed down to the level of inter-personal relations, it seems like the same maze of subjectivity has entrapped us everywhere. It feels like everybody has his/her own interpretation and that there is always 'the other side', or so to say the multiple sides. If each interpretation is the result of the social interaction and experiences then who should be blamed in case of a clash of two divergent perspectives? What determines a right or a wrong interpretation? Is there an actual distinction between the two? It is generally told that the intention must be right, to not harm somebody, but what is the indicator of those right intentions? On what grounds can someone's intention be judged and justified? Such questions have
blurred the lines between a right and wrong expression; there is no universally appealing criterion to determine an individual's expression as right or wrong. Just like there is a constant tussle in the realm of media, the same is replicated at every level of communication, be it inter- personal, intra- personal. As I am writing this, I have come to learn that this piece of work is open to as many interpretations as its readers, yet there will be no absolute interpretation of this. Such is the battle of communication, laden with the pervasive maze of subjectivity. If there were only hardcore facts that shaped the communication processes in this world, there wouldn't have been such a battle between objectivity and subjectivity. Each attempt towards objective communication entails a tinge of subjectivity.
This List of Crimes Committed Against Women In Delhi In 2015 Is Frankly Just Frightening People of high repute, including TERI's R. K. Pachauri, AAP MLA Somnath Bharti and Mahmood Farooqui of 'Peepli Live' fame faced charges of sexual assault
society was the December 5, 2014 Uber rape case in which a fast-track court despite facing legal hurdles created by the accused, concluded the entire criminal prosecution
was a regular visitor to the Saket court where he is facing the rigour of the criminal proceedings to come out clean in the sexual harassment case lodged
and molestation in 2015 in Delhi courts, one of which awarded life imprisonment to the accused driver in the Uber rape case. Besides the rape case against Farooqui in which an American national was a victim, other sexual assault cases concerning foreign nationals that were watched keenly were the trial in the January 2014 gangrape case of a Danish woman and another one in which 30year-jail term was awarded to two youth for gangraping a Ugandan woman in June 2014. Delivering the verdict in the Ugandan woman's gangrape case, the judge observed that "their (convicts) act brought India disrepute in the eyes of the world" for which they deserved exemplary sentence. However, one case which had a chilling effect on
in 11 months, sending 33-year-old driver Shiv Kumar Yadav to jail for entire life. While the Uber case and others kept the courts busy, controversial AAP MLA Bharti, who faced a non-bailable warrant in a domestic violence case, lodged by his estranged wife Lipika Mitra, played hide and seek with the law before surrendering after getting a rap from the Supreme Court. Out on bail, the MLA also had a regular outing before the Saket trial court for his midnight raid during the first stint of AAP government when he was the Law Minister and charged with a molestation case lodged by African nationals. So was the case with climate scientist Pachauri, who lost his hold over the TERI and
by a researcher who quit the organisation alleging that she was not treated well by the management. The court acted tough against the people of "high social status" for committing crimes against women by terming their unlawful actions as "unpardonable" and in 2 such cases a 7 years jail term was awarded to an already married officer of NHRC for deceitfully entering into a wedlock with a widow; and an engineer with PWD for sexually exploiting a woman colleague on the false pretext of marriage. Another shocker was a complaint alleging attempt to rape by a retired sessions judge on his daughter-in-law. The judge was, however, granted anticipa-
tory bail later. While Delhi continues to report cases of assault against minors, a court declined any leniency to a senior citizen for raping a minor girl in a temple by awarding 10 years imprisonment for the offence committed in 2012 in the Mangolpuri area. This year also saw a case in which the perpetrator of the crime against a female was a woman herself and one incident which shook the public conscience was where life term was imposed on a mother for killing and throwing her infant daughter in a sewer. An area of concern was also the misuse of laws when courts across the city noticed that there were several false rape complaints lodged to settle personal scores with one judge advocating that the time has come to deal firmly with women filing false cases as they are "tormentors warranting punishment". The judge also said that false implication causes humiliation, disgrace and mental agony to the accused and directed lodging of an FIR against the woman for lodging false case against her neighbour. That was 2015. Hopefully with stricter laws and better implementation in place, 2016 should see an improvement in justice for crimes committed against women. The article first appeared in Youth Ki Awaaz.
BUSINESS
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
ABS will be obligatory for two-wheelers Mumbai, Jan 1: In an attempt to make roads safer, the Union government will soon make it mandatory for all two-wheelers to fit antilock braking system (ABS) and combined braking system (CBS) by April 2019. The Union Road Transport and Highways Ministry, which has released the draft notification, had earlier planned to implement the rule on all two-wheelers by April 2018. However, senior Ministry officials said the delay in bringing the final notification may push the deadlines a year further. "If we took a call on the deadline a year back and it took time to frame the policy, then we might need
Petrol, diesel costs slash
ESSENTIAL ABS Union government will soon make it mandatory for all two-wheelers to fit anti-lock braking system (ABS) and combined braking system (CBS) by April 2019. The Union Road Transport and Highways Ministry, which has released the draft notification, had earlier planned to implement the rule on all two-wheelers by April 2018. However, senior Ministry officials said the delay in bringing the final notification may push the deadlines a year further. The Ministry has proposed mandating ABS for all vehicles with an engine capacity above 125 cc and CBS for vehicles below 125 cc engine. ABS will be mandatory for all new models with more than 125 cc engine from April 2017 and the existing ones from April 2018. to extend the deadline by a year," said a senior official. The Ministry has proposed
mandating ABS for all vehicles with an engine capacity above 125 cc and
CBS for vehicles below 125 cc engine. While ABS helps the rider to maintain
Bank strike on January 8
Images for representational purpose Mumbai, Jan 1: The regulation that mobile phone users be paid a compensation of Rs. 1 for
every call dropped, up to a maximum of three calls a day, will come into effect from today, TRAI
chairman R.S. Sharma said. "Call drops are an issue on which we have issued regulations. They
will come into effect from tomorrow...Operators have gone to court. The Delhi High Court has not granted a stay," he told. At the hearing on December 22, the Delhi High Court asked the regulator not to take any coercive action against operators till the next hearing on January 6. An industry expert said this meant that till the next hearing, operators could offer compensation to users on a voluntary basis. Rajan Mathews, DirectorGeneral of the Cellular Operators Association of India, told that operators would most likely wait for the hearing and order of the court before deciding when and how to implement the regulation. "There are several challenges to implementing the TRAI order which we have brought to the attention of the court. The TRAI has been advised by the court not to take any coercive action until it hears the case on January 6," Mr. Mathews said. (Agencies)
SEBI discards Sahara petition New Delhi, Jan 1: Capital markets regulator the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has rejected Sahara Asset Management Company's plea to reconsider an order cancelling the portfolio manager license of the company, saying it was not 'fit and proper' for this business. SEBI, through an order in February, had cancelled the registration of Sahara Asset Management Company (AMC) as
portfolio manager. Rejecting the application, the market regulator had said that the company no more meets "fit and proper criteria" to continue as a portfolio manager in Indian securities market. Following the rejection, Sahara AMC approached capital markets regulator for reconsideration of its decision. In an order dated December 30, SEBI said it has "no hesitation in concluding that Sahara
AMC does not comply with the eligibility criteria of being a 'fit and proper person' in accordance with the Portfolio Managers Regulations... in view of the substantial controlling interest entailing significant influence over Sahara AMC, exercised by Subrata Roy Sahara, through the promoter companies of that applicant". "As envisaged in the 'fit and proper person' criteria, SEBI has to take
into account the financial integrity, honesty, good reputation and character of the applicant," according to the regulator. Keeping Sahara AMC in the mainstream market after considering the antecedents of Subrata Roy Sahara and some other companies of the Sahara group, may cause prejudice to the interests of investors and the safety and integrity of the securities market. (Agencies)
Green norms offer may close small textile units Chennai, Jan 1: The Environment Ministry's proposal, to hastily implement a 'stringent' norm mandating nearly all textile processing units to eliminate liquid discharges, can result in closure of many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and trigger large-scale job losses, according to the Textile Ministry. In his response to the draft notification by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Textiles Secretary, S. K. Panda, has said the proposed standards - mandating 'Zero Liquid Discharge' (ZLD) for textile processing units where waste water discharge is over 25 kilo
Microsoft to notify e-mail users on alleged hacking by a govt.
Re. 1 for every call dive: TRAI
Mumbai, Jan 1: Petrol price was recently cut by 63 paise a litre and diesel by Rs 1.06 a litre, the third reduction this month on the back of softening in global oil rates. Petrol will now cost Rs. 59.35 a litre in Delhi, as against Rs. 59.98 currently. A litre of diesel will cost Rs. 45.03 as opposed to Rs 46.09 presently, said Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). Prices were last cut by 50 paise in the case of petrol and 46 paise in the case of diesel on December 16. The reduction would have been more but for government move to mop up gains arising from oil prices slumping to 11-year low by way of an excise duty hike. Prior to that oil firms had last cut petrol price by 58 paise a litre and diesel by 25 paise a litre on December 1. (Agencies)
Chennai, Jan 1: The All India Bank Employees' Association (AIBEA) has decided to go ahead with its nationwide bank strike on January 8, after the conciliation talks held by the Chief Labour Commissioner in New Delhi failed. The strike call was given on December 28 to protest against the violation of the bilateral settlement by five associate banks of the State Bank of India - State Bank of Travancore, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala, State Bank of Hyderabad and State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur - and their attempt to force unilateral service conditions on the employees, AIBEA general secretary C.H. Venkatachalam told. "The strike will affect normal banking services all over the country," he said. (Agencies)
stability while applying brakes, the CBS distributes the pressure applied on the rear wheel to the front wheel. At present, twowheelers account for the highest share in road accidents. In 2014, two-wheelers accounted for around 27 per cent of the total road accidents. ABS will be mandatory for all new models with more than 125 cc engine from April 2017 and the existing ones from April 2018. Also, the Ministry's notification set an April 2017 deadline for CBS in all new models of two-wheelers with less than 125cc engine and April 2018 for existing models. (Agencies)
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litres a day - will be "too stringent" for the domestic textile processing industry that is largely unorganised and comprising of SMEs, according to reliable sources. Around 94 per cent of India's apparel workers are employed in firms with 50 workers or less, and less than six firms have over 2,000 workers, Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Arvind Panagariya had said. The Environment Ministry also requires textile units in clusters (like Tirupur and Ludhiana) to establish a ZLD-common effluent treatment plants irrespective of their waster water discharge levels. Setting up ZLD-effluent treatment
plants will need huge initial capital investment as well as high recurring expenditure making it commercially non-viable, the secretary said. Citing several representations from the textile sector against such norms, he also said insisting on ZLD could in turn result in closure of several units and unemployment for workers in those units. Mr. Panda, therefore, said the environment ministry should consider implementing the ZLD only in a phased manner. He said the environment ministry should keep in view the larger interest of the textiles sector as well as the country's economic devel-
opment, and implement the ZLD only in a phased manner. Meanwhile, the Textiles Ministry has set up a panel to look into the existing technologies of effluent treatment and suggesting the best available technology - after taking into account the financial and other related factors that can be introduced in these SME units. The Textiles Ministry has said, as a short-term measure, the best available technology will be adopted, but in the long-term, research and development will be pursued for developing cleaner and more cost-effective options. One of the alternatives being tried out
is marine discharge, where waste is recycled and the residue (which is substantially salt, and therefore considered safe) is discharged into the sea. But for that, the units will have to be located near the coastal region as setting up long pipelines from inland units to the sea will be non-viable. The Supreme Court had several years ago asked the textile units in Tirupur (Tamil Nadu) to ensure that they do not pollute the Noyyal river and that they bring down their liquid discharge to zero. The order had led to the closure of several units in the area. (Agencies)
Source: cdn.ndtv.com New Delhi, Jan 1: Microsoft Corp said it would begin warning users of its Outlook.com email service when the company suspects that a government has been trying to hack into their accounts. Microsoft told about the plan in a statement. It comes nine days after reporters asked the company why it had decided not tell victims of a hacking campaign, discovered in 2011, that had targeted international leaders of China's Tibetan and Uighur minorities in particular. According to two former employees of Microsoft, the company's own experts had concluded several years ago that Chinese authorities had been behind the campaign but the company did not pass on that information to users of its Hotmail service, which is now
called Outlook.com. In its statement, Microsoft said neither it nor the U.S. government could pinpoint the sources of the hacking attacks and that they didn't come from a single country. The policy change at the world's largest software company follows similar moves since October by Internet giants Facebook Inc., Twitter Inc and most recently Yahoo Inc. Google Inc. pioneered the practice in 2012 and said it now alerts tens of thousands of users every few months. For two years, Microsoft has offered alerts about potential security breaches without specifying the likely suspect. In the statement, Microsoft said: "As the threat landscape has evolved our approach has too, and we'll now go beyond notification and guidance to specify if we
reasonably believe the attacker is 'state-sponsored'." Microsoft declined to say what role, if any, the Hotmail hacking campaign played in its policy change. The Hotmail attacks had also targeted diplomats, media workers, human rights lawyers, and others in sensitive positions inside China, according to the former employees. Microsoft had told the targets to reset their passwords but did not tell them that they had been hacked. Five victims interviewed said they had not taken the password request as an indication of hacking. Online freespeech activists and security experts have long called for more direct warnings, saying that they prompt behavioral changes from email users. (Agencies)
Amazon India may Videocon Industries have done sales of over Rs 10,000 crore exchanges
$194.40 mn
Noida, Jan 1: E-commerce company Amazon India may have done sales of over Rs 10,000 crore during the current fiscal. According to the report, Cloudtail India, the biggest vendor of Amazon in India, posted sales of Rs 1,145 crore in its first full year of operations in 201415. Cloudtail, which sells nearly 10% of Amazon India merchandise, incurred a net loss of Rs 32 crore in its operations, cited the report referring to the company's filing to the Registrar of Companies. Amazon India is yet to submit its financial data for the current fiscal. Cloudtail India is a joint venture between Amazon Asia and Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy's Catamaran through a hold-
ing company Prione Business Services. According to an earlier Goldman Sachs report, India's ecommerce market is expected to grow from $26 billion to $103 billion by 2019-20. India is one of the fastest-growing markets for the American etailer and its founder Jeff Bezos in 2014 had pledged to invest $2 billion in its operations in the country. "After our first year in business, the response from customers and small and mediumsized businesses in India have far surpassed our expectations. We see huge potential in the Indian economy and for the growth of e-commerce in India," Bezos was quoted as saying then. (Agencies)
Bengaluru, Jan 1: Videocon Industries Ltd. has fully redeemed $194.40 million (approx Rs.1,290 crore) foreign currency convertible bonds (FCCBs) through a combination of cash payout and fresh FCCBs, the company said in a BSE filing. The company paid an amount of $97.2 million (Rs.644.87 crore) along with applicable interest and fees in cash and issued another series of foreign currency convertible bonds of amount $97.2 million on December 30, 2015 apart of redemption process. In December 2010, the company had announced raising $200 million to finance its new and existing projects. The firm had said the proceeds would be used in overseas direct investment in joint ventures and whollyowned subsidiaries and other purposes. (Agencies)
Airtel obtains 100 per cent stake in Augere Wireless Bengaluru, Jan 1: Telecom major Bharti Airtel today said it has acquired the balance 26 per cent stake in Augere Wireless, which holds 4G spectrum in Madhya Pradesh, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company. "With reference to the
earlier intimation dated December 29, 2015, Bharti Airtel Ltd has now informed BSE that Airtel has acquired remaining balance paid-up share capital i.e. 26 per cent of Augere and with the said acquisition, Augere has become a wholly-owned subsid-
iary of Airtel," the company said in a regulatory filing. Earlier, Airtel had announced acquiring 74 per cent stake in Augere Wireless but did not disclose financial details of the deal. "With reference to the intimation regarding approval of scheme of amalgam-
ation of Augere Wireless Broadband India Private Limited (Augere) with Bharti Airtel Limited (Airtel or the Company) dated October 27, 2015, Bharti Airtel Ltd has now informed BSE that Airtel has acquired 74 per cent capital of
Augere," it had said. Augere holds 20 Mhz of spectrum in 2300 Mhz band in Madhya Pradesh service area, which includes Chhattisgarh state, to be used for 4G services. The company had won this spectrum for Rs. 124.66 crore in 2010
but has not rolled out services. "With the aforesaid acquisition, Augere has become a subsidiary of Airtel," the filing added. On August 26, Airtel had said that "it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100 per cent equity stake in Augere
Wireless Broadband India Pvt Ltd." According to sources, the deal size is estimated to be around Rs.150 crore. Airtel now has 20 Mhz in 2300 Mhz band across nine service areas. The company directly won this spectrum in four service ar-
eas for Rs. 3,314.36 crore. Later, it acquired Qualcomm's India unit which had spectrum in four circles including metros. Infotel Broadband, which was acquired by Reliance Industries, was the only bidder to win spectrum on pan-India basis in the 2300 Mhz band in that auction. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
Features
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WOMEN’S New Year's Eve Hair and Makeup Ideas Big and Bold An unadorned round neckline creates the ideal setup for a ready-to-party look: Amp up the natural texture of your hair, then throw on a statement necklace. How-to: Wash naturally curly hair with hydrating shampoo and conditioner. This will help prevent frizz. Let hair air-dry, then wind one-inch-wide sections around a small-barrel curling iron in a haphazard fashion all over the head. Some sections should look carefully curled, others more rough-hewn. Treat the ends with a bit of antifrizz serum. Beauty note: Pair statement-making hair with equally punchy lipstick. Effortlessly Beautiful Paired with a strappy dress and dangling earrings, a loosely tousled
French twist has that devilmay-care Bardot allure. And there's no pressure to be perfect: The less done it looks, the more captivating it becomes. How-to: Prep damp hair with texturizing spray to give it body. Then, for a tousled look, blow-dry hair using fingers rather than a brush. Work a pouf of mousse, through hair to make it pliable. Now gather hair at the nape and twist upward. Use bobby pins sparingly to anchor hair to the scalp loosely. Beauty note: Highlight cheeks and lips with the same cream-based color. Cool and Classic A short, choppy crop takes an exquisite turn when you smooth it back and add a pair of striking yet simple earrings. The effect is especially chic against a bare neckline.
How-to: Don't assume that you have to forgo the look of an updo just because you have short hair. You can achieve the same result by simply slicking hair back into a pretty shape. You'll need "all the hold you can get,"to ensure that little pieces don't stick out. To start, spritz a root-boosting spray onto dry hair to give it strength and malleability. Once the spray dries, tease the crown area, then smooth hair gently back and fold it into place with a paddle brush. Finish with heavy-duty hair spray. Beauty note: Pink lipstick complements a feminine hairstyle. Modern Glamour Gorgeous, bouncy waves that skim the shoulders are just as show stopping as a dressy updo but less involved. How-to: Begin by blow-
drying naturally curvy or wavy damp hair with a paddle brush. In the last few minutes of drying, switch to a comb to pull out any kinks. Then create a deep side part. For a smooth but not overly straightened finish, run a flatiron through just the front portion of hair. Mist with hair spray. Beauty note: A sophisticated hairstyle demands a classic red lipstick. Edgy Elegance A short hairstyle looks sleek when pinned back to reveal the nape of the neck and ears dripping in crystals. Showing a bit more skin with the deep V-neck balances the length of the earrings. How-to: Comb slightly damp hair tightly back toward the nape while blowdrying it with hot air to make it extra sleek. Hold the sides back with bobby
6 Simple Ways To Give New Touch To Boring Hair! them and then tuck them under the nape of your neck and pin in place. It's really easy, we promise. It's such a cool style to try when you're sick of your hair looking the same day in and day out. Plus, it's a red-carpet worthy look, so it's perfect to pair with your favourite dress to help you wow.
We've all had had those "I'm so bored with my hair" moments, but had no idea how to change that. Well until now‌ If you would love to freshen up your do without chopping off your precious locks, there are a few other ways to beat those bored blues. We tell you a few easy ways to never be bored with your mane again. Go on and get out of that hair rut. 1. Give It A New Texture It's probably been long since you put in a bit of effort and tried a different texture. If your hair is curly, why not straighten it more often? Or use a curling iron on straight hair! A simpler way of changing up your hair texture is by using a texturizing spray and tousling with your fingers to really beat boredom! 2. Change Up Your Part The simplest way to change up your look (and that requires minimum effort) is to flip your part. Change it to the other side or simply try a center part. You'll be surprised at how such a simple move can really make your hair look different. If you've had the same part for a while now, your hair may not sit in your new part at first,
which is why it's best to try your new parting when your hair is wet. By changing sides, your roots instantly get plenty of gorgeous volume. 3. Work Out That Ponytail There's little that's interesting about our usual ponytail, it's how all of us girls get our hair off our face while showering or working out. But trying a few tricks to spice it up can really give you a flirty, girly vibe - and who wouldn't love that? Simply pair braided bangs with your ponytail or just pull your hair back on one side instead of tying it at the back of your head. You can add loads of texture to your ponytail by teasing the crown with a fine-tooth comb, that is a celebrity favourite style after all. One super quick idea we love is the inverted ponytail, after you tie your hair, simply flip it through a loop just above your elastic for an ultra chic look you won't believe you just achieved in 30 seconds. 4. Give The Faux Bob A Spin Why should short-haired girls have all the fun? The faux bob is the perfect style to dabble with a chic, shorter do without actually cutting off your locks. Simply create pigtails, roll
5. Try No Heat Curls They say straight is boring, so why not try these simple tricks to wake up to beach-babe waves while saving your locks the damage caused by a curling iron? On damp hair, separate your hair down the middle into two sections, one on each side, and twist them tightly. After you've twisted your section, wind it up into a bun and pin to your head on either side so you're left with two twisted buns on either side of your head. Let it stay like this overnight while you sleep. When you wake up the next morning, let loose your fabulous waves and use your fingers to tousle. You can also try this with two plaits instead of twisted sections. If your hair is thick you may want to create 3 or 4 sections in-
stead of just 2 for uniform waves. 6. Notch Up Your Blow Dry You usually run your paddle brush through your hair while blasting heat from your blow dry to help smoothen your locks and fight frizz. Take it up a notch by adding a root-lift spray before you begin blow-drying. This will bring oodles of life and volume to your hair. Also, take some round brushes and coil them around the ends and leave them like that for a few minutes while your hair cools to give you pretty waves at the bottom. 7. Dress Up Your Mane Hair accessories are a raging trend; if you haven't already shopped a few attention-grabbing hair chains, then what are you waiting for? You can wear them for anything from a music fest to a wedding to add a pretty twist to not just boring hair but a plain outfit as well. Pins are also simple ways of adding some sparkle to your locks and instantly giving them a pretty makeover.
pins, and mist the ends with hair spray for separation. Beauty note: Add drama with copious jewel-tone shadow. New Romantic Even chin-length hair can be worn up in a feminine, face-framing braid. Paired with a matching set of necklace and earrings that look plucked from Grandma's jewelry box, this casually plaited style delivers old-world charm to a conservative long-sleeve dress. How-to: Shortish hair can be elaborately styled and with minimal effort. Start by prepping dry hair all over with texture spray. Next, braid three narrow sections from one side of the forehead to the opposite end and secure at the temple with bobby pins. Hold the remaining hair back with bobby pins, or
gather it into a small ponytail if the hair is long enough. Beauty note: Brows enhance the look. Define them with brow powder. Dressy Eclectic Fool everyone into thinking you lopped off your long hair by pulling it into a faux bob. It really makes large opalescent danglers and a chunky chain-not to mention a minimalist dress-pop. How-to: To create a faux bob, first blow-dry long, straight to wavy hair. Part hair in the middle and gather it in a low ponytail with the elastic slipped in an inch from the ends. Roll hair under and secure the whole shebang loosely to the nape with pins. Beauty note: Flatter a basic bob with another beauty basic: blue eyeliner, applied above and below eyes.
Tips to make your New year Diary
If you are among those who maintain a diary, here are a few ideas for a DIY diary. Yes, instead of buying those diaries/journals off the shelf, you can get your creative juices flowing and create your own one. You can design the cover, and even the look of the pages inside with your favourite movie characters, cartoons, and more. So, go ahead, try out some of these DIY ideas to make that 2016 journal. For movie buffs -If you are a movie buff and if you are going to fill up your book with filmy trivia and tidbits, you can start with a collage of all the famous dialogues from your favourite films and make a cover. You can do some work on the computer using different fonts and de-
sign it in such a way that all the dialogues don't look clustered. Give a border and add some pep by giving a blurb and emojis. The entire look is sure to give you a lot of motivation to write as well. This one's for travel junkies -Every year, we make a list of places to travel and end up writing our experiences when we visit a place. Instead of making a mental note of the places you wish to travel, take a map and cover your book with it. You can use pencil shades and colour the place you've visited. By the end of the year, we are sure you'd be happy to see the number of places you have visited. And when you're writing the journal, sticking pictures of the places you visited would work, too!
Bring on some music -Music covers make for interesting journal covers. From different musicians, genres, languages, musical instruments - there are lots to choose from. Take a black chartpaper, and if you can, you can even sketch some of your favourite musicians on it. If you have way too many musicians that you like, filter it to top 10 from different languages. You can even put a favourite lyric as a blurb. Make it colourful, make it interesting. Paint your book -If you want to maintain a personal diary and want to do away with themes, simply paint your book covers. Spend some time scrolling through some of the sketches/ paintings online. First
do a rough draft on a paper and then go for the final sketch. Paint them in bright colours to make your book very inviting for you to write on. DIY with leftovers If you are not in the mood to paint/sketch, opt for DIY with leftover materials that are available at home. Pull out an old denim jean or shirt and cut it to the size of your notebook. Ensure you have the part with the pocket. You can then use the pocket to keep small notes or even a pen. You can also use old tapes and make zigzag borders with it. Making journals with newspapers/ magazines also make for an interesting look. From old buttons to stickers - get your old stationery out to make a nice new journal.
cmyk
cmyk
He was confident that he would be very competitive, adding that he hopes to start the new season on a positive note, Sport24 reported.
DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
PAGE 12
Rafael Nadal
Lloyd defends Windies players Debraj Roy College, opting for T20 leagues Golaghat emerge champion
ANI London : Former West Indies captain and chairman of selectors Clive Lloyd has backed his country's players opting for lucrative Twenty20 tournaments rather than playing for their national side. Lloyd, the West Indies' successful captain of alltime, insisted that his country's player could not be blamed as everybody wants to secure their future. He, however, admitted that the national team have to fill the void left by their star players, the Guardian reported.
Key players like Chris Gayle, Keiron Pollard, Samuel Badree, Darren Sammy, Andre Russell and Dwayne Bravo have opted to play in the Big Bash league rather than representing their nation. Meanwhile, the national side struggled to compete against Australia and are trailing 0-2 in the three-match series. They suffered a 177-run loss in the second Test in Melbourne. With the defeat, West Indies have also extended their winless streak in Test series againstAustralia to 23 years.
Clive Lloyd
KP calls for heftier contracts to revive dwindling Test format
Kevin Pietersen
ANI Sydney: Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen
has called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to come up with
heftier Test contract if they want to see star players opting for their national side rather than playing in lucrative Twenty20leagues. The 35-year-old, who was extremely disappointed to see big players preferring T20 leagues instead of their national side, insisted that there was an immediate need to do something in order to keep the Test cricket alive, the Sydney morning Herald reported. Pietersen, who is currently playing for the Melbourne Stars in the BBL, opined that players would return to the Test cricket only if they would be offered more money than they receive for playing in T20 tournaments like the In-
dian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League. Pietersen's comments came in the wake of West Indies star players like Chris Gayle, Keiron Pollard, Samuel Badree, Darren Sammy, Andre Russell and Dwayne Bravo opting to play in theBBL rather than representing their nation. Meanwhile, the national side struggled to compete against Australia and are trailing 0-2 in the threematch series. They suffered a 177-run loss in the second Test in Melbourne. With the defeat, West Indies have also extended their winless streak in Test series against Australia to 23 years.
Determined Nadal vows to PBL kicks off tomorrow, to experiment with be `very competitive` in 2016
Rafael Nadal ANI Johannesburg: World number five Rafael Nadal has insisted that he will be 'very competitive' in the upcoming season after enduring a modest 2015 season. The 14-time Grand Slam champion, who slumped to 10th in the rankings in June, failed to win any of the sport's
four grand slams for the first time since 2004 but finished the year on a much improved note, making couple of finals before reaching the semis at the season-ending ATP World Tour in London. Nadal said that he was confident that he would be very competitive, adding that he hopes to start the new season on a positive note, Sport24 reported. The Spaniard said he was not expecting an amazing comeback but added that he was hoping for an improvement in his level of tennis and competition. Nadal will play at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship exhibition event in Abu Dhabi on Friday before heading to Doha for his official season-opener.
Tinsukia in Command Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 1: Tinsukia were in commanding position after scoring 120/ 1 at stamps against Mangaldoi in the first day of the two day Nuruddin Ahmed Senior interdistrict cricket tournament at DDSA stadium here today. Put into bat, Mangaldoi scored 152 in 61 overs before being bowled out. Anjan Shil top scored with 84 off 146 balls featuring eleven fours and two maximums. Wasir
Ahmed contributed 23 off 73 balls with three boundaries. For Tinsukia, Abhilash Gogoi claimed five for 71 in 23 overs. Ajay Gohain took two for 37 in 10 overs. Tinsukia were 120/1 in 32 overs at stamps. Dipankar Banerjee scored 33 off 65 balls with four boundaries. Ayush Agarwal and Samarjit Nath unbeaten at 43 and 25 run each respectively. Rishikash Deka claimed one wicket for Mangaldoi.
Trump match PTI Mumbai, Jan 1 : The revamped Premier Badminton League (PBL), commencing here tomorrow with hosts Mumbai Rockets taking on the Saina Nehwal-spearheaded Awadhe Warriors, is to experiment with a new concept - Trump match - thats expected to keep the interest till the end of a tie. The League, revived after a gap of two years following a successful inaugural Indian Badminton League in 2013, has brought in the fresh idea in which each of the competing teams will nominate one match in each tie as their Trump Card. A victory by the team that picked the particular game as its Trump will provide it with one extra point but a defeat will set it back by one point, and the intrigue generated by this new concept would keep the ties alive till the end, according to national coach Pullela Gopichand. "Its a great addition to the league to ensure that the excitement remains till the end of the tie. Two teams can nominate the same match as Trump match. This ensures that the last two matches are
also important in a tie," said Gopichand here in the run-up to the League opener. "Even a 3-0 lead is not sufficient to win as you still can lose the tie. Spectators interest will be kept alive. It needs to be seen how the players react to the extra pressure. Some play better under pressure and some others crack," he said. World no. 2 Saina, who commanded USD 100,000 at the auction, would be leading Awadhe Warriors challenge against Mumbai Rockets who appear strong in mens singles with two top men shuttlers of the country - H S Prannoy and R M V Gurusaidutt - leading their charge. The host outfit has a strong mens doubles players in Denmarks Mathias Boe and Russias Vladimir Ivanov. World no. 20, Prannoy, has already sounded upbeat about his teams chances. "Over the last two years I have been playing really well, along with Gurusaidutt. We both are in good form. We are a pretty balanced outfit. We have really good doubles players too," said the 23-year-old, who hails from Kerala, here ahead of the tournament opener.
Dibrugarh University Inter College Cricket Tournament concludes successfully Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Jan 1: Debraj Roy College, Golaghat defeated North Lakhimpur College by two wickets in the final of the Dibrugarh University Inter College Cricket Tournament organized by Dibrugarh University Sports Board at DU playground here today. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, North Lakhimpur College scored 63 in 19.3 overs before being bowled out. Jitumoni Borgohain top scored with 20 off 16 balls hitting two boundaries and one six. Himangshu Chakraborty contributed 10 off 17 balls featuring two boundaries to the fence. For Debraj Roy College, Hariprasad Saikia was the pick of the bowlers claiming 5 for 14 in his 7 overs while Hrishikesh Bora picked up 4 for 15 in his 4.3 overs. In reply, Debraj Roy College scored 66 losing six wickets in 18.3 overs to reach to their target. Tonmoy Jyoti Dutta scored
The Champion Debraj Roy College team. Pic - ET Photo 17 off 16 balls while Jayanta Barman contributed 13 off 45 balls. Himangshu Chakraborty picked up five for 4 runs in 2 overs while Bhaskar Boruah took two for 26 in 7 overs for North Lakhimpur College. Hari Prasad Saikia of Debraj Roy College was adjudged
man of the match while Pronojit Roy of Digboi College was adjudged as the player of the tournament award. Dr. Jiten Hazarika, Dean, Student Affairs, DU, Dr. Kalyan Bhuyan, Associate Professor, Dept of Physics, DU, Dr. Dipok Chetia, Prof. Dept of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, DU, Thaneswar Saikia, Former Director of Sports Board, DU, Pranob Boruah, Former Director of Sports Board, DU, Dr. Putul Saikia, Principal of DR College and Pulen Gogoi, Prof. DR College and Zonal Observer were present during the prize distribution ceremony.
Test for Yuvraj, Harbhajan, Nehra as Natl T20 starts tomorrow PTI New Delhi, Jan 1: Veterans Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh and Ashish Nehra would like to get some quality match time before the T20 series in Australia, as the National Twenty20 championship for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy kicks off tomorrow across four different cities. The tournament will serve the dual purpose for cricketers vying for top honours. For India internationals like comeback men Yuvraj and Nehra, along with fringe players, it will be a testing ground where they can stake claim for a berth in the team for ICC World T20 in March. For those plying their trade in domes-
tic cricket, Mushtaq Ali T20 trophy will give them a platform to impress the various franchises with their skills before the big IPL auction in February. The BCCI, in a positive step, has decided to hold Mushtaq Ali T20 keeping the World T20 in mind. The tournament over years had lost significance for being conducted hastily just before Indian Premier League. With auctions over, the domestic talents did not get an opportunity to land IPL contracts. Punjab skipper Harbhajan and Yuvraj will be fighting it out against Rajasthan at Kochi while Nehra, who made a comeback into the Indian team after four and half years, will be getting
himself battle ready with Delhi taking on Railways. After being selected in the Indian T20 team, he would certainly like some match simulation before boarding the flight to Australia. For Yuvraj and Nehra, the additional incentive would be to impress the franchise owners as they are both without any IPL team. Another person who must be wanting to prove a point would be Suresh Raina, who got an ODI snub after a long time. Rainas Uttar Pradesh will take on Maharashtra at Cuttack. It will be after 19 long years that a Bengal team would be without the talismanic all-rounder Laxmi Ratan Shukla, who announced his retirement from competi-
tive cricket, as they take on Hyderabad in Nagpur. Skipper Manoj Tiwary and senior pacer Ashok Dinda, who got IPL snubs from DD and RCB respectively, will get a chance to keep the franchises interested. Itinerary In Nagpur (Group A) Bengal v Hyderabad; Gujarat v Himachal Pradesh; Haryana v Tamil Nadu; In Kochi (Group B): Rajasthan v Punjab; Kerala v Jammu & Kashmir; Saurashtra v Tripura; In Vadodara (Group C): Andhra v Madhya Pradesh; Assam v Baroda; Delhi v Railways; In Cuttack (Group D): Mumbai v Odisha; Karnataka v Services; Maharashtra v Uttar Pradesh.
Confident Kiwis not panicked by Lanka's resurgence ANI Wellington, Jan. 1: New Zealand star batsman Kane Williamson has insisted that his side are confident to bounce back in the fivematch series with minor adjustments after suffering a surprising eight-wicket
defeat against Sri Lanka in the third one-day international at Saxton Oval. Sri Lanka produced an allround performance on Thursday as they chased down the target of 277 within 46.2 overs, with Tillakaratne Dilshan and
Danushka Gunathilaka making a brisk 98-run partnership for the opening wicket. Williamson, who stood as stand-in skipper in the absence of Brendon McCullum, admitted that the game was one-sided but
added that the hosts only needed to make small adjustments to be better in the next one, Stuff.co.nz reported. Despite the loss, New Zealand are leading the series 2-1 with the fourth match set to get underway in Nelson on Saturday.
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