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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 6

Vol. 1

Issue 328

Dibrugarh, Saturday, May 7, 2016

Price -

5.00

Pages- 12

PAGE 5

AFSPA to remain in force in Assam CM rallies behind AICC's "Save democracy march" endeavour 12 Arunachal districts: Centre A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 6

ANI New Delhi, May 6

Chief Minister and Congress Legislature Party leader Tarun Gogoi today hitting out at the BJP led NDA Government for its attention drifting policy, claimed that the rank and file of the Congress strongly rallied behind the All India Congress Committee in its endeavour of “save democracy march”. In a statement here on Friday, Gogoi said Modi Government instead of materialising its much publicised rhetoric ‘acche-

The Centre on Friday said that Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, AFSPA will continue to remain in force in 12 districts of Arunachal Pradesh for six more months on the ground of continuous violence, extortion and intimidation by insurgent groups.

Naga groups-NSCN-K, NSCN-IM, NSCN-R and NSCN--NK along with ULFAI and NDFB-S, continue to in-

A file photo of security forces engaged in counter insurgency operations in an undiclosed location. dulge in extortion, area domination, inter-factional rivalry in these areas of the state.

tricts of Arunachal Pradesh bordering Assam as 'disturbed areas' under AFSPA.

On March 27, 2015, the Centre had declared all dis-

However, the order was withdrawn following strong

protests from the Nabam Tuki government.

Arunachal Pradesh shares a 1,126 kms of the border with China and 520 kms with Myanmar.

ASUD calls on Chief Minister Kalikho Pul ET Bureau New Delhi, May 6

The "Festival of Arunachal" will be celebrated on a “grand scale” hereafter ever year on Arunachal Statehood Day in the national capital hereafter, with allocation of Rs 18.6 lakhs for the celebration to be made annually.

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul revealed this in a meeting with delegates from Arunachal Students Union of Delhi (ASUD),

ET CAPSULES

Case Registered against notorious youth Margherita, May 6: Another Sensational incident happened at Margherita where a lumpan and notorious youth made a young girl pregnant. According to sources Bipul Tudu a lumpan and notorious youth of Rajkhowa Pather, Dibong under Margherita police trap the young girl in love. After that Bipul Tudu elope her on 1 May as the girl was already pregnant form two months. When the girl parents heard and asked Bipul Tudu to marry the girl but he refused to get her marry. On 5 May under the initiative of Margherita Police Station Officer in Charge Debojit Mahanta and his team caught the girl from Ledo. After that the parents of the girl registered a case at Margherita Police Station Ledo Case Number 103/ 16 IPC 376 (1) (i), 417 120(B).

(Correspondent)

UPLA cadre nabbed

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Diphu, May 6: In the continuing combined counter insurgency operation of Indian Army and Assam Police in West Karbi Anglong district, one alleged UPLA (United Peoples Liberation Army) cadre identified as Revision Kro was arrested yesterday night. The security force arrested the accused from village Tenkera-langso under Baithalangso police station. One 7.65 pistol and 10 rounds live bullets has been seized from the arrested cadre. Mention may be made that, the same outfit claimed responsibility of eliminating S P of Hamren in 2014 and after the drastic police action the organization diluted considerably but recently the UPLA has come together resulting in escalation of extortion and abduction incidents. (Correspondent)

when the latter had called on him here.

“The celebration will involve all sections of Arunachali residing in national capital region and all nearby states,” said the CM. He said the objective of the grand celebration would be to use the occasion to promote Arunachali art, music, dance, crafts, handlooms etc to the national audience. Also the celebration could be used to promote Arunachali talents in different fields, such as, sports, music, foods, handloom &

handicrafts etc.

Further to bring feeling of oneness among the tribes of Arunachal, the Chief Minister urged for bringing out a common date for celebration of all Arunachali festivals in the national capital, instead of celebrating it on different dates.

On ASUD’s request to fund the publication of its annual magazine, the CM agreed to release Rs 5 lakhs and advised the students to focus on studies.

He urged them to not only look for white-collar jobs, but to

explore other fields of study such as arts, music etc. The ultimate objective, said the CM, should be to pursue a career from which one could derive mental satisfaction.

He said he expects Arunachali professionals to excel in every field so that back home people would be proud of them. It is for this very reason, the Chief Minister said that despite without any demand put forth by the student community, he had hiked students’ stipend, release salaries of SSA teachers, hiked cash incentives for UPSC aspirants etc.

Jorhat ATMs asked to down shutters by 9pm, police still clueless about robbers ET Correspondent Jorhat, May 6

Police is reported to be still clueless about the robbers who looted the State of India’s ATM from the busy Nehru Park TR Phukan road which is within the heart of Jorhat city and just a few metres from the Sadar

Police Station. The episode entered sixth day today. High tech burglars lifted upper portion of the ATM and looted nearly rupees 13 lakh in cash, during the robbery which drew a lot of criticism about the style of functioning of Jorhat police which is led by a lady IPS officer.

Another attempt by burglars to rob another ATM at Borhulla under Borhulla Police Station beside the Borhulla- Nagabat road under Jorhat district in Titabor subdivision could not materialise Contd. on Page 4

Gogoi also said that in order to hide its failure and to divert public attention from the basic issues, the NDA

Government is blowing the AgustaWestland a huge issue. Gogoi said, “UPA Government when it was in power black listed the company and initiated an exhaustive probe to unearth the truth behind the issue”.

However, the Modi Government instead of zeroing in on the issue is making a bizarre attempt to divert public attention from its failures like checking price rise, unemployment, drought and other agrarian crisis to name a few that grappled the country. Gogoi however, said that the NDA

Government instead of finding the real culprit seemed to be leading the people to quagmire in the chopper deal and misleading the Nation.

Gogoi also has words of advice for the Centre and said that the NDA Government instead of indulging in its inherent character of mud-slinging business should order a Supreme Court monitored inquiry in AgustaWestland chopper deal and let the country know the truth associated with the issue.

Modi govt distracting people Police lathicharge to with chopper deal: Gogoi disperse mob in Assam PTI Guwahati, May 6

pany and initiated an exhaustive probe to unearth the truth behind the issue," he said.

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today accused the Modi government at the Centre of distracting people from issues affecting them by making AgustaWestland chopper deal a case of political vendetta.

The Narendra Modi government is, however, making a "bizarre attempt" to divert public attention from its failures like checking price rise, unemployment, drought and other agrarian crisis that has gripped the country.

Gogoi in a statement here demanded that the Centre order a Supreme Court-monitored inquiry into the chopper deal and "let the country know the truth associated with the issue".

The NDA government, he said, seems to be leading the people of the country to a quagmire in the chopper deal and is misleading the nation instead of finding the real culprit.

He said the Centre in order to hide its failure and to divert public attention from the basic issues, was blowing the AgustaWestland chopper deal into a huge issue.

The Modi government instead of fulfilling its "much publicised rhetoric" of acche din is now crushing democracy by imposing President's Rule and toppling democratically elected governments in Uttarakhand and Arunachal Pradesh, Gogoi added.

"UPA Government when it was in power had black listed the com-

PTI Guwahati, Apr 6

Police today resorted to "mild lathicharge" to disperse a mob protesting the alleged assault of a girl by some youths and demanding eviction of an alleged illegal colony along the railway tracks where the accused resided in Nagaon town of Assam.

"The mob started vandalising properties and burnt the house of a person in a settlement near the railway tracks in the town. Police had to use mild lathicharge to control them.

No one was injured," Nagaon Deputy Commissioner Adil Khan told PTI.

The people were protesting the alleged assault of a girl by some youths in that area last night and as the accused were from the colony, they demanded its eviction. After getting complaint of the assault, police had arrested the main accused last night itself, he said.

"One more person was arrested this morning. We have already done the medical examination and are awaiting the report," Khan said.

"The protest was peaceful initially. But as soon as TV channels arrived to cover it, people started getting violent and damaged properties in the area. They even beat a few persons, including women, residing in the colony," he added.

Phat Bihu, the Unique Cultural Identity of Dhakuakhona starts from today Ranjit Kakoty.

Lakhimpur, May 6

The unique cultural identity of Dhakuakhona of Lakhimpur District began from today with great enthusiasm in traditional fervor. The Mohghuli Chapori on the bank of the river filled and echoed with the blended notes of Dhol, Pepa,Gagana etc. Being a notable element of Assamese culture and festival, it has spread the massage of unity among not only the people of the area but also of the state.

Contd. on Page 4

Women artists perform traditional Toka Bihu on the occasion of inaugural day of Faato Bihu celebrated on the bank of Charikoriya river at Mohghuli Chapori in Dhakuakhana. Pix by UB Photos

ONGC Assam Asset’s CSR initiative, Project “Kiran” completes 5 years of successful service ET Correspondent Sivasagar, May 6

ONGC Assam Asset’s CSR initiative, Project “Kiran”, a cancer awareness and treatment drive, completed five years of successful service in 2016. Inaugurated on 26th March 2011, Project KIRAN, a noble health care initiative to focus on patients suffering from different types of cancers, have served more than 1000 patients from Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Guwahati, Nalbari, Barpeta, Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Digboi, Tinsukia etc. till date. The prime objective of this project is to provide free consultation and counseling to cancer patients of this region by the eminent cancer specialists of the country at their doorstep. Another

objective of the program is to take advantage of the visit of such eminent doctors to organize Continuing Medical Education (CME) lectures for the doctors of this region to update their knowledge about latest developments in this rapidly advancing field. This would help them in providing the currently accepted treatment protocols to their cancer patients.

Dr. Tapan Saikia, an internationally renowned cancer specialist and philanthropist, has been the key resource person of project “Kiran”. Apart from providing free counseling to the patients, he is also associated with awareness campaigns launched simultaneously with a view to educate people on this dreaded disease.

Like the earlier years, the two

recent camps, held on 23rd January 2016 and on 23rd April 2016 hosted at ONGC’s Sivasagar Hospital, witnessed a huge turnout of cancer patients. A total 162 number of patients have benefited through counselling with the renowned cancer specialist Dr. Tapan Saikia.

ED-Asset Manager of ONGC Assam Asset, Mr. Budhin Deuri has been deeply associated with the Project “Kiran” ever since its inception. Mr. Deuri also spares time to meet the cancer patients and encourage them in their battle against the dreaded disease. Asset Manager profusely thanked Dr. Tapan Saikia for having consented to come here all the way from Mumbai for this noble cause and added that Project

“Kiran” will go a long way in providing quality cancer treatment to the patients of the North Eastern region at their doorsteps.

In order to reach out to the neediest and poor, the medical team of Assam Asset has been in touch with many other renowned cancer specialists.

According to Dr. D. S. Rawat, Head - Medical Services, many doctors have shown their keen interest to be involved in this noble mission.

It is worth mentioning that, a first of its kind in this far north eastern region of the country, Project “Kiran” has become a huge success with more than 1000 beneficiaries, who received critical cancer treatment flickering a ray of hope among them and their families.

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The Union Home Ministry has said the security scenario in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts along with areas falling under 16 police stations in nine other districts of the state remains vitiated due to the spill over of Naga insurgency.

A gazette notification issued by the Home Ministry said these areas are declared as 'disturbed area' under Section 3 of AFSPA, for six months beyond May 4, 2016.

din’ is up for crushing democracy by imposing President’s Rule and toppling democratically elected government in Uttarakhand and Arunachal Pradesh. Gogoi also termed it as an attack on the democratic and federal structure of the country and said that the Congress will keep fighting for its legitimate cause of saving the democracy.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries If you’re looking to get married, buy the ring today. But before you take the leap, weigh all the pros and cons carefully. All in all, this may be a day filled with activities related to your relationship and by the time the day ends, you may be on cloud nine!

Taurus You will be feeling listless, lazy and out of sorts today, and will tend to ignore and neglect important tasks scheduled for the day. Guard against this tendency as you could miss out on opportunities that others could then benefit from. That way, you will surely lose out professionally, particularly if you are in business. This aside, the day promises to be an eventful and fruitful one.

Gemini While today will be a day filled with a lot of festivity, you still need to guard against getting carried away. You will spend the day socialising with friends and family. You might end up neglecting your household duties in organizing some function or picnic.

Cancer You are known for your ability to set the ball rolling. Once you set your mind to do something, it is generally considered done by your peers. Today, you are eyeing a few accomplishments on the monetary front. Most part of your day will go in dealing with financial transactions, and importing and exporting goods.

Leo Guides help other people choose the right path in life and to select the correct alternatives.

It is a good day for those who are in the teaching or coaching professions. It is also a progressive day for those working in MNC’s.

Virgo You will start off on a long, arduous path to success. Some tough work will play a vital role in your progress. Don’t cut corners, and your labours will pay rich dividends and you will reap due rewards. Some opportunities are best left alone as they involve too much risk.

Libra Today will be a lucky day for you. You may receive some financial gain. There will be some good news about your children’s progress. This is the right time to invest in business.

For financial investors and share brokers this period is beneficial, so make the most of it.

Scorpio Your energy levels are high as you as you gear up for new events. However, there are chances that these events may not meet your expectations. But, don’t lose hope and get disappointed. Keep your spirits high. Implement the first lesson learnt in school: try & try till you succeed!

Sagittarius Lady luck is all smiles for you today. Suddenly, you feel like multi-tasking and becoming a jack of all. This is likely to keep you busy, almost throughout the day. If need be, your colleagues and peers will lend a helping hand.

Capricorn You are in hot water, but do not lose hope during these turbulent times. Maintain a calm head over your shoulders and deal with the problems. Also, do not jump to conclusions or be argumentative with the people around you, as you may end up being at the losing end.

Aquarius You have already fulfilled your short-term objectives. But you are ambitious, and straightaway begin setting your long-term goals. But all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

Leisure time with family will rejuvenate and prepare you for a better stint at work.

Pisces A day of mixed fortunes awaits you, where taking risks could prove to be your undoing, or provide you with handsome returns. This is because you could come out on top by treading cautiously, but uncalculated risks will probably throw your calculations out of gear. Your success rate is unlikely to be too high; hence it may be a tough day for you. However, it will end on a promising note.

Timely action from Police avoids elopement episode in Margherita ET Correspondent Margherita, May 6: After the heinous incident of Champa Chetry who was killed by two youths whose dead body was recovered by Margherita Police from Dehing river on 4 May the same day another heinous incident was to be occurred but Margherita Sub Divisional Police officer Inamuddin Ahmed, Margherita Police Station Officer in Charge Debojit Mahanta, Ledo Village Defence Party and Ledo Police

Outpost in charge Pratap Gogoi quick action able to nabbed a youth who tried to elope a immature girl from her home. According to Sources from Margherita Police on 4 May a 15 Years immature School girl of Chinabasti, Ledo fall in the Love trap of a notorious youth Islam Hussain Son of Sabir Hussain resident of Jharnabasti, Ledo who eloped the girl and gave false promises of getting married. But unfortunately on 5 May both Islam

Hussain and the girl were caught at Maulang gaon, Ledo by the Police team. A Case has been registered at Margherita Police Station case Number 105/16 US 366(A) IPC. Margherita Police Station officer in Charge Debojit Mahanta said that we shall do all our efforts to Control Crime and I request Citizens of Margherita to keep Cooperation with Margherita Police so that Peace and Brotherhood can be remain forever at Margherita Region.

ET Correspondent Tezpur, May 6: With its continued efforts, Tezpur University has succeeded in processing 146 more applications of Authorized User for the grassroot Muga stakeholders of Assam in its second phase of registration procedure on April 30 last.

In Dhakuakhana College, (Lakhimpur) Assam Science, Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC), the Registered Proprietor of the GI and Dibrugarh University collaborated in the Camp. Muga Silk of Assam was given Geographical Indications (GI) status in 2007 and subsequently in 2014 Muga Silk has got its own logo. Since then, there were only a few authorized users of the Muga GI in the entire

State of Assam against approximately 27,800 stakeholders mentioned during the time of GI registration.

As per the Indian Law on GI, only authorized users can use the GI mark and the logo on their products and registration procedure for the same is a highly complicated and rigorous process.

The first phase of the registration procedure was conducted in April 2015 by Tezpur University Intellectual Property Rights Cell at North Lakhimpur College where 92 applicants filled up authorized users' applications with the help of TUIPR Cell members. The certificates of these 92 authorized users were distrib-

uted by C.G. Naidu, Assistant Registrar of Trademarks, GI Office, Chennai on April 30 at Dhakuakhana College. In this occasion, he also mentioned that Assam excelled all other states in the number of authorized users for any GI. Prof. Alak Buragohain, Vice Chancellor, Dibrugarh University, Prof Prabuddha Ganguli, MHRD IPR Chair Professor at Tezpur University, Dr Pritam Deb, Coordinator, IPR Cell, Tezpur University, Dr Pankaj Das, Coordinator, IPR Cell, Dibrugarh University, Dr. Tara Duarah, Mr Bipul Saikia, Dr. Suchibrata Goswami, Dr. Juri. B. Saikia among few other distinguished persons associated with the process and present in the Camp.

BPF convention from May 13

Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 7-5-16 (SATURDAY)

Photo of preparation of BPF convention in Kokrajhar ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 06: A massive preparation has got underway to hold 3rd triennial convention of the ruling Bodoland Peoples' Front (BPF) with two-day long programme scheduled at Bodofa Cultural complex in Kokrajhar, beginning from May 13. Over six thousand delegate and party workers from different district committees are participating the convention and several deep discussion and resolutions on the social upliftment and party integration would be held. BTC executive member and BPF

Advt.

party leader Doneswar Goyary while speaking the reporters at the convention venue told that the preparation has been got underway to hold the convention in smooth manner. Delegate and party members are participating the convention from different district committees and joining hand to the discussion on social development during the delegate session of the convention, Goyary said. On the first day of the convention on May 13, BTC executive member Bonjar Daimary would inaugurate a Langdang Gaan. BPF presi-

dent Hagrama Mohilary will hoist party flag,Chandan Brahma,MLA and ex-Minister will paid home on May 14 on the concluding day of the convention. Reacting to the AIUDF chief Budruddin Ajmal's eyeing to form third front government at Dispur, Goyary said that there is no possibility of forming third front government to be led

by AIUDF party in the state.

The BJP-BPF-AGP alliance party is winning largest majority seats in the election, so eyeing of third front in the state would not be come true, he added.

Kidnapped school students rescued

Name Change I JC-439796L Sub K Sankaran Serving JCO of 7 Madras C/O 99 APO resident of Dist Sivagangai (Tamil Nadu) make it known to public and declare to Amend in my son'S name Legally, from 'SP Vishnudev' To 'SP Vishnudevan'.

In my Service Records of Army and in Public. He will be known accordingly.

ET Correspondent Sivasagar, May 6: A cub of leopard killed very brutally by a mob today at Bokota Khamun gaon of Sivasagar District. Before being killed,early in the morning today, the cub eat a sheep and attacked a man named Moniram Karmakar.

Karmakar who got injured very badly in his back , stomach and hand had ad-

mitted to Demow health centre. After this incident the mob killed the cub and ate the meat of it. On the other hand, it was reported that, a pair of matured leopard has seen in Chetia gaon of Betbari of Sivasagar.

Now people of this area are live in fear and Tense. And want a quick action from forest department to capture the pair of leopard.

Super-30 by ONGC Assam asset - a Tezpur University Makes Muga dream come true GI a Reality for Stakeholders

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

5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Songs) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-30 P.M-Hindi Film Songs 1-50 P.M-Adhunik Geet 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani (Youth Programme) 7-45 P.M-Daakpakhili 8-00 P.M-Ekalabya (Sponsored Programme of K.K Handique State Open University) 10-00P.M-Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P

Cub killed by mob in Bokota of Sivasagar

ET Correspondent Tezpur, May 6: A class XII standard student of Jorhat based Assam Rifles Public School who was kidnapped from Tezpur Mission Chariali on May 4 last by a gang of unidentified miscreants was rescued yesterday evening from a remote rural hill area by the villagers of Arunachal Pradesh near Bandardewa and later handed over to the Bandardwa Police.

Members of NF Railway Employees’ Union, Tinsukia division demonstrate against the illogical 7th CPC's recommendations & fullfilment of 56 charter legitimate demands infront of the DRM Office, Tinsukia. Pic - Sidharth Singh

However, the rescued student was handed over to the family members yesterday in the evening. According to the detail of the incident revealed by the police, the student was on way to Biswanath Chariali for visiting his relative's house by a Gwahati bus. He got off the bus at Tezpur Mission Chariali

for changing bus for Biswanath Chariali, while the four member gang of the armed miscreant traveling by a TATA SUMO that was following him from a long way forcefully dragged him into their vehicle fled from the spot.

Meanwhile the victim boy stated that in the midst he was made senseless and while he resumed his sense he found himself lying in a jungle and managed to flee from the spot.

Later he reached a hamlet located in a hill of Arunachal Pradesh where the locals took care of him and handed over to the Bandardewa Police.

"The kidnappers camouflaged in black attire were talking in Urdu which was not intelligible for me and they showed me fire arms and kept me mum." The boy said.

ET Correspondent Sivasagar, May 6:The result of the JEE (Mains) 2016 competitive examination has brought great cheer to the engineering aspirants of Sivasagar and Jorhat as 16 out of 27 students of the districts coached under the Super 30 programme funded by ONGC, Assam Asset under CSR, as a part of its welfare initiative in operational areas have cleared this prestigious examination.

sponsible corporate it is a humble initiative of ONGC to address the local need to enhance the competitiveness of students in entrance exams of IIT/NIT etc. Mr. Deuri further added that the result give a clear indication that students from Assam, especially from ONGC operational areas, have the capacity to compete with the best in the country and come out successfully. What is more important is to provide them the right platform, Mr. Deuri added.

While congratulating the students and parents, Mr. Budhin Deuri, ED-Asset Manager, ONGC, Assam Asset informed that as a re-

It is pertinent to note that two students from DPS, Nazira have also qualified for JEE Main.

DDTC assures to solve the burning problems of Doomdooma ET Correspondent Doomdooma, May 6: The chairman of Doomdooma Town Committee (DDTC) has assured that he would try to meet the demands of Doomdooma Press Club (DPC) delegation at the earliest. A DPC delegation which was led by its President Anuj Kalita and Secretary Manoj Dutta met the DDTC chairman Dulu Arandhara and urged to solve the current problems of Doomdooma Town. The delegation met him at his office and submitted an aide memoir to him in this connection. Illegal encroachment is a major drawback of this small tea town which causes great difficulties for the pedestrians. The DPC

has appealed the local body to evict the pavements of the town. Moreover the journalists' delegation also urged the DDTC to take initiative for the evacuation of all the encroachments in the town, especially near the railway gate. It also desired the need to take up some beautification projects in those places.

Besides it demanded to shift the bus stand to the newly constructed bus terminus , to shift the Tuesday weekly market to the given up old Doomdooma - Dighaltarang PWD roadside from its present place , to declare Nehru Road , Wood Road and old AT Road as one ways . It also demanded for the repair of the roads which are in a dilapidated state.

Cleanliness drive at Pabitora ET Correspondent, Morigaon, May 6: A cleanliness programme was organized in Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary on May 5 by a nature loving organisation namely --Sipa in collaboration with WWW.India AAPSO. The programme was formally inaugurated by Ashok Das, Ranger, Pabitora Wildlife

Sanctuary.

In this programme, the garbage and other wastage created by picnic parties were cleared. The king of Mayong, Tarani Singh and hundreds of students and nature lovers also participated in this programme.

Pabitora will be remain closed from May 1 to October 31 during monsoon.

Cattle shifted from Majuli shore ET Correspondent Jorhat, May 6 : Following high alert sounded

by Meteorological department over hundreds and hundreds of cattle, bulls, cubs were ferried out from Majuli River Island from the shore areas where cattle rearing is a common occupation for the islanders of Majuli today.

Areas of highlands in and around Majuli are submerged and flooded after insolent rain and storm since couple of days at the chapories basically as the district received rainfall 382 mm alone in the month of

April 2016 which has recorded with maximum rainfall in past 25 years.

On the other hand with sudden raise of Brahmaputra water level at Jengraiimukh, K a m a l a b a r i , Neematighat following which several low lying areas in and around Majuli is submerged with fresh flood as the administration quick action to shift over hundreds of cattle to safer destination towards Neematighat areas and to other places within the district which has been ferried in batches from the river island Majuli.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

PAGE 3

Governor visits Arunachal Bhavan in Navi Mumbai, meets patients and students A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 6: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa paid a surprise visit to the so called Arunachal Pradesh Bhavan in Navi Mumbai on 5th May 2016.

Continuing his effort in providing proper shape to all the State Government infrastructures outside the State for the benefits of the people of Arunachal Pradesh and individuals and students pursuing their studies in that State, the Governor toured the Bhavan accompanied by First lady Smt Rita Rajkhowa. He expressed surprise that such valuable property (about 10,000 sq feet as reported by the Director USR, on the second floor of the ten storied building) has not be brought to proper use.

The Governor had a thorough look of the area and noted that the condition of the rooms and surrounding area is filthy, unhygienic and not fully completed and also there is a shortage of water and most of the basic electrical appliances are non-operational. Entire second floor also doesn't belongs to the Arunachal Pradesh government as reported by the director of USR group and that while the small vacant room/ area is seen which the builder explained has been kept for AR government and emporium, adjacent to that there is a private restaurant running.

public, particularly patients from the State.

The Governor wished that the State Government take necessary action immediately in this direction.

During the visit the Governor and First Lady Smt Rita Rajkhowa interacted with the patients from Arunachal, who are staying in the Arunachal House and undergoing Cancer treatment. He extended financial help of Rs. 10, 000.00 (Rupees Ten Thousand) each to all the 10 (Ten) patients present.

The Governor also doubts as to whether the built up area for the Arunachal Bhavan is really 10,000 sq feet only to the floor meant for the Arunachal Pradesh Bhavan couldn't clearly show the area. He also noted that there is no sign board outside the building and also inside at the entrance to the Arunachal Bhavan portion of the second floor thereby making it difficult for the people coming from the State as well from outside to locate the so called Arunachal Bhavan. The Governor asked the builder to fix a big size board and also a sign board in the entry to the Arunachal Pradesh Bhavan portion immediately which he has agreed to do.

The Governor asked the director of USR group Shri Sarain Zacharia to look into

the matter and provide at least the basic facilities to the people without any delay as only eight rooms meant for the people of which are occupied by all cancer patients and their family members.

Fortunately, there is a room reserved for the Government officer/ in-charge of the Bhavan only with a single bedroom accommodation for the officer. Presently there is neither responsible gazetted officer nor other official from Arunachal Pradesh government to look after the progress on the matter stated above nor for to the patients suffering from the cancer and other of several diseases.

There is also no vehicle provided for the patients and on the other hand neighbouring Assam Bhavan where the cancer patients only are accommodated, not only there

Assam rifles draws light in Tirap

is a responsible officer of the rank of Joint Secretary as Deputy Resident Commissioner is assisted by the other officials who liaise with the Tata cancer hospital and other hospitals and assist all other patients by providing them the transport at reasonable rates. They have a mini bus and also no of SUV's and other vehicles on the service of patients, most of the vehicles are donated by the public sector companies due to initiatives of various authorities and of DRC. The Governor suggested for posting of senior administrative and tourism officials from the State to expedite the process in establishing it into a useful facility to promote State Tourism and to provide accommodation to Government officials and general

ner of the country.

The villagers were given these lights under a joint effort of Assam Rifles and a Mumbai based NGO Eco Solutions run by Mr Yatender Aggarwal.

The people of these villages expressed their sin-

cere gratitude to Assam Rifles unit in this endeavour which hopes to drive out darkness and bring harmony to the neighbourhood.

This effort reaches out to the masses and brings the motto " Friends of The Hill People" to the forte.

Medical Camp & Health Check up at the door step of Tafragam Brishnu Rana Tezu, May 6: In a sheer scene of humanitarian gesture, a Medical Camp & Health Check Up was held under the Ageist of Border Road Organization jointly with Zonal Hospital District health Society Lohit at the PHC Tafragam located 8 Km in the outskirt of the township.

The daylong Health Camp diagnosed and treated common ailments including fever, Diarrhea, Dysentery, Toothache and various other sorts of vector borne diseases. Young, old, children both male and female thronged the Primary Health Centre (PHC), a venue of the Health Camp. Free treatment, administration of medicine and distribution were made available to the villagers during the camp. Doctors from Zonal Hospital Tezu namely Dr. Kamlo Tayeng Anesthesiology and Dr. Kemba Padung Surgeon including Dentist and from BRO side also two SMOs were engaged to give optimum health services at the door step.

Over hundreds turned over during the day long camp. Local legislature Dr. Mohesh Chai while extending deep gratitude to the BRO said that despite facilitating access to most interior and fur flung areas in developing better road this sort of humanitarian sign is laudable. He suggested the organization to conduct such of camp at Bhekuliang which is one of the remote villages of his constituency. While ex-

The Governor asked the director, Shri Sarain Zacharia to charge only the reasonable amount as it is his duty as director of USR Company to provide support to help people of the state as part of its corporate social responsibility The builder informed the Governor that the permission

Shri Sarain Zacharia has agreed to submit all the relevant documents pertaining to building to ADC accompanying the Governor by speed post.

The First Couple advised the students to work hard and be sincere in their studies. Be a true face of Arunachal Pradesh and make the State and its people proud of them.

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul calls on Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung, asks for allocation of plot for Arunachal Guest House New Delhi, May 6: Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Najeeb Jung today, in principle, agreed to allot two plots of land for construction of Arunachal Guest House following a request to this effect from Chief Minister Kalikho Pul.

ET Bureau Khonsa, May 6: Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles in a humanitarian gesture provided villagers of Kothung, Nogna under Laju circle & Ngoithong under Deomali circle , Tirap Distt with 450 Solar Lights on 06 May 2016 in an effort to look after the remotest cor-

Later, the Governor and the First Lady also met group of students from the State, who in turn submitted a memorandum to them. The students informed the Governor through the memo that the director USR has issued a notice to room occupant / patients to pay the daily rent of Rs 1000 per seat although most of the family members of the patients lie on the floor of each room and the basic facilities are also not made.

of about 10,000 sq feet area by the Arunachal Pradesh Government was symbolically taken over 2 years back , i.e., without the completion of the required portion of the floor. The builder further informed that the plot of land for the 10 story flat which he has built up was handed over to him by the government of Arunachal Pradesh on BOT basis /lease for a period of 60 years. He also stated that the payment for the land and the construction of the Arunachal Pradesh Bhavan portion was done entirety by him as a part of the lease and the GOAP has not given any money to him. On the query of the Governor he also informed that he has got the permission for construction of offices complex and only one floor he has supplied to one jewellery firm. However this is subjected to verification. Governor asked him to submit the copy of documents on which he has been authorised to construct the building and rent out to various parties.

The Chief Minister called on the Lieutenant Governor, who also heads the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) here at Raj Bhawan for assistance in deputing a nodal officer to help identify and allot two plots of land, each measuring 8000 sqmts at North and South Delhi for construction of guesthouse, which would be an extension to the Arunachal Bhawan.

The CM said the new building would benefit students from poor family background who are unable to afford decent accommodation in the national capital. Also it would benefit aspirants of civil services and other competitive examinations for

their accommodation in New Delhi for better access to good coaching institutes.

He mentioned that several aspirants from poor economical background had to abandoned their preparatory studies midway, as they could not afford cost of living in the national capital.

Further the Chief Minister said the guesthouse would be of help for patients coming to New Delhi for seeking advanced and specialized medical care.

Also officials of the Arunachal government have to visit New Delhi regularly to attend development meetings and for follow up of government programmes. In absence of adequate accommodation in the national capital, several officials had to find accommodations in the hotels, said the Chief Minister.

The CM told Lt. Governor

that while there is an Arunachal Bhawan at Chanakyapuri for the visitors to halt, the available space is proving to be in sufficient to accommodate large numbers of visitors.

The Chief Minister said upon allocation of land, the state government would immediate start the construction work for guesthouse. The new guesthouse will be equipped with proper reception and lodging facilities with Wi-Fi connectivity, canteen, cafeteria and 24-hours facilities of water and electricity.

The Chief Minister also invited the Lt. Governor to Arunachal.

Chief Secretary Shakuntala Gamlin, who accompanied the CM, apprised Najeeb Jung on the development initiatives being taken up by the Chief Minister and the policies being taken to make the state investor-friendly.

Electrification of Maihwa Village under OP Sadbhawana

A Staff Reporter Longding, May 6: In continuation with the efforts to provide much needed basic amenities to civilian population in remote areas of Southern Arunachal Pradesh, a solar lamp distribution program was organized by the India Army at Maihwa Village under the aegis of Lekhapani Sector Assam rifles today. Solar lamps were distributed at the rate of one solar light per houses in the village leading to provisioning of light in every house of the vil-

lage.

The Financial assistance, for procurement of solar lamps and further distribution was provided by Echo Solution, a Mumbai based NGO headed by Yatinder Agrawal. Similar Projects have been executed by this NGO in several villages of Manipur and Nagalnd. The program witnessed an overwhelming response from villages and civil administration expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army.

AAHSU stage protest over misuse of Hindu god pictures in Tinsukia Special Correspondent Tinsukia, May 6. All Assam Hindu Students Union on Friday staged a protest outside deputy commissioner's office at Tinsukia protesting mis-use of Hindu god and goddess by some "nastik" kind of persons including businessman. The union in a memorandum to the deputy commissioner illustrated a few examples like pics of Hindu god and goddess places at staircase where it is written spitting not allowed and places where it is written urinating not allowed here.

But, they forget that people spit their including on the pic of Hindu god and goddess insulting and hurting sentiments of Hindu people.

The union has also expressed anger over placing idols of God and goddess on the roads underneath tree.

The union has given 48 hour ultimatum to the deputy commissioner to act against such people and remove all such god and goddess photos and idols or else has threatened to take action on their own.

NF railway employees union stage protest at Tinsukia Tinsukia, May 6. The Tinsukia wing of NF railway employees union on Friday staged a 2-hour protest outside DRM office. The union had protested against privatisation of some parts of railway along with curtailing

jobs in railway. The union also objected to few things mentioned in the 7th pay commission. In the end, union handed over a memorandum to the DRM of Tinsukia railway division Prashant Mishra.

Books Donated ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 6: Under the able leadership of Maheswari Yuva Sangathan in association with Maheswari Sabha and Maheswari Mahila Sangathan Golaghat Two numbers of valuable book sets consisting 12 books of class 12 Arts stream was donated to Golaghat Junior College today.

One set was donated to Library and another set was given to Girl named Suman Pal.

The books were donated by leading businessman of Golaghat named Jagdish Sharma & Rajendar Prasad Chandak. The Headmistress Gitimoni Sabhapandit and Gajen Bora appreciated the imitative of the organisation and said it will be helpful to the students. It is to be known that motive behind this project is to help the needy students good in studies and provide some help for their HS exam.

The Hon'ble Chief Minister, Arunachal Pradesh Shri Kalikho Pul met key Central Ministers and was accompanied by the Chief Secretary during his visit to Delhi from 4th to 8th May 2016.

The outcome of the meetings and discussion with key Ministries are as follows: -

pressing concern over the physical absence of Gamburas, ASMs and GPMs from both Kholariang & Tafragam, The MLA exhorted them to dissuade from such kind of petty politics and should join this kind of Health Camp cutting across all political difference for the largest benefit of the villagers.

Also praising the BRO services, Danish Ashraf, IAS DC Lohit said that BRO deserves accolades for these kinds of allied services. Though we are in different field of discipline but our motto is to give services to the needy. "The Administration is always standing to support and assist with its all means in this kind of endeavor to percolate services at the village level", he assures.

Earlier, in his inaugural message Colonel C Rajshekar Commandant 48 BRTF Task Force Dimbe said that the

Camp is organized to commemorate the 56th BRO Raising Day which is being held on every 7th May. "Other than our basic duty we organized health camp time to time on special occasion to extend humanitarian services for the common public, the support and love we receives from the public, leaders and administration is also appreciable and on our end we are always optimistic to reciprocate this sorts of services for public interest", The Commandant expresses.

During the camp 3 (three) ASHAs were give Drugs Kits to made their door to door health services effective. Among other present in the camp were Dr. A. Wailong Medical Superintendent, Dr. SJ Bhomick incharge DMO ZH Tezu, Paramedic staffs and doctors from both BRO and ZH during the day long camp.

1. Niti Ayog.

The Niti Ayog CEO has conveyed his willingness to bring an inter- ministerial team for guiding the state on perspective planning on infrastructure, power, health, education and human resource development.

The team has proposed to shortly visit Arunachal Pradesh for helping the state to prepare a road map for preparing a master plan with the thrust on overall developments of the state .Such an approach will help leverage funding for infrastructure projects with proper technical assistance and professional support from the Govt. of India. However, the Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh has to adhere to time lines for effective implementation of the projects by ensuring there are no cost over-runs and time over-runs.

2. Railways The HCM met the Railway Minister and requested him to complete the 'Railway Corridor Projects' extending upto Parasuram Kund from Pasighat, which is at a distance of 129 Kms. Meanwhile, feeder lines connecting to all districts Headquarters from existing railway heads, as proposed earlier to be taken up on priority.

Further, Union Railway

Minister assured that freezer containers, first class coaches, and improvement of existing coaches will be taken up. Day service train from Arunachal Pradesh to Guwahati is also being considered on priority.

The Ministry of Railways also agreed to consider allotment of additional quota in trains for people visiting Arunachal Pradesh.

3. Power The Hon'ble Chief Minister addressed the delegates of the hydropower Conference organised by ASSOCHAM and assured them of the commitment of the State for simplifying government procedures and creating an enabling environment for investments and for start up of business and to also undertake mid course corrections of existing projects. He assured that the state would provide all necessary policy support for helping to realise the hydro potential of the state.

4. Health Sector The Govt. of India gave an in principle approval for establishing a Cancer hospital with facilities of Linear Accelerator, Brachytherapy machines and separate dedicated bed facility with radiologist and oncologist to attend to the cancer patients.

Besides above, it also agreed

for establishing a Para medical school and college to start up with certificate courses after 10th and 12th standards.

This will help impart diploma courses in 12 disciplines including nursing care assistance, radiology, operation theatre technician, dialysis technician etc. and would create employment opportunities with doctors, labs, hospitals, research facilities etc. This would help in imparting skill for the youth of the state to enhance their employment opportunities.

5. Tourism The Govt. of India assured that viability gap funding for infrastructure development in Tourism sector will be provided for those circuits where road infrastructure, rail and air connectivity etc. are in order and properly positioned. The Govt. of India agreed for providing support for branding of tourism nationally and internationally wherein key tourism circuits will get a boost in respect of creation of infrastructure and to position the circuits on international arena as well.

6. Skill Development The Govt. of India agreed to give a focussed thrust on Skill Development launch with a special focus on Tourism, Health Care Training,

Handloom and Handicrafts, Germs and Jewellery, Engineering & Automobiles Sectors etc. and also assured that necessary linkages in the above trades would be provided to ensure job placements.

7. Allotment of land for annexes to Arunachal Bhawan The HCM met the Lt Governor Delhi and requested him to help in allotting two plots of lands each measuring 8000 sqkm within New Delhi to the government of Arunachal Pradesh in his capacity as the chairman of the DDA. He emphasized that the construction of the annexes will greatly benefit the students seeking admission in New Delhi colleges, and to the needy patients seeking advanced and specialized medical care, and also to ease the pressure on Arunachal Bhawan where accomodation is not sufficient to house the officers visiting Delhi on official works.

The Lt Governor has readily agreed and assured that the land will be identified and alloted to government of Arunachal Pradesh.

8. National Highways CMD NHIDCL Ashok Kumar called upon Chief Minister Kalikho Pul today and apprised him about the road

projects being implemented by them in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

He informed that 25 roads with 1000 kms length are being taken up by the NHIDCL. Out of that 12 have already been tendered and remaining are at DPR stage. During the current year, 176 kms are proposed to be constructed in the state of AP. CM emphasized upon him that there should not be any compromise on the quality of roads and there should be periodical supervision and monitoring during the construction.

In order to win the goodwill of the people, NHIDCL should take up some projects in Arunachal Pradesh towards discharge of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) and should provide jobs to local engineers, the CM told the CMD to which he readily agreed.

The CM further expressed his concern about poor maintenance of roads and suggested that NHIDCL should make proper arrangements for their periodical and effective maintenance after construction of road is completed and award a small packages of road works to engage local contractors.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

PAGE 4

Heavy storm lashes Majuli, two tourist lodges among electric uprooted ET Correspondent Jorhat, May 6: Heavy storm and rain hit the Majuli sub-divisional headquarter, Garamur in early morning today, uprooted over hundreds of trees, blown of two tourist lodges and over hundreds of electric pole including adjacent areas of Jorhat city destroying houses, blowing off its roof with CI -sheets, uprooting trees and creating panic among the people which was excepted more serious type of situation that might occur following weather focus in recent days.

The storm and hail stone affected major part of the Majuli sub-divisional headquarter Garamur area likeMilanpur Chariali, Chitadwar Chuk, Garamur Tiniali, Majuli SDO office premises and all throughout the area of the Garamur road, side trees were uprooted including 75 year old

in the early morning at six here today.

Tree fallen on a house during strong storm in Majuli. Pic - UB Photos Nila Kantha Mandir which has been partially blow off with other residential area.

Till filing this report major portion of the island has

been cut off with power supply as over hundreds of electric post are uprooted during the hour long hail stone and cyclone type of

storm which has cause banks, the BSNL and other communication tower to remain out of order even petrol depots are facing up-

hill task in responding to the customers as banks servers are down following the heavy storm that shook the central part of Majuli island

Meanwhile the district administration has been assessing the loss of property and loss of agricultural crops which is to be submitted within the time frame by the administration for three days and accordingly respective person following their land records will be compensated as loss of cattle and goats has been reported but three cattle and two goats who had died after a roof collapsed at Sitadwar chuk when a huge elephant apple tree fell on the roof of granary cum stable where both cattle and goat were kept by its owner Thaneswar Biswas.

On the other hand the two cottages which were blown off were the bamboo cottage (Ma:Po: Kum) while the other resort namely Deka Chang Resort, Majuli.

Concern over unpleasant atmosphere AASU blocked 37 N H at Jorhat in historic Nagsankar Temple ET Correspondent Tezpur, May 6: The people of the greater Jamuguri and Nagsankar area in Sonitpur District and the common visitors besides devotees of historic Nagsankar Temple expressed their total displeasure over the ill maintenance of the overall environment of the temple by the temple management committee.

It may be mentioned here that the historic Nagsankar temple is situated east of Tezpur, a place called Sootea in Sonitpur District. Record says that it was built during 4th Century AD by a King called Nag Sankar from Lohitya dynasty in late 4th century. Nagsankar reigned eastern Kamrup (ancient name of Assam) in 378 AD who was a great king and sent his representatives to his contemporary the Great Asoka of Maurya dynasty. According to another believe the Nagsankar temple was built by king Nagmatta which is another name of the powerful king of Assam, Arimatta who is believed to be son of the river-god Brahmaputra, who blessed beautiful wife of king Ramchandra with a son.

Meanwhile, one of the priests of the temple said, "Ahom king Su-sen-pha re-

paired Nagsankar temple in 1480. With this work the king was able to spread his kingdom to the north bank of the river Brahmaputra and win the faith of the people of the region."

It is pertinent to mention here that the devotees and the common visitors enjoy a natural beauty in the temple which has a large pond by it.

The pond is home to 15 varieties of turtles and swan providing a source of merriment for whoever visits the temple.

Some turtles are believed to be hundreds years old. However, it is a matter of regret that the local people who are more closely associated with the religious place said that the temple campus once having a mini zoo with peacock, deer, python, Bear etc. to attract the tourists today wear a bare look with unpleasant odour following polythin and plastic openly lying everywhere within the campus of the temple. "Due to the lack of cage for the swan it creates filthy environment while because of the lack of adequate space about two thousand turtles are facing threat." One of the locals rued adding the local people have been rearing these turtles at their own ponds taking from the pond of the temple. One nature lover of

the area alleged that the temple which is basically maintained by the Archeological department, Government of Assam and looked after by a management committee, due to the indifferent attitude towards the historic place of the committee run under the presidentship of Circle officer, Nadwar Revenue Circle, Kulen Sharma it is day by day losing it's past glory.

"The water logging problem within the campus and day by day degradation of ecological milieu have become a major problem here and though some of us often plant saplings of tree targeting growing of an eco-friendly atmosphere in the area some unsocial and crooked people destroy all these." A socially aware section of the area lamented and opined that to save the dying species of the turtles the existing pond is to be widened.

Also the people of the area are of the opinion that the authority concerned particularly the management committee should rethink immediately to give a new facelift to the ancient temple hereby restoring it's name and fame and heritage to reflect the dignity of the greater area.

Mohanlal Jallan Memorial Lecture Held ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 6: On the occasion of the first death anniversary of one of the pioneers in the fields of politics, business and society in Golaghat, Mohanlal Jallan, his family members had taken an initiative under which a memorial lecture was held today at Amateur Theatre Society Auditorium. In the programme '

Mohanlal Jallan Memorial Annual Speech ' was delivered by noted writer, poet, Sahitya Academy Award winner and former DGP, Assam Police Harekrishna Deka on the topic ' Development, Prosperity and Happiness '.

Earlier Harekrishna Deka and his wife Anjali Deka were welcomed and felicitated by the family members of late

Mohanlal Jallan.

In the programme Mohanlal Jallan's younger son Manoj Jallan delivered the inaugural speech and noted writer Dr Ajit Baruah delivered a speech on the history of Jallan family in Golaghat and late Mohanlal Jallan's contributions towards education, cultural, politics and the society of Golaghat.

ET Correspondent Teok, May 6: Jorhat district AASU by full contribution with Teok Anchalik Student Union today blocked the 37 National Highway at the heart of the Teok town demanding government to urgent repair of the badly damaged the 37 National Highway from Kakadunga, Jorhat to Jhanji within short period.

There were more than hundreds of protesters available at the 37 National Highway blocked programme where Jorhat AASU general sectary Mr Jitu Neog, state publicity sectary Mr Biren Saikia and a numbers of leaders were also present.

It was important that due to the poor condition of the 37

The three day long program from today to May 8 began with the unfurling of flag by Pradip Chamua, the President of the Celebration Committee.

Then the 'Swahid Tarpan'-- the tribute paying event to the martyrs was administered by Lila

Chamua, the Secretary of the Celebration Committee. As per agenda of the program of the first day, a competition on 'Taka Bihu' among the women was organised along with other events.

It is to be noted that the Celebration Committee has taken up a motto in the festival this year as "If there is tree, there

will be life" and that is why the committee will administer a massive plantation drive tomorrow in order to make the Phat Bihu Celebration site green. Kapou Phool(a kind of orchid) along with other plants will be planted through this event. More over, various cultural program will be held tomorrow.

Jorhat ATMs asked to down shutters by 9pm, police still clueless about robbers Contd. from Page 1

as the burglars could not open the ATM instead damaged the ATM which automatically made a sound like it happens during short circuit and the machine automatically changed into a shut down mood, on the third day after the ATM rob-

bery that took place at Nehru Park. The Nehru Park ATM loot is the fourth ATM robbery incident of its kind in the district of Jorhat.

The previous such case took place around six months ago.

Meanwhile, ATM handling agents FIS Payment Solution India Private Limited had taken up the deci-

sion to down shutters for both rural and urban areas at 9 p.m. and to be open at 5 a.m. regularly.

Most of the ATM has been looked by FIS Payment Solution India Private Limited, the company so far has faced three loss cases after burglars lifted ATM machines, but in name of recovery it is nil, said sources here.

National Highway a numbers of major road accidents took place last few

days interval. The all peoples were supported to the protest.

ET Correspondent Sivasagar, May 6: Sivasagar police got a big success by caught a truck related to PDF rice scandal. According to police sources a truck bearing As04E-2199 was caught by Sivasagar police which is possesses to Mridul Baruah. This is notable that, two days back Sivasagar police arrested a grocery owner from Baruachuk area for illegally keeping PDS rice.

Investing this case, police found that this truck had involved in this scam, which was carrying PDS rice from Jorhat to Sivasagar. But the driver of the truck still not found. .

But it is under suspension

that, how these trucks managed to be same weight after illegally selling a large quantity of rice. People alleged that, there might be a nexus between Sivasagar FCI depot manager and rice smugglers. So, they able to manage same weight even after smuggle.

However, police interrogated the owner of this truck but did not disclose anything, what they came to knew from him. Further, it was informed by a source that, Deputy Commissioner of Sivasagar will go to Abhoyapuri society for an enquiry in this case as the PDS rice meant to this society which was illegally stoked at the grocery of Baruah Chuk.

Firing in Nagaland border ET Correspondent Diphu, May 6: Border guards of Assam Police and alleged miscreants from Dimapur part of Nagaland exchanged heavy fire near Monglamukh Border police outpost vicinity yesterday night. According to police in-provocative firing began around 8.00 PM, the alert on duty police obtain defensive position and strike back; no one was injured in

cross firing. The whole patch of border has been reinforced and patrolling has been intensified. "Under all possibility miscreants tried to scare our border picket but we are ready and shall even the score accordingly" Debojit Deury, S P Karbi Anglong said. It may be mentioned here that, Monglamukh Border police outpost is delimited by Dhansiry reserve forest.

House wife dies in mysterious condition

ET Correspondent Diphu, May 6: After the death of Mrs. Suchita Devi (21) wife of Juahid Chauhan of village Phonglopet under Bakulia police station on Tuesday in mysterious situation, mother of the deceased Mrs. Bhawabati Devi has registered a case against the family members of Juahid Chauhan.

Bhawabati Devi has complained that her daughter has been murdered by her

in-laws and Juahid Chauhan; case under section 302/201/506 has been registered by Bakulia police yesterday. Bhawabati Devi has alleged that receiving information of her daughter's demise on May 3 she rushed to Bakulia from village Baksadubi, Kheroni of West Karbi Anglong district but without allowing her to witness her departed daughter the Chauhan family cremated the body.

Cash looted in Social awareness campaign at Aflagaon broad daylight ET Correspondent Mangaldai May 6 : A bag with cash amount of Rs 1 lakh has reportedly looted been from one Jitendra Mohan Saha (60) by miscreants when he was coming out of the Central Bank of India , Mangldai branch situated at LNB road and about to proceed towards his resident at Tengabari of the town . The incident oc-

curred at around 1 pm and the victim raised a hue and cry and people present immediately caught hold of one of the miscreants .

However the other miscreant managed to escape with the looted cash. The miscreant nabbed has been identified as one Bikash Das ( 34) , a resident of Biswanath Chariali .

Obituary : Lakhi Prasad Dutta Wednesday evening, has been carried out in the afternoon of Thursday in his residential campus at Niz-Dalgaon village.

Phat Bihu, the Unique Cultural Identity of Dhakuakhona starts from today Contd. from Page 1

AJYCP Jorhat unit staged demonstration against Union Food and Public Distribution Minister Ram Vilas Paswan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Central Govt. demanding to control the high rate of essential commodities in Jorhat. Pic - UB Photos

Sivasagar police got big success: smuggler Truck caught

ET Correspondent Mangaldai May 6 : The last rituals of the mortal remains of Lakhi Prasad Dutta (76) , a leading citizen of Darrang district , the founder principal of Dalgaon Higher Secondary School , a dynamic leader of the Assam Movement , a prominent sports person as well as sports organizer who passed away in a private hospital in Guwahati on

A large funeral procession with the participation of representatives of different local public organizations including AASU , AAMSU , AJYCP, Dalgaon Press Club , Dalgaon Sports Club etc was taken out in Dalgaon as a mark of last respect to the departed soul of late Dutta, known for his social commitment and leadership qualities .

He was admitted to the hospital few days back due to some prolong illness. His demise has cast a pall of gloom in entire Darrang district. He has left behind his wife , a daughter , grand children along with a host of relatives and friends .

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 6: Kokrajhar district Committee of All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) organized a social awareness campaign against the killing of innocent people on the suspicion of witchcraft practicing at No.7 Aflagaon under Patgaon Anchalik Commitee in Korajhar district today. It was organised to create sensitizing the people of the areas about the superstation believe and to stop the killing of innocent on the suspicion of witchcraft practicing, was chaired by Premjit Narzary, president of Kokrajhar district committee ABSU. Madhav Prasad Sarma, Kokrajhar DC attending the programme addressed about building awareness among common publics. Sarma, in his speech appealed the common people of the area not to believe witch craft, which is a superstition believe and we need to eradicate this social evil from our society. Further, he

also urged not to depend on the local Bez or Ojha, we must consult doctors in any case of health complication. Shyamal Prasad Saikia, Kokrajhar SP said that police administration has been taking strong action against the culprits involved in witch hunting. The government of Assam has proposed to enact a special law to deal with the witch hunting cases to prevent and protect the killing of innocent people. The Bill proposes punishment from three years to life imprisonment, he mentioned. A college going student was killed on April 22 last on suspicion of witch practices. There are many instances, but many are not reported. ABSU speaker Jayanta Basumatary said that the reasons of most incidents of witch-hunting have been reported from the rural areas are because of illiteracy and lack of medical and civic amenities. He mentioned that community must be sensitized

to stop killing people in the name of witch hunting. He appealed to the district administration to take legal action against the killing of innocent people in the name of witch hunting in the area. He said that belief is not evidence and accusation is not proof, the 'witchcraft' most often referred to through accusation, allegation and harmful superstition, exists only in the minds of those who believe the witchcraft, it must be stop. He has demanded that killers and culprits engaged in killing innocent by blaming them as practicing of witchcraft must be punished. Raju Narzary, the Executive Director of NERSWN, Kokrajhar, Madhav Karki Chetry, ex MCLA BTC, Sunit Iswary Headmaster Patgaon High School, leaders from Kokrajhar district Bodo Sahitya Sabha, Patgaon Primary Bodo Sahitya Sabha, Tribal Sangha, Boro Samaj were attended.

Mock drill, disaster Management force kept ready ET Correspondent Jorhat, May 6: With unpredictable weather condition as Meteorology department predicted for more quacks and sounding high alerts to one and all since the first week of April after a severe quack that shook and jolted the entire North East starting its epicenter at Myanmar that last for two minutes. Following such a situation district administration specially Assam State Disaster Management authority kept its requirement ready with boats, country boats, life jackets which might be in need be-

tween Neematighat to Majuli which is stated to be busiest ferry service water channel in Asia in the river Brahmaputra.

On the other hand several schools under the districts like Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Baghchung, Jonaki Sangh Vidyalaya, Dipankar Vidyapeeth had already started mock drill or exercises how to skip out from their classes during emergency like situation and how to reach open space.

The Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Baghchung since today has cut short academic classes instead added

two periods for rehearsing in training classes and become trainer for trainee in hours of such emergency even they are away from school as they could also guide and help people in hours of such emergency when they are in high buildings with two to three storied. For the mock drill special classes experts from Dimapur and Dibrugarh had arrived Jorhat and impart training and exercises for next two weeks, informed Fr Regi Mani, principal of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Baghchung.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

PAGE 5

Centre will try to revive 14 GNLA cadres including its area commander Piliport D NPPC Ltd, says Oram Shira alias Rakban and 2 ULFA (I) cadres surrendered Shillong, May 6: 14 GNLA cadres including its area commander Piliport D Shira alias Rakban and 2 ULFA (I) cadres surrendered before the police here on Wednesday.

These 16 cadres represent the entire north command in Garo Hills under the leadership of Piliport, who is one of the top 5 GNLA leaders operating under self styled C-N-C Sohan D Shira. It was informed that out of these 16 cadres, 2 were ULFA cadres who is said to have joined the GNLA in 2011.

Apart from Piliport, 2 were the Dy commander identified as Serejing alias Keding N Sangma and Chicko A Sangma alias Indian, its publicity secretary Anurag S Sangma alias Mike Aubry alias Garo Mande besides 10 others GNLA cadres and two ULFA cadres.

The entire north com-

mand surrendered with their arms and ammunitions in the presence of home minister Roshan Warjri and Meghalaya DGP Rajiv Mehta. 4 AK with 9 magazine and 342 live rounds, 1 Insas with 2 magazine and 89 live rounds, 1 carbine with 1 magazine and 25 rounds, 6 pistols with 9 7.65 and 9mm magazine and 37 rounds and 17 rounds respectively, 1 grenade, 4 handset, 5 ID cards and 19 sim cards were deposited on Friday.

According to Meghalaya DGP Rajiv Mehta, this is the biggest surrender in 3 years wherein the credit was attributed to the efforts of the church leaders, public figures and intense police operation.

"We are optimistic that other commands will follow suit," Mehta said.

Interacting with media persons after the surrendering ceremony, GNLA NGH area commander Piliport D Shira alias

Garo land.

Reacting to a query, Mande informed that the arms and ammunitions were issued by Sohan and the source was never disclosed. He also informed that GNLA earns its income by extorting money from rich business people and government employees. They however, feigned ignorance on the whereabouts of the money collected as soon as the same was handed to the commander in chief.

Mande informed that they only meet Sohan face to face once a year, during the general meetings. "The last meeting we had was last year and during that time, the total strength of the outfit was 150-160," Mande said.

When asked about the militant-politician nexus, Mande hesitated to spill the beans but however stated "I cannot pin point any politician. They have direct contact with the

leaders of GNLA." Later, he however, contradicted his earlier statement saying "I have no knowledge about this."

Meanwhile, ULFA cadre Oprai Osom alias Horinath Rabha (ULFA sergeant) informed that he joined ULFA in 2011 and was trained along with the GNLA, NSCN (K) at Durama area in East Garo Hills. He claimed that he along with 4 other ULFA cadres and other GNLA cadres received the training from ULFA-I top Commander Dristi Rajkhowa in 2011.

He however, informed that soon after joining the outfit, he surrendered before the police in the same year. But he later, joined the outfit in the same year. He stated that he got in touch with the GNLA one month before and informed that he was continuously moving in and out of Meghalaya for the past one month.(Agencies)

7404 give up LPG subsidy in State State govt may

Trains from Agartala to Delhi this month

Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram Kohima, May 6: Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram on Thursday said he would take up the matter of revival of Nagaland Pulp and Paper Corporation Ltd with the ministry concerned at the Centre.

The minister gave the assurance to Nagaland people as the chief guest of Moatsu festival celebration at Kangtsung village in Mokokchung district of the state.

He said activities for economic development would have to gain momentum in the state and for the revival of NPPC

Ltd the matter would be discussed with the ministry concerned.

NPPC was incorporated in 1971 as a joint venture between the state government and Hindustan Paper Corporation Limited (A Government of India Enterprise) to manufacture writing, printing and Kraft paper with an installed capacity of 100 tonnes per day at Tuli in Mokokchung district.

The production activities of NPPC were suspended from October 1992 due to continued operating losses. (Agencies)

seek deadline extension Shillong, May 6: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday took up the plea of coal miners' body to extend the deadline for the transportation of extracted coal beyond May 15 which was earlier fixed by NGT, and issued notice to the state government for its response.

The Counsel for the state government Ranjan Mukherjee indicated that the state government may seek another extension of the deadline to pay royalty till June 30, and transportation of extracted coal till July 31.

In an earlier order, NGT had made it clear that after May 15, the remaining coal should be auctioned by the state government. When the matter came up for hearing, the Counsel for the state

government Mukherjee made a submission that since 30 lakh metric tonnes of coal worth Rs 1400 crore lying, extension of the deadline to pay royalty and its transportation will help the state earn more revenue compared to the process of auction.

The submission of the Counsel was that the state government will not get adequate price if the coal is auctioned. As the notice was issued to state government, Mukherjee said that the views of the government which would be submitted before NGT would be to extend the deadline to pay royalty till June 30 , and transportation of coal till July 31. The matter will come up for hearing before NGT on May 10.(Agencies)

"NGT had made it clear that after May 15, the remaining coal should be auctioned by the state government"

Shillong, May 6: A year after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a call to the well-heeled to give up their cooking gas subsidy, the campaign seems to have worked.

As on May 1 this year more than 1 crore LPG customers have given up LPG subsidy under the 'Give It Up' campaign.

Of this Meghalaya has a total of 7404 LPG users who have given up the subsidy.

This was informed by the Minister of State (I/C)

for Petroleum & Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. As with the other Northeastern states, in Assam over 184505 consumers have given up the LPG subsidy followed by Manipur-46123, Mizoram-43854, Nagaland-31233, Tripura-17047, Arunachal Pradesh22713, Sikkim-7693, the minister said.

The initiative asking consumers to give up

14 GNLA cadres including its area commander Piliport D Shira alias Rakban and 2 ULFA (I) cadres surrenderes Rakban said that their desire to join mainstream was materialized through the efforts of the church leaders and informed that it took one week for them to get to them. He stated that they were hoping to surrender when the cease fire takes place however the same never saw the light of day. He said that he wanted to join the mainstream as one team.

Meanwhile, GNLA NGH publicity secretary

their LPG subsidy had been on since 2012, but the movement gathered pace in the past year due to a massive outreach programme run by the petroleum ministry. Each consumer is entitled to 12 subsidised cylinders a year. Any requirement above this is at market price. Consumers can opt out of the subsidy by submitting written request to the distributor or electronically at mylpg.in.

On the other hand, Pradhan informed that

Anurag S Sangma alias Garo Mande stated that the willingness and urge to join the mainstream coupled with family pressure is the main reason behind their surrender.

When asked why they joined the outfit, Mande said that they were lured into joining the outfit with a hope to work for the betterment of Garo Hills and to achieve their long term goal-a separate

the price of a LPG cylinder at the time delivery varies from customer to customer depending upon the basic price of gas, transportation cost, local taxes and levies. He stated that the natural gas consumed in the country can be categorized into two category viz., domestic gas and imported Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG).

While the price of domestic natural gas is determined in accordance with the New Domestic

Natural Gas Pricing Guidelines, 2014, the base price of domestic natural gas supplied is same for all consumers irrespective of their location and sector, except for North East Region where the rate is 60% of the notified rate for certain allocations. The imported RLNG is being supplied at market determined prices by different gas suppliers/importers and Government does not control the prices of imported RLNG.. (Agencies)

NE states have dropout level far above national average Nagaland, May 6: Nagaland has the highest dropout rate at primary level of 19.4 per cent in the country while most other north eastern states have a dropout rate far above the national average.

In a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, HRD Minister Smriti Irani said, "Overall the annual average dropout rate at primary level has reduced from 5.6 per cent during 2012-13 to 4.3 per cent during 2014-15."

In a written reply to a separate question, Irani said lack of toilet facili-

ties in schools for girl child has been one of the reasons for girls to dropout from schools.

According to details of the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE)

Darjeeling, May 6: The Gorkha Janmukti Morchacontrolled Darjeeling municipality today said the roadside hawkers along the Mall Road would be soon evicted, apparently bowing to pressure from the hill Trinamool Congress that has demanded the vendors’ removal arguing the ambience of the tourist haunt was getting spoilt.

The hawkers used to trade alongside Nehru Road leading to Chowrasta earlier, and they had been doing so for nearly 35 years. The municipality evicted them from that area about four years ago, with the hawkers trading from the right side of the road being allotted space below Chowrasta, while those selling their wares from the left side were provided with temporary space at the Mall road just below the Mahakal temple.

Darjeeling Municipality chairman Amar Rai said, “When the roadside hawkers from Nehru Road were evicted, 182 of them who had stalls on the right side of the road were given space below Chowarsta, while 30 trading from the opposite side were allotted temporary space at the Mall Road until an alternative and permanent place was identified. The hill TMC requested us to remove the hawkers from the Mall Road area as it is a tourist spot. Moreover, some of them have erected additional stalls there for their friends and relatives.

“The temporary space along the Mall Road was meant for only some 30 hawkers who had stalls on Nehru Road, but it appears they have started taking undue advantage and set up more stalls. We will evict all of them very soon and pro-

vide permanent space to only those 30 hawkers who used to trade from Nehru Road. They will get spaces on the top floor of a building on NB Singh Road.

Sheds will be constructed there for which an e-tender has already been floated.

Construction work will start as soon as the election code of conduct is over.”

He added that the remaining hawkers who had illegally set up stalls on the Mall Road would be completely evicted.

But the hawkers, who have teamed up under the New Mahakal Market Committee, said they would not agree to the municipality’s decision, demanding all of them should be properly relocated. NMMC president Sunil Tamang said, “When we were removed from Nehru Road, our side of the road had a to-

shared by the minister, in 2014-15 Nagaland had the highest annual average dropout rate of 19.4 per cent closely followed

by Manipur at 18 per cent.

Several other north eastern states - Mizoram (13 per cent), Arunachal Pradesh (10.9 per cent), Meghalaya (10.3 per cent) - have a dropout rate in double figures, far above the national avarage.

HRD Minister Smriti Irani

Assam has a dropout rate of 7.4 per cent while Sikkim had a dropout rate of 4.6 per cent during 2014-15. Tripura, however, was an exception, showing a dropout rate of 3.6 percent, lower than the national average. While most of the states have shown a decline in dropout rate, the figure has increased in most of the north eastern states.(Agencies)

"Overall the annual average dropout rate at primary level has reduced from 5.6 per cent during 2012-13 to 4.3 per cent during 2014-15." - says Irani

BCCI coaching camp in city Mall Road hawkers to be evicted, says civic body after TMC pressure

Shillong, May 6: The BCCI has decided to resume coaching camp for selected players from all NADP states in the Under-16 and Under-19 category to be held at Dimapur and Shillong respectively. The trials at Shillong will be from May 7 to 9, headed by former India international player, Venkatesh Prasad, who is also the current Chairman of Junior Selection Committee, of BCCI besides two other members of the same committee which includes Gyanendra Pandey and Aman Kumar.

Further, Honorary Jt. Secretary BCCI Amitabh Choudhary will also be at Shillong from May 7 to 9, to oversee the camp

and other development related issues that are yet to be taken up in Meghalaya and other NADP States.

In the trials 5 players from each of the 5 NADP states will be short listed by the junior selection committee of BCCI from a list of 12 players in the Under-19 and Under-16 age category. The final camp with 5 players selected from each category from all 5 NADP states will be held from May 10 to May 31 at MCA Cricket Ground, Polo in the Under-19 age category.

A team of 6 coaches including 2 physios and 2 trainers each; all from National Cricket Academy, will conduct the 21 days coaching and conditioning camp.(Agencies)

Mall Road hawkers to be evicted, says civic body after TMC pressure tal of 88 hawkers and not 30, as the municipality is asserting. After we were brought here to the Mall Road, the number of hawkers increased to about 110 as we allowed some individuals to set up stalls as they come from very weak financial back-

grounds. We want everyone to be rehabilitated and not just the 30 of us as everybody has a family to feed and their only source of income is these stalls. We will hold a meeting soon and decide on our next course of action.”

Agartala,May 6:New train services from Agartala to Delhi and Kolkata will be introduced after May 20 this month, an official said here on Thursday. "The state government was informed by the railways authority that super fast trains from Agartala to Kolkata and Delhi would be introduced within this month after May 20," State Transport Secretary Samarjit Bhowmick told reporters here.

Agartala found a place in the broad gauge railway map in March this year.

"Two major hurdles for introducing the super fast trains are maintenance facility of the trains and a recent landslide on HaflongBadarpur railway track in Assam. Works are on to clear the debris on Haflong-Badarpur section and Northern railways were asked to provide maintenance facility to the trains to be stationed at Agartala railway station," he said. (PTI)

BSF man held on molestation charge Shillong, May 6: Police have arrested a BSF personnel - Dulal Konwar - for allegedly molesting a 11-year-girl at Nongrimmaw. A city court on Thursday remanded the accused to 14-day police custody.

Informing this here on Thursday, East Khasi Hills district police chief M Kharkrang said, "We received a complaint that a minor girl was molested at her residence in Nongrimmaw, allegedly by BSF constable Dulal Konwar on Wednesday night." He was arrested immediately.

The incident happened on Wednesday. However, BSF PRO claimed that the incident happened last month when the accused, who was in inebriated condition, has brawl with some local boys had a brawl.In the process, he fell on some ladies and later he was taken to police.

Subsequently he was arrested, the BSF official said.(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

PAGE 6

Sonia cries war against Modi, asks 'power hungry' BJP not to underestimate Congress New Delhi, May. 6: Displaying a major show of strength against the Centre, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on Friday waged a war against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying she will never let the NDA government succeed in 'murdering democracy' in the nation. Gandhi, who was addressing her party workers ahead of the 'Loktantra Bachaao Yatra', also accused the ruling dispensation of firing false charges against the Congress to cover two years of failure of Prime Minister Narendra Modiled government.

"We want to make it clear that they can keep trying to destroy democracy, but we will never let their dangerous intentions succeed. They can keep taking steps to defame us, but we won't break. Life has

taught me to fight on. We have faced many challenges. They don't know the stuff we are made of," she said.

Asserting that the Congress was well versed in fighting forces hell bent on destroying harmony in the nation, Gandhi said the grand old party came from a history of people, who sacrificed their lives to defend the very roots of humanity.

"In the past 60-70 years, the Congress has developed pillars of democracy in this nation and has also taken steps for development of the lives of the poor, farmers and women, but the Modi Government has begun destroying everything. Every state under the BJP government is in distress. Farmers have been reduced to committing suicides, but the Modi government has

BJP's wish of Congress free India will remain a dream: Sachin Pilot

Congress leader Sachin Pilot New Delhi, May 6: The grand old party on Friday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of unnecessarily defaming its leaders in the wake of AgustaWestland scam adding that the saffron outfits' wish of a Congress free India will remain a dream. Congress leader Sachin Pilot told that, "Our party president Sonia Gandhi has herself vouched for an investigation in AugustaWestland scam. We call for unbiased investigation, a time bound probe. But the way BJP is making relentless efforts to maligning image of our leaders and is wish-

ing of a Congress free India is a mere dream."

The Congress leaders under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi carried out the 'save the democracy protest' against the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) move of trying to topple the Uttarakhand government.

Sonia Gandhi along with many other Congress leaders have been accused by the BJP of a prime position in the scandal, which saw bribes being paid in India by Anglo-Italian firm Agusta for a contract to sell 12 helicopters for Rs. 3,600 crores.(ANI)

Centre agrees to floor test in Uttarakhand

Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi New Delhi, May. 6: The Centre on Friday agreed to hold a floor test in the Uttarakhand Assembly under the supervision of the Supreme Court. Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi told the apex court to appoint an observer and that it should be a retired Chief Election Commissioner The date of the floor test is to be ascertained by the top court. Earlier on Wednesday, the Attorney General told the apex court that the government has not been able to form an opinion on the subject and asked for two more days to come up with a decision.

However, the apex court clarified that it would hold a final hearing to dispose of this matter quickly if the Centre says no to the floor test suggestion.

Rohatgi told the media later the Supreme Court has made it clear that even if the floor test is to take place, it will not mean the restoration of status quo ante.

"Which means the position at the time when the President's rule was imposed won't be restored.

Namely of a chief minister and a government, so that position is out," he said.

"The actual modalities will be decided by the court, even in relation to the nine disqualified persons because their petition is pending," he added.

An apex court bench headed

by Justice Dipak Misra had on April 27 directed the continuation of President's rule in Uttarakhand. The Centre had imposed President's rule in the state on March 27.

(ANI)

Sonia cries war against Modi, asks 'power hungry' turned a blind eye," she added.

Accusing the BJP of being on a 'power-hungry' mania, Gandhi said that the Centre had toppled the Congress-led governments in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand by sheer power of money, corruption and false promises.

"Students are being at-

tacked. People are being branded as anti-national in the blink of an eye and if anyone does not agree with their (BJP) views then they do not even stand a chance. They need to realise that it won't take too long for the nation to punish if they cross limits," she said.

Sharpening her attack on the Centre, Gandhi

emphasised on the slew of 'false' charges and allegations by the BJP against Congress leaders in an attempt to distract people from the government's failures in the last two years and indulging in character assassination.

The Congress president also used the occasion to issue a warning to those in power, saying the BJP must not make the mistake of thinking that the opposition is weak.

"We will never bow before them and in the upcoming days we will put a bigger fight against them. I want to appeal to my fellow Congress colleagues and to everyone in the nation to go to every corner of the country and expose the true face of Modi. We will not them destroy democratic legacies," Sonia said.

Following her address,

Sonia led the march flanked by former prime minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Congress vicepresident Rahul Gandhi.

They were detained by the police, but released soon.

The Congress expressed their full might as almost all major leaders were seen displaying the joint strength of the grand old party against the Centre.

Earlier, the BJP had in a countering move staged protest against corruption of the Congress near the Gandhi Statute in Parliament premises.

The 'Loktantra Bachaao Yatra' has been organised amid a face-off between the Opposition and the BJP led-NDA Government at the Centre over various issues, including the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal and the Uttarakhand political crisis. (ANI)

AugustaWestland deal: SC issues notice to Centre, CBI

SC issues notice to Centre, CBI

New Delhi, May 6: The have been given four Supreme Court on Friday weeks to submit their reissued a notice to the plies. The Italian court's Centre over a Public In- ruling, while convicting terest Litigation (PIL) former senior executives seeking FIR against the of AgustaWestland for people whose names allegedly paying bribes have featured in the Ital- in the deal, mentioned ian Court's order in con- several names, purportnection with the edly referring to ConAugustawestland VVIP gress president Sonia chopper scam. Mean- Gandhi and former prime while, the apex has also minister Dr. Manmohan issued a notice to the Singh. The Italian court Central Bureau of Inves- had mentioned the names tigation (CBI) on another in the context of a diary PIL, asking to register an of middleman Charles FIR on the basis of the Michel, who had reportforeign court's verdict in edly referred to the the chopper scam. names of the Congress Both the Centre and CBI leaders. (ANI) gress why we believe that the purchase of these F16s is in our national interest. We'll continue to make that case."

Pakistan had reached an understanding with the US for buying eight F-16 planes in which Pakistan was required to pay about $270m from its national funds and the US was supposed to provide the rest from its FMF fund.But the US lawmakers made it clear that they would not allow the Obama administration to use US funds for the deal.

This latest development has almost put the deal to a standstill as Pakistan may find it difficult to India, UK to launch.'100 foot Journey Club' on buy the planes at two and May 10 a half times more than the London, May 6: As part who have visited India agreed price. (ANI) of an initiative to take bi- under the Global Initialateral cooperation in the tive on Academic Neteducation sector forward, work (GIAN) India and the United programme. expenditure observers Kingdom will launch the High Commissioner have been appointed to "100-foot Journey Club" Sarna briefed the audimonitor the payment on May 10 (Tuesday). A ence on the UK-India pattern of candidates in release issued by the In- relationship in educaall the 140 constituen- dian High Commission tion, research and innoin London said that Re- vation, and highlighted cies.

The Election Commis- serve Bank of India Gov- the development of UKsion has also ordered ernor Raghuram Rajan India relationship in setting up of auxiliary would deliver a talk un- education over the last booths attached to 148 der the initiative that is a few years with the intropolling booths where the joint collaboration be- duction of bilateral voter population ex- tween the Indian High programmes such as Inceeds 1750 Commission and the dia-UK Education Foelectorates.There will South Asia Centre of the rum, UK-India Educabe a total of 250 polling London School of Eco- tion and Research Initiative (UKIERI), Newstations fully manned nomics (LSE). and guarded by women Earlier, India's High ton-Bhabha Fund, GenUK-India polling officials. Over Commissioner to the eration 800 model polling sta- United Kingdom Navtej programme and so on. tions will be set up.The Sarna, interacted with High Commissioner counting of votes for more than 75 Indian aca- Sarna also spoke about Tamil Nadu, demics and students at the Global Initiative on Puducherry and Kerala, India House on Wednes- Academic Network and also West Bengal day and discussed India- (GIAN) initiated by Minister and Assam will be taken UK cooperation in the Prime Narendra Modi last year. up on the 19th of this education sector.

Dame Asha Khemka, An announcement was month. (ANI) OBE, DBE, Principal made during the visit of and Chief Executive, the Prime Minister to the West Nottinghamshire UK about UK's plans to College Group also ad- send 100 academics to dressed the gathering. India over the next two The event included the academic years as part of Indian origin academics the GIAN. (ANI)

Case made for using FMF funds in F-16 deal with Pak, says US Washington D.C., May. 6: In a development signalling major relief for Pakistan in the F-16 jet deal with the United States, the Barack Obama-led government has made a case with the Congress of using Foreign Military Financing (FMF) funds in the deal, as it would serve in America's national interest.

When asked if the government does not agree with the concerns expressed by the Congress over the matter of using American funds in the deal, U.S. State Department deputy spokesperson Mark Toner said in a press briefing that a case has been made for FMF funds to be used, as it was

important to maintain the flexibility to provide assistance to Pakistan that advances U.S. interest.

"We've made the case that we continue to support the proposed sale of these eight F-16s to Pakistan to assist in Pakistan's counter terrorism and counterinsurgency operations. We believe that these F-16s have supported these kinds of operations to date. We think that they reduce the ability of certain militant groups to use Pakistani territory as a safe haven for terrorism and a base of support for the insurgency in Afghanistan," Toner said.

He further added that preventing those kinds of

groups from establishing foothold in Pakistan is clearly not only Islamabad's interest but also in the national interest of Afghanistan. However, he asserted that key members of Congress have made it clear that they object to using FMF funds to support this sale, which is why Pakistan has been advised to put forward national funds for the purchase.

When asked if the government can veto Congress actions for the release of fund, Toner said, "Well, in the balance of power, if you will, in the United States, in checks and balances, Congress does not control the purse strings. We have argued or made the case to Con-

India, UK to launch.'100 foot Journey Club' on May 10

PM Modi to address rallies in Kerala and TN on Friday New Delhi, May. 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address rallies today at Palakkad in Kerala and Hosur, Chennai in Tamil Nadu for the 16th of this month's assembly polls, as campaigning is in full swing in both states with parties making whirlwind tours to garner support for their candidates.

Hitting campaign trail in Chennai last evening, Congress president Sonia Gandhi slammed the AIADMK government of inaction during the recent flood that deluged the city and its suburbs. The AIADMK supremo and Chief Minister J.Jayalalithaa in Perundurai claimed, she has ensured keeping inflation under check.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi The DMK treasurer MK Stalin in Virudhunagar criticised the election manifesto of the AIADMK, released last night, as a clone of the DMK poll document.

BJP National Secretary Muralidhar Rao told reporters in Chennai, while the country has become a global investment des-

tination, Tamil Nadu remains a laggard in industrial sector saying, this must change.

Meanwhile, in Kerala, the Election Commission is keeping a close vigil on the election expenditure of candidates as the electioneering has gained momentum in the state. In all, 40 election

Fodder scam: Lalu Yadav to appear in CBI court in Patna on Friday Patna, May. 6: A CBI court in Patna has directed 31 accused, including RJD President Lalu Prasad and former Bihar Chief Minister Jagannath Mishra, to be present before it today in connection with a case of multi-crore rupee fodder scam. The case relates to withdrawal of 46 lakh rupees illegally from treasuries in Bhagalpur and Banka by the Animal Husbandry department between 1994 and 1996. CBI had

filed chargesheets against 44 persons in the case in April 2003.

Yadav and Mishra are currently on bail after serving jail term in Ranchi in another case of the fodder scam. The fodder scam relates to fraudulent withdrawal of around 1,000 crore rupees by Animal Husbandry department from various districts when Lalu Prasad was Bihar chief minister from 1990 to 1997. (ANI)

Kannauj: Woman found dead in mysterious circumstance

Lalu Prasad

Kannauj, May 5: A woman has been found dead in mysterious circumstances at her home in Musafirpur village of Kannauj district in Uttar Pradesh. The woman has been identified as Puja Paul.

The police recovered Puja's body hanging in her room after reaching the spot. The kin of deceased is, however, has accused Puja's husband Ram Pal for the murder.

The police is further probing the matter. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

China, Pakistan pushing Sri Lanka to buy flawed JF-17 fighter aircraft London, May 6 : China and Pakistan are wheeling and dealing in a big way to influence the Sri Lankan leadership to buy the highly-flawed JF-17 multi-role fighter jet in a deal which promises at least four million dollars per jet as kickbacks to those who are pushing for this sale. According to a report in the Sri Lankabased web site www.thesundayleader.lk, a former air force chief and a big business wheeler-dealer are attempting to influence the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) to acquire the multi-role JF-17 'Fierce Dragon' fighter aircraft that has been jointly developed by both China and Pakistan, at a price said to be higher than what is on offer from other international combat aircraft manufacturers.

According to sources, former Air Force Commander Air Marshal Jayalath Weerakkody had

N Korea affirms N power during Party Congress Pyongyang , May 6: North Korea on Friday said it would strengthen its 'nuclear deterrent' if the US maintained its 'hostile stance', on the day the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) began its first congress in almost four decades.

The Kim Jong-un regime accused the US government of being instrumental in triggering a nuclear crisis on the Korean Peninsula, according to a statement issued by the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of Korea (CPRK).

Pyongyang claimed it has the status of a nuclear power and that it has successfully developed a hydrogen bomb, reported.

The statement in which Pyongyang reaffirmed its nuclear power came a few hours before the beginning of the 7th Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) congress, a rare gathering that has not taken place since 1980.

During the event, delegates are expected to announce important decisions that determine the future of policies of the hermit country, especially in economic matters, while some experts have suggested that Kim could impose a generational replacement of North Korean elites.

South Korea warned on Friday that during the Congress, the North Korean People's Army could carry out a mock attack on the presidential Blue House in Seoul.(Agencies)

PAK PM inaugurates Sukkur-Multan highway Sukkur, May 6: Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the 393 kilometer-long Sukkur to Multan highway.

The project is a part of the Peshawar-Karachi Motorway and falls under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It will be completed with financial assistance from China, reports Dawn.

The six-lane motorway passing through Multan-Jalalpur Peerwala Ahmed Pur East, Ubaro and Pano Aqil will terminate at Sukkur. A total of 54 bridges will be constructed, including one major bridge on the river Sutlej.

The construction of 12 service areas, 10 rest areas, 11 interchanges, 10 Flyovers and 426 underpasses is also included in this project.

This motorway will provide high speed transportation between Sindh and Punjab.(ANI)

visited Pakistan many times to hold discussions with the Pakistani Air Force Chief for purchasing JF-17 aircraft. The present Air Force Commander Gagan Bulathsinhala too has made a few visits to Pakistan for the same reason.

It is also being alleged that Air Marshal Weerakkody, who was later posted to Pakistan as Sri Lanka's High Commissioner, continued to discuss the JF-17 purchase with the Pakistani officials. Recalled to Sri Lanka after the fall of the Rajapaksa regime, Weerakkody is still a frequent visitor to the SLAF headquarters to get this deal through.

The web site quoted an SLAF unnamed source, as saying that the JF-17 will cost the SLAF a staggering USD 29 million, while the same aircraft can be purchased from a reputed Russian manufacturer at a cost ranging

China and Pakistan are wheeling and dealing in a big way to influence the Sri Lankan leadership to buy the highly-flawed JF-17 multi-role fighter jet

between USD 20 and USD 25 million.

The source further alleges that both China and Pakistan are well aware that the JF-17 has no takers in the international air force circuit, but middlemen in these two countries appear determined to promote this aircraft and get a commission of more than USD four million per aircraft.

According to the source, the JF-17 is an indigenous product and a

country like Sri Lanka is not in a position to invest such a huge amount on jet fighters whose qualities are largely unknown.

On the other hand, the Sri Lankan government has to take into account the security-related concerns of the Indian government, which is also keen to offer the Hindustan Aeronautics Limitedmanufactured multi-role Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) 'Tejas' to Colombo.

The source said that there is no doubt that the SLAF is in dire need to purchase combat aircrafts.

The Sunday leader web site has quoted SLAF sources, as saying that the air force had failed to get the required sanction for the purchase of the jet fighters during the Mahinda Rajapaksa regime, and added that whatever has been purchased so far has been through shady deals with and from disreputable companies.

The SLAF is keen to purchase eight new fighter aircraft and does want to spend time overhauling its existing fleet of planes at a prohibitive cost of about USD three million per aircraft.

Reports suggest that with pressure mounting on Sri Lanka, incumbent President Maithripala Sirisena has decided to put off the purchase of the JF-17

fighter aircraft from Pakistan and go for a viable deal with Russia instead.

According to media reports, the Cabinet last week took a decision to put off the purchase of the Sino- Pakistan JF-17 fighter jet aircraft indefinitely to prevent possible India's ill-feelings towards Sri Lanka.

Sources said that the present commanders of the three defence services and a representative from Sri Lanka Logistics are currently in Russia to discuss the purchase of the aircraft for the SLAF. However, SLAF spokesman Group Captain Chandima Alwis has said that the air force is carrying out a due diligence study of potential fighter aircraft suppliers in the event the SLAF need to add to their existing fleet.

The Sri Lankan Air Force (SLAF) presently has a fleet of Israeli Kfirs and Russian-made MiG27s. (ANI)

Dead MQM worker tortured: Autopsy report Karachi, May 6: A postmortem report of Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) worker Aftab Ahmed Hussain, who died in paramilitary Rangers custody on Tuesday, said that he was subject to torture 'before his death' with around '35 to 40 per cent' of his body bearing bruises.

A 90-minute-long autopsy, performed by senior doctors at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre under the supervision of a judicial magistrate, found multiple

bruises on Ahmed's body, reports the Express Tribune.

Aftab died within 48 hours of his detention by the paramilitary force.

He was reportedly picked up from his residence on Sunday and presented in an anti-terrorism court on Monday.

While the Rangers said that Aftab died of cardiac arrest, the MQM allege that he was tortured during interrogation which led to his death. Aftab, 42, working as Sattar's coordinator since 2002

was detained by the Rangers in a raid in Karachi's Federal B area.

He was later shifted to the Mitha Ram Hostel, a declared sub-jail where the paramilitary force interrogates suspected criminals and terrorists.

General Raheel Sharif and the Sindh Rangers had called for an inquiry into his death and said justice must be done.

The post mortem report noted that bruises, overlapping each other, were found on his head, chest, arms, buttocks, thighs,

legs and feet while the nail on his left foot's big toe was also damaged.

However, the report did not list the actual cause of Hussain's death but confirmed that the torture marks the body bears were definitely inflicted 'ante-mortem', that is he suffered them when he was still alive.

One of the doctors who conducted the autopsy said that they will have to carry out a chemical examination report to ascertain the exact cause of his death.

Meanwhile, MQM leader Dr. Farooq Sattar said that the autopsy proves that their party colleague was tortured prior to his death.

Sattar demanded action against those officers responsible for torturing Aftab, and said that they hoped the army chief would also take note of its 65 'missing' party workers who are in the custody of law enforcement agencies but have not been produced in courts.(ANI)

Nepal's pre-budget discussion begins as protesting UDMF storms out

Nepal's pre-budget discussion for the next fiscal began on a stormy note on Friday Kathmandu, May 6 : Nepal's pre-budget discussion for the next fiscal began on a stormy note on Friday, as the United Democratic Madeshi Front (UDMF) walked out of parliament.

Federal Socialist Forum Nepal Vice-Chairman Ashok Rai, while speaking in parliament, accused the government of not paying attention to the demands raised by the Madhesi party, reports .

Rai also criticized the government for not expediting post-quake reconstruction works.

While the UDMF have walked out from the House meeting, the session is underway. The

Parliament is scheduled to discuss the principle and priority of the Appropriations Bill in a bid to make preparations for the upcoming budget.

The discussions will lead the way for making preparations for the budget before it is tabled in Parliament. Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel has told Parliament that the budget will give priority to increasing economic growth and investment in big infrastructure projects.

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari is set to present policy and programme of the government on Sunday. The government will table the budget on May 28.

(ANI)

Turkish PM announces stepping aside

Dahal's party to support Nepal PM Oli, inks 9-pt agreement with CPN-UML

Dahal's party to support Nepal PM Oli, inks 9-pt agreement with CPN-UML Kathmandu, May 6: The Unified Communist Party of Nepal -Maoist (UCPN-M) and the Communist Party of Nepal Unified Marxist-Leninist (CPN-UML) has signed a

nine-point agreement, after the former decided to continue its support to Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. In the agreement signed last night, the two parties

have decided to take initiatives to form a national consensus government with an objective to create conducive environment for the implementation of Constitution and socio-economic transformation, reports the Himalayan times.

Resolving the issues of Madhesi-based parties including federalism through political consensus has also been decided.

As per the spirit of the Comprehensive Peace Accord, the parties have decided to initiate the process of amending the laws within 15 days to work on transitional justice.

Apart from deciding to provide compensation to the family members of martyrs and people who have disappeared as per the decision taken by the previous governments, the ruling coalition partners have also decided to register the ownership of lands dealt on the basis of household documents during the conflict time.

Initiating the process of withdrawing or give clemency on the cases filed during the conflict period has also been decided. While making any political or administrative appointments and taking important decisions of the government it has been decided to hold regular discussions

and forge consensus among the top leaders Accelerating the postquake reconstruction works and launching the national campaign to deploy volunteers were also decided in the meeting.

The UCPN-Maoist had yesterday decided to form a new government under its own leadership, putting Oli-led government at stake.

The Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal, later withdrew his statement and informed the Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba that forming the new government under the Maoist leadership was difficult at present.(ANI)

Myanmar Prez proposes new ministry for Suu Kyi Yangon, May 6: Myanmar's President has urged the creation of a new ministry for Aung San Suu Kyi's state advisor position, official media reported on Friday, a move that will deepen her influence and likely rile the powerful army.

Suu Kyi is barred from the presidency by the military-drafted constitution despite having led her pro-democracy party to a landslide victory in November.

She has instead hoovered up a slew of other senior positions, including foreign minister, president's

officer minister, and the specially-devised role of state counsellor, which gives her vaguely-defined powers to guide parliamentary affairs.

The broad array of powers across government has helped the veteran activist fulfil a pledge to rule "above" her presidential proxy and close ally Htin Kyaw.

Shortly after taking office she used her role as state counsellor to announce a major political prisoner release in April.

She has also met with a host of foreign dignitaries and today accompanied Htin Kyaw on a trip

to Laos, his first international visit as president.

The proposal for a ministry to support her role "is intended to speed up the government's efforts at national reconciliation, internal peace, national development and the rule of law", the English language state newspaper Global New Light of Myanmar reported on Friday. Parliamentary debate on the proposal is set to take place next week.

That discussion will likely feature objections from military MPs who registered strong opposition when the state coun-

sellor position was created specifically for Suu Kyi. Other MPs expressed bemusement at the plans.

"A new ministry is not really needed for the national reconciliation and peace process. But I won't stand against the proposal," said Ba Sein from the Arakan National Party.

Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy can comfortably pass most of its bills because of its hefty majority.

Myanmar's first civilian government in generations faces formidable challenges in a nation

wracked with poverty, corruption and conflict after decades of military domination.

Few concrete policy details have emerged in the administration's initial weeks in power, although it has vowed to streamline the bureaucracy by combining ministries and cutting the number of cabinet posts.

The government also freed scores of political prisoners and those facing controversial trials for rallies against the previous quasi-civilian leadership.(Agencies)

Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu Ankara, May 6: Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu declared on Thursday that he will not seek mandate at an extraordinary congress on May 22 when Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) will choose a new party leader and prime minister.

"I have no sense of failure or regrets in taking this decision... The change of chairs is more proper. I don't want to run as candidate at the congress," Xinhua new agency quoted Davutoglu as saying in a press conference after holding an extraordinary Central Executive Board (MYK) meeting.

Davutoglu said he would not consider being a candidate unless there is a consensus, adding that his relationship of loyalty with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would continue.

"Congratulations. It is the prime minister's own decision," Erdogan told reporters in his first comment about Davutoglu's decision.

The decision to replace the prime minister came after a meeting of Davutoglu and President Tayyip Erdogan on

Tuesday after weeks of tension between the two statesmen.

"If necessary, I would turn down any position that many may think a mortal could not leave," Davutoglu told lawmakers on Tuesday, triggering speculation that he was ready to leave his position due to disagreement with Erdogan, the founding leader of the AKP. The AKP's central decision and executive board's decision come after Davutoglu, who took over the party chairmanship after Erdogan was elected as president in 2014, has recently reshuffled around 15 provincial and district party heads.

Erdogan has reportedly been seeking an executive presidency, which did not have Davutoglu's full support. Under the current parliamentary system, the presidency is mostly a symbolic institution.

Observers say Davutoglu's upcoming ouster is likely to pave the way for a new prime minister who will back Erdogan's plan of changing the constitution and bringing an executive presidency. (Agencies)

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DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

The Rohingya and Suu Kyi's Myanmar Wrong depiction Jail for upto 7 yrs, Rs 100 crore fine Wrong depiction of the map of India could land the violators in jail with a maximum term of seven years and fine upto Rs 100 crore. This measure has been envisaged by the government against the backdrop of instances where certain social net(Photo: allcapital) working sites showed Jammu and Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh as part of Pakistan and China respectively. Recently, 'Twitter' had shown the geographical location of Kashmir in China and Jammu in Pakistan triggering protests from the Indian government after which it was corrected. According to the draft 'The Geospatial Information Regulation Bill 2016', it will be mandatory to take permission from a government authority before acquiring, disseminating, publishing or distributing any geospatial information of India.

According to the draft bill,"No person shall depict, disseminate, publish or distribute any wrong or false topographic information of India including international boundaries through internet platforms or online services or in any electronic or physical form. Whoever acquired any geospatial information of India in contravention of the law shall be punished with a fine ranging from Rs 1 crore to Rs 100 crore and/ or imprisonment for a period upto seven years," Geospatial Information means geospatial imagery or data acquired through space or aerial platforms such as satellite, aircrafts, airships, balloons, unmanned aerial vehicles including value addition or graphical or digital data depicting natural or man-made physical features, phenomenon or boundaries of the earth or any information related thereto including surveys, charts, maps, terrestrial photos referenced to co-ordinate system and having attributes.

The government also proposed to set up a Security Vetting Authority to carry out security vetting of the Geospatial Information of India in a time bound manner and as per the regulations framed by an apex committee.

Whereas Google will have to apply for a license to run Google Maps or Google Earth in India. According to the draft bill, the Security Vetting Authority, on receipt of an application and after examining the application in terms of the guidelines, shall either grant the licence or reject the application as the case may be. If a licence is granted and the licensee fails to comply with the terms and conditions of this Act, rule, regulation or guidelines or order made thereunder, the Enforcement Authority may, after making such inquiry as may be thought fit, revoke the licence granted to such licensee. The licensee shall be supplied with the security vetted Geospatial Information, by the Security Vetting Authority, within a period mutually agreed upon, based on the quantum and nature of the subject matter to be vetted, on best effort basis. The Act will extend to the whole of India and also applies to citizens of India outside India, persons in the service of the government, persons on ships and aircrafts, registered in India, any person who commits an offence beyond India. No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie against the central government or apex committee or Security Vetting Authority or Enforcement Authority on whom powers have been conferred pursuant to this Act, for anything which was done or purported to be done in good faith in pursuance of this Act or for any rule or regulation made under this Act, the draft says.

Drug Addiction Reported across Assam The picture is grim if the world statistics on the drugs scenario is taken into account. With a turnover of around $500 billions, it is the third largest business in the world, next to petroleum and arms trade. About 190 million people all over the world consume one drug or the other[2].

Drug addiction causes immense human distress and the illegal production and distribution of drugs have spawned crime and violence worldwide.

Today, there is no part of the world that is free from the curse of drug trafficking and drug addiction. Millions of drug addicts, all over the world, are leading miserable lives, between life and death. India too is caught in this vicious circle of drug abuse, and the numbers of drug addicts are increasing day by day. Cannabis, heroin, opium and hashish are the most commonly used drugs in India.

However, some evidence indicates that there is an increasing prevalence of methamphetamine as well. Drug addiction is a major problem for many families, communities and law enforcement. Massive numbers of addicts are left to be treated by the families as financial costs, available services and lack of appropriate care challenge the country. This is not only the case for drug addicts.

HIV is a significant issue for drug addicts in India with over 2.4 million people infected. This places India as the third-highest country in terms of rate of infection in the world. Injecting drug users making up nearly 10 percent of the affected groups. With rising incidence of drug abuse reported across Assam, the state government has decided to constitute a Task Force to deal with his growing menace.Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has asked the Chief Secretary to constitute the Task Force headed by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) to address the issue of drug abuse. And various departments concerned like Home, Education, Health and Family Welfare and Social Welfare are to be incorporated in the Task Force aimed at beating the menace of drugs, also 22 organisations staged a joint demonstration in front of the office of deputy commissioner of Dibrugarh district in eastern part of the state, demanding action against drugs racketeers. The protestors alleged police inaction in nabbing such racketeers or busting their dens even after knowing of such illegal activities.A drugs racket was busted and five persons, including two women, were also arrested in Guwahati on May 3 last. Intensified operations have been initiated across the state to control the drugs menace effectively.

The democratic icon's party won a major victory last year. Will it help a beleaguered minority?

The ballot held in Myanmar citizens disen- dire conditions. A senior Myanmar last November franchised. Myanmar's official working for the brought the first fair and Muslims were excluded United Nations who peaceful transition of from running as candi- asked not to be identipower seen by the coun- dates on the 2015 ballot, fied due to the sensitive try since the military and the Rohingya, one of nature of the issue, told seized power in 1962. the country's most op- . "This is worse than Wracked by numerous pressed and persecuted anything I have seen in insurgencies waged by ethnicities, were not al- my previous assignseparatists, social prob- lowed to vote. Stripped ments. Everyone is on lems ree d g e s u l t i n g Adryel Talamantes and Austin Bodetti h e r e from the and we large domestic drug of their citizenship and have to tread lightly in trade, and anti-Muslim viewed as foreigners by order to maintain our acpogroms in the west many in the Buddhist tivities." staged by ultranational- majority country, the Views about the election ist Buddhist monks, the Rohingya have found among Rohingya victory of Nobel Laure- themselves living in throughout Myanmar are ate Aung San Suu Kyi's concentration camps in mixed. Some voice opNational League for De- Myanmar's westernmost timism regarding the mocracy (NLD) is one of state for the last four change of government, the few positive devel- years.

"We wish well for the opments Myanmar has Forced out of Rakhine's NLD-led government seen in recent decades. (also known as Arakan) and its president in reThe previous three elec- state capital Sittwe in gard to their relationship tions held in Myanmar 2012 after sectarian ri- with the country's since the NLD's found- ots, 140,000 Rohingya marginalized minorities, ing, in 1990, 2010 and now live in poorly main- including the 2012, saw it either ex- tained camps ringing the Rohingya," said Mayu cluded from participa- city or are allowed to re- T., a Rohingya from tion or its victories re- main in a cordoned off Maungdaw, a Muslimversed by the military, Aung Mingalar neigh- majority city in leaving many in borhood. Policemen and Rakhine's north. "Many Myanmar and the inter- soldiers man check- are in ghettos now while national community points surrounding the others set sail en route to with little hope of seeing camps and deny the Malaysia." Recently a clear and uninterrupted Rohingya freedom of overshadowed by the transfer of power in the movement. The camps European migrant crisis, suffer from inadequate refugees in Southeast country.

This time, the NLD won medical care, food short- Asia -many from an overwhelming vic- ages, and rampant unem- Myanmar-remain probtory, ending the pro- ployment. Though a re- lematic. According to military Union for SoliForced out of Rakhine's (also darity and Development Party's (USDP) dominaknown as Arakan) state capital tion of the country. It Sittwe in 2012 after sectarian was the culmination of efforts over half a cenriots, 140,000 Rohingya now tury to return to civilian government. The NLD live in poorly maintained camps secured an absolute maringing the city or are allowed jority in the landslide to remain in a cordoned off elections and gained enough seats in the upAung Mingalar neighborhood. per and lower houses of Policemen and soldiers man parliament to overcome the mandatory 25 percheckpoints surrounding the cent guaranteed to the camps and deny the Rohingya army, allowing them to freedom of movement. The install NLD member and Suu Kyi confidant Htin camps suffer from inadequate Kyaw as the new presimedical care, food shortages, dent on March 30. (Suu Kyi was barred from and rampant unemployment. holding office herself Though a return to democracy due to a constitutional clause restricting anyone presents an opportunity for the married to a foreigner or Rohingya to reclaim their having foreign children assuming the presirights, the future may still be dency, a policy created bleak. by the army and believed by many to specifically turn to democracy pre- the United Nations High target her because of her sents an opportunity for Commissioner for Refumarriage to the late the Rohingya to reclaim gees (UNHCR), over David Aris and their two their rights, the future 25,000 Bangladeshis sons, all three being may still be bleak. The and Rohingya paid British citizens.)

NLD purged itself of smugglers to bring them Muslims before last to other countries in the Despite the overwhelm- year's elections, as re- first three months of ing progress inspired by ported in 2015 as reported in The the NLD's victory and theInternational Busi- Guardian. Ironically, the the relatively balanced ness Times, and the opponents of reform in and fair nature of the stateless inhabitants of Rakhine insist that the 2015 elections, one as- Rakhine have yet to see Rohingya are immipect has left many of an improvement in their grants from Bangladesh

The Aung Mingalar neighborhood in Sittwe was the scene of sectarian violence in June, 2012 and remains surrounded by security forces. Jan 2, 2016 Image Credit: Adryel Talamantes

who seek better opportunities for employment; in fact, they face persecution in both countries, and many Rohingya would prefer to seek asylum in Muslim or Western countries. The recent "No Rohingya" protest in Yangon held by Buddhist ultra-nationalists on April 29 illustrated the viewpoint clearly - that there are no Rohingya in Myanmar, only Bangladeshi immigrants.

A Rohingya asylum seeker in Malaysia offered his opinion. "I don't think that Rohingya should return to Myanmar," said Aktar Ismail, "but, if they do accept us, we should get all the opportunities that other ethnicities receive.

I expect that the situation will change.

It will change for the Shan and the Kachin [Buddhist and Christian minorities in Myanmar], not the Rohingya." Prior to the NLD's assumption of power, the prior pseudo-civilian government had been negotiating a series of ceasefires and peace agreements with separatist rebels in Myanmar's east, north, and south. Notably, these attempts at conflict resolution have not extended to the west, where anti-Muslim Buddhist paramilitaries are leading an insurgency of their own. Earlier this year the Arakan Army killed several Myanmar soldiers in more than 15 battles as reported in The Gaurdian.

These insurgents hold an ambiguous relationship with the local politicians who continue to control

much of Rakhine's local government and who oppose the NLD. "My opinion on the NLD government is very positive," asserted Myo Win, a Rohingya activist in one of the concentration camps, "but we are very much concerned about Rakhine State as the Arakan National Party won in the election.

There was a 90 percent Arakan National Party (ANP) victory in Rakhine State, so there will not be any changes there." The ANP worries that the NLD's reformist agenda, popular with the Rohingya despite its apparent sectarian flaws, will bring demographic changes to Rakhine in favor of the Muslims.

Ultimately the NLD will likely face challenges at the local and national levels in any potential confrontation over the Rohingya crisis. In addition to Rakhine's Buddhist ultra-nationalists, remnants of the military government may oppose sectarian reforms.

Less positive opinions are also present, "The NLD government is only able to change the country under limitations because 25 percent of the upper and lower parliament and administrative departments are with the military junta according to Myanmar constitution," observed Sham Shu Anwar, a Rohingya from Maungdaw, "but we Rohingya believe in zero percent of the NLD government as its members always keep silent on the Rohingya crisis."

Position reception from the Rohingya has not been universal in the NLD, it would seem.

Two Rohingya leaders

Towards a Swachh Bharat

Image for representational purpose (Photo: mygov)

Sir, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was launched on 2nd October 2014, emphasizing 'Clean India'. While leading the mass movement for cleanliness, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi exhorted people to fulfil Mahatma Gandhi's dream of a clean and hygienic India.

This campaign conveys a very simple message "people should neither litter, nor let others litter". Most of the first world countries are devoid of diseases such as malaria, dysentery, smallpox , polio , encephalitis etc. Therefore these diseases are often referred to as third world diseases. Unhygienic living conditions are the primary source of these infectious diseases. If this Swachh Bharat Abhiyan succeeds, many lives can be saved and a huge amount in terms of treatment can also be saved.

For example, Coal India Ltd and Oil India Ltd had taken initiative to construct toilets in schools that do not posses toilet facilities, and it is really a great initiative taken by them. Now let's shift our attention to the garbage in and around

us. People are becoming aware in terms of throwing garbage and I see some people throwing it in dustbins .but some people simply throw it in roadsides or nearby others compound. They clean their house but in the same time they dirty others surroundings .The reason behind this is that the respected dustbins are very far away from their house and sometimes it becomes annoying to go so far. So the government should take initiative to build dustbins at every 500m. If dustbins are found in every 500m we can find immediate results in Swachh Bharat Mission and it will also reduce the work of the cleaners and sweepers.

It is nice see that a lot of progress has been made, but yet, there is a long way ahead. It Is not only the work of the Government but we the citizens should also take it as our personal responsibility and join hands to make the mission more successful.

in Yangon, one an activist and the other a politician, seemed to have reservations about the new government.

Former political prisoner Wai Wai Nu, once persecuted because of her father's political activities summed it up briefly, "It's good that we have changes, but it's still too early to comment."

Tayub Uddin, a Rohingya politician and vice president of the Democracy and Human Rights Party, gave The Diplomat a more detailed explanation: "It is good that we got a civilian government after more than 50 years. Certainly, changes will be there, but it will take time. The military is still too powerful. The three powerful ministries - Defense, Interior, and Border Affairs - are controlled by them." All three play a part in the continuing suffering of the Rohingya.

The Ministry of Border Affairs and its armed agents are feared by Muslims in the west of the country due to a long history of harassment by the government body, and are integral to the restriction of movement policy the Rohingya currently endure. He continued, "In the NLD itself, there are hard-liners. We do believe in Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Let us see how things unfold, it is still too early to say.

But one thing we are quite sure of is that strong international pressure must be there for a durable peace in Arakan." Courtesy: The diplomat

Best Letter The best letter of the month in the Letter to the Editor section will be awarded an amount of Rs 200.

So please keep writing.

Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Yours etc, Web :

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editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

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DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

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'No One Cares About What I Want': What Being A Girl In India Taught Me I was born of my mother, spectacle. Scathing combut my birth certificate ments were passed states my father's name. against women who My mother who sheltered spoke to the other gender me for nine months didn't more. However, the male have any identity. Who students were free to do was she? anything.

I grew up loved and cher- When sitting idly, a quesished in a tion always c o z y Lubna Naseem echoes in household, my head but thoughts and worries "Who am I?" As a child, of learning how to run a I was a little toy to amuse house, cook and sew the elders in the house, a were implanted in my little girl to dress up in mind from an early age pink, and just someone to because that was my indulge. As an adolescent, destiny.

I was a growing girl who Years passed, and I was had to be protected from asked to keep my opin- the big bad influences of ions to myself and do ac- the outside world. I was cording to what my par- trained and forced to perents said. I entered form the many duties a graduation (of my par- woman should. Everyone ents' choice) that I was took it upon themselves compelled to do so as to to make me realize my get a suitable groom. At gender, and how my ascollege, boys would stare pirations must match up as though I had murdered and be 'grounded' and I somebody. One dare not don't have the right to laugh out at jokes, else think or plan anything for you would instantly be a myself. Everyone's (spe-

cially relatives') prime aim was that I should get married and confine myself to the would be husband's life.

But till now, there is no recognition of me. Before marriage, I have to make everyone happy at home.

My primary aim in life is the contentment and satisfaction of others, and I know after marriage I will be someone's wife, someone's daughter-inlaw, someone's aunt and someone's sister-in-law.

Everything will change to 'the wife of ___', bank accounts, locker, passport everything. But nobody will actually know who I am.

My only duty will be to please the husband and in-laws, to stand behind my man and keep my opinions to myself. Then too I will have to shut up and turn a blind eye, learn to be supportive no matter what. It all depends

Image for representational purpose (Photo:cdn.youthkiawaaz) on the vagaries of my husband. If he decides to talk nicely then my morning will be good but if he is in a nasty mood my whole day goes for a toss. I have to make sure that my husband has all the comforts to

make his life comfortable and in return he can throw me around with no rhyme or reason. But still, I have to bear all of it because society has given men all the rights to get separated and take another wife but if

a girl does such type of act she will be termed characterless and everyone's eyes will be on her. A man can talk to anybody , do whatever he feels like but a woman is bombarded with questions if she is

seen talking to someone new or tries to get little social. She is suddenly the subject of another type of entertainment for those around her who crack cheap jokes at her expense.

Nobody asks what I like, what I want to do but they keep demanding things from me can, expecting me to sacrifice, take a step back. I was never a free bird when I was at my place, and now also there is no place of mine in the society. Then who am I? Am I the embodiment of Durga or Kali-everyone worships so dutifully? Or just an empty vessel where men can pour in their frustration? Why have I sacrificed my dreams and aspirations at the altar of the male ego? Why do I blame everything to fate? Why have I shed my tears silently and borne the

burnt of abuse? Where did my laughter go?

I might not have an identity of my own, but I realise that on me depends the existence of these men. I don't think they have the power to call the shots anymore.

I am slowly but surely undoing the shackles and growing wings so that I can take flight. So cherish me, respect me, love me, care for me and treat me well‌ Because if you don't give me my rights, I will grab them.

If you don't respect me , I will command it. I breathe the same air as everyone else; my heart beats just as yours does.

I dream as everyone does and I want to live my life only my way. I am claiming what is mine‌ nothing more, nothing less.For I have realised that I am nothing more than me. Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

As India Sleeps On Its 'Swachh "No Longer Young And Not Really Old" Bharat' Dreams, These Villages - Welcome To The Quarter Life Crisis!

Show How It's Done Of the 62 million tonnes plants is quite difficult, it of waste generated ev- is hardly irrefutable that ery year in India, 45 mil- the government has lion goes unattended - failed to utilize its most straight to the landfill. abundant resource - the The waste is only going people. Chintan, an to escalate as India is NGO claims that in Inestimated to produce 165 dia all the 20-25% of remillion tonnes of waste cycling that happens, beby the year 2031 and 436 comes possible only bemillion tonnes by 2050 if cause of the segregation the trends continue unno- done by waste pickers.

Chintan along with Safai ticed.

Sena, a regIndia stands third, after Parth Sharma istered orgaChina and nization of US, in the world, regard- waste pickers and recying the quantity of waste clers, run a recycling produced. However in unit in Bhopura, near the its attitude towards Solid Delhi-Uttar Pradesh borWaste Management, it der, where 70 waste even lags behind Sri pickers hired to segreLanka and Bhutan. gate, recycle, and comIndia's seriousness is post the dry and wet lit-

have something quite astonishing. Sweden, a small country in the EU is undergoing a "recycling revolution." While India is still struggling to wriggle out of the mess it has accumulated, Sweden has become 99% waste free. With its 32 WTE plants it not only recycles all the waste they generate but also imports 800,000 thousand tonnes of waste from U.K, Italy, and Norway for energy production.

Now, as quickly as you may believe that Indians are a hopeless lot ever to achieve anything like Sweden, let me tell you

Image for representational purpose(Photo: cdn.youthkiawaaz)

also exposed looking at the number of waste-toenergy (WTE) plantsproducing electricity, recycling goods, and creating compost. While the European Union operates 445, China has about 150, USA a little over 86 and India only 13. Of these thirteen none are operating at their full capacity and the area around these plants has also turned into a landfill.

ter work with a success rate of about 85-90%.

They have asked the government to follow in their footsteps but to no avail.

With such scandalous figures to its name and such lackadaisical attitude in matters pertaining to Solid Waste Management, India's hopes of becoming a "Swachh Bharat" lie pretty deep in the trash can.

there's still some light at the end of the tunnel.

This time, it shines from one of the poorest states in India, Chattisgarh, which has shown that - it does care.

The Darra Panchayat of Balod district has banned the use of plastics and disposables in wedding and funeral ceremonies.

They have advised people to bring their cutlery and utensils when attending the ceremony.

Now even if we assume However, on other side They have also banned that setting up of WTE of the spectrum, we the offering of 'kafan'

(shroud for the deceased, which is later burnt) asking people to donate the money of the kafan to the family of the deceased which can be used for the cremation ceremony.

Jalmala village has even banned Holika and Ravan 'Dahan' to save wood and environment.

The priests and temple committee of the Ganga Maiya Temple in the village have also managed to curb the use of polybags thus making it one of the cleanest temples even after a footfall of 10,000 every day during Navratri.

Ambikapur, another district in Chattisgarh, has achieved something remarkably significant. It has earned its badge of becoming the first dustbin-free municipal corporation in the country.

Quarter life crisis be- mark in the world. gan for me from the moment I stepped into Most of us are away my 20s. Suddenly ev- from our hometown and erything seemed to be in are trying to grapple with sharper focus. Life, it the real world. I, for one, turned out, is even miss home but rarely adweirder than the chaos mit it, hiding the longing of the teenage years. I behind a façade of bravsuddenly realized that I ery and necessity. For am not young enough to those of you who are still in your party late into the Shalini Banerjee hometown, I'm sure night anymore, neither am I old you need to struggle enough to command the harder to change life in respect I secret wish your own terms amidst those known faces and for.

shouldering responsibilities: paying my bills, thinking about tax (imagine! It finally exists outside Mathematics textbooks), looking back to make sure that I have locked the door, or that I have all my belongings with me when I leave the house.

Before, I would simply meet up with friends and then construct the plan of action for the day. Now I make plans to meet up with friends.

tunately.

I feel like Rachael when she said that epic line in that very popular 90s show, "Everyone is either getting married or getting promoted or having babies.

And I am getting coffee! And it's not even for me!" My newsfeed is full of wedding pictures shared by my friends. My family has just begun to doubt my

Many, like me, probably are in their first jobs right now, having completed education. We don't have enough experience to go on to a better (dream) job but I am sure most of us are trying to adjust to the corporate life our jobs have thrown at us.

Suddenly 'colleagues' surround us. Sometimes the mentality matches By digitizing their gar- and sometimes the flow bage management along of conversation just with segregation of washes over me. waste at the source by distributing red boxes I am dying to fit in. It (for inorganic) and had been so easy to green ones (for organic) carve a niche out for to residents, they've suc- myself with my childcessfully implemented hood, school and colthe idea of converting lege friends, what's 'garbage to gold'; mak- changed now? The ing Ambikapur India's feeling of growing up 'little Sweden'-which and taking responsibilidoesn't need a dumping ties completely freaks me out, especially when ground.

I come to realize that Most of this achieve- the amount of time it ment is attributed to the took me to get from the people of Chattisgarh good old 1999 to the perwho have positively re- fectly alien 2016 is exsponded to such initia- actly what I have in tives rather than being a hand to get to the scispoil sport by saying ence-fiction year of "why should only I do 2033! it?" Maybe they're privy to the fact that if they I do not fit into the hip crowd of college goers don't-no one would. anymore, and neither A pretty civilized lesson am I pursuing a serious, from a state with fixed career. I have 65.18% literacy don't come to realize that the dreams that I had seen you think?

But what will this entail when I was in college for the rest of India? were all starry-eyed. As We'll have to wait and the reality seeps in I watch. Or, should we do want to change the something about it? I world, I want to make think it's high time we it a 'better' place. I should. Courtesy: want to make a difference by etching my own Youthkiawaaz

Image for representational purpose (Photo: cdn.youthkiawaaz.)

those familiar judgments.

Overnight I have become a cynic, not trusting people or their judgments easily. When I sit around trying to conduct a conversation, mostly formal, in a flash I reminisce about the times when it was so easy sitting around a broken table chatting with friends, laughing over something inane.

It makes me realize how uncomplicated my life used to be, how carefree I used to be.

Now, I have started

I look at younger kids and shake my head saying, "Hum kabhi aise nahi the yaar" (We were never like this).

Suddenly I have discovered a couple of grey hair in my mane of black cascading tresses.

Looking at my old pictures, I shake my head, disbelief apparent at how silly I used to look.

Mortality has hit me hard. It is no longer wrapped in the uncertain bubble of the 'future'.

Future has become too accessible, unfor-

whole "career-comesfirst" attitude.

The mere prospect of meeting my relatives makes me want to go underground. I am at that age where the mere sight of my alarm clocks sets my teeth grinding and the mere sight of my bed makes me weep with relief.

And finally, I have begun to realize the meaning of this line from F.R.I.E.N.D.S, "Welcome to the real world!

It sucks! You're going to love it!" Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

BUSINESS

Downfall in India's April gold imports OF GREAT CONCERNS Gold imports fell sharply by 67.33 percent to 19.6 tonnes in April 2016 as jewellers' strike opposing one percent excise duty on non-silver jewellery significantly hit demand for the metal, according to gold and silver refiner MMTC Pamp.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: livemint) Chennai, May 6: Gold non-silver jewellery sigimports fell sharply by nificantly hit demand for 67.33 percent to 19.6 the metal, according to tonnes in April 2016 as gold and silver refiner jewellers' strike opposing MMTC Pamp. "Gold imone percent excise duty on ports declined to 19.6

$1 bn might be lose by BPM due to cab ban Bengaluru, May 6: India's Business Process Management (BPM) industry could lose $1 billion if the ban on diesel cabs in the national capital region continues, the National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) said. The industry body, which is also exploring legal options to mitigate the impact of the Supreme Court imposed ban, has flagged the issue at the highest levels of government including the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministries of Finance, IT, Heavy Industries and Environment, Forest and Climate Change. "The ban has brought the BPM industry almost to a standstill," Nasscom Senior Vice President Sangeeta Gupta said. "If it continues for a six month period, the BPM industry faces potential loss of $1 billion." The industry, pegged at more than $25 billion with the Delhi NCR region contributing about 20 per cent revenue, mainly caters to global clients. A significant portion of the sector's employees work on night shifts. In NCR, the industry provides direct and indirect employment to more than 1 million people.

"With 38 per cent women employees in our industry, their safety has always been a big concern to us," said Nasscom Vice Chairman Raman Roy. "We are mandated to provide transportation for home drop to employees working after 8 pm.

Taxis play a major role in ensuring this. In the absence of any reliable public transport, complying with this statutory guideline is impossible," he said. Separately, the IndoAmerican Chamber of Commerce, in a statement, said BPM firms supported global companies and that the ramifications of the ban on 'ease of doing business' in India would be far reaching. (Agencies)

Internet television service planned by YouTube: Report San Francisco, May 6: YouTube plans to launch a service that streams cable television channels to viewers over the Internet for the price of a subscription, Bloomberg has reported. YouTube has made a priority of creating the service, called Unplugged, which could debut as early as next year, according to the report, which cited unnamed people close to the project.

YouTube executives have talked about the plan with major media companies such as Viacom, NBCUniversal, and Twenty-First Century Fox but had yet to obtain rights to any content, according to unidentified sources cited by Bloomberg yesterday. YouTube is a unit of Alphabet-owned Google, where it has been billed as a star performer when it comes to attracting viewers and revenue.

YouTube last year introduced Red, were ad-free videos can be seen for monthly subscriptions of USD 10 in the United States. When contacted, YouTube declined to comment on the unplugged report.

(Agencies)

Gold imports declined to 19.6 tonnes in April, 2016 as against 60 tonnes in the year-ago period due to poor demand.

tonnes in April, 2016 as against 60 tonnes in the year-ago period due to poor demand," said a senior official at MMTC

Of the total imports, bullion shipments were at 13.14 tonnes in April this year, down from 54 tonnes in the year-ago period.

In 2015-16, the country is estimated to have imported 750 tonnes of gold, as against 971 tonnes in the preceding year.

Pamp. Of the total imports, bullion shipments were at 13.14 tonnes in April this year, down from 54 tonnes in the

year-ago period, he said.

Citing reasons for the fall, the official said, "not much was imported due to poor demand in the wake of jewellers' strike in April. Whatever gold that was imported in January and February was being used."

Jewellery houses had remained closed since March 2 after Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Budget proposed levying 1 percent excise duty on non-silver jewellery. The 42-day strike was temporarily called off after the government assured that there will be no harassment by excise officials.

There was import of

small quantity of gold for export purpose, but that has not been included in the total gold imports for April, he added. MMTC Pamp is a joint venture between state-run MMTC and Switzerland's PAMP. In 2015-16, the country is estimated to have imported 750 tonnes of gold, as against 971 tonnes in the preceding year. This does not include the imports done for export purpose, according to the MMTC Pamp. India, the world's largest consumer of gold, imports around 800-900 tonnes o f g o l d a n n u a l l y.

(Agencies)

Clovia launches new series of swimwear for women in India ANI New Delhi, May 6: Clovia, India's fastest growing lingerie brand has launched their Brand New Collection of young vibrant swimwear and beach accessories. The newly launched collection with its handmade crochet, neoprene, and faderesistant fabrics is attempting to re-imagine the idea of a bathing suit. It comprises of one-piece, bikini, frock style, maillots (one-piece swimwear that's high-cut on the hips) and fancy cover-ups (like chiffon sarongs and crochet kaftan). The collection includes over 130 different products, which are delicately crafted from polyamide material to ensure elasticity, flexibility and longevity. Most of the swim wears are lined with mesh, so that the fabric doesn't stick to the body making the wearer uncomfortable. Some of the one piece swim wears are lined with power net with

Neha Kant, founder of Clovia. (Photo: d8pl5fmr3vckg.cloudfront) shaping properties to create perfect silhouettes.

Talking about the new product range, Neha Kant, founder of Clovia said, "The swimwear industry in India is at a very nascent stage and we see a great potential for growth in this segment. With our swimwear collection we have tried to keep in mind two different needs. Many of our customers re-

quested for swimwear that is high on coverage to allow them to feel comfortable in public pools. A part of our range does just that with boy-shorts cut on legs and high necklines. Other than this, we have a high-fashion range of bikinis and tankinis where we have worked with bright colour blocks, prints as well as embellishments this season. " The

Clovia Swimwear collection flaunts designs that range from abstract monochrome geometric print with beautifully bold accents, opulent kaleidoscope print, contrasting stripes and trims coupled with low plunging neckline and powernet lined cups making it absorbent.

It hosts designs for every occasion - whether you want a tropical bikini for a perfect for a day at the beach or Monokini which covers you up for the community pool in your apartment block or a Sporty but stylish bikini for a perfect holiday on beaches or add glamour to your pool party with your besties with a 2-piece boy-short design. Providing consumers with an option to create "their" perfect look the collection has select Bikini and Monokinis which come with cover-ups such as georgette tops, tank top and shorts, chiffon shrugs and ruffled skirts. The

beachwear collection also comprises of fancy coverup kaftans and Sarongs with blues, neons, burnt orange and whites giving it a distinctly bohemian feel. Crafted from delicate crochet, chiffon and soft cotton, the cover-ups flaunt lightweight designs and decorative trim ensuring loose, fluid silhouette.

Priced between Rs. 1200/ - to Rs. 2100/ the collection is reflective of the research and understanding that Clovia has undertaken to develop products especially for the Indian women . C l o v i a i s India's premier lingerie and sleepwear brand backed by Ivy Cap Ventures and Zurich-based Mountain Partners AG. The company designs, manufactures and sells premium fashion lingerie, i n n e r w e a r, nightwear and shapewear. Clovia's exclusive online outlet in India is called www.clovia.com.

JSPL power plant to be bought by JSW Energy Noida, May 6: Sajjan Jindal-led JSW Energy has agreed to buy his brother Naveen Jindal's debt-laden Jindal Steel and Power's 1,000 MW power plant in Chhattisgarh for an enterprise valuation of Rs.6,500 crore. The brothers have decided to seal the deal on an arm's length basis - in which the buyers and sellers of a product act independently and have no relationship to each other. They arrived at the acquisition price through an independent valuation and the buyout will be subject to statutory and shareholders' approval. The deal is expected to be completed

by June 30, 2018. As per the definitive agreements the cost of the deal is linked to an initial enterprise value of Rs.4, 000

crore, which may be increased to Rs.6, 500 crore if pre-agreed fuel supply and power off take arrangements are met.

Under the terms of the deal, an interest bearing advance of Rs.500 crore is to be paid after shareholders' approval of both firms and the nod from competition watchdog Competition Commission of India. Everbest Steel and Mining Holdings Limited (ESMH), a special purpose acquisition entity, has been created where the business undertaking of the JSPL plant will be transferred and JSW Energy will buy entire shareholding of ESMH, thereby enhancing its power generating capacity to 5,531 MW. "This (the acquisition) will diversify JSW Energy's presence towards the

Sanjay Sagar, joint managing director & CEO of JSW Energy. (Photo: media2.intoday) eastern region of the country and in the state of Chhattisgarh, which is rich in coal reserves. The transaction is structured to be value-accretive to the shareholders of the company immediately upon consummation," according to a statement is-

sued by JSW Energy. For JSPL, which has a net debt of Rs.46,000 crore or over seven times of its market capitalisation of Rs.6,331 crore, this divestment is part of its asset monetisation plan to generate stable cash flows to be in position meet all

liabilities and emerge as sustainable company by end of this fiscal. Besides, this deal will be a relief for State Bank of India, with significant exposure to JSPL, as it will get a part of the money and was trying hard to broker the deal between Jindal brothers. "This acquisition demonstrates JSW Energy's strategy to augment its existing portfolio with superior assets having potential long-term value creation for its stakeholders," Sanjay Sagar, joint managing director & CEO of JSW Energy commenting on the deal said. For JSW Energy, this marks completion of the second power asset acquisition in less than a year, the last being two hydropower projects.

(Agencies)

Trademark lawsuit over 'iPhone' name in China lost by Apple

Image for representational purpose.

(Photo:pic.carnoc) Beijing, May 6: Apple Inc has lost a trademark lawsuit in China, with a court here allowing a leather goods- maker to sell wallets and handbags flashing the world's biggest technology giant's exclusive 'iPhone' name. The Beijing Municipal High People's

Court ruled in favour of Xintong Tiandi Technology (Beijing) limited, which sells a number of leather products such as smartphone cases and handbags under the name 'IPHONE', state media reported. In 2002, Apple applied for the 'iPhone'

trademark for its electronic goods in China, but it was not actually granted until 2013. Xintong Tiandi filed for its own 'IPHONE' trademark in China in 2007, the same year the first generation of Apple's iPhone was launched in the U.S. In order to obtain the exclusivity on the use of the 'iPhone' trademark in China, Apple first took the case to the Chinese trademark authority in 2012, but it failed as the agency claimed Apple could not prove the name 'iPhone' was a wellknown brand prior to Xintong Tiandi's registration in 2007. Apple then filed a lawsuit in a Beijing court. The court, however, ruled against it and Apple appealed to the Beijing Municipal High

People's Court. The court said the company did not sell the iPhone in China until 2009. The final judgement means Xintong Tiandi could continue to use the trademark to sell its products, state-run China Daily reported on Wednesday. Apple did not comment on the ruling.

The ruling comes as Apple's latest quarterly earnings showed a 13 per cent drop in revenue as sales of iPhones. China was a particular weak spot as the sales in China fell 26 per cent to USD 12.49 billion due to weak demand for iPhones.

Xintong Tiandi confirmed the court ruling on its website and said the decision represented a victory for free consumer markets. James Yan, a Beijing-

based analyst at Counterpoint Technology Market Research said, "The failure of the trademark fight would not have a great impact on Apple's brand and image but it might confuse consumers as they do not know whether these products are made

by Apple or some producers copy Apple's name when they are buying leather products embossed with the 'IPHONE' brand". Zhu Dalin, an analyst at Beijing-based Internet consultancy Analyses International said the influence of Xintong Tiandi is very minor which would not pose a threat to Apple anyways as Apple mainly focuses on electronic devices such as smartphones and iPads.

(Agencies)

PAGE 10

Highway projects gets a nod for Rs. 4,300 crore

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: adgeco)

Pune, May 6: The Government approved two highway projects worth around Rs.4,300 crore, among a slew of other decisions. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs gave a nod to the four-laning of the Lucknow-Sultanpur section on National Highway56 in Uttar Pradesh at an estimated cost of Rs.2844.72 crore. The two-laning, with the formation of four lanes, of the Shimla Bypass (Kaithlighat to Shimla section) on National Highway-22 in Himachal Pradesh was the second project which was approved, at a cost of Rs.1583.18 crore. The Cabinet also approved a proposal to create flexibility in the use of domestic coal. The move is expected to reduce the cost of power generation by 40-50 paise per unit, which will lead to savings of Rs 25,000 per year in

around 4-5 years. The adoption of the United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics was also approved.

This adoption is expected to bring "professional independence, impartiality, accountability and transparency in methods of collection, compilation and dissemination of official statistics," according to the Government. A Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates on cooperation concerning currency swap agreements was approved. The Cabinet approved the proposal to move, in Parliament, the adoption of the recommendations of the Railway Convention Committee (2014) - dividend of five per cent and four per cent for the years 2014-15 and 2015-16respectively on the capital invested in Railways. (Agencies)

$11.9 bn investment to be done by China in aviation infrastructure in 2016 Taiwan, May 6: China plans to invest 77 billion yuan (USD 11.9 billion) this year in the construction of civil aviation infrastructure, particularly airports, the country's chief civil aviation regulator said.

China will begin with 11 key construction projects and 52 aviation-related upgrades, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) said.

"The general aviation

sector, especially aircraft research and manufacturing, has became a hot spot of both industrial upgrading and social concern," Feng Zhenglin, head of the CAAC, said.

The aviation sector will get preferential treatment to improve transportation, foster new growth engines, and boost employment and the service sector, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

(Agencies)

Honda BR-V unveiled in India

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: wpaperhd) Bengaluru, May 6: The Japanese car manufacturer Honda launched its most anticipated Honda BR-V. The car is expected to compete with the Renault Duster and Hyundai Creta. The vehicle have a length of 4.46m, the BR-V is longer than both the 4.27m Hyundai Creta and 4.31m

Renault Duster. It sports a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, producing 118PS and 145Nm of torque and a 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine, making 100PS and 200Nm. As per industry reports, the BR-V is be priced around 8.1 lakh for the petrol, and 9.70 lakh for the diesel variant in Mumbai. (Agencies)

LAUNCHING THE MOST AWAITED The Japanese car manufacturer Honda launched its most anticipated Honda BR-V. The car is expected to compete with the Renault Duster and Hyundai Creta.

The vehicle have a length of 4.46m, the BR-V is longer than both the 4.27m Hyundai Creta and 4.31m Renault Duster.

It sports a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, producing 118PS and 145Nm of torque and a 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine, making 100PS and 200Nm. As per industry reports, the BR-V is be priced around 8.1 lakh for the petrol, and 9.70 lakh for the diesel variant in Mumbai.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

Features

PAGE 11

WOMEN’S 8 super pretty clutches for 7 super pretty hairstyles that take less than a minute! the bride's trousseau!

Among the mad rush of wedding shopping, there are so many decisions to take. And among the lehengas, sarees, shoes, jewellery and makeup, don't forget to pick the right bag for each look.

After all, shoes and bags are the finishing touches that can take your look from 'good' to 'wow'. To make your life simpler, we've put together a list of gorgeous bridal clutches you must have in your trousseau.

Bridal red This bold red clutch immediately caught our attention. After all, who can resist that most bridal of all colours - red. It'll go with your bridal joda, we're sure. Plus, the kundan work is so shaadi!

Mughal rani If your engagement outfit is inspired by Deepika's Bajirao Mastani look, then you need this Mughal minia-

Grabbing the perfect clutches on your D-Day will surely make your day more special. (Photo: cdn.shopify)

ture painting inspired clutch. It's so sophisticated and romantic at the same time!

Knock on wood The unusual shape of this clutch immediately sets it apart. This wood black and gold clutch will go well with your Indowestern outfits, or with the princessy gown you have earmarked for the reception!

Pearl it up We love pearls in our jewellery - after all, they

are so classy. So how can we pass up on this beautiful, pearl-encrusted clutch? It will add that 'dressed up' vibe to any shaadi outfit.

The boho bride Opting for a chilled out, bohemian look for your mehendi?

This colourful fabric clutch is all sorts of cheerful and will add a fun vibe to your outfit!

Champagne!

We're sure you're open-

ing a bottle of bubbly at the reception. And this champagne-gold box clutch is the perfect foil to your reception gown.

The colour and the lasercut panels are will add a dash of sophistication to your look. You're welcome!

Tota maina ki kahaani The green, thread-work parrots are just so cute!

And this pair is such a great symbol for your love. We love the greenpink-gold combo of colours along with the unusual cylindrical shape of this clutch.

Potli dulhan ki No wedding trousseau is complete without a potli bag in it! After all, they are one of the most versatile bags around and they are just so appropriate for a shaadi. The structured look of this potli along with the deep emerald-green colour will elevate you to royalty level immediately.

Easy ways to grow long (& strong) hair for the Shaadi!

Hoping to have long, lustrous locks for your big day? If only your strands wouldn't grow so damn slow! Well, you can stop stressing about your wedding deadline 'coz we give you a few awesome tips to help your hair grow super long (and strong!) in time. You don't have to be an impatient bride-tobe anymore!

Time for supplements A good idea is to consider taking supplements as soon as you get engaged. Discuss this with

to keep your strands protected. Sun exposure can weaken and dry our strands, which inhibit hair growth, so always keep that in mind.

Trim often but not too often!

Everyone keeps telling you to trim your hair often but how often really?

Trims are super important to get rid of dry and split ends, waiting too long can make a split spread up the length of your hair, which means unhealthy strands that won't grow. But trim-

ing If you're shampooing too often and with the wrong products you should just give up on those long hair dreams.

Lathering up too often really does dry out those strands and dry hair means slower hair growth. You should be shampooing not more than 3 times a week as a cardinal rule. Also, make sure your shampoo is not too harsh on your mane. A gentle, sulfate-free shampoo like Wella Elements

Getting compliments for your black and shiny hair is a dreamcome true for any girls. And by practicing these few tips, your dream will absolutely come true. (Photo: i1.tribune) your your doctor - Biotin or vitamin supplements help in hair health as well as for giving you clearer skin and longer nails.

Stay out of the sun The sun's rays can wreak havoc on our precious locks, especially in our Indian climate where it's summer almost all year round! Avoid sun exposure as much as you can, wear a hat if you're going to be out and about

ming too often is also bad, 'coz then you're just chopping away the length. Avoid getting a trim every month like some people advice you to. Instead, every 8 to 12 weeks during your engagement period is when you should book your trim appointments to encourage healthy hair growth. Once you chop off those dry ends, you'll notice how much faster your locks grow.

Practice safe shampoo-

Shampoo is one that you can't go wrong with for much happier locks.

Champi time A hot oil massage will help de-stress from all the endless shaadi prep as well as stimulate growth right from the roots. Good old coconut oil is all you need for stronger, shinier hair, and regular scalp massages accelerate circulation for longer, stronger locks. Do this about once a week and watch

for amazing results.

Take a break from heat Put down the blow dryer and the straightener and those curling tongs too.

Give your mane a detox from damage to help prevent frying your strands, causing more frizz and damaging the hair. Embrace your natural hair and go on a heat strike or at least cut down on it as much as you can - you need to help your strands recoup and get stronger. Constant heat styling is definitely a big speed break if you plan on growing out your mane.

Awesome diy rinses An apple cider vinegar rinse or grape seed oil rinse before shampooing are awesome ways to encourage hair growth. Do it once a week to help your strands grow super long while also giving you a way softer and silkier texture. It's a winwin!

Your hair is what you eat Your diet also plays a huge role. Keep in mind that certain foods are essential for healthy, shiny hair. Omega-3, protein and zinc are important nutrients to load up on for enviable locks.

Munch on nuts, salmon, leafy greens, avocado, eggs and fruits for stronger hair from the inside out. Down lots and lots of water too!

Be gentle Avoid vigorous towel drying, too-tight ponytails/hairstyles, rough brushing and basically being harsh on your precious strands in any way.

Also, try sleeping on a silk pillowcase as it's way gentler on your locks and prevents friction as you roll around at night. A little extra love will go a long way!

Who said your hair needs an hour's worth of styling to look great? We give you some gorgeous hairstyles you can perfect in just half a minute. Now you can snooze your alarm all you want, we help you look amazingly put together in 30 seconds flat.

The good old front twist Not only is it cute and it's probably the easiest style ever. Just take about an inch of hair from the front, twist it away from your face and pin it down. Use cute bobby pins and criss-cross them diagonally instead of concealing them, to make a statement!

The cotton candy bun This super playful bun adds a girly twist to your ordinary top knot. Tie your hair up into a super high ponytail, lift it upwards and then brush it downwards to create a messy texture. Then just twirl it into a bun.

Slicked Back and Sexy This style is perfect for those mornings when you don't have time to blow dry your strands. Work a bit of gel or mousse through your roots and then use your fingers to comb your hair back. It's a bold look for sure, but it's so easy. Plus with the right makeup it adds that red carpet drama to the look.

A perfect hairstyle is exactly what you need to enhance your look. (Photo: smedia-cache-ak0.pinimg) The braided low bun Tie your hair into a low ponytail and then braid it down to the ends and secure it. Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail and pin it in place. Voila, you're ready to flaunt a fuss-free knotted bun.

The undone half-bun Also known as the acorn bun, we've seen plenty of celebs from Alia Bhatt to Kylie Jenner sporting this relaxed style. What's amazing about it is that it looks good on any hair texture and especially if

you have lovely curls.

Throw your hair back and twist it into a loose bun with a few waves left loose.

The half-up rope braid You know what's so great about rope braids? They require just 2 sections (instead of 3) to twist together, saving you plenty of time. Take two sections of hair on either side and rope braid them back and secure with an elastic in the centre at the back. Wrap a thin section of hair around the elastic and pin it at the bottom

to conceal it.

The super textured ponytail Who said ponytails had to be boring? Make your bedhead work for you for this simple hairstyle.

Take a fine tooth comb and backcomb your crown in thin sections for loads of volume. Then gather your hair in a loose, mid-high ponytail and tie it. Wrap a thin section of hair around the base and pin it at the bottom to conceal your hair tie. That's all it takes to look as glam as our DPad!

9 absurd yet simple fashion hacks every girl should know!

We've all wished that we could fix a certain fashion faux pas without going through a lot of hassle. But something or the other inevitably does go wrong whether it's an oil stain or the scratches on your shoes. These simple and totally unexpected hacks are everything you need to know to make life easy and deal with those tiny yet stubborn fashion calamities!

When a drink spills on your clothes at a party!

All you need to do is grab some vodka, dip a cloth or tissue paper in it and gently rub it gently on the spot to make it disappear. Also, if you've spilled some red wine on your clothes, sprinkle some salt on it and then use white wine to neutralise the effect of the red wine.

Stubborn marks on your leather or suede shoes!

Use stale bread or a nail file to clean your suede shoes. Rub both these things individually against the surface softly to remove the marks. For patent leather, use moisturizer to cover up the scratches by gently applying your moisturizer until the mark disappears. Use olive oil or Vaseline for restoring the shine!

Show love to your canvas shoes!

Make your favourite white shoes new again by cleaning it with a toothbrush and some toothpaste! Another amazing way to protect your canvas shoes in the rainy season is by creating a layer on top of the shoes. Rub dry beeswax all over the surface and let

it settle before you wear them, make sure it's evenly spread out. You've got yourself waterproof canvas shoes right there!

Cleaning jewellery is SO easy!

There are a hundred different ways you can clean your jewellery. But this one seems the most doable and the most effective!

to remove the creases. Use a hair straightener to neaten out the collar of your shirts in the most efficient manner!

Get rid of the smell in your workout shoes!

After spending hours in your sneakers and vigorous workout sessions, they can start smelling. Try this awesome trick to get rid of

keep it from ripping further.

Random stains on clothes!

For all the other stains, especially oil stains - use dish-washing detergents since they have strong cleaning agents to remove oil from utensils. They work on clothes too. It's the same with makeup re-

Carrying oneself quite fashionably is also just an another fashion. (Photo: wikihow)

Pour out some ketchup on a cleaning cloth or use a toothbrush and wipe the trinket clean. Another amazing option is some lager beer in place of ketchup. Follow the same process for shiny jewels.

No Iron Available? Try This Instead!

Wearing crushed clothes can look quite shabby.

Don't have an iron? No problem! Dampen your dress by sprinkling some water and use a blow dryer

this smell. Get some dry tea bags and stuff it into the shoe overnight. You could also use fabric softener sheets if that's available.

The ever dicey tights!

Those thin tights have a high chance of tearing while you're wearing them or even later. Spraying hairspray all over before wearing it makes it stronger and more averse to ripping apart. You could use clear nail paint on spots that are already torn to

mover - they help in removing makeup marks from clothes too!

Get rid of sweat patches with these easy tips!

Sweat patches can be super annoying. Try this weird but useful trick. Fix a panty liner around the armholes of your clothes and wear it all day, no one will ever know!

To get rid of the existing sweat stain all you need is some crushed aspirin and lukewarm water or some lemon juice. You're sorted!

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DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 7

PAGE 12

Bopanna-Mergea reach men's doubles quarters at Madrid Masters ANI Madrid, May 6 : Indian tennis ace Rohan Bopanna and his Romanian partner Florin Mergea produced a superior performance as they have advanced to the quarter-finals of the men's doubles event here at Madrid Masters.

After losing the first set by a whisker, the sixth-seed pair staged a spirited fight back to claim a 6-7 (4-7), 6-4, 10-4 win over Uruguayan- Spaniard pair of Pablo Cuevas and Marcel Granollers Pujol in the second round contest.

The Indo-Romanian pair will now aim for the semi-final berth when they take on Finnish-Australian pair of Henri

Kontinen and John Peers, who also made it to the quarter-finals following their 64, 7-6 (7-4) win over Jamie Murray and Bruno Soares.

Meanwhile, Mahesh Bhupathi along with his French partner Fabrice Martin knocked out of the tournament after tasting 3-6, 6-4, 6-10 defeat at the hands of seventh-seed pair of Alexander Peya and Nenad Zimonjic.

It was Bhupathi's first appearance since the Delhi Open in February, where he partnered with Yuki Bhambri to clinch his first doubles title in three years.

Holy Child & HKV in Semis Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, May 6: Holy Child School and Hindusthani Kendriya Vidyalaya registered victory in their respective matches of the Kamal Hazarika inter school cricket tournament organised by Tinsukia District Sports Association at TDSA stadium in Tinsukia today.

In the quarterfinal match, Holy Child School defeated Our ABC Academy by five wickets. Electing to bat first, Our ABC Academy were all out for 92 in 20 overs. Abhinash Gogoi scored 17 off 34 balls, hitting two boundaries.

For Holy Child School, Shamim Akhtar claimed three for 15 in 4 overs.

In reply, Holy Child School 93 losing five in 17.3 overs. Ayush Agarwal scored 34 off 37 balls with four boundaries, while Rahmat Ali contributed 24 off 34 balls.

Himanshu Goswami took two for 15 in 4 overs for Our ABC Academy.

In another quarterfinal match, Hindusthani Kendriya Vidyalaya beat

Babies Nursery Co Ed High School by 54 runs and placed their berth into semifinal.

Put into bat, HKV scored 129 for six in 20 overs. Abhinav Duuarah top scored with 41 off 51 deliveries with four boundaries and one six. Dibakar Das chipped in with 38 off 40 balls with two boundaries.

For Babies Nursery, Suraj Jyoti, Uday Das and Asif Hussain scalped two wickets each conceding 16, 22 and 25 runs respectively.

In reply, Babies Nursery Co Ed High School were bowled out for 75 in 17 overs.

Suraj Dutta scored 16 off 22 balls, while Aman Singh contributed 15.

For HKV, Aryan Singh scalped four for 9 in 4 overs and Rahul Kumar took two for 11 in 2 overs.

Tomorrow, Hindusthani Kendriya Vidyalaya will lock horn with Guru Teg Bahadur Academy in first semifinal while in another semifinal Hindhustani Vidyalaya will take on Holy Child School.

MESSAGE 1. On the occasion of the 56th Raising Day, I extend my warm greetings to all ranks and families of Border Roads Organization.

2. BRO Project Udayak has played a very significant role in enhancing the strategic preparedness of the country and economic development of the most inhospitable and remote areas along the international Border in Arunachal Pradesh. Officers and men of the BRO have worked devotedly and untiringly for creation of the road communication network in the interior areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Thousands of kilometers of roads have been built by the organization over these years. Its important role in construction and maintenance of the communication network, especially the progressing of the China Study Group roads needs no emphasis. The unique contribution of BRO in developing the infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh has made the name of BRO Project Udayak synonymous with the socio-economic prosperity and integration of the State with the rest of the country.

3. I take this opportunity to extend my heartiest felicitations and good wishes to all Ranks, Casual Paid Laborers and their families of BRO on this auspicious occasion and wish them many more laurels in the years to come.

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Editor: Ripunjoy Das

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